Four years ago today, my life was about to change forever!
We were expecting our first baby, our miracle baby. We had been through so much already to be here. I had infertility and health struggles and, she was our “surprise” and our little blessing. I remember that day so well and how God orchestrated every detail.
The day before, I was at a church meeting with my husband and my parents. The air was out in the building and it was hot. My feet were swelling but, I just chalked it up to the heat and dehydration. My mom, however, saw it (Blessing #1) and wouldn’t have if we decided not to attend. She begged me to please go to the optional appointment I had set up for the next day. I didn’t want to go, but we did.
So here we were, sitting in this appointment. (blessing #2) My blood pressure was high and, it hadn’t been at all this pregnancy. I knew something just wasn’t right at this point. They worked me in to see the ultrasound tech. It was the longest 2 hours of my life. They kept moving it around, looking for things and taking notes. They told me she was tracking a little over 5lbs, so in my mind, “ok, they are just going to move the c-section that is scheduled next week till a little later to let her keep growing.” This soon-to-be momma was feeling every emotion there was. I remember waiting in the room to hear from the OB. She came in, and I knew something was up.
“You are going to the hospital.” I remember responding to that: “umm, yeah, next week for my c-section.” Nope, they meant now. I couldn’t drive back home to get my bag. We were told to go from the appointment to the hospital, and we may need an emergency c-section.
I still remember the conversation I had with God! And yes, I know you can’t tell God what to do and what the plan is supposed to be, but it didn’t stop me.
“God, this is NOT happening! I can’t go in any earlier than planned. We are just at 36 weeks, and everything is planned for next week. My mother-in-law isn’t here yet. My house isn’t ready. There is some sort of mistake here?!”
We made it through the night. They had me on different monitors and had already given me something to help develop her lungs. They were doing everything to wait at least one more day but ideally wanted to get me through at least 48 hours before they had to deliver. I wish I had slept more the night before. I remember having no idea what was going on. Fear, worry, anxiety, and so many emotions were going on. We found out I had some minor contractions that week. The next 48+ hours were probably the longest “waiting period” of my life. We had people visit and pray with us and just had no idea what was going on.
Then the morning of June 8th arrived. I woke up that morning and was getting ready for the c-section. Just reflecting on those moments, I remember a presence of peace. I knew God was there and, in a short time, we would be holding our baby girl.
I will never forget when I heard her scream for the first time! I feel like that was the first breathe I let out in 3 days. I knew everything was going to be ok. The tears of joy holding that beautiful baby girl for the first time. She didn’t have to go to the NICU and we were able to have friends and family come to visit.
I remember at some point during our recovery at the hospital, my one OB came in and said: “I have to just look at this little miracle.” I knew she was my miracle with all we had gone through to get here, but I didn’t fully grasp it till he explained more. So the one thing they never went into detail about was what was happening. That I had been diagnosed that Monday with preeclampsia, she also pretty much had stopped growing. One or both of us could have died if I had NOT gone to that optional appointment! Blessings in disguise!
God knew exactly what was going on. He was orchestrating it all! He knew where I needed to be when and who needed to be in my life when. My little miracle is thriving and turning four in a few days. Where does the time go?!
I am so thankful for all God has done and is doing. For all He provides. For His grace, peace, perfect plan, and blessings. Happy birthday weekend Iris Rose.
Living Life with a Purpose 