I’ve been pregnant a lot of times, but I cringe at nearly every picture we have of my swollen, life growing self. I have several really flattering ones of me sleeping in the passenger seat of our van, belly bulging, head tilted back, mouth open, during our most recent road trip. Lovely. And there are a few hurried snap shots taken right before we’ve rushed off to the hospital with a couple of our babies.
But this time I’m quite certain I’m never going to do this again. This is the last time I’m going to harbor a whole other being, to give it a beginning, to share my space so completely. The last time I’ll feel a baby stretch and push and try out new limbs, or feel the excitement and anticipation of meeting my little person who has become so familiar. This is a pretty amazing, miraculous thing my body can do, and I’ve done it over and over because I know that when it comes down to it, there isn’t anything more important or more valuable that I could do. Saying I’m thankful to be a mother is an understatement. In so many ways I feel like I was born when my first baby was born and every one has taught me more about who I am, what our family can be, and what life is really about than I could have learned any other way.
I wanted some way to remember the beautiful part — so we braved the mosquitoes in the warm evening light and Barry took some pictures we could treasure.
And now I’m counting the minutes. The end is the hardest part because there is so much uncertainty, so much wondering and waiting.
Such neat photos, Jess. You are amazing. I wish you the best with these last few days. They are tough, but so worth it. Can’t wait to see her!
Beautiful pictures! What a great way to celebrate this, your last time. Looking forward to reading about your newest little addition soon!!! (I’m just a few weeks behind you {due mid-Sept}… and I know the waiting can be rough!)
These are beautiful pictures. I wish that I had taken more pictures of myself when I was expecting Anna. It was pre-digital, so perhaps that is why? I’m not sure. If I had known then that I would go through infertility – I would definitely have taken more pictures. Good for you! 😀
Jessica, you are truly beautiful!
Beautiful.
That made me tear right up.
THIS: In so many ways I feel like I was born when my first baby was born …
Yes.
The last time
What a lovely set of pictures! I have generally avoided cameras like the plague when pregnant, but maybe if we ever do it again I’ll force myself to smile in the sunset just once.
Love the maternity dress and the beautiful baby bump! You always have such an eloquent way of saying things—I love it! Now we need the story on how you KNOW this is the last!!
Aaaaahhhhh, tears rolling down my face. Love your words and am in awe of these beautiful pics. You summed up my feelings on motherhood and growing babies so beautifully.
Praying for your birth to be exactly what you need it to be.
Can’t wait to meet Eva!