Afflictions Eclipsed by Glory

I was home alone this evening and my mind was full of thoughts about baby Jethro in my womb. It is very rarely that I slow down enough to meditate on this little life inside of me. I was compelled to take pictures of me and him. I set up the tripod and we posed together. There's not many words to describe the beautiful experience it was to record this stage of our relationship. God's put this baby inside of me and as I watch my belly roll I am so grateful that I get to be mommy to another beautiful, rambunctious boy.


I am nervous. There's no blueprint for parenthood. I learned that with Levi. It's not easy raising children and it wasn't the bed of roses I expected. I struggled through post-partum depression. My body failed me and I spent many a sleepless night wondering how I was going to get back to "normal."


And then before I knew it, things were a new "normal" and we embarked on the adventure of baby number two. People say the second baby is easier. What does that mean? Sleepless nights are never easy.  Maybe I will feel like a seasoned mother, an expert on little life this time around. But I'm also prepared for the next stage to be hard.


I cling to the idea that, much like these photos, any temporary darkness and despair of my soul will be eclipsed by the light, joy and beauty of celebrating Jethro, an image bearer of God.


I can't wait to meet him.