This Thursday will mark week 16 of this pregnancy. I think I can honestly say that weeks 6 through 14 were the most trying times of my life. It has been the most difficult pregnancy out of the 3, by far. Micah was the most merciful. I actually took medication to help with my vomiting which I’ve never done before. Now that things have gotten better, I’m trying to get my life back to normal and back into the swing of things. Although I felt so horrible – symptoms including excessive vomiting, sour stomach, acid reflux, indigestion, sensitivity to smells, chemicals, soaps, toothpaste, and that taste of bile in my mouth (reminiscent of Imanuel in utero) etc. – there was one overwhelming blessing throughout these times. His name is Israel.
From the time we first found out we were going to have another baby, I know he was so happy. He also told me that he was thankful for this opportunity to “do things right this time”. To be honest, I kind of brushed off this remark. He has always been good to us. I think anyone who knows Israel could testify to what a wonderful father he is. He has such a deep love for his children and he genuinely loves spending time with them. Yet, this time around, (this final time), special care and attention has been given from the very beginning. While the morning sickness has been by far the worst, Israel has been patiently and lovingly caring for us better than any time before. That has given me such great strength during these difficult times.
It has been hard for me to complain about how I feel when I see Israel doing his best to ease my burdens and care for the boys. Except for Sabbaths (when he has to leave for his first church by 8am), he gets the boys when they wake up so I can sleep in, he has changed all of Micah’s diapers and wiped Imanuel’s butt when he is available at home, and in the evening, he has gotten the boys ready and put them down for bed. And this has all been in addition to the quality time he spends with the boys each day. While it may not seem like a big deal, it really is when you know how busy Israel’s daily schedule is (and all that the boys’ morning and nighttime routines entail). He has just been there for me and I feel overwhelminging supported and cared for. He has been my special blessing during these tough times and I will never forget that.
As I was reflecting on these things this morning, I realized that I haven’t appreciated him as I should. So, this is for him:
Thank you for loving us and giving yourself for us. You make me want to be a better (pregnant) wife and mother. And our children are blessed because of you.