Confessions of a Pregnant Heart

Well, today was officially my last appointment at my OB/GYN's office before the birth of our baby. It's hard to believe we've come so far so fast. The end is truly in sight! If I don't go into labor before Tuesday, I'll be induced that morning at the hospital. It really puts things into perspective when you can say with confidence, "I'm going to have a baby in 6 days." I can't fully explain to you the mixture of emotions I felt when this realization first came over me, but I will try my best. Excitement was my initial reaction, along with relief. I'm excited to finally meet my baby girl, hold her in my arms, see who she looks like, etc. I'm relieved that there will be an end to this pregnancy after all - that I can get my old clothes back in my closet, buy a new pair of running shoes, and start seeing the pounds shrink on the scale. Having a scheduled day to deliver your baby takes away the guessing of when and where labor will happen, and which doctor will be at the hospital to deliver your baby. It also guarantees Robbie will be there for the entire event.

After these first emotions ran through my mind, I was greeted with worry and anxiety. Worry about how my labor and delivery would progress, worry about whether or not "the nest" is truly ready, and worry about being a good mother. What if the induction is too hard on the baby? What if I have to have a C-section? I'm a little anxious about the transition Robbie and I will make into parenthood - will it bring us closer together or draw us apart? How tired will I be? How will our animals adjust to the new member of the family? What will it be like having so many visitors? Will it stress me out or help calm me?

No doubt, all these feelings are totally normal for any first-time mom. Ultimately, I'm just so happy I will finally be one! Being a mom, in my opinion, is the most noble and fulfilling occupation a woman could ever have. I'm honored to have been blessed with this little baby. And even though it won't be easy, or even enjoyable, at times, I know this is what God has wanted for me for a long time. All the elation, anxiety, and pain will be totally worth it...in only 6 days.