I'm 39 weeks pregnant. 39. That's only one week away from 40. The baby is busy finding new ways to make me uncomfortable and the waves of anxiousness and excitement are all mixed up. We've visited the hospital and confirmed with a doctor that Z can be with me during the birth. I'm pretty sure the doctor expected to receive some sort of "gift" during our interview. Despite the numerous posters on the hospital walls that promote a corruption-free environment, there is still a lot of money that passes under the table. We will not be passing any money that way, even though that could mean not getting as good as care as those who do.
I will be in a room with other women during labor, but once it comes time to deliver Z and I can be together in the delivery room. No other visitors are allowed during my stay at the hospital, mainly due to the fact that recovery is done back at the room with the other women. That is not such a big deal though, because when everything goes fine and the baby is healthy, most women are free to go home within a 24 hour period. There is a nurse who will visit us at home a few times during the first weeks and already we've had some friends let us know that if there is anything we might need, they are more than happy to come and help out. Plus my mom will be here in 10 days.
This post is getting rather long, but I have one more thing to say: I'm really, really glad that we decided to have the baby here. Yes, there are still a lot of unknowns about the hospital and how things will go and if I'll even be able to communicate in Bosnian. But this is where we feel God wants us to live, and we want to fully live where he has placed us. This morning I was at the doctors for some tests (everything is looking good) I had a good conversation with the lady waiting beside me about what I am doing here and how I like it. That would never happen if we had chosen to deliver somewhere else. These conversations seem to be happening a lot lately. Then last night at church, they had a special prayer time for us. As I was surrounded by Bosnian women (and a few men) praying for God's hand of protection over the baby and the upcoming birth, I was struck by how much closer I feel to them because of our choice to be here for the birth. I need these women, their advice, their wisdom, their prayers. I may be far from 'home', but God has truly provided us with amazing support right where we are.
6 comments:
We wish you a safe, easy delivery of a healthy child. Praying for you, Zoran and little Smokvica each night.
I love this post! I love you! Hope I can see 'baby K' sometime soon (as in before graduation or something). Prayers and hugs...
I love how God isn't bound by distance. I love how I can pray for you and it doesn't mean more or less than if we are close or far apart. I love how when I feel like I can't do anything for you, I can pray and that's more than I could do on my own. I have no doubt that you and Z are exactly where you are supposed to be, having a baby exactly where you are supposed to have her.
Sending a small care package from your friends at Caldwell Friends with your mom. I'm so glad she will be there SOON!
I'm also praying someone will update somewhere (facebook?) on your labor and delivery.
Hugs to you!!!
I'm so glad to read that you feel at peace about your decision. Both of you and your baby will be in our prayers. I can feel your Mom's excitement from here!
I just prayed for you this morning and will continue to do so in the coming days.
I love that God is using your pregnancy to bring you closer to the women of your current "home" country. He is good.
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