April 3, 1928
It was a beautiful day in mid-spring. Despite the beauty outside, Olivia Walton felt terrible. So John drove her to see Dr. Vance in Charlottesville.
"You're pregnant, Olivia! You're about 3 months along." Dr. Vance smiled. "We can expect this baby to arrive sometime in October."
Olivia smiled, but deep down she felt very nervous. After the tragedy with Joseph nearly two years ago, the 28-year old mother's biggest fear was that things would go terribly again. But she tried to be excited.
The five oldest children would be in school the following September. Jim Bob would be the only one at home.
Jim Bob had grown so much. He would be 2 years old in a little over two months. Already running around the house, he excitedly "helped" Ben with his responsibilities at home. He loved being with his older brothers John-Boy and Jason. They somehow made him feel older than he was. And he just adored being his sisters' "baby doll." Anytime he was the center of attention, he was happy.
September 18, 1928
"How did the appointment go with Dr. Vance?" John asked his wife once she returned to the truck.
"He said things are going smoothly. He said our little one will be born sometime fro m October 26- November 2."
"I can't wait to meet him or her. What do you think the baby is this time, Livy?"
"I think we're about due for a girl." Olivia smiled. "Mary Ellen and Erin sure think so."
"I think so too. Don't tell the boys, but I hope it's a girl. Mary Ellen and Erin need some reinforcement."
"They do." Olivia laughed.
October 28, 1928
At 8:40 a.m. on a perfect autumn day, Olivia went into labor with her seventh child. It was a Sunday and everyone else went to church.
"Can't we stay with Mama?" Mary Ellen asked.
"No, we'll see your brother or sister when we get back from church." John replied. "Grandma will take good care of her."
At 4:50 in the afternoon, Eliabeth Tyler Walton entered the world.
"Is the baby here?" the children excitedly asked.
John paused, smiling. "You have a little sister! Elizabeth Tyler Walton!"
Mary Ellen and Erin got up and danced around while Ben groaned.
"Can it Ben!" Mary Ellen scolded. "There are too many boys around here anyway."
Elizabeth was admired by her siblings, even Ben!
