Now it was morning. My daughter was safe. And I was the luckiest woman in the world.
The nurse, Stella, stepped in with a clipboard tucked under her arm and a smile that felt like sunlight.
She had been with me all night, refilling my water cup and adjusting my pillows without ever making me feel like a patient.
« How’s our girl doing? » Stella asked.
« Perfect, » I whispered. « She’s perfect. »
« Your daughter is seven pounds, two ounces. » The nurse checked the monitor, then patted my hand. « Your husband’s been pacing the waiting room since 5 a.m.! »
« Ready to hold your baby? » Stella asked, smiling.
I nodded, smoothing the blanket over my legs. The nurse reached over, picked up little Lily, and handed her to me.
God, I was so happy when I finally held her in my arms! I couldn’t stop smiling!
Stella left for a while, and when she returned, she asked, « Ready for visitors, Mama? »
