Welcome to the World, Isla Grace

On July 20th, our hearts expanded in ways words can hardly capture. At 2:43am, we welcomed our daughter, Isla Grace Hauser, into the world—8 pounds 3 ounces, 20 inches long, and already a picture of God’s faithfulness.

What makes her story even sweeter is God’s perfect timing. Isla was born exactly six years and one day after Paul and I had our very first date. Only the Lord could weave such beautiful full-circle reminders into the fabric of our family’s story. He continues to show us that He is in every detail, every moment, and every season.

This birth held so many sacred moments I’ll never forget.

After I pushed, Paul was the one who caught Isla and placed her on my chest, a moment that will forever be etched in my memory. To have the love of my life literally bring our daughter into the world was overwhelming in the most beautiful way. Beside me, one of my dearest friends, Elizabeth Pulliam—our beloved “Aunt Lizzie”—held my hand and prayed over me, offering the kind of support and strength only a true sister-friend can give. Together, they helped carry me through one of the most powerful and holy experiences of my life.

As I held Isla for the first time, I thought of Psalm 139:13-14:

“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.”

Her name is full of meaning:

    •    Isla, a name that carries the beauty of still waters and new beginnings.

    •    Grace, a reminder of God’s unearned favor, covering, and love that has been the foundation of our lives and marriage.

Watching Harris and Jonah meet their baby sister has been one of the greatest joys of my life. Harris, with his tender heart, leaned in with such gentleness, while Jonah, full of spunk and theatrics like his dad, instantly wanted to be part of her little world. I have no doubt Isla will grow up surrounded by laughter, creativity, and the purest kind of love.

Motherhood always humbles me.

You think you’re the one teaching and guiding, but then God uses these little ones to teach you about patience, surrender, and unconditional love in ways you never expected. Isla is only days old, and yet she’s already reminding me of God’s goodness and calling me to slow down, breathe deep, and soak in the wonder of it all.

As I reflect on that night, I’m reminded of Ecclesiastes 4:9-10:

“Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.”

That verse feels so true of the way Aunt Lizzie stood beside me. God knew I needed her prayers, her encouragement, and her steady hand in that room. What a gift it is to walk through life’s most sacred seasons surrounded by faithful friends who lift you up.

We are stepping into this new chapter with gratitude and excitement, knowing that the Lord has entrusted us with this little girl for such a time as this. Our prayer is that Isla Grace grows up knowing deeply who she is in Christ—that she is loved, chosen, and called to shine His light in a world that desperately needs it.

So here we are, a family of five.

Sleep-deprived, a little messy, but completely wrapped up in the beauty of this moment. Thank you to everyone who has been praying with us, cheering us on, and celebrating alongside us. We feel your love, and we’re so grateful.

Welcome to the world, Isla Grace.

You are already so deeply loved.