Wednesday, April 27, 2011

3 Babies, 2 Miscarriages, Then Christian

 "I prayed for this child, and the LORD has granted me what I asked of Him." 1 Samuel 1:27


This week we celebrate our fourth child, Christian, turning 13.  I can't believe it! The above verse is the one the Lord really laid heavy on my heart when we were strongly desiring another child. See, we had had 3 children right in a row with no problems.  Actually, it was 3 in 3 1/2 years.  Then I got pregnant on the same time table as before with a fourth baby.  I was so surprised, and disappointed, to have an early miscarriage.  There were complications with that miscarriage and I was told not to conceive for at least another year due to a high cancer risk.  We complied and then about a year later concieved again.  I was so excited to be having a fourth!  But it was not to be, again I had an early miscarriage.  My sister had had 3 children herself and then a series of miscarriages and never had a full-term child again. So I really began to think that maybe this was it for us.  I knew I wanted more children, if the Lord willed, and was not ready to give up at this point.  Thankfully I concieved again a few months later and we got Christian!  I am so glad that I did not give up or stop having children just to avoid miscarriages (like some well meaning friends and family recommended.)  I would not have Christian or the wonderful 6 other children after him if I had listened to them.  I just want to encourage any women out there who have had a series of miscarriages not to give up hope.  God is in control, not us. We never know why He allows these things to happen to us, but one day we will.  Many times our bodies are going through things we don't even know about and it may be just a season for us.  I've had 2 more miscarriages since then, but never 2 in row again. 


It's always bitter sweet when one of our sons turns 13, especially hard to a mama.  I had such a hard time when my first turned 13.  It seems they change so much at this age.  It's like, "where has my little boy gone!"  Oh Christian, don't change too much or grow-up too fast.  You are so special to us and God has given you so many talents!
Even though he is a middle child, he is big brother to 6 younger ones.  He is so close to Matthew, his younger brother with Down Syndrome.  He is an awesome hero for him!

9 comments:

  1. Happy Birthday Christian!
    Thanks for sharing your encouraging story and for the reminder that God is in control.

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  2. Happy Birthday Christian and Blessings!

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  3. What a beautiful story in spite of sadness and loss. Happy Birthday Christian!

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  4. Wow. Thank you for sharing. Happy Birthday to your #4! Love the new sidebar photos. Patrick is changing so quickly! :)

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  5. Happy Birthday Christian! I love this post....a good reminder :) God is in control!

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  6. I have been reading your and your husband's blog for a few months now. I have been SO amazed by both of you. I just read your post and started to cry. I had a miscarriage in November and I was heartbroken and still am. We have had some complications trying since then. I know by no means is my story as difficult as some but all the same we all struggle with our own given situations. We have one beautiful little girl and are grateful. Everyday she brings us sunshine. I just want to let you know that your words have encouraged me today and given me hope. :-)Thank you!

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  7. Happy Birthday Christian!
    I think my favorite picture on this post is the last one.
    Matty looks like he is having fun!

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  8. Just reading through your blog and ran across this page.

    Thank you for writing this post, you have no idea how encouraging it is for me. We had our three boys, and I have had 3 miscarriages in the 4 years since my youngest was born. One of them was also molar. I have been struggling to come to grips with the possibility that "this is it" for our family, but I am glad for the encouragement to remain open, even if it is a little scary. God knows what's in store for us, we don't.

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  9. I miscarried last year at 16 weeks and just found out today at 17 weeks with a new baby that it died at 12.5 weeks. Before these 2 miscarriages i had three healthy babies with no complications. I have always wanted a big family and i am feeling like that wont ever happen. I am 27 so i no that there is still time but its so hard. Thank you for sharing your story <3

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Thanks so much for your comments! I love them and they keep me writing. I really do read each one.