UncategorizedAnticipating a Miracle January 13, 2015 When I’ve heard other pregnant women talk about being 36 weeks, 37 weeks, and so on, I always think the same thing. “What in the world does it feel like to be that close to having your baby?” Well, y’all, today, I am officially 38 weeks. Now, I’m getting to see first-hand what that feels like and it’s so complex, I’m not even sure I can put it into words. On one hand, it feels like I’ve been pregnant FOREVER. Not in a bad, I’m so miserable kind of way (though I will not miss the discomfort, stuffyness, and all of the other fun symptoms I’ve had). But in a way that feels like we’ve been anticipating her for so long. If I try to think back to before I knew a baby was coming, and even before I knew our little Rosie was coming, it’s foggy. Knowing she was joining our family immediately changed us. Priorities changed, thoughts and plans changed, and I changed. The minute I saw those two lines on that little test, I went from being a wife and blogger and woman with some responsibilities to the sacred M-word I’ve always dreamed of. In other ways, I feel like I should still be like 12 weeks pregnant. How is it possible that I am two weeks from the due date? Knowing that I’m going to meet our little girl so soon is something I can’t hardly process. Of course, it’s thrown me into major nesting mode. I have a to-do list a mile long that as soon as I check something off, I add two more things. I recognize that Rosie isn’t going to care if wall art is hung in my new office, but I do. I feel this strange need I’ve never experienced to have everything just so to welcome our little one into our home. I know that’s normal, but I am trying to temper it with my goal for this year: Just Be. I’m trying to savor these last few days of anticipation. I’m trying to put my feet up, take naps, and most of all reflect. I’ve spent so much time thinking of the kind of mom I want to be. I’ve spent a lot of time reading and journaling prayers for this little one, our new budding family, and guidance as I enter this new phase. And most of all, I’ve spent time trying to imagine her. I look down at my stomach. I feel and see her no longer tiny movements and I imagine those little fists and feet that are hard at work. I try to imagine her little features, what color hair she’ll have, and the expressions she’ll make. But more than anything, I try to imagine the moment. The moment when I take her in my arms and pull her to my chest. The moment when our eyes meet for the first time and I no longer have to imagine how she’ll look because I can see her right in front of me. The moment when I meet this new little one who will always be a part of our family from now on. And the idea it completely overwhelms me. But it does make me certain of a few key things. Though this experience is unlike any I’ve ever had, I know that when I see her, I’ll be filled with a love unlike any I’ve known before. I know that Chris and I experiencing this moment together will forever change and bond us in a way that nothing else could. And more than anything, I know that we will have witnessed a miracle. Not in the cheesy sense of that word that gets thrown around so much, but a literal, God-ordained, life-changing, spiritual awakening sort of MIRACLE. I’ve been told by women who’ve had babies that childbirth is the most spiritual experience they’ve ever had. That it almost feels like the veil of heaven has thinned and you are experiencing something supernatural and God feels so close, you could almost reach out and grasp His hand. When I think of our Miracle-in-Waiting, all fear of the unknown and what is to come fades quietly away and all that’s left behind is an all-consuming joy and gratitude. I’m so grateful God chose me to be Rosie’s mommy and entrusted us a couple with this coming experience and life with her. {I’ll have maternity shoot details as well as some maternity outfit tips tomorrow, so check back then if you’re interested in outfit sources!}
Amber says January 13, 2015 at 10:14 am So beautiful…you, your words, and your love for your family and our God that created it. PS I LOVE the picture with your hair blowing softly! Reply
Haley says January 13, 2015 at 10:53 am Such a beautiful post! I look back to my days/weeks before having my daughter and I had no idea what was in store (in the best way possible). I was so excited to meet my little one and the actual event exceeded my wildest expectations. I love seeing pregnant women and knowing that they are so close to experiencing one of the best moments of their life in seeing their child for the first time. Thoughts and prayers for you and Rosie as her birth quickly approaches. Reply
Lindsay says January 13, 2015 at 4:06 pm Aww, Haley, your comment made my day! It made me even more excited about what’s coming… Thank you so much for sharing. Reply
Trina @ Let's Just Build a House says January 13, 2015 at 12:36 pm I’m right behind you at 35 weeks and I can’t imagine how I’m going to feel at 38 weeks! Don’t have much to complain about but my list is getting as long as yours 🙂 Reply
Lindsay says January 13, 2015 at 4:05 pm Good luck getting it all done, Trina! I’m trying to keep reminding myself that even if she came now, none of that would matter 🙂 Although, it’d be nice to get it all done… Reply
Bethany @ Dwellings by DeVore says January 13, 2015 at 2:51 pm You look beautiful Lindsay, glowing! I can’t wait to hear of sweet baby Rosie’s arrival and to see pictures! Reply
Lindsay says January 13, 2015 at 4:02 pm Thank you so much, Bethany! I’ll definitely share some when she’s here! I already am thinking of redoing a kitchen like you did for your little one for next Christmas, haha! Reply
Patti says January 13, 2015 at 3:04 pm You will never experience anything else like the love a mommy has for her child. Reading this took me back to the day by “baby” was born 25 yrs ago. I can still remember the joy and it has not lessened one bit! Reply
Lesley Williams says January 13, 2015 at 4:38 pm Having just experienced childbirth for the second time just 6 months ago, I can tell you that it is ten times more amazing than you could ever imagine. I’m not sure anyone will ever be able put into words what you will feel that first moment you hold your little one. It’s breathtaking. It brings tears to my eyes just thinking about it. 🙂 Praying for you, Rosie and your hubby as you experience one of God’s greatest blessing’s. Remember the birth may not go as you imagine it will (mine certainly didn’t), but it will happen exactly as God intends… And everything will be just prefect when you look back. Reply
Lindsay says January 14, 2015 at 10:30 am Thank you so much for those words of encouragement, Lesley! I love what you said that birth will happen exactly as God intends! We have a birth plan, but I am really trusting in that and know God has it all already handled! Thank you for sharing 🙂 Reply
Annie says January 13, 2015 at 4:55 pm Reading your sweet words moved me so much. You are going to be such an incredible mommy to sweet Rosie, and I am praying that God blesses and prepares you and Chris as you enter parenthood and a new chapter of your lives! I am praying that she is healthy, you are healthy, and that she grows to love and know Jesus so intimately! I know you will both do an amazing and beautiful job leading her and loving her. I miss you so much, and I can’t wait to continue following along your journey! I love you, and thank you for everything you have done for me in my walk with the Lord, and for pouring so much into my life! Reply
Lindsay says January 14, 2015 at 10:26 am Annie, your comment just made my day. You are so precious and I have loved our time learning from each other! I pray Rosie has all of the love for JEsus and the beautiful heart that you do 🙂 Can’t wait to see you and have you meet Rosie soon! Reply
Jessica Hightower says January 13, 2015 at 6:51 pm Lindsay!!! You look stunning!!! You definitely have the Mommy-glow! Seeing your maternity pictures literally brought tears to my eyes! You are going to be an incredible mother! I can’t wait to see Miss Rosie’s face! Congrats to you and Chris both! XOXO! Reply
Lindsay says January 14, 2015 at 10:25 am Jessica, you are so sweet. Thank you so much! Your words warmed my heart! I hope you and Jason are doing well 🙂 Reply
Marilyn Allen says January 13, 2015 at 8:59 pm Lindsay Rose, you are so beautiful and your writings about your “anticipated miracle” warmed my heart. Papa and I are praying every day and night for you, Rosie, Chris, and Gracie, too. We know that your little family is blessed and you are a blessing to all who know and love you…Just know we care and are anxiously waiting for Rosie’s arrival. We love you….Bobo Reply
Lindsay says January 14, 2015 at 10:25 am Thank you so much, Bobo! I love you both and can’t wait for you to meet little Rosie! Reply
Meghan says January 14, 2015 at 12:25 am girl, now you’re making me want to get pregnant! not sure K’s up for the challenge yet 🙂 in any case – please let us know if you need help with Gracie, putting up guests, meals, treats or baby snuggling at all in the coming weeks, we’re right here if you need us for anything! xoxo! Reply
Lindsay says January 14, 2015 at 10:24 am Aww Meghan, you are so sweet! I can’t wait until Rosie has a little friend just down the street 🙂 And I’ll definitely let you know if we need help! You are so sweet to offer and we’re so grateful y’all are right here! Reply
Patty says January 14, 2015 at 6:39 am I am so excited for you. My daughter is 34 weeks and Im going to be a grandmother for the first time so I understand the anticipation of the miracle that is about to happen. I wish you best of luck and hopefully a quick labor. Looking forward to tips on pictures and outfits for the pregnancy shots. Love the navy tunic on your pictures. Again, congratulations. Reply
Lindsay says January 14, 2015 at 10:22 am Oh Patty, I know from watching my own mom become a grandmother just a few years ago, you are in for a treat! My mom and dad talk all the time about how being grandparents is the most amazing thing in the world and just like becoming parents, it’s a feeling you can’t really expect until it happens. So I am excited for you! And thank you so much for your sweet words 🙂 Reply
Rainey says January 14, 2015 at 11:22 am Words can’t express how excited I am for you! Can’t wait to see pictures of your new little one. Reply
Silvia Loya says January 14, 2015 at 12:12 pm You lucky gal. The feeling never goes away. Seems like yesterday I was in labor with my daughter. I remember every minute, the anticipation, pain, and the final moment I would see my baby for the first time. She is now 24 years old, but the birthing is never forgotten. I congratulate you and your husband and wish you the best as you welcome your bundle of joy. Get lots of sleep and rest. You will need it. Silvia Reply