18 Weeks Ultrasound Picture

Praise the Lord for a great appointment today.

Everything is staying where it needs to in order to keep me off bedrest.

The babies all have great heartbeats.

I had them check my blood pressure because I have been having higher blood pressure lately and it was lower than normal and in good range.

They got me in and out fast enough that I didn't even have to pay for parking.

All in all, a great appointment that was very encouraging. I have had kind of a rough week as far as comfort levels and concern over my blood pressure. So to be able to go in and see that all is well with the babies was a blessing.

As much as I was frustrated during the 6 weeks of zero care while I was waiting to get in to this office, I must say that I'm thankful now that they have been helpful since then. I feel privileged to be able to see the babies each week, hear their heartbeats (which still every time brings a giant smile to my face) and know that for now, God has given me more time to carry these precious ones.

Lately I've heard several stories of friends and acquaintances who haven't had the same privilege to continue carrying their babies. My heart breaks for them and it reminds me to be thankful for each day. I've probably complained more about pregnancy symptoms and lack of comfort in the past week than I have in weeks and weeks and Mike lovingly reminded me last night that this is what I've prayed for and longed for with all my heart. As I was lying there, I thought back to all the times that I had read other blogs and comments from friends who were frustrated with one point or another in their pregnancy and I thought about how much I would give anything to go through what they were experiencing - it would be all worth it to know that I was carrying a precious life. Now God blessed us above and beyond with three of them and I was giving in to a complaining spirit. So, my goal for this next week is really to have a more joyful spirit in the midst of whatever God brings along in this pregnancy.

I haven't forgotten to post my 18 week picture...I just wasn't in the mood to have Mike take it last night, so I'll have him take one tonight.

Thanks again to those who are praying for us. "The effectual, fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much." James 5