As I think about going to bed tonight I have so many emotions going through my mind. At midnight I’ll officially be 35 weeks and 6 days pregnant, which was the exact day I gave birth to my twin girls, just 17 months ago. I went into labor around 2:30am, and by 6:35am I had delivered both of them.
Making it through a twin pregnancy was a huge victory, and meeting my precious girls was one of the most surreal moments of my life. Praise the Lord they were healthy and even though they only weighed 4.5 and 4.12, we were able to take them home just two days later.
At that point, Baylen was just 17 months old, as old as the girls are now. My mind spins when I think of how much he’s changed since then, and how little he really was when he welcomed two new siblings. Even though it was a huge adjustment for him, I love that he’ll never remember life without them.
I love that my kids are close in age and I love being a twin mom. I consider it an amazing honor that God chose me to take care of two of His princesses at one time in addition to their older brother. However, I also consider it to be one of the biggest tasks and challenges He’s ever given me. I’ve been stretched and humbled and reminded that this life is not about me, but about Him and how I can bring Him glory by loving my kids day after day, and relying 100% on His grace to be able to do it.
My dream since I was a little girl was to be a mom, and I thank the Lord for giving me the desires of my heart. I am truly grateful for every second, even though a lot of times it’s a lot messier and crazier than I could have ever imagined. I don’t think I ever realized how much I needed the Lord until I became a mom. And at the same time I don’t think I realized how it was possible to love like I love my kids.
As I continue down the homestretch before meeting baby boy, I’ve been trying to get out as much as I can with my kids. I’ve been making precious memories with them that I’ll treasure forever in my heart. I’ve had so many moments amidst the chaos this week when I truly feel like the luckiest woman in the world to get to spend my days with them. I am literally tearing up as I sit here thinking about it. These years are so fleeting and the sweet giggles and crazy tantrums that are my everyday reality are memories I will never regret sharing with them.
In a few weeks, I’ll add another sweetheart and my quiver will be full. I’m beyond excited to meet him, but I’ll admit I’m also a bit nervous about the transition. Since I had such a wild experience last time in the delivery room, I think I’m a bit traumatized and am full of anxiety about how this one will go.
I had a doctor appointment this morning and asked her to check me just so I could know if I was progressing at all, mostly to put my mind at ease. I found out that baby is head down, which was a huge relief. I’m slightly dilated, but not enough to really count, so as of now it looks like he’ll stay put for a bit longer.
I guess I’m sharing all this because I’d love to ask for your prayers. Even though this is my third pregnancy and some might think I have it all down by now, I assure you I do not. I’m honestly feeling a little anxious about everything. I relied on so many of your prayers to get through my twin birth, and I would be beyond grateful if you would join me in praying this sweet baby into the world as well.
Please pray for a smooth delivery, for a healthy baby, and that our transition to a family of six would go as smooth as can be expected. Most of all, please pray that I remember to rely on the Lord through all of it, and remain confident that He will be faithful every step of the way.
The first month I’ll have four kids under three years old, which is bound to be full of all kinds of craziness, but I also know those weeks when we’re welcoming Baby C into our home and family will be some of the most special ones to date.
Thank you, friends. I can’t tell you how much you mean to me, and for all your constant encouragement and support. It is a blessing to have this space to share in the journey of motherhood together!
XOXO,
Amber
P.S. For more reflections on parenthood and life, follow us on Facebook (Hun Let’s Run) and on Instagram: @ambermariekuiper and @jakekuiper! We’d also love for you to subscribe to our Hun, Let’s Run Podcast! For more info about joining our fitness community as a customer or coach, please email us at amber@mommysmetime.com!
12 Comments
First off, congratulations!!! Secondly, I know first hand how you feel. I had triplet boys that just turned three June 14, 2014 and I gave birth to my daughter on January 10, 2014. It’s the hardest job being a parent but after all the tantrums, fighting, crying and mess I would not change a thing. Each child I have is a true blessing from God. He will give you the strength you need to perserver! You will succeed and raise those children well… I don’t know you but reading your post I know you love those children more than words can describe. There will be days you will feel exhausted and drained. Dig deep, look at those beautiful beings you helped create and know you got this!!!!! God only gives you what you can handle!!!
Sincerely,
Momma of 4
Hi Concetta! Wow, thank you for sharing your story with me! Triplets…AMAZING! I am truly in awe of you. I can’t help but think about how precious it will be to watch your boys watch after their little sister as they grow up – such special moments you have to look forward to. Thank you for your encouragement and for affirming for me that it will be okay and CAN be done! I am so thankful you took the time to write me a comment. Blessings to your sweet sweet family!
Thank you Amber for your gracious comments. I look forward to following your blog. I’m always interested in reading about other mother’s and the challenges they face. It helps me with what ever issue I may be experiencing. Take care!!!!
Many many prayers for you!
Thank you! Thank you! Thank you Melissa! So appreciate them!
I’m pregnant wit my 3rd baby, I have a 3 year old and a 12 month old and I’m 36 plus weeks pregnant with my third girl. I understand what you are going through. Some days I wonder if I can do it and I feel like I have so much going on now with 2, that I can’t possibly handle 3. I know, though, that the Lord will not give me more than I can handle and that is comforting. I’m worried my other 2 will feel left out or what if I don’t give one enough attention or love. I work full time and am a full time mommy so it is most definitely a challenge. Seeing you with your twins and son and another on the way makes me feel like I can do it, like everything will be ok. Thank you for that.
Hi Chelsea! Wow, congratulations on your third! It sounds like you have so much on your plate, in addition to being a mom! I will be praying for a smooth transition for you and your kids and will be thinking of you while we makes ours. We can do it! So glad we’re in this together!
Another beautiful post! I love how you rely on the Lord and have such astounding faith in him. I have told myself numerous times while I prepare for my twins that he wouldn’t give me more than I could handle. I love your honestly and thoughtfulness in every post. Thank you! 🙂
Hi Sarah! Thank you for your encouragement! I so appreciate it. You are so right, it is so reassuring to know that the Lord will always help us through and knows our capacity! Thank you so much for reading my posts – thankful to walk through motherhood with you!
You are going to do awesome! I will pray for an easy labor and quick recover! Hang inthere these last couple weeks as I’m sure it is so tough to have energy for the other three. You are doing great
Thank you Liz! I so appreciate your encouragement and support! An easy labor and quick recovery would be the biggest blessing!
Prayers to you! You seem like such an amazing mother and wife. And… I want to say, Thank you! I just found your blog this past week and have enjoyed it so much. I am currently 31 weeks pregnant and have a 12 month old son. I am very anxious and nervous for my little girl to get here – for all the reasons you and everyone else has listed. Your blog gives me encouragement and strength! Thank you!!