After tossing around a Frisbee for an hour or more, a couple friends and I took a seat in the luscious grass of the park to enjoy the sunset. While we basked in this everyday but never common beauty, we talked about how we had spent the last week.

I told these two guys about going home to St. George. The highlight as always was seeing my niece, Emma. Brad asked how old she was. He then remarked with real sincerity, What do you do with a 3-month old baby?


Well, you enjoy watching her being herself.


And you revel at the fact that this tiny human has such a complex body structure. And you wonder how it happens every time. I mean, you've read about it in books, but wow! It really works.
And all the while you are thinking these things and watching her every movement, you realize that it isn't just fascination. It's love.
And you heart melts.

Then you realize you aren't just watching her. You are adoring her. And you try to soak it all in.
And you feel grateful in your heart that you get to experience this awe and unparalleled love.


And then you do eat her toes. (That was Nick's answer.) And kiss her face just to watch her eyes get bigger as you get closer.

And then you let her tiny hand wrap around your finger.


And then you tell her stories hoping she'll reciprocate. When you finish your story, you stop and listen. Then she starts to tell you a story. Her face lights up and her expressions change while she rattles off what sounds like nonsense to you, but you know it probably has a much deeper meaning, since she did just leave God's presence.

And you delight when she squeals.
And you gladly feed her because that is one of the greatest interactions. There is a special bond that occurs while you feed her. She stares ever so peacefully into your eyes, and in your heart you promise to always keep her safe.

And you are grateful that time seems to slow down, because you cherish every moment.

A change in priorities

It used to be thoughts of this that would get me to rush home to St. George.

Now it is rightfully thoughts of this sweet little 11-week old angel that makes me thrilled to go home. Emma sure is sweet.

We meet

I finally met her!

I drove home Sunday night with hopes of spending time with my niece during spring break. So far, it has been time well spent.

I met Emma on Sunday night and never want to leave.

I knew from the pictures that she was small, but I didn't realize that she was so tiny! She felt so fragile in my arms. Maybe fragile isn't the right word, because she is very strong like her father. I was intimidated, because she was so delicate.

I was fortunate enough to spend the entire day with her on Monday. I got to accompany my brother at the doctor's office for her two-week checkup. It was fun to watch my brother show her off to a few friends of his that worked at the hospital. His buddy's wife was holding her, doting on her remarkable beauty, when she looked up at my brother and said, "Wipe that grin off your face!" He can't help it. He is so proud of her and loves her so much.

My brother is the most adorable father ever! That morning when I was at his house watching Emma while he got ready, he walked into the room and remarked how beautiful she was. He said, "I've seen her a million times, but she still takes my breath away."

After Emma's appointment, we headed back to our parents' house. I changed and fed Emma and let her sleep in my arms for hours. I had no desire to do anything or be anywhere else.

I was glad when Emma pooped on the car ride home, because that meant I got to spend more time with her. I carried her into Will's house, changed her, and started feeding her. The hour that it took her to eat was my favorite hour of the day. By this time, I was no longer nervous to hold her tiny body and the time spent together was so peaceful and perfect.

I love Emma and can't wait to see her again today!

To my niece

Dear Emma,

I can hardly contain my joy! I am so happy you are here in this world and that I get to be a part of your life.

You are born to such a wonderful father. Your father, my brother, is one of the most loving, gentle, and dearest people in the world. He is the best older brother a girl could've ever asked for. He cared for me. He guided me. He protected me. He taught me so many wonderful things. He has been there for me when no one else has. He has blessed my life in more ways than I could ever express.

Now it is your turn to experience the greatness that he has within him. He will love you and cherish you all your days. He already does. He will teach you the things you need to know. He will guide you through life's journey. He will give of himself freely. You already hold a special place in his heart. You will get to know the tenderness that is his heart. He will love you with the deepest and most sincere love.

Although I haven't met you yet, I love you, Emma. I, too, will teach you, guide you, and cherish you. I will be there for you like my brother has been there for me. I will do as he taught me; I will protect you.

I cannot wait to hold you, my precious niece. I will shower you with all the love I have.

I am grateful to my Heavenly Father for blessing you with health and strength. You are so beautiful. I am so blessed to have you in my life.

Love always,

Aunt Katie

From the happiest aunt in the world

She's born!

Emma Jeane Gause

Born Monday, March 15, 2010

12:06pm

St. George, UT

6 lbs 14 oz

19 inches

She's showing you that she has the strength to face this world.

Proud Grandma!

Sleeping beautifully!

Emma will be loved and protected by a father who cherishes her.

Together