Capturing the moment

I've posted so much about the "pains" of pregnancy that I wanted to post some positive too. And I think this is one of the most important things I've discovered! 

I posted a question about doing pregnancy pictures and if I should do them now at 31 weeks or wait until I'm bigger on FB. I was having a hard time deciding. I think I've decided to wait maybe 3 or 4 weeks more. Then hopefully the bloom will be not just in my belly - but in Spring too! :)

It does bring up an interesting thought for me though. I know that these kinds of pics aren't for everyone, and that's fine. In fact this is something I've really learned over the last 6 months. No matter what the topic - when it comes to pregnancy, birthing, child care, etc - people will ALWAYS have a different opinions. Anyway, as for the pictures, let me be clear - I'm talking like couples photos of Mike and myself. Maybe a few focusing on the tummy. But all clothed. :) No bare tummy shots. I told my brother - who is going to take them for me - I just wanted tasteful, simple, and sweet pics. 

A couple of people didn't feel like they would want pictures of themselves like this. And I can definitely understand that. I mean right now my face is broken out like a teenager's in puberty. My stretch marks look like I was attacked by a mountain lion (hence the no bare tummy pics)! My feet are so swollen my ankles almost don't want to bend,  and I am in desperate need of a hair cut!

But even with all that - I can honestly say this is one time in my life that I feel truly beautiful. I love my body so much for allowing this precious experience. I have waited for these moments - even the stressful and painful ones - for six and 1/2 years. After so many times of wondering if it would be able to carry a child - I finally know. And that brings nothing but appreciation and gratitude. I don't want that to go by without taking a moment to appreciate this gift that has been given me. 

And so I'm going to take these pics. And I'm sure I won't care for all of them. But I also hope to capture the true joy and delight that I feel not just for Emma, but for my body in making it possible for her to come to our family. And for God - who gave us these miraculous bodies in the first place!