Getting pregnant 3 months into our marriage wasn’t my plan at all. Life was good; we were newlyweds deeply in love and I felt at peace with myself and the world around me. I envisioned the next year being just the two of us building our new life together and enjoying married life. Then just days before my birthday, my world turned upside down. I found out I was pregnant.

The thought of becoming a mom freaked me out. Not because I thought I wouldn’t be able to, (as the oldest of nine children I felt pretty capable) but the thought of always being “on duty” didn’t sound like something that would fit into my carefree, flexible life.

Crying as I showed Aaron the pregnancy test, I also felt a thrill of joy at having created a human being with the man I loved more than anyone in the world. It was a relief to know I was definitely pregnant instead of anxiously wondering, “what if?” At the same time, I felt overwhelmed with this unexpected turn in my life. Just weeks before, Aaron and I had talked about having a baby and although he was ready, I hadn’t been there yet. Now it was such a relief and comfort to know that Aaron was excited to be a dad and to have his support as I faced a new reality. I didn’t immediately feel “ready,” and I had to take some time to settle my heart and trust that if God gave us a baby he would also give me the grace I needed to be a mom.

9 months later, just days before my due date, I couldn’t be happier to be welcoming a little baby into my life. Although it wasn’t our plan, I’m glad God had a better one. I love watching Aaron play with my little brothers and seeing the way he already loves our son so much. I know he’ll be an amazing father and my heart is so full with the way he’s been extra caring and patient with me, especially in these last few weeks as I started to feel very pregnant.

Aaron Bowman, I love you with all my heart and I’m so happy I get to welcome our little son into the world with you beside me!