Jul 9, 2008

My Nakedness.

You may wonder why I titled today's post My Nakedness. This is a phrase that Remi has recently developed when she strips down to nothing but a diaper and then proceeds to run around screaming, "my nakedness! my nakedness!"

I feel the exact same way right now.

I'm pregnant.



I mean, that is what that means, right?

I ask because although I took one of those tests on the 4th of July and the other of those tests on the 5th of July, I still think there may have been some kind of mistake. I still think this can't be real. So I suppose I'm just looking for a little assurance and validation here.

You may wonder why I'm putting this on my blog. If you know me. At. All. then you know that I am EXTREMELY private about this kind of stuff. I tend to share my personal "stuff" with those few, close people around me and then swear them to secrecy.

But time after time I have received bad news.
And time after time I have had to call people in the 11th hour that I knew would pray.
And time after time I've ended up still crying myself to sleep over what my body fails to be able to do.

Not this time.

This time we're, well, we're takin' it to the streets....so to speak.

See pregnancy is a funny thing. I see these pictures in magazines, ya know, of the husband and wife and they're embracing and smiling and picking out baby furniture. But it's never been that way for us. Not ever. After two miscarriages, ten years of struggling with infertility and then finally having - and losing - a child, pregnancy is anything but embraceable moments and furniture shopping. Anything but!

It often involves praying, night and day.
Crying, night and day.
Doctors visits, that seem to last all day.
Waiting by the phone for test results, that can either make or break your day.

Well, you get the picture.

I want it to be different this time. This time I want the magazine. I want to embrace with the AG and laugh while wildly registering for things in Target. I want to wear a big, ol' maternity shirt and have people say "isn't she cute" instead of "bless her heart." I want to look forward to seeing my babies heartbeat. And not dread it so much that I wish someone would knock me out first. (That is not a lie or exaggeration - that is how much I dread ultrasounds.)

And so I need your help.

I ask you even though I am independent. And stubborn. And proud. And think I can do it all by myself.

But this time I cannot. I need you. I'm not gonna lie.

I need you to pray.

I need you to put my name at the top of that prayer list of yours.

And if you don't believe in prayer, I need you to email me or call me so we can seriously discuss that, and then I can convince you that you're wrong and that it really does work! And then I need you to start praying for me.

This past 4th of July, while you were grilling you hot dogs and buying your fireworks, I was having a little conversation with the Lord. I speak honestly with Him very often...He can take it. We've been through quite a lot together. And I was reminded in that calm, quiet moment that David wrote in the Psalms that he had "never seen the righteous forsaken or God's seed out begging for bread."

Boy, that's the truth. God has NEVER FORSAKEN ME. Not even in our darkest hour. He has never left me. Not once. I know what kind of God I serve. He is good. And faithful. And kind. And did I mention, good?

He hasn't forgotten me. Or lost sight of me. Or overlooked me. OR YOU.

He knows your need, as well.

So today, let's make a deal. You pray for me and the Attorney General and this sweet child that wants me to hold them just as much as I do...and I'll pray for you. Whatever it is. I'll pray. I give you my word.

My friend, Kate, was so right. I am just like that woman who walked up on an empty tomb in Matthew 28:8, and was "Afraid, yet filled with joy."

Thank you for listening to me today. In all my nakedness and vulnerability.

Oh, and whoever prays the hardest gets the reward of having their name used as this child's middle name. (Oh help me, if there's a Lester or a Fanny reading this right now.)

112 comments:

Putting the FUN in DysFUNctional said...

I wish you the best, and my prayers are with you.
xoxo

Anonymous said...

I am sadly lacking in a prayer life. I wish we could pray together and you could show me how to do it and get into it without feeling like I'm talking to the ceiling. I have books on prayers and all of that, but I think I'm just supposed to jump in and do it. I never do.

But, if I'm praying for someone else, maybe that will break the ice, huh? Congratulations! Get excited! There's a baby coming! :)

Jenn said...

I'm praying for you and your little guy or girl!

angela | the painted house said...

OF COURSE, I will pray for you. While I haven't experienced all the heartaches you have, I did have two back-to-back miscarriages and can understand completely your dread and anxiety. You are so right, God is good. Cling to that--that He cares about you and your baby and wants the best for you.

Take it easy. Let AG treat you like a princess while you do some serious baby growing business. Okay, I going to say a prayer right now and will daily. HUGS!

Anonymous said...

I'll pray for you. And thanks for bringing your nakedness to all of us. It's so important to get prayer and holding this stuff in-- while it may relieve some of the awkwardness with having to explain things to people--doesn't allow for the multitudes of intercesory prayer.

Never heard of someone choosing their baby's (middle) name through a blog. ;) That, my friend, would be a first and definitely worthy of at least a morning spot on Fox and Friends (never watched the other shows, but they'd probably have you to) :)

~Sheila~ said...

I'm not one of those people who pray for big TV's or winning the lottery. I pray for safety in my travels with the children, I pray that my children make it across the street safely to school and back. I will DEFINATELY pray for you.
Try not to worry too much. May be too much for the new baby whose name may be "Sheila" or "Patrice" (my middle name). Anyway, soon, you will be having someone else to share your JULIO's with!

My favorite post!

Anonymous said...

I have been there, and I understand. You are in my thoughts and prayers, and with all my heart, I wish you great joy!

Wendy at ethelsmonny@yahoo.com

Big Nanny said...

I've occasionally stood outside the bathroom door while my sister or a friend peed on the stick...I feel like I just stood outside the bathroom door while you screamed: it's pink, there's a line, now there's two, is that what I think it means??? Congrats! I'll be praying and my middle name is Christine.

Colleen said...

Congratulations new friend! You will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Debz said...

My best friends name is Melissa Lee and I call her Lissa Lee (just kinda stuck). I always find myself calling you that when reading your posts and deciding on a comment to leave. Today I shall just go ahead and call you that too.
Lissa Lee I will pray for you with every fiber of my being and I hope you too can find the time to pray for me. Pretty sure my marriage is down the crapper (after 24 years).
I realize I dont really know you and vice versa, but I feel, truly feel, that this one is going to stick for you. And in the months to come, I will look forward to looking for your Target registry.
Nothing but good thoughts and prayers going in your direction.
Oh and btw, first name Debra, middle name Ann. You cant go wrong with either one.

Trish said...

well you can rest assured my name is not lester or fanny, but really what is wrong with those names?

okay here it goes. I am by no means a bible scholar! but i too have struggled with pregnancies. I have had three, all were rocky and I so wanted to be the people in the magazine/everyone else, because it seemed like I was the only one that didn't know how to be a "real" woman...I would so want a pregnancy filled with joy not anxiety and joy:)

Anyways, I am rejoicing with you. I will send some prayers up to the "big guy" just for you:) Keep on watching your husband empty the trash. You should proably eat a bon bon or two:)

ugagirl30 said...

What an exciting moment!!! I know that you remember that God knows the desires of our heart. Most certainly you will be in my prayers, the AG will be in my prayers, the baby will be in my prayers, and Remi will be in my prayers. Congrats!

KimmyJ said...

One of my closest friends, also named Melissa, waited 12 long years and multiple treatments and her daughter, Kinsley, just celebrated her 1st b-day! They were faithful to God and never gave up hope, and 12 years later, their hoped paid off without any fertility intervention. I am lifting your name in prayer and my family will too!!

Unknown said...

Once I told my mom that I didn't understand why people would spend so much money and time on infertility treatment. She told me that's because I don't understand what it's like to NOT get pregnant. So true...I have (3) kids without ever trying...But that's for another time.

I say this to you, because God has placed a new compassion on my heart. He's given me a new perspective on appreciation of pregnancy-- and I commit to praying for you, for your husband--and this baby. I will pray the hardest-- and I do have a pretty name: Tiffany Joy.

I've tried for at least 14 years to get SOMEONE to name a child after me. Yah, yah, I could've named my own daughter after me--but what fun is that?! It doesn't count if you name a child after yourself. Self-proclaimed importance does not count! Do you hear me people?! Naming a child after yourself does NOT count.

I have 6 nieces and nephews and tons of adopted ones... Not one child named after me...oh Yah--they call me the "fun aunt"! Aunt Tiffi will give us candy, Aunt Tiffi will take us swimming, Aunt Tiffi gives the coolest presents. Yah--not one named after me...

So with that, if this is a way for a child to be named after me--I'm all in. And even if it's not, I will lift you and your worries up to a really Big God who happens to know your fears mixed with your joy... your Tiffany JOY, perhaps...

Many prayers and much love...

a "Bloker" aka Blog-Stalker

Amy said...

What an AWESOME post to wake up to this morning! Congratulations!! I am so excited b/c I know that I will be praying the hardest for you and you will use my name! ;)
Which I hate to inform you, is Mildred. Ha. Kidding. It's Lea-pronounced Lee. So..there you go..you have Blah-Blah Lea in your belly. Arent you excited?! I love Faith for a middle name..I love Rebecca Faith. But I dont like Becky....so...you know how people like to shorten names. Since you didnt ask me for my advice I will just shut my mouth!! Have a good day! Dont puke!

Shel said...

If there is one thing that I learned through our struggles to have a third child is that every child, no matter how tiny, deserves to be celebrated!! So celebrate away! The Lord has given you this child and He has baby's life planned even now. Trust in that and in the fact that God will give you the strength and grace to handle what comes ahead!

I wish you the best, uncomplicated, stress-free, healthy pregnancy that any one could have! I will pray for your little blessing and you/AG as you go on this journey! I do hope that you will post updates :)

Oh, and my middle name is Ann and first name Shelly :) :)

Shawn said...

Wow...
I was just reading how God's Glory interrupts our lives. What an incredible interruption for you! That's awesome, Melissa. I am at His feet praying for you and this little sweet one right now.

~H

Angela said...

Oh YAY! I am so excited for you, but fully appreciate what a mixed bag of emotions you are probably feeling right now. I will commit to pray for you daily, and would ask that you also pray for us. Hubby and I are planning to start trying for children soon (like Sept). My greatest fear is that I will be miserably sick and unable to work while pregnant; long story, but I am very sensitive to hormones. So please pray that I would have healthy and joyful pregnancies for both mom and baby. Thanks so much and love in Christ to you and your family!

Heather W said...

I pray for you! I pray for you! This is going to be a great pregnancy for you. I just feel it. I hope your baby is just as funny as you are and gives you belly laughs for the next 9 months. Hugs!! Also Heather is not a bad middle name for a child...just a little footnote.

Nicole @ Four Real said...

CONGRATS!!!!!!! I can assure you that it is positive. Trust me, I have taken a few in my day! This is such a wonderful praise! I will be praying for you every day! I

Finding Normal said...

I'm so praying for you! I had 2 miscarriages before Noah, and now that we know about my chromosomal issues it all makes sense. Doesn't make it any easier. Or knowing that I'll probably never have another baby in my belly. I understand that fear a little bit and the secretive nature that is pregnancy after infertility. I'm glad you're taking it to the streets, and I'll be praying. Hard!

Dirty White boy said...

congrats?

Kelley said...

Just this morning in my quiet time, as I worked Week 5/Day 1 of Beth Moore's "Stepping Up" (remember...it's the one you hadn't heard of), I was given this word and want to share it with you.

She says the following: "One of the most spectacular elements of Psalm 132 is how God's answers EXCEEDED (caps mine) the psalmist's petition. God appears to thoroughly enjoy doing "immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine" (one of my favorite verses - Ephesians 3:20) and probably has few bigger frustrations than when our prayerlesness denies Him the chance. You see, if we don't "ask or imagine," what does God have to out-do?"

Girl, I'm praying for you, for this pregnancy and all of the wonderfulness that I (or better yet YOU) can imagine it to be. The magazine thing - check! The perfect beautiful glow - check! The AG waiting on you hand and foot - check! That you would experience EXCITEMENT from/with an ultrasound - check! You see, if we/you can imagine, He can EXCEED it.

I have no desire for a name-sake (I don't love my name quite that much) but I do covet your prayers for my church and my dear friends (who are the Pastor and his wife). Other than that, just get busy IMAGINING an extraordinary pregnancy and one beautiful healthy bouncing baby!

I don't care for a name-sake

Kelley said...

Oops....perhaps I exceeded the number of words I could use...I don't know. Let me pick up where I left off (I promise I'm almost done).

I don't care for a name-sake; however, I do covet your prayers for my church and our dear friends (the Pastor and his wife). Now...get to work imagining a perfect and glorious pregnancy and one beautiful, healthy, bouncing baby!!!

Kelley said...

Okay, sorry, I'm a dork.

As I shared with you in my VBS story comment, "I've done screwed that up!!"

Anonymous said...

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!

I started praying for you the second I saw the picture of your tests!!!!

I'm crying right now I'm so happy for you!!!

This time you will get, and keep, your miracle!

Robin said...

Congratulations!! I will put you on my church's prayer list and pray for you during this pregnancy. I feel that we need to pray specifically for people. Lift their names up and their needs. God is good.

StitchinByTheLake said...

I have lifted you up this morning and have asked God to give you the physical strength and good health to hold on to this child, for an ease to the anxiety and fear which can so easily grip you in this situation, for serenity and peace in your soul and for His grace as you pass the time until this child is born. May your faith be strong and your patience rewarded with a beautiful and healthy baby in God's time. Blessings, marlene

Lula! said...

Habakukk 1:5 promises, "...be utterly amazed. For I am going to do something in your days that you would not believe, even if you were told."

Oh yes...I claim it!

Over-the-moon joyous for you, my dear. Now let's break out the Bluebell and start eating your prescribed diet. No pickles, please, but the peanut M&Ms would be just fine and dandy.

Lynda said...

I am calling my church, too - you're on the list. And Lynda will be such a beautiful middle name :-)

Congratulations! My brother and his wife had numerous miscarriages. Their daughter, Jillian, is now 9 years old. God knows. And you do, too.

Live, love, and give thanks for what you KNOW is already yours to have. God is good - all the time!

Perksofbeingme said...

I'm one of those people who aren't sure about the prayer thing. But I will keep you in my thoughts and might even possibly e-mail you about the prayer thing. But know that you are in my thoughts and if there is anything I can do let me know.

Congratulations! You are so deserving.

Anonymous said...

You have been put to the top of my prayer list! I'll be praying hard that you will have your magazine pregnancy that your heart desires!

I read your blog each and EVERY day and it blesses me and fills me with laughter and I will pray that you will receive that blessing in return!

Angela said...

Thanks Melissa for your comment on my site, and your prayers. I will definitely keep in touch and let you know as soon as there are any specific developments! :-)

Hugs to you,

Trish said...

oh girl, you know that I will be the hardest prayer out there, but not because I want a namesake but rather because that is what I do. I'm not sure that I could make it through a day without chatting multiple times with my Lord, the giver of all things, and now you will be lifted up in those prayers.

and you just say the word and I'll have a Fed Ex box of those yummy, gooey, 1/2 baked cookie bars deliverd to your front door to satisy a craving!!

one more thing......

your nakedness is beautiful

I'm just sayin
(yeah I had to borrow that one from Lula!)

Sarah B. said...

I don't know you but I sure enjoy your blog. :) You are in my prayers...I also meet with a group of women who love to have someone to pray for so I will include you in that group also. I have 2 kids and trying for a third. I had a miscarriage last yr and I went from loving ultrasounds to hating them...so I can understand that part of your grief...but hopefully you will be able to learn to love it. :)

Mindy said...

Done. You are in my prayers!
CONGRATULATIONS! Yippppeeeee!

Your excitement and willingness to share is encouraging to me. Thank you for your obvious and wonderful trust in the Lord. Thank you for sharing it. Thank you for living it in your life, even during the dark struggles.

Sunshine said...

Oh you know you're going to the top o' the list! I'm a big prayer-er!

Congrats, sweets!

Anonymous said...

I was listening to the Lord of the Rings Soundrack and there is a song by Enya called "May it be." One of the lines to this song says, "a promise lives within you now."

You do have a promise within you and GOD's promises are "Yes!" and "Amen!"

Anonymous said...

Congratulations! I will definitely pray,and I feel like if God has given you the faith to share this, then he will give you the faith to see this baby grow, healthy, to the end. I prayed a pregancy "confession of faith" kind of thing over both of my pregnancies, and it really helped me keep my faith strong through the whole thing. I will try to get that to you in case it is something that helps you too :)

Also, you better pray for a girl- with everyone offering their middle names, your little boy is going to be pretty bitter with a middle name like Joy, Linda or Michelle, etc!

Lisa@BlessedwithGrace said...

I will pray for you. That is for sure. I know people just start jumping for joy with the words, "I'm pregnant". But for those who have experienced loss with pregnancy, there are differently feelings that go along with it. You are loved, your God is awesome, and you are prayed for!

annakate elizabeth davis said...

OMG!!! OMG!!! Praise God!! I have tears in my eyes!!!
I know how hard this must have been for you to post this!
OMG!
I AM PRAYING HARD GIRL!!!! THIS IS IT!
I LOVE YOU!!!!!!
REMI HOPE IS GOING TO BE A BIG SISTER!!!
i am praying you have my word!
and if you will pray for us, we got a call about a two year old needing a home, her name is savannah, and we are ready to adopt again!
so please pray!
i love you melissa!!! awesome news!

Rhea said...

I have mixed feelings about praying, but for you, girlfriend, I will pray and send positive thoughts your way!

Thank you for sharing such an important event in your life, and no matter how this turns out, we're here for you every step of the way!

I love that you decided to share, and I think woman should. That way we can all be there for each other, through good and bad.

I'm SO happy for you!! Congrats!!

Laura said...

First, congratulations. This is very exciting!

I will pray for you, every day, often. I have learned the real power of specific prayer recently. You see, I've been stuck here in the northernmost part of the south for three and a half years because of my husband's job. I cry in the Walmart every time I go to buy a birthday card or greeting card because I know that I won't be there in Alabama to give it to my beloved family member in person. Ever since we got here, he's been applying for jobs that would get us back to Alabama, or at least close to it. Finally, he applied for one that he was sure that he would get. So, for the first time, I told my family back home about the job and asked them to pray for us. He got an interview. Then, the same week, he got another call back for a job in Georgia, so I asked my family and friends to pray for us. He didn't get the first job, but the one in Georgia was still a possibility, so then, I sent emails to every one I know and asked them all to pray, Baptist, Methodist, Catholic, even my Jewish friends all said they would. And guess what...we're moving to Georgia on August 15th. This stuff works, people, don't forget it.

By the way, I've been reading your blog since I found you on SITSas, and I just love it.

Melisa S. said...

((PRAYERS)) and adding you to my prayer group!

Breanne said...

Aww - I know what you mean. I always tell everyone I know when I get pregnant so they can pray. It has not worked out yet since my first but I have faith it will. I will keep you in my prayers that this one will stick and you will not have to go through the heartache!! try not to worry I know how hard that is but try to enjoy it!! I am in my 2ww so I hope I will be with you in that situation soon!! !!

Anonymous said...

Mazel Tov!
I will pray for you ...do you think 'anyone' would mind?

www.swirlgirlspearls.blogspot.com

must not be blank said...

I always enjoy reading your blog.
I will pray for you and your tiny, wee baby to be. I hope everything works out for you!
God Bless~

Anonymous said...

Hey, I haven't walked through all the crap that you have, but having my first pregnancy end with a miscarriage just this May, just thinking about getting pregnant again brings such a round of emotions, so I'm feeling at least some of your angst at the moment.

I'll be praying for you alot. Would appreciate the same actually since you offered :-)

Lisa said...

Of course I will be praying!!!
I love you.
And the AG.
And the Remster.

Kimba said...

I am touched by your post in ways you can't imagine. I suppose I'm like you in that I keep the private things private. But over the years I've started to learn that it's better to swallow my pride (and that's what keeps me from sharing) and ask for help when I need it. To let people see the raw emotions. To stop smiling sometimes and let people see my heart.

Thank you for doing that.

I will absolutely pray for you and your family. I will pray for the health of this baby...that you and the AG will know the perfect peace of our Lord...that you will experience joy and excitement and all the parts of having a regular pregnancy.

I am so impressed by your bold love of Christ. By the way you're so willing to flat-out tell someone they're wrong if they don't pray. May we all have some of your passion and boldness.

Unknown said...

Yea! Get excited...You have a lot of people praying for you! Including me! I have had a lot of people praying for me over the past few weeks...& it has made a world of difference. hang in there, relax.... I am praying for you!

Rae said...

Vulnerability is strength.
Nakedness has strength over fear.
Fear cannot control what is already decided.
God is in control.
Always.

Kacey said...

What a beautiful post. I was very touched by your honesty & openess. Prayer DOES work...in small & simple ways and also in miraculous ways. I will be praying for you!

Four Better or Worse!?!?! said...

Congrats! How exciting! We will pray with confidence for this new life within you!

Mama Dawg said...

I'm on it. You've been moved to the top! Congrats!

Sheri said...

One of the things that I love about your blog is your open, honest, and humorous take on life. I firmly believe that God has a sense of humor, and it's ok for us to have one as well.

Just as with the humorous stuff, your post on this was open, honest, and of course, I'll pray for you.

Right now the only thing I want is to truly be happy. Not that I have that much to complain about, but lately I'm realizing how much I yearn for the family, kids, dog, the whole she-bang. Working on realizing that it's not going to happen for me, and struggling to not just be ok with it, but be happy about it.

Your in my thoughts . . . and on my list!

happymcfamily said...

We're praying for you and the fam! And you don't even have to name the babe after either of us ;)

Mrs4444 said...

Like your quote says, I choose to believe you are being "decked with flowers," another one. :) Top of the list; you're there.

Jess NBP said...

YAY COngrats!! HUGS AND PRAYERS!!! LISTEN DEAR LORD, Keep this baby in mommy's womb.

Leighann said...

Oh my!! I'm with you girl--all the way. I'll link your blog to mine if I figure out how and encourage the millions who are reading mine (since I just started last week, and have only posted two blogs thus far, my numbers are vastly inferior to yours...you've got your own fan club going here!! You go, GIRL!!) And, I am PRAYING WITH YOU!!!! www.sisterpastor.blogspot.com

Love, Leighann

Klh said...

Melissa,
I am so happy for you, and yes I will be praying for you and the baby.
Love,
Kim

Leighann said...

Melissa, I read your site often and am so happy for you. I will try to remember to pray for you daily.

Happy said...

Congratulations! I'll pray...

AFRo said...

Just had a chat with the Man about you. He and I will be staying in touch on the matter.

Deanna said...

Melissa Lee I am so excited for you!! I read your blog while in the middle of class today (see what's important?!) and stifled the tears and couldn't wait to post back to you. You'll be in my prayers when I cover up with my prayer blanket to talk to God tonight.

Sherri said...

This is probably one of the most beautiful posts i have ever seen. You are in my prayers!!! Us adoptive moms have to stick together and help each other out!! I wish you all the luck!!!

Unknown said...

I'm so very happy and excited for you! I know the heartache of losing babies early in pregnancy (I've lost two). But God was, obviously, faithful and knew my desires even though I didn't always understand them. I say this because I thought I didn't want children...silly me!

I pray God's perfect peace for you and the health of your baby during this cautiously exciting time!

Anonymous said...

Congratulations...what wonderful news! You and your family will be in my prayers!

Mandy said...

First of all...

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!

Second, I admire you for taking this public and I will be praying my fool little head off for you. I have walked this road myself before and it was tough, but so worth it. Take care. And I also have an unspoken request if you could pray for me also.

Third...Dude! You are so pregnant!!!

((hugs))

Heather said...

I LOVE that you were brave enough to write this post. I love even more the 69 comments you have already received, promising multitudes of prayers coming your way. I'm sure God is using you and your sweet family in ways we can't even fathom. I will be praying for you every morning when I check my "daily" blogs. Sending one your way right now.

S Club Mama said...

I don't even know where to begin but with congratulations. Thank you for opening your life to us - to me - so that I can pray for you and this child. I'm really honored and will put you at the top of my life on my blog and in my heart. Please keep updating and praying openly.

Big Nanny said...

oh, one more thing...

you + more babies + me = worship care 4ever!

I'm just keepin' it real sister!

Heather said...

I'M PRAYING!! I'm praying right now for you and the AG and your precious baby. We should name it little Julio for now (for your beloved chips) so we can pray for him/her by name. I'm just trying to make you laugh through your tears right now. I know you're terrified and excited all at the same time. I will pray. I will pray for faith and health and the magazine. My sweets, you deserve the magazine.

angela | the painted house said...

Melissa Lee, I was thinking about you today and thought I would pass on something familiar that still gave me peace in my pregnancy after miscarriage.

I was reminded of Ps 139:13 on my friend Natalie's blog early in my pregnancy, before the ultrasounds, etc. "You have formed my innermost being. You have knit me in my mother's womb."

Everyday I prayed that God was knitting the perfect baby inside me. Think about the care, concentration, planning that goes into knitting. God is with us at the moment of our conception. We are valuable--your wee little babe is valuable--to Him, that he spends that time knitting every little bit and piece where it needs to go.

This is something that brought me great peace. So I pray for fervent, glorious knitting in your womb--maybe a feisty little one like you! And, I pray for peace for your heart, mind, and soul. You have a lot of prayers going up for your family!

Erin said...

WOW. Melissa, that is incredible news! I am SO excited for you guys and for Remi. I WILL praise Him and pray for this little miracle.

Givinya De Elba said...

I'll pray over here in Australia too! Your story made me delighted for you, and sad that you've had such trouble in the past. I'm sorry you've had to go through all that. It hardly seems fair that you should have so much trouble while others (including me) find it easy to conceive and carry a baby. I really pray that this pregnancy will be safe and joyous - and BLESSED from the beginning!

"Katherine Grace" has done me well for a name, and Katherine can always be shortened to Kate (which I gave as a middle name to my baby girl)!

Sumer said...

I feel on the verge of tears! Congratulations! I am so excited for you...I will pray that this entire experience is everything you are hoping for!

Unknown said...

Wow sweetie... what a raw post... how beautiful is that? I will be praying... daily... I commit that to you. And if you don't mind I'm gonna share this with my sister cause that girl is a PRAYER WARRIOR for SURE.

And she and I share a middle name, so you might wanna just keep that in mind... it's Lynne :)

Michelle R Photography said...

Congratulations! I'll lift you up in prayer every time I come by for a little visit.

p.s. I love how you asked people who don't believe in prayer to contact you.

KWolfAK said...

Congrats and YES I WILL pray!!

Caroline said...

I am so proud of you to open up such a difficult/joyful part of your journey with us. My sister miscarried 8 weeks ago and I have heard her say many of the things you have said here. They did tell many people early on and then lost the baby, but she said that she doesn't regret for a minute knowing that for the 9 weeks the baby was alive, it was so celebrated and prayed for by people all around the world. I will be praying for you all and for this little life. God bless!

Lump said...

Nothing but thoughts and good wishes coming your way. Hang in there!

Rhonda said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Rhonda said...

Hey, I'm so excited to hear your news! I'm sending prayers your way, and best wishes and HUGE CYBER HUGS!!!!

That magazine is yours this time!

-Bridget said...

I know this fear, and these tears all too well. I had three miscarriages before my first daughter and then I also miscarried her twin. I was so afraid I would never be blessed with a baby. Every time I had a positive I was too afraid too hope or be excited for what may come. But it did come, on God's time, not mine. And now I have a second girl who after all of my infertility, came while I was on birth control. If there is one thing I learned in all of this it is that I'm not in charge here.

I'm praying for you and the little one. I'll pray that God leads you to a doctor that can help this little one make it to this world. From all that I read of you on your blog, no one is more deserving.

Laura Marchant said...

I am so happy for you! I hope everything goes great and you are blissful the whole pregnancy! You are in my prayers.
I'll be back to check in on you :-)

Nicole said...

Hi, I came over from Angela's blog. I was ready for the funny comments because I think I fit everything you don't like in people on your "Little 'Bout Me".

I am touched by your post and I really hope that everything turns out okay. Everything I can think to say seems so trivial so just know even those of us that don't know you are thinking of you. Please keep us posted.

Anonymous said...

Thank you so much for being so open in this post. Girlfriend, I can imagine the emotions you are going through.

One thought that came to mind as I read your post~ try not to allow what has happen before rob you of your joy today. Melissa, you know the One who is in control and He will allow whatever is best to happen and right now my friend, what is best is you are pregnant!!! Congratulations!!!

Thank you for giving us the honor to pray for you during this time~

Hugs,

Krista

Anonymous said...

MEL,

I really am happy for you. I found out that one of my other friends is expecting on Friday and then on Saturday while I was still in Dallas visiting them, I was told that you were also expecting. For someone who is also going through this thing called infertility at least I know that there may be hope for me too. I hope so because my sweet husband left a card in my purse and the first line said...Baby please stop crying.
So.. I guess I am just going to have to realize that its his timing not mine.

Love ya
Michelle

Anonymous said...

I'll pray for a healthy baby and the most un-eventful pregnancy possible. Your post made me feel very joyous. Best Wishes and a Flood of Prayers.

wolfqueen2 said...

Congratulations. I know i am number 91 in your comments here, but I will pray just as hard as they do. My prayers are with you and your family. My middle name is Colline. (Coleen)

Merrie said...

Praying, praying, praying sister. God bless you and that little life inside of you!! **hugs**

Unknown said...

Congratulations, I am so happy for you !! And yes, I will pray for you.

I so admire you for this post. It is really hard to expose one's nakedness, especially to people that you only know through their words.

I've experienced many of the emotions that you express here, having lost some much wanted babies. I'm sending heaps of positive thoughts and prayers your way...

Cindy said...

Melissa, Thank you for your honesty and your transparency. I came to your blog through Kimba's site( a soft place to land) but I will be back. I will lift you and your family in prayer during this time. I believe that God will use this to his glory. Philippians 4:6
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."
In Christ, Cindy

Julie said...

I will pray for you. I know this pain. After 6 years with no babies and too many tears, I too had a positive test and now I have FOUR kids. And I tell you, I WILL PRAY FOR YOU. EVERYDAY.
God be with you.

Anonymous said...

I cried as I read this post. I am a 34 year old woman who has dreamed of having a child of her own and been denied repeatedly. And now I am facing a surgery to remove part of my uterus due to a tumor. But I know God has given me these dreams for a reason, He has a greater plan than I could ever imagine. I know He is faithful! And He will be faithful to you too.

Lifting you up in prayer,
Rebekah

Tiffany said...

This is amazing news. I will pray often and you and that baby will be at the top. I am sending you lots of love.

Unknown said...

Lifting you up...

Anonymous said...

You are on the top of my prayer list this morning. God bless the heart of your little one.

Congratulations!

thekreativelife said...

I'll be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers . . . and may God Bless you and your family. He is GOOD, and He has given you this gift for a reason, that only He knows.

Tabitha said...

You've got my prayers, sister. After one healthy pregnancy and one miscarriage, I appreciate the need for prayers. I was always a "Tell everyone at the first positive test so they can pray" and not the "Wait until it's 'safe' to tell everyone" type. My mama taught me that and with the next pregnany, God willing, I'll be telling everyone first thing again! But it's hard. Untelling everyone really made me question myself but I am resolved. Babies are miracles and the early days are so delicate. My thoughts are with you!!

Anonymous said...

I just found your blog today and read this post. I stopped and prayed a heartfelt prayer for you. I have lost a child to miscarriage and also have one healthy little girl. I am pregnant again and in the 1st trimester so I know that unique brand of stress and fear. I prayed for peace and courage for you. And of course perfect health for the baby and for you. Praise God for starting a new life!

One- said...

I was out of town for a whole week and so I am just reading this exciting news! I am so excited for you and your family. God is so good!

Anonymous said...

One day this will be me asking for YOUR prayers. I cried tears of joy and sorrow when I saw your post with positive pregnancy tests. I miscarried in March, and I still have the positive test to remind me that I didnt lose an object or a thing, but a person...a precious baby.

I am beliveing God to carry you in His arms through this entire pregnancy, and protect you, shower you with love, and refresh you.

God bless!!!!

Teana said...

I don't need a names-sake, but I'll be praying for you, my dear. I've lost three and had three, but it sounds as though you've been through far more than I can imagine. But we do serve a big and a mighty God. Both of my baby girls are about to have babies. I'll add your name to the list with theirs and I won't forget to pray...
Teana

Shannon said...

Thanks for leaving a comment on my blog :)

I've been there...I've lost three babies inbetween my boys, and I know how that feels. Every day I am thankful for the gift that my children are to me....and I know the trepidation and fear that happens when you see that second line appear on a pregnancy test! You wish you could go to sleep and wake up when you knew things were going to be okay.

I'll be keeping you and your precious child in my prayers. Just keep leaning on God...He's been there and knows exactly what you are feeling right now.

As I get ready to welcome the newest member into my family...I will be sure to keep up to date with your progress :)

Shelley said...

Okay, I am so not good at praying and I am well aware that I should do it more often. Being that you have touched my heart because I too have had complications having children. My husband and I tried to conceive for years. When I finally did get pregnant and lost that child it was incredibly difficult to make it through. I lost three babies before having my first child a son, that I so prayed for, for my husbands sake, because I simply did not know if I could go through it all again even for his sake. I know all too well the dreadful feeling of waiting for test results and ultra sounds turning out to be bad news instead of the wonderful news you were praying and hoping for. I had two more miscarriages after my son was born and before my daughter was born. I so know that heartache and will definately pray for you and keep you in my thoughts. I got one of each out of my pain. They both were totally worth it. All the pain and suffering was so worth it. I would do it all over again in a heartbeat.

Anonymous said...

Wow, your honesty is so touching.
Prayers coming up!

marigold said...

OK! Praying for you.

Laughing as I read through your blog. Go get em sister!

Mandy said...

I, too, struggle with infertility so I know the excitement/hesitation with the positive tests. CONGRATS!! You will be in my prayers for a healthy, happy baby. And hope for you a good pregnancy.

Anonymous said...

Yeah!

I love pregnancy and hope this is the BEST EVER!

Prayers for all of you....will be adding you to our nightly Rosary and including you on our list of expectant Mommies!

love,
Donna

Anonymous said...

I saw your comment on Homeschool Distractions when she posted about her morning sickness (I'm nearly 8 weeks along and desperate for relief!), so I thought I'd check out your blog. Praise the Lord for blessing you guys with this pregnancy. I pray that He who has began a good work in you will see it to completion. May your pregnancy be blessed and this little one be protected.