Anxiously Waiting...

We've officially made it to the due date!  For the past couple of weeks I've felt like a human ticking bomb, ready to go off at any moment.  Unfortunately, we've made very little progress. If our little one doesn't get here by next Monday we plan to induce.  Fortunately the baby's growth slowed down the past couple of weeks.  The doctor was concerned a month ago I'd be delivering a 9-10lb baby, but baby's growth slowed enough that they're guessing around 8lbs.

We all can't wait to meet you little one!

New Perspective on Christmas and Mary

When I realized I'd be giving birth close to Christmas time I realized this would be a special Christmas for me. I've tried to think about Mary throughout my pregnancy and how she must have felt as she approached the birth of Christ.  With Christmas only a week away, and my baby coming any day now I wanted to write a few of my thoughts from the past couple months.

First,  +/- 90 miles or 4-6 days journey on a donkey...bless that woman.  I cannot imagine her discomfort.  Every time I have gotten out of car during the past month I have thought of the discomfort Mary must have experienced, and I'm SO grateful for the luxuries in my life.

Second, as Mary realized she would be giving birth in a stable, I wonder what emotions and thoughts must have crossed her mind.  I like to think that she was a spiritual giant and she thought the bible times equivalent of "bring-it-on!"  But I have to admit I've been more emotional towards the end of my pregnancy and if it had been me I probably would have burst into tears.  I feel so grateful to know I'm literally minutes from a wonderful hospital full of people to help me bring my little one into the world.  I wonder, did Mary even have a midwife or did she do it all on her own?  Either way, I am filled with respect for Mary and the circumstances in which she gave birth.

Finally, as I think about my little baby I am overwhelmed with love for him.  I can't imagine the peace, love and joy Mary must have felt caring the son of God.  Truly this pregnancy has brought me a new understanding and respect for the Christmas story.