Because this pregnancy will be my last, things like having a gender reveal party, a baby shower, etc., have been even more important to me than before. But normal pregnancy stuff for me has been severely compromised due to all the unanticipated complications. The days I thought would be spent chicly dressing my baby bump, shopping and decorating the nursery, somehow morphed into just keeping my little ones alive until they can be safely delivered.
But, at now miraculously 33 weeks pregnant, and after six solid months of bed rest, to my delight, my doctor has given me some leeway to be a little more mobile. I've been given a wheelchair that allows me to get out of the house for an hour or two each week (for things other than just doctor's appointments). Even more exciting, my doc gave me permission to schedule a professional pregnancy photo session and attend one baby shower (as long as I remain semi-reclined throughout).
I really wanted our pregnancy photos to be taken outdoors, capturing the evening light and our love of nature. I knew it would be a challenge finding a place that was easily wheelchair accessible. But, our wonderful photographer chose an easy-to-get-to spot in a nearby park. We reached the selected area without difficulty, but not indiscreetly. It seems a hugely pregnant woman being pushed in a wheelchair, along with her entourage, through (noisy) graveled walkways in a large public park is quite the attraction. We experienced all kinds of stares, gasps, pointing and remarks such as, "You're going the wrong way! The hospital is down the street!" It was the most fun I have had in months. I felt so happy, beautiful and proud of my immensely round belly that reflects the two little people I've been working so hard to grow.
Our baby shower was also a dream come true. Our hosts did an amazing job creating a fairytale, French garden party themed celebration, in honor of my husband who is from France. It was truly the most beautiful baby shower I've ever been to! Surrounded by friends and family, we played bocce balls in the garden, toasted with Kir Royal, nibbled on French macarons... and received so many presents for Emma and Rémi. It was a celebration of friends, family, life and love - and is engraved in my heart as one of the most memorable days of my life.
I am someone who loves all things unique, eclectic and way out of the ordinary. But my pregnancy has taught me a valuable lesson in the appreciation, comfort and beauty of the status quo and mundane. I relish each moment void of drama or complication that signifies my babies are doing well, and allows me to enjoy them without fear... as I prepare for the chaos of life with twins that we are about to embark upon!
But, at now miraculously 33 weeks pregnant, and after six solid months of bed rest, to my delight, my doctor has given me some leeway to be a little more mobile. I've been given a wheelchair that allows me to get out of the house for an hour or two each week (for things other than just doctor's appointments). Even more exciting, my doc gave me permission to schedule a professional pregnancy photo session and attend one baby shower (as long as I remain semi-reclined throughout).
I really wanted our pregnancy photos to be taken outdoors, capturing the evening light and our love of nature. I knew it would be a challenge finding a place that was easily wheelchair accessible. But, our wonderful photographer chose an easy-to-get-to spot in a nearby park. We reached the selected area without difficulty, but not indiscreetly. It seems a hugely pregnant woman being pushed in a wheelchair, along with her entourage, through (noisy) graveled walkways in a large public park is quite the attraction. We experienced all kinds of stares, gasps, pointing and remarks such as, "You're going the wrong way! The hospital is down the street!" It was the most fun I have had in months. I felt so happy, beautiful and proud of my immensely round belly that reflects the two little people I've been working so hard to grow.
Our baby shower was also a dream come true. Our hosts did an amazing job creating a fairytale, French garden party themed celebration, in honor of my husband who is from France. It was truly the most beautiful baby shower I've ever been to! Surrounded by friends and family, we played bocce balls in the garden, toasted with Kir Royal, nibbled on French macarons... and received so many presents for Emma and Rémi. It was a celebration of friends, family, life and love - and is engraved in my heart as one of the most memorable days of my life.
I am someone who loves all things unique, eclectic and way out of the ordinary. But my pregnancy has taught me a valuable lesson in the appreciation, comfort and beauty of the status quo and mundane. I relish each moment void of drama or complication that signifies my babies are doing well, and allows me to enjoy them without fear... as I prepare for the chaos of life with twins that we are about to embark upon!