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.
🙂
that’s really sweet, Judy! i heard you were pregnant but i didn’t know you were so far along…..i hope it’s girl this time, especially because you felt totally different. i really hope you’ll have a better time from now on :). indeed, it seems Israel has been a true blessings !!! many blessings to you all. keep us updated 🙂
I wish I could have been there to help with your burden, too, Judy. Your boys will always have an example of what it is to be an honorable husband/father and to take compassion on their mother. I have only been vomitously sick once since I married John and it was this past winter when the baby was sick and John HAD to absolutely had to go to work IN A SNOWSTORM. I don’t think I have prayed so hard or left so many pleading messages on the voicemails of our friends. No one could come and help b/c of the snow, but God was good and faithful. Take heart, friend, and in no time you will be welcoming “Trip” 🙂
Jude, it is also b/c you are super-awesome. i am blessed to have you guys as friends. really. i look foward to whoever is growing in your belly and i know that no matter what, God will continue to bless as you guys honor Him. Plus, you guys crack me up (very often) which i am grateful for as well. I need to store up these endorphins to make it through the 10 months w/o ya’ll in VA.
@DennyGabi – Denisa, how are you feeling?! The baby should be coming very soon, right? Thank you for your encouraging comment. We’ll let you know the sex of the baby in a few weeks. 🙂@peanutluey – Kendra, I can only imagine what a trying day that must have been. But it is so true that God always carries us through…even though it seems like it will never end! Thanks for the empathy…it does mean a lot! I really do hope we can meet soon and that our kiddies can play together.@jensa07 – Jen, we miss you already! You were such a blessing and help to me…I feel bad that your stay may have felt more like a nanny/maid service (that only pays with free food) than a vacation!! So, I promise that next time, by God’s grace I’ll feel tip-top, and we’ll fill our time together with many fun and exciting adventures! 🙂 Have fun with your family!@steffyjaney – Hi Steph! We need to call you soon! We may be coming down there for part of l.e.a.d.s. and we have some other plans that we want to discuss with you… 🙂
call me tonight! i’ve been meaning to call you, too. 🙂
Thanks for the update Judy! I am so sorry to hear of your maladies, but it is so nice to hear how this has been a blessing with Israel caring so much.I am humbled and inspired.-dm