Days before Mother's Day in 2009, my first and only pregnancy ended in the emergency room. Mother's Day was a painful reminder of what I was not.
Last year, I went to our IVF clinic early in the morning and awaited a call from the doctor. After shots and procedures, we were hoping for a miracle. What were the odds that the test was scheduled on Mother's Day? I was certain it was a positive sign. It wasn't. Our hopes and $20,000 lost. Not pregnant.
This year, a miracle. As I type this, I am looking at our beautiful baby girl. She is sweeter and more lovely than I ever dreamed. She may not have my genes, but somehow she has my eyes. Her name means "little girl prayed for." She's the answer to years of prayers. And I am so blessed to be her mama.
If you are facing challenges and losses on your way to motherhood, I understand. The wait seems interminable. Each month waiting to take that pregnancy test feels like forever. And then the devastation when the damn thing reads "Not Pregnant." And everyone around you is getting pregnant- even those who aren't trying! And every commercial talks about babies, or motherhood, or pregnancy. But know this: your baby will find you. But it will be on his or her own terms and timeline. Somehow, someway, your baby will end up in your arms. And the long wait will make you an incredible mother. You won't take a moment for granted, you won't sweat the small stuff, and you will be grateful everyday for the little blessing in your life. And you will experience the miracle that is motherhood.
