What a day brings

As you can imagine, walking around 12 days overdue meant lots of waiting, lots of unsolicited advice and more than a few days of work where no one anticipated me being there. I almost got used to "wrapping up" every day in the office, only to return again the next day. I also had my out of office on for over three weeks anticipating my absence. It started not to mean anything!

Finally, as I am able to slow down and appreciate this time of maternity leave, I was reflecting on my "last day" of pregnancy. We had the opportunity this year to take a half day spiritual retreat with the University Ministries staff. We joined them at Rosary Heights in Edmonds for some time of solitude, connecting individually and sharing a vision of collaboration of ministry.

Throughout the week, a number of people blessed me amidst the "waiting". Friends and family called and gave support and encouragement. A dear colleague at SPU and a fierce prayer warrior, Agnes, put her hands on my belly and prayed for the safe and healthy delivery and asked Jesus to "let this baby come now!" My co-worker joined us for this and was worried that it might just happen then given her ability to pray! At retreat, Dr. Newby spontaneously broke into song and played "Happy Birthday" to my baby. All in all, everyone was ready to meet him!

I appreciated a few genuine moments of solitude. I could have used hours and we literally got minutes, but the time that I had reminded me that once things get busy, I will need to rely even more on the strength of my Savior. I have also been aware of the need to pray for my staff while I am absent physically from a busy time of year.

The last day of having a huge belly...

A view of the Puget Sound.

Rosary Heights, a Dominican retreat center in Edmonds, WA.

Hanging out with staff...

2008-2009 Residence Life Staff Team
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
~Matthew 11:28-29