37 Weeks

Well, one way or another, this will be my last weekly pregnancy update.  Not that I was ever that great about updating weekly, but the point being, whether I'm induced tomorrow or next Wednesday, I won't be making it to 38 weeks.
It is such a surreal feeling, being 37 weeks pregnant.  Knowing that within a few days, I'll have two babies to take care of, to raise, to eventually set loose on the world.  There were so many months where I really thought this day might never come.  To think that almost two years ago to the day, we embarked upon this journey, so blithely optimistic that we would have a baby in a few months.  And we're finally reaching the end of one journey and beginning another that I can't even begin to imagine.

I've learned so much about myself over the past two years.  I've learned a new level of patience.  I've learned the importance of optimism, perseverance, and being my own advocate.  I've learned how strong and amazing my body is--even with a defunct reproductive system!  I never, ever thought that I would be able to carry two babies to term and beyond.  That I would still be able to make a grocery shopping trip at this point in my pregnancy.  And I know that this next chapter of my life will teach me so much more about who I am and what I'm capable of.

I've grown closer to my husband.  A man who has always supported me when I felt I couldn't go on.  When I had moments of despair and hopelessness.  A man who shared this dream with me and was willing to go to any length to make it happen.  A man who talks to his babies, kisses my stomach and has loved our girls since we first saw them as microscopic six-cell embryos.

Our last appointment went well, and the ultrasound tech seemed optimistic that the girls were in a good position for delivery.  But the way they move around constantly, there's no telling how they'll be positioned tomorrow.  I'm cycling through so many different emotions right now--excitement to finally meet my babies, fear about the labor and delivery process, anxiety that we'll be sent back home to wait a few more days before inducing, anxiety that we WON'T be sent back home until we have two babies that we're wholly responsible for.

I'm spending today trying to fit in all the last minute items on my list--vitally important things like painting the video monitor wires grey so that they blend in with the walls, and trying to decide on a cloth diapering organization system.  Anything to keep me busy and my mind off of all of the uncertainty that tomorrow holds.

The past 37 weeks have been full of so many ups and downs, and as nervous as I am about the future, I'm so, so ready to begin the next chapter of our lives.

Comments

[Margaret]

Angela,
I would have never thought (however many years ago) when I started reading your blog, that I could be very excited about your two little girls coming into this world. The way you speak about what you have learned, and how much you are looking forward to this next phase of your life brought tears to my eyes. You and Colby are going to be two of the MOST awesome parents ever. You are both so very lucky--and so are those two precious girls.

[Jen]

So so happy for you that this long-awaited dream is about to come full circle for you! Sending you lots of good thoughts over the next few days and weeks. YAY BABIES!

[Jas]

I got goose bumps reading this Angela. I am so excited for you, and for your family. You are going to be an amazing mother! Thank you for sharing this with us!

[Paulette]

I've been following yalls journey. I never post, but have been reading your blog for a long time. So excited for y'all. Sending positive vibes and saying prayers. Good luck, you've got this!!

[Kendra]

Beautiful post Angel! I won't be nervous for you because I know that you are in good hands with Colby and your mom. I am wishing you a wonderful birthing experience and cannot wait to hear/read about everything. SO excited for you all....sending love, hugs and prayers your way.

[Solange]

I know I don't know you at all but I am SO excited for you four to begin this journey!! Thanks for sharing your adventure with us :)

[Aly]

I'm so excited for you to meet your girls. Also... weirdest fruit ever! ;)

[erin - heart in ireland]

wonderful post!

i think it's normal to feel this way (not that i've ever been pregnant or a mother) but knowing that your life is going to be completely different tomorrow and that you've waited so long and went through so many struggles to have your girls i imagine it is almost surreal to know that you'll be meeting them so soon!

lots of love, thoughts and hugs!

[Chels]

Ahhhhh! So excited for you! And, as always, you look amazing.

[Brittany]

I can't believe the time is nearly here! Which if I feel that way, the feeling must be even more surreal for you! I know that things will turn out amazing for you, I only hope I can have that kind of patience when we start trying to have children! I cant wait to read all about the amazing mother you are going to be!

[Jen]

I will be thinking of you! Best of luck for a healthy and easy delivery!

[ellesees.blogspot.com]

Congrats to the new parents!!!! I can't wait for every detail!!!

[Karen]

Congratulations! Wishing you a healthy and happy delivery! :)

[Kate P]

Hooray for green onions and last-minute preparations! Lovely picture; praying and waiting for all the good news. :)

[Elizabeth]

If they're not here by the time this comment comes through, they'll be here soon! I am so anxious/excited for you, and I know I've said this before, but you're the most radiant multiple mom I've seen!

[Erin]

I just realized that you probably have had (or will almost have) the babies. Congrats! I can't wait to see them :)