When you're waiting... - Elaine Junge, Writer & Blogger

Have you ever had the experience when you’re waiting for a big change that you expected much sooner? Sometimes a change is inevitable; you know it’s coming. And yet some changes have a timeline of their own. Like the arrival of babies.

When my first grandchild was born, I had another family commitment and didn’t expect to be there for his birth. But when I heard my daughter was in labor, my husband and I quickly regrouped and I was on the plane within less than 24 hours. We knew I needed to be there. And it was a race to see if Baby Jay or I would arrive first. In the end, I arrived for the last four hours of labor — and delivery. And it was one of the sweetest moments of my life. I couldn’t have been prouder of my daughter and son-in-law, or more thrilled with my grandson. I knew I would love being a grandma, but you just don’t “know” until you KNOW. I’ve loved watching him grow — and his parents adapting to parenthood like champs has been so much fun.

So when the kids announced that Baby #2 was on the way, well, I’m ready. This grandma arrived a week early. Which brings me back to the waiting.

I’m here in South Korea

I came to South Korea a week early, because Jay arrived a week early — so naturally we expected little Kayleigh might do the same. And we all wanted to be sure I could be there to support their little household, especially with a 14-month old now in the picture.

But apparently, Ms. Kayleigh Jane has a mind of her own.

We’re four days past her due date.

And we’re waiting. Change is coming, and we’re waiting.

So what do you do when you’re waiting?

First of all, we trust God’s timing. We don’t understand the reasons but we know that God does. Perhaps Kayleigh needs more time to develop. Maybe the right staff aren’t yet available at the hospital. Someone suggested she’s waiting for Grandpa to arrive. Mama says she might be planning to stay in her tummy until her 18th birthday (send sustenance)! Whatever the timing, we know that it will be just right.

Secondly, we accept that whatever the reasons, they’re out of our control. We joke about doing all of the things to make baby come sooner (bumpy drives, walking), but in the end a due date is an educated guess!

Third, we prepare the best we can. As I write this, mama and Baby Jay are taking a nap and Papa is out grocery shopping. I finished knitting Kayleigh’s blanket several days ago, did a meal prep plan and am supporting where I can — and I am getting in my daily walks, a necessity for this grandma that needs fresh air and movement.

Fourth, find joy in the moments. I’ve had so much fun reconnecting with Jay and his parents, and ensuring that he’s comfortable with Grandma when Mama and Papa go to the hospital. We spent time together this summer and we talk often on video calls so he knew my face! We’ve all had fun hanging out at the apartment, going out to dinner, and to the mall. And two nights ago, Sara and Andrew had their first date since Jay was born!

Finding joy in the unexpected moments when you’re waiting can be as easy as connecting with your people! Jay and I hung out together while Mama and Papa had a night out.

Rest into the waiting

As excited as we can be for change (especially a new baby), sometimes God prepares us in ways we can’t even imagine. If you’re in a season of unexpected waiting for change that seems to be barreling straight at you, I encourage you to slow down and appreciate the waiting instead of second-guessing when and how the change will hit you. Sometimes the real gift lies in the waiting, in living Betwixt and Between!

May you find joy and peace in your waiting seasons as you also find hope and energy for stepping into the changes in your life.