Yes, you read that right. We’re expecting another baby in October 2021. We are absolutely thrilled as you can imagine. I’ve been snuggling Jaden a lot more as I realize the short amount of time I have with his as my first born only son. One of my greatest joys as a mom is watching him grow up. I’m constantly amazed at how smart he is for his age. I don’t think it’s something that’s special just to him. Instead, it’s a reminder to not estimate him according to what I think he can do just because he’s little.
Aaron and I are really excited but it’s also been a little more of an adjustment than last time, (or at least from what I remember.) It might just be because we have a toddler. No matter how I’m feeling I’m still responsible for him. I’ve felt a little more nauseous this time as well as feeling exhausted. It’s easy for me to just think that “well, maybe this is just the way it is,” when I’m not feeling on top of my game.
But as I experienced when I was pregnant with Jaden as well as hearing from other moms, IT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE THAT WAY! I believe that God created my body to nurture life and flourish even in pregnancy. Pregnancy isn’t a cross I need to bear but instead an incredible blessing. I want to view it as such. I believe the more I renew my mind with God’s word, the more I will experience his grace and wholeness in my body.
When I was pregnant and thinking about giving birth to Jaden, these verses were really encouraging to me. By focusing on what God had already done, my mind was settled that God created my body to give birth and that there was nothing to fear. One of the greatest problems we as women face is fear of birth. It’s also the biggest hindrance in experiencing peace and rest throughout the process.
“I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.” Psalm 139:14
“I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4:13
“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” 2 Corinthians 12:9
As I once again face the process of pregnancy and birth, I again remind myself that His word, not mine or others’ negative experiences should form my perspective.
“Will you find out the gender?” is a question I’m frequently asked. The answer is most likely, “yes.” We found out with Jaden and I loved that we could give him his name and use it when we talked to him. It helped us to see him as a real person more than just calling him, “Baby.” It’s obviously a personal choice and I would actually kind of like to be surprised sometime. Maybe once we have at least a boy and a girl, we’ll do that since I’d like to feel prepared for either one.
What’s your guess, boy or girl?