40 Weeks

We made it through 40 weeks of pregnancy, and beyond, and just like that the maternity series has completed itself. It seems to have made the time fly by.

Well, most of the time it felt that way, I couldn't believe when the time came to take the next picture.

Then the end of the pregnancy came and it felt like we were just waiting. We'd try and do plenty to keep us busy, but the wait never lifted.

Our first due date came. And went.

Exactly a week later, our second due date came. And went.

And with that, 40 weeks had passed.

Then last weekend, just passed the 40th week, I knew I was due for the last photo for the series, and just didn't feel like it. I would much rather have been holding my baby in my arms. So, I didn't. I didn't take it. I waited.

Finally, last Monday came and we felt like it could happen anytime. So all day I kept busy getting prepared, spent time with Aliyah, and then tried to get some rest.

I also realized that it could be the last time for a maternity photo.

I had a couple of contractions during the shoot, and the rest of the time, my husband was making me laugh. I was giddy. I was hopeful.

7 hours later, I delivered Brayden.

Labor and delivery were a big thrill ride that I'd be happy to detail later, but I need to get some sleep first. You know, somewhere between Aliyah asking me to hold her forever and the baby making a compelling argument to be permanently attached to my boob.

Dear sweet Brayden,

I can't even type this without tears forming. You are such a blessing, you are my miracle. You took us on a long ride, one that lasted much longer than I thought it was going to, but just as we thought, all that waiting was so worth it. Our last week of pregnancy was a whirlwind, each day preparing for the just in case moment, and then each night hoping we had everything taken care of, just in case. Your big sister would kiss and hug my big belly every single day begging for you to come out. On Monday, February 15, your daddy and I set up to take the weekly photo, and you blessed me with a couple of contractions. Not too strong, but more than I'd felt before. We finished up, got your sister to bed, and we just laid in bed relaxing a bit waiting for a sign that it was time to have you. About 9pm, my water broke and I took a shower while your daddy got the car packed up and ready. Nana and Papa came and picked up your sister and we headed off to the hospital. Labor lasted almost 5 hours and you were born at 1:51am on February 16. Daddy helped catch you. You weighed 6lbs 15oz. You were 20 inches long. We adore you. You're here.