No matter how many pictures I see, or how many children I have… each time I am equally in awe at the miracle of life. When you think about it, there really is no other way to describe it other than a sheer miracle. A few weeks ago I started to feel the first little familiar flutters which I instantly recognized as baby kicks! Now I am 17 weeks and the movement is beginning to feel more regular and strong. It’s still just a slight twinge but as soon as I feel it, I know my baby is busy, healthy, and strong. There is nothing in the world more reassuring or calming than to feel that. A week from today we will find out what we are having, but more importantly, I’ll be able to catch a glimpse of this growing blessing. I have had plenty of ultrasounds before but I think each one brings it own emotions. I have gone through 3 times now where I was actually scared to see my little child because I knew it might confirm that there was no heartbeat. That is so hard because you have the excitement of seeing your baby, but yet the reality that it will be the last picture you will have. By the time 17-20 week ultrasound happens though, it’s always with the same amount of happiness, nervousness, yet peace at the same time! I have been daydreaming for weeks about that day and I can’t wait until it’s here! I often tell Jim that I think the baby’s behavior in the womb is a sign of their personality. Gabriel always kicked me just enough to let me know he was okay, but without ever hurting me. He always got the hiccups and it was so funny to see my belly jump when it happened. Today Gabriel is a gentle, sweet, responsible little boy (who still gets the hiccups quite a bit)! Grant on the other hand came kicking STRONG and hard right from the start! I swore one night he broke my rib (haha) but he would tell me when he was awake, or asleep, and when he was having a solo soccer match. Sure enough, Grant is now a strong-willed, extroverted, athletic (yes at 22 months) little boy! So that just adds to the anticipation with this child. I can’t wait to get a feel for his/her personality as the months go on. Well, I better bring my head back out of the clouds and get ready for work. Have a wonderful day!
Cindy says
Brooke,
As I looked at the infant picture, I was listening to “The Prayer” by Andrea Bochelli & Celine Dion. It is an amazing song. If you never listened, you must. I did a missions trip to Mississippi in October w/my 15 year old son. What an opportunity to share my faith. Life is such a blessed gift. Cindy