Adelene Maeghan

Adelene Maeghan, you were born on Sunday, August 31, 2014.  In German, your first name means noble one.  The last part of your name (the LENE) is for your great grandma MarLENE DePree.  She was a woman of faith who devoted her time and energy to her family.  Your middle name means GREAT which is also what your dad's name means.  And the first part (the MAE) is significant because my middle name is Mae.

Adelene, you were due August 28th.  I did not expect you early or even on time.  I knew I'd have to wait on you a bit, as the two sisters before you made us wait.  I was very content with you inside and I cherished every minute of it.  I loved feeling your hiccups, kicks and movements when you were on the inside.  You were born one day before Labor Day.  Grandma L. had been in town for a few days and was hoping to be able to help with the other children while we were at the hospital waiting on you.  Dad had a big home football game the Thursday before you arrived.  I went to that game.  It was actually your due date.  Dad was hoping you'd hold out long enough for him to be able to coach that game (and he was thankful you did.)  The rest of the weekend was a waiting game.  Monday was Labor Day and Tuesday was the first day of school.  We wondered if you'd choose a more chaotic entrance and go with the first day of school, or if you'd choose a calmer route by arriving sometime during the weekend.  I started having contractions EARLY Sunday morning.  I got up and called OB to tell them I'd be coming in and did a few things to get ready.  I woke Dad up around 5:00 then called Grandma to come over.  Dad got me to the hospital just before 6:00 am. My sweet friend Jackie was working so she was my nurse.  When we arrived I was 4 centimeters dilated, and by the time I got the epidural, I was at a 6.  The epidural allowed me some sleep which was wonderful.  After a little sleep, I was dilated to and 8/9 and stayed at that point for a bit.  Finally we decided to see if I could push past that and it worked.  You arrived only a push or two (or maybe 3) later.  It did take a push on my stomach by the nurses to get your shoulders out.  Your nurse, her name was Lisa, commented that you were big.  And you were my biggest baby weighing in at 8 lbs.  You had a full head of dark hair and reminded us of your siblings.  You scared Dad because he thought you looked so blue but the nurses assured us you were fine, and you were. Dad and I cuddled with you the rest of the day.  Dad went home that evening to put your brother and sisters to bed.  We hung out together that night, just you and me.  You came home the next afternoon, on Labor Day.  We were thankful to have that one day at home all together before everyone went back to work/school on Tuesday. You are a gift to us Adelene.  Fearfully, wonderfully made.  We love you.