Not long ago, after LOTS of prayer, Matt and I came to the final decision that the best thing for our growing family was for me to quit my job and stay at home to raise our child.
Friday, Oct. 19, was supposed to be my last day at work. I looked forward to taking the next couple of weeks to rest, relax and mentally prepare for my new role as a mother before the baby’s Nov. 3 due date.
Instead of going to work on Oct. 19, however, I checked into the hospital at 6 a.m. because my water broke.
Just over 12 hours later, Matt and I welcomed our son into our arms. Elijah Allen Reynolds was born at 6:37 p.m. on Oct. 19.
Holding Eli in my arms for the first time, I was in shock and awe, still thinking this was all just a dream I would wake up from at any moment. His fingers, his toes, his hair, his eyes, his skin – it was all so absolutely perfect. As I gazed down at my son, all I could think was, “We did nothing to deserve this beautiful gift God has given us.”
I didn’t have much time to think about how much our lives would change in the coming days. For much of my pregnancy, my mind was continuously distracted by settling into our new home in Florida, building new community and learning how to work my fast-paced corporate job remotely.
My “plans” included peacefully departing from my job on Oct. 19, then taking some time in intentional prayer and preparation for what motherhood would look like. But, obviously, God had different plans. He wanted me to trust HIM in this journey and not my own plans or preparations.
Eli is now over a week old. He is still just as perfect, and I still feel just as undeserving. Motherhood so far has been the hardest job I’ve ever had, but it is so, so worth it.
What does this mean for my career or our household income? Living in Orlando is not cheap, after all. Well, we’re not too worried about that. The Lord knows the future, and that brings us comfort. He will provide work in due time and in the meantime, I believe He delights in our choice for me to raise our child at home.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Prov. 3:5-6
Proverbs 3 : 5-6 has been my guiding scripture. Motherhood challenges almost everything but if you TRUST HIM WHOLLY you will be amazed by the way things pan out. I will definitely keep you and your family in my prayers. Being a stay at home might seem challenging but it’s worth every second.
Trust Him Always.
Thank you, Chika! That means so much to me. You’ve always been so good with encouraging words. <3
our message this morning was about faith. Romans 8:28 tells us “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them”. having faith and trusting in God to place you where you need to be, when you need to be there is always right. Prayers for you and your sweet little family as you continue to bloom where you have been planted, Leah. Eli is absolutely beautiful and I cannot wait to see what God has planned for him. hugs, your cousin, Mona
I love that, Mona! Thank you so much for sharing and giving some words of encouragement. Your prayers and support mean so much to us. Love ya!
Thanks for posting an update on your family. Congratulations on your wonderful gift❤ God has blessed you greatly!
Thank you, Suzette! I hope you are enjoying this season closer to family and that your work and ministry is going well!