And Baby Makes........

(I'm using Larri's "fact post" idea, but I don't think she'll mind.)

It's a fact that none of you thought I told Mountain Man we had won the lottery. It's a fact that y'all are a smart bunch, and I can't fool any of you.

It's a fact that we're expecting another blessing to grace our home next June.

It's a fact that after knowing the pain of miscarriage, I feel very vulnerable announcing a pregnancy. I know so well how quickly good news can turn to sad, and I know that every day this baby continues to grow is a miracle.

It's a fact that this is the earliest we've shared about being pregnant since I had my first miscarriages 7 years ago.

It's a fact that we prayed for this baby. We prayed and prayed and prayed.

It's a fact that I've never suffered from morning sickness.....but I've had a host of other complications to make up for it. :)

It's a fact that most of our family members think we're crazy and much of their congratulations are wrapped in skepticism and shaking heads and even a bit of scolding.

It's a fact that my heart is sad when others can't rejoice with us.

It's a fact that every family should have the JOY of having their pastor react as ours did when we announced the good news this past Sunday at church. His excitement blessed our hearts beyond words! I wish I could have had that moment on tape....just to play when we hear the negative comments or the silence.

It's a fact that while I rejoice, I'm profoundly aware of the aching, empty wombs in my midst. I'm aware of the Mommies who've just lost babies or who are still waiting for one or are past the time of ever having another one. I'm aware that my joy can often cause pain to the Mama who is in a different place. Oh, I'm so aware, and I've been in some of those places, and for those Mommies who read this and find their hearts aching, I'm so sorry, and I hug you in my heart and pray for God's comfort and grace to abound in you. Please don't think that my rejoicing means I'm indifferent to your hurting hearts.

It's a fact that I don't deserve this baby, and it's a fact that I'm humbled by God's kindness to us.

It's a fact that God gave us the best anniversary getaway present EVER. Can I tell you the thrill it was to tell my Mountain Man that we were having another baby?? Isn't God's timing AMAZING?

It's a fact that our children are delighted!

It's a fact that when asked by someone if I was "mildly excited, very excited, or tremendously excited," I replied, "When I found out, I fell to the floor and praised and worshipped God."

It's a fact that Michele found out we were having a baby before she died. It's a fact that she also knew that if our baby is a girl, her middle name will be Michele. It's a fact that Michele was happy for us, and I pray, happy to know how we would be honoring her.

It's a fact that this life growing in me is a great comfort and encouragement and blessing and gift and treasure in the midst of missing my Dad and Michele.

It's a fact that I'm so grateful and so in awe of God's mercies.

It's a fact that I took A LOT of pregnancy tests.

It's a fact that I'd love for you to pray for us and this precious new life being knit together. It's a fact that if you're happy for us, I'd LOVE for you to encourage my heart with good words.

It's a fact that I don't know what tomorrow will bring but that my heart is full of faith and gratitude, and I know that whatever God does, He'll give me a heart that will rejoice in His wisdom, even if it's a hard providence.

It's a fact that I've probably posted too many facts, and it's a fact that if you're still with me, you're AMAZING!

Thank you in advance for rejoicing with us. I'm so grateful to you all.

With love,