Motherhood is Not for Sissies

I just looked at the clock. It's 3 PM already. I'm shocked; I really am. Where did my day go (not that days and nights are that different these days!)? It's the first time I've sat down today (other than to rock our newborn son, who has been stubbornly refusing to nap today). No complaints here, I'm just saying'. I mean, when you get to look at this sweetness, how could things be bad?

But let's be honest, here, people. Sometimes, he looks like this. And to be really honest, sometimes I feel like this too :)

As I was trying to get crying Gabe back to sleep after our sweet house helper woke him up (to say hello and see him with his eyes open), I was thinking, "Having a newborn is hard work. Motherhood is not for sissies." Not to mention an almost 3-year old, who shows her sassiness, more often than not, theses days as well. Not that I ever really thought things would be easy, it's just that they're harder than I expected. Of course, living in a 3rd world country may also add to the challenge! But Father is so gracious. He's given me grace for each day, even when I am exhausted and at a loss to do with our crazy children! I keep going back to 2 Peter 1:3:

"His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence…"

He really has given me, and all those in Chr!st, all we need for life and godliness. He's given me all I need for screaming children and sleepless nights. He's given you all you need for your life circumstances too. I am so thankful. He's given me J3sus. And today, that's enough. 

Gabe's Here!

It's been awhile since my last post, I know. Traveling and having babies will do that, I guess. Such is life…Some of you have asked for an update on our birth story….so here you go! Although I'm sure having birth overseas is very different for anyone who does it, hope this gives you a quick snapshot into what things were like for the Fleming four :)

In February, we headed to another Big City in a close-by state. We really enjoyed our time in there; it was easy to get used to Western shopping malls, red meat, and Krispy Kreme donuts. Our company provided a flat for us to stay in, and some friends were even in the same apartment complex (which was super helpful when it came time for Baby Gabe to be born!). We had been there about 2 weeks when I woke up one Sunday evening (well, Monday morning, actually) having some irregular contractions. They weren't very strong at first, so I just tried to go back to sleep and ignore them. By 2:30 AM they were still coming, but stronger. Still not regular, so I actually thought I may be in false labor. Toby was up by now, and we were trying to figure out if this was the real deal or not :)

We called the doctor about 4 AM, and he said to come on in (the hospital was about 45 minutes away, so I was glad we left when we did!). We dropped Haley off at some friends' home, and headed in the taxi to the hospital. It wasn't until about halfway there, that I realized this was for real. The driver realized it too, and gradually began to increase his speed. Guess he didn't want to help deliver in his cab  :) We got to the hospital, got checked out (I was dilated to a 7), and went straight to the delivery room. I asked for an epidural, but Gabe was coming to quickly (I would recommend being a little more prepared for natural childbirth, in case that's the only option you have! I know lots of people prefer this, but let me tell you…if I have the option, I'm getting some pain meds in me!). After pushing for about 45 minutes, in no AC mind you, (the doctor kept saying, "Just one more good push." It took about 50 more "good pushes" until he came), Gabe was finally born. Of course, I didn't know if the baby was a boy or girl, and nobody was telling me! All I could think was, "I"m glad that child is out!", and "Is it a boy or a girl?" After vocalizing the latter, someone responded with, "A boy!" Hurray! Gabe was finally here :) They whisked him away for cleaning, screening, and shots. Toby went to keep an eye on him, and I spent the little energy I had left trying to convince nurses that I wanted some cold water to drink (Indians have this funny fear that cold drinks make you sick, so they weren't too keen on giving me any). Finally, they agreed to cold milk, which I didn’t drink--okay, eww, and headed me to my room. We were so thrilled Gabe was finally here…it had been a long time coming. Even though it was quite the experience, of course, he was worth it! But next time…I’m opting for delivery in the States. Just saying’.

Just call him Dr. Daddy.

Warm and swaddled :)

Yes, I am as tired as I look!