Meet Baby Boren

Ok, this is Baby Boren's big debut to the world!

Is this the cutest picture you've ever seen, or what?

Earlier this month we went for our second prenatal check-up. We tried out a new doctor and really enjoyed her. One of our friends works as a lab tech in the office next to a maternity clinic so she let us know that they were giving away free prenatal check-ups! (As if medical expenses aren't already a fraction of the price here compared to the States, what a blessing.) I decided to try the place out and if I didn't like it, I would just go back to the lady I saw previously. I had prepared myself for it to be like a zoo, since it was free, but our experience was far from that. Dra. Hidalgo spoke excellent English which really brought so much peace to my non-fluent Tagalog self. She asked me lots of questions, did the routine blood pressure and sent me for some blood work (which our friend actually got to do). She then asked me if I would like to see my baby instead of just hear the heartbeat. I couldn't say no! So Josh and I were able to 'meet' our child for the first time. I can't explain this experience. I'm certain that only parents can relate. I was speechless as we saw a little life inside of me. She pointed out his/her head, body, and limbs and assured us that everything was as it should be. We could even see the little heart thumping. Praise God. As a mama who feels like she has no idea what she's doing on the other side of the world, God used this doctor and this ultrasound to bring me to a place of rest in Him. And my sweet husband was there rejoicing with me as we looked in awe at the screen. What a precious moment.

I journaled shortly after the appointment about the simultaneous feelings of chaos and peace that I've been feeling. As we prepare to head to the States soon, we're busy planning our time there, gathering pasalubong (souvenirs), getting our home in order, and most importantly, handing off ministry responsibilities here. This can feel slightly chaotic. However, we've also celebrated birthdays with friends, enjoyed new fruits in season, 'met' our baby, and really enjoyed our life, ministry, and the people here. This has been peaceful. Spiritually and mentally I've been researching and praying for all things baby. Cloth diapers, vaccines, names, dual citizenship, and on and on. (I guess that's more of a having a baby overseas kind of list!) Learning about all of this kind of hurts my brain and feels like chaos. How will I ever make all of these decisions in only 5-6 more months? But my King is so gracious. When my thoughts consume me, the Lord reminds me of all that He's done in my life to bring me to this point. He's carried me through every scary or trying time. So even now, as I feel so ill-equipped for motherhood, I know my King will see me through. He'll give me wisdom for the important decisions like vaccinations. He'll give me self-control to eat well so the baby will benefit. He'll make me brave to stand in the convictions that He gives us for parenting. He'll bless me to be selfless as my time will be consumed with being a mommy. He'll bless me to be patient. He'll bless me to be loving. This is when I realized that the peace of God reigns in chaos. I feel so at peace about the season to come. Praise God from whom all blessings flow.

Thanks for reading all my ramblings :)