The Macs » Blog

levi {two weeks}

It is hard to believe that just a little over two weeks ago we were meeting Mr. Levi for the first time.  He has been such a sweet little boy. Nearly perfect. At least we think so. Someone told me that God knew just what we could handle right now. I think that is so true. The past two weeks have been emotional as we experience new things with Levi and yet grieve for Cora in a whole new way. Levi is a blessing no matter what kind of baby he is, but it has been an extra blessing for him to be so good!

At two weeks

Levi is weighing in at
8 lbs 13 oz
and he is
21 inches tall.

Joel and I took Levi to his two week appointment on Friday. I was a total wreck the day before. I think I cried about anything and everything that day. I wasn’t sure what was triggering all those tears (besides the obvious), but I am pretty sure it was just the anticipation of going back to the pediatrician’s office for the first time. We hadn’t been there since the day we found out Cora might have cancer and were sent straight to the hospital–almost one year ago. When we checked Levi in for the appointment it was so weird. They asked who the appointment was for and I had to catch myself from saying Cora instead of Levi. I had been there so many times with Cora last year. As we waited in the waiting room I just cried. So many memories were rushing back. I was a little worried that I wouldn’t be able to compose myself when they called us back, but somehow I did. Our pediatrician is wonderful–he is the same one we had with Cora. He was so excited to see us again and meet Levi. I felt such a peace when we were sitting there talking to him. Levi had a great appointment. Everything looked good and we are so thankful. I don’t know if I will ever take one of these “good” doctor appointments for granted again!
Oh, and here is proof that Levi does cry. Really. Not very often though. Like I said, he is a really good baby.
We ended our week with a visit from my dear friend Laura. She lives in Colorado and we have been best friends since 5th grade. We have been through a lot together!
We had the whole weekend to catch up and hold little Levi. Laura is a photographer and taught me some new tricks on my camera. She took the first two pictures of Levi. We also got to spend some time with Julie and meet sweet Calla. Thanks for coming Laura! It was so good to see you.
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  • Maureen - What a sweet boy! It makes me excited to meet our new little one in May 😉ReplyCancel

  • susy - God bless you all. He is a cutie!ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Levi is truly the cutest. The first picture is priceless.ReplyCancel

  • Jen - He is such a beautiful boy!ReplyCancel

  • ♥Amber Filkins♥ - What a blessing! Levi is just so, so adorable. And I’m still praying for you through this all, and that God will mend the hole in your heart.ReplyCancel

  • E @ Oh! Apostrophe - What a beautiful little blessing that sweet boy is… thanks for updating us… so glad you are doing well!ReplyCancel

  • Amanda - He is beautiful!!!ReplyCancel

  • Stef - he is such a beautiful baby. Praise God for His tender mercies to you during this time. Having a sweet tempered baby is a real blessing and something God knew you needed right now.ReplyCancel

  • Heather at All A Flutter - What a blessing to have good friends to go through life with. The photos of Levi are really beautiful! My heart is aching for you as you go through these ‘firsts’ with Levi while you grieve dear Cora. I know how helpful it was for me when I learned that I could grieve for my son and find joy in my newborn daughter at the same time. It helped me to feel whole again in a very unique way, and I’m wishing the same for you. Sending many prayers your way!ReplyCancel

  • John and Elisa Seaba - Oh my goodness, he is so so adorable!!ReplyCancel

  • Krystal - He is absolutely beautiful! Bless you all!ReplyCancel

  • Megg - He’s beautiful.ReplyCancel

  • gwswenson - Jess, He is sooo so GORGEOUS! Looks like the sweetest little dumpling. I’m so very happy for you.ReplyCancel

  • meg duerksen - hello?!! he looks so much bigger than last week! crazy baby…tell him to slow it down. 🙂ReplyCancel

  • KK - As my husband’s Aunt said upon seeing our son, “There ain’t no denying that one!” Little Levi looks the spitting image of Joel. So happy for you all!ReplyCancel

  • Joyce - He is beautiful.ReplyCancel

  • Kristin - Your courage is amazing! Such a beautiful boy!ReplyCancel

  • Taylor - Levi is precious!!!ReplyCancel

  • Tricia - Oh my goodness! Levi is just sweet, yummy baby perfection!

    God does know what we can handle. You are blessed. (Duh! 😉

    With love and prayers,
    XO*TriciaReplyCancel

  • lcy - No exaggerations – he is one of the most beautiful babies I have ever seen.ReplyCancel

  • harper - What an angel!!! God Bless your family!!!ReplyCancel

  • Marla Taviano - He is such a gorgeous baby. Just gorgeous.

    My heart aches for you during this hard, beautiful, hard time.

    Hugs and prayers!ReplyCancel

  • Barclay Kathryn - He is just precious!ReplyCancel

  • Pink Velvet Mommy - What a absolutely beautiful baby, and even better that you got a good doctors report. I am certain that there are many bittersweet experiences. But oh what a wonderful blessing for your family:)ReplyCancel

  • texasinafrica - He is so precious! Continuing to pray for you.ReplyCancel

  • Aaron and Shannon - He is so precious. I’m so glad things are going well.ReplyCancel

  • k and c's mom - That first picture is just amazing. I am so very happy for you and your little family. Tears are just fine! I have this theory (as I am going through some grieving, too): what if it took a certain amount of tears before the grief was washed away? That thought helps me let them flow instead of holding them in. There’s healing in those tears. And God is saving everyone of them.ReplyCancel

  • Kelly - He is honestly one of the most beautiful babies I have ever seen! So adorable!
    It’s good to hear you skipping over these hurdles one at a time!ReplyCancel

  • Vic - The top picture of Levi and the picture to the far right of Cora on the header are almost identical. Amazing how much they look alike. Beautiful babies. Levi is so lucky to have such a beautiful angel looking over him.ReplyCancel

  • Sarah Johnson - Hello! You may not remember us, but my husband & I were at Ronald McDonald house when you guys were. Our daughters Marleigh & Natalie were born at 26 weeks. Our hearts broke for you when you lost Cora. I couldn’t imagine what you guys were going through. However, not too long after that, we lost Natalie. Marleigh will be one on Saturday, and is doing great. I found your page from a link on Holli’s blog. We just wanted to congratulate you on your beautiful little boy. Know that he has a special guardian angel in heaven.

    Marc, Sarah, & Marleigh JohnsonReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Ah he is BEAUTIFUL…I can only imagine the emotional roller coaster you are on..thank you for updating us and continueing to share your journey.

    KimReplyCancel

  • Angie - Those pictures are just so sweet!!

    Thinking and praying for you on this new journey with that adorable little boy!ReplyCancel

  • purejoy - ohmystars, he is stunningly beautiful (i mean handsome)!! he is just sooo amazing.ReplyCancel

  • The Kellys - He’s so beautiful! And it’s so wonderful that he is such a happy baby. Congratulations!ReplyCancel

  • Whimsical Creations - He is so beautiful!ReplyCancel

  • 3LittleByrds - He’s just beautiful.ReplyCancel

  • Kat and Crew - What a good looking baby!! Just like his big sister.ReplyCancel

  • Misty Rice - He is so darn yummy…. I mean seriously. And I was going to ask about the pictures….I noticed. They look so bright and sharp. What a blessing…what a blessing…ReplyCancel

  • Trasie Bressler - Miracles Happen and it came in a little boy named Levi!

    He is beautiful!ReplyCancel

  • Cherry Tree Lane - I am so happy he is such a wonderful blessing.
    The Lord is gracious.ReplyCancel

  • Sophia - well one thing is for sure, you two make BEAUTIFUL babies!!

    what a lovely little boy.ReplyCancel

  • Sophia - well one thing is for sure, you two make BEAUTIFUL babies!!

    what a lovely little boy.ReplyCancel

  • run26.2mom - Adorable!!! So precious and innocent. I bet there will be some onery looks coming your way soon :)You have beautiful children with beautiful soulful eyes! Continuing to pray for you and your family.
    Peace.
    SusanReplyCancel

  • Ashley Ann - I get so excited when you make a new post. He is so handsome.ReplyCancel

  • kaylin rose and mara anne - love these new pictures and so happy for you…what a blessing!

    and i agree God knows what we can handle in life…we might now know, but he does…and it looks like you are doing a wonderful job 🙂ReplyCancel

  • Courtney Cloud - Your babies are so beautiful. I am so happy that the Lord has blessed you with such a sweet spirited baby boy. I’m praying for you often. I know this transition has to be an emotional roller coaster.
    Prayers and thoughts are going up for you in Alabama.
    – Courtney CReplyCancel

  • Princess Martha - This comment has been removed by the author.ReplyCancel

  • Princess Martha - Oops, I wanted to edit my post and accidently deleted it.

    Levi looks so adorable, and you look great for a mum with a newborn, not looking tired at all!ReplyCancel

  • Toni :O) - He certainly is picture perfect! I’m thrilled he’s treating you so well and that you got time with your good friend…yay for you! Sorry the doctor visit was so emotional for you, I just cannot imagine. Keep soaking it all in…one precious day at a time. Big hugs to you all!ReplyCancel

  • Carla - What a beautiful boy 🙂 I can’t imagine how emotional things must be at the moment as you get to know Levi and miss your little lady. Thanks for sharing. My thoughts and prayers are with you always. CarlaReplyCancel

  • Wibeche - He is so adorable:)

    WibReplyCancel

  • Emma and Company - What a sweet little boy! He is so cute. I am so glad his appointment went well, I can’t imagine how hard it must have been for you to go back to that office. Praying everything still goes wonderfully!ReplyCancel

  • Danielle - He is, NO LIE, the cutest baby of all time. I love his brown striped outfit!!!!ReplyCancel

  • Lexie Loo & Dylan Too - He is absolutely precious!ReplyCancel

  • A - He look so precious! Praise God for blessing you with a good baby 🙂ReplyCancel

  • Enos Family - He is absolutely BEAUTIFUL! Really, such a gorgeous baby. I am so glad things are going well. We’re all emotional after a baby, so I can’t imagine with the extra emotions you must have. Enjoy your wonderful little man.ReplyCancel

  • Beki - TheRustedChain - Ohmygoodness, he is absolutely delicious.

    That first picture is gorgeous.ReplyCancel

  • Karina - He is sooooo gorgeous. You sure do produce beautiful children. Hugs to you as you continue to cope…I can only imagine every day is a roller coaster.ReplyCancel

  • Paula from NY - Levi is beautiful.. Congrats to your beautiful family!!ReplyCancel

  • anna louise martin - Gorgeous, gorgous baby! Still praying for you.ReplyCancel

  • Tina - I am so happy for you Jess! He is precious. Thank you for posting weekly updates. I really enjoy reading them.ReplyCancel

  • Trudy - Ahhh, he’s so cute! Just beautiful. God be with you. {btw those sweet little bees hanging above Levi are too cute – but not as cute as Levi}ReplyCancel

  • RLG - Levi is so beautiful. Of course you’re in tears! I hope you’re not being too hard on yourself. You’ve got major hormones working against you right now! LOL Take care. xoxoReplyCancel

  • Val - I had a dream about Levi last night! (I have never met you, but I stumbled across your blog the day Cora went to live with Jesus, and have been reading ever since). In my dream, Levi was all grown up (maybe in his late 20s) and he was a lover of animals, and all life. He was doing farm work in my dream. Then my dream flashed back to when he was maybe 4 or 5. And it was so weird… everything around him was so bright. It almost hurt to look at him because he was so full of sunlight. I know he is very special, and a blessing to you, and anyone else that will get to meet him.ReplyCancel

  • Michelle - How blessed you are to have precious Levi! He’s a doll.ReplyCancel

  • Kristi - Oh, I can tell he already loves his mama :). What a sweetie!!ReplyCancel

  • Nan - Seriously… that is one incredibly beautiful baby! Glad you made it through that first appt. I can only imagine all of the feelings you are working through and will continue to work through.

    Just keep remembering that every day when things are churned up, God does not plow forever… He plows and plows and then He plants and then life emerges, fresh and green and fruitful. Hang in there on the plowing days.ReplyCancel

  • Rebecca - He is just as cute as can be! 🙂ReplyCancel

  • The Moffats - So good to be with you guys and love on little Levi. Always worth every minute of the drive. Miss you all already. Hugs.ReplyCancel

  • Lauren Kelly - He is just absolutely precious!!!!!! 🙂ReplyCancel

  • Lindsay - Adorable! i love the pic of you holding him.ReplyCancel

  • Lacie and Stephen - What a beautiful baby! I know how much of a blessing it is to have the second baby be calm when you are still greiving the loss of another! I am so glad that you are all settling into another new normal with Baby Levi! Congratulations!ReplyCancel

  • Celine - What an angel! I can’t believe how clear his complexion is. I love the polka-dot sleeper. What a blessing to have such a good baby. I pray that God would continue to ease your pain every day. I continue to keep you in my prayers.ReplyCancel

  • Sara - He is just gorgeous! What a sweet face. 🙂

    I have been thinking of you often. I know what it is like to bring home a baby after losing a baby too soon. Our circumstances are different yet we share the same heartache.

    Just know that you are being prayed for and thought about as you continue on this journey.ReplyCancel

  • La Familia Garcia - Wow, he’s real! He’s so beautiful!ReplyCancel

  • The Mershawn's - Oh Jess…I think we would be good friends if I actually knew you:).
    I had to laugh when I saw Mr. Levi sitting in his swing. Our sweet baby boy enjoys that same swing while wearing some of the same clothes as Levi. Guess that’s not so strange if you like to shop at the Gap & Target…ha!
    Glad things are going ok. Think about you guys often. I can’t even imagine how emotional things must be right now. Praying for you all! And keep enjoying that sweet boy. Thanks for sharing him:).ReplyCancel

  • The Emily's - He is perfect!! Congratulations! And what a great little name for him 🙂ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Wow. He is so absolutely beautiful. Congrats on your little guy.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - Levi is absolutely beautiful! I’m so thankful for you that he is a great baby!ReplyCancel

  • Laura - Levi is gorgeous..simply precious. I’m so glad that his dr. appointment went well. I’m thankful that you can feel Jesus’s arms around you, the amount of faith you have is truly inspiring.ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - He is absolutely gorgeous!!! Congrats!ReplyCancel

  • Polka Dot Moon - What a beautiful boy!ReplyCancel

  • KyndraRenae - He’s a beautiful baby. The first 2 are gorgeous! I couldn’t even begin to imagine the emotions you’re going through. You are an amazing woman, you always see the good side of things. You have such faith in God.ReplyCancel

  • Andy and Katie - Jess,
    What a sweet little man. He is just darling. Love to all of you!ReplyCancel

  • Sue - You are looking amazing already! And Levi is incredible, glad he’s being as good as gold for you and Joel; I’m sure it’s excactly what you need!!

    Sue xxxReplyCancel

  • Ben and Jessica Hershberger - You have a beautiful boy..so very precious.ReplyCancel

  • Miranda - What beautiful photos! That’s great that you had such a special visitor. And to gift you with a warm heart but also so many wonderful photos! 🙂ReplyCancel

  • Diana - Sooooooooooooo THANKFUL your appointment went well and that Levi’s doctor is so caring for you guys! AMEN!!ReplyCancel

  • Anonymous - So, so sweet! He looks so much like his daddy! I think it’s his eyes. My God continue to grant you joy and peace as you raise up your adorable little boy!ReplyCancel

  • Kate - Goodness that’s an exceptionally beautiful baby! The look in his eyes is remarkable. You’re going to have such fun with him.ReplyCancel

  • Mrs.Haggie810 - He is so adorable! I’m sure you’ve been told this, and I hope it doesn’t upset you, but he looks a lot like Cora, but I think that’s a blessing! They are both gorgeous! My first son and my daughter look a lot alike too. Thanks for sharing his cutie pictures, and Praise the Lord for a good appointment! Makes me realize I really need to blog some new photo’s of my new boy soon…and he’s 2 MONTHS! lolReplyCancel