I remember one of the first things I did when I found out I was pregnant with Jaedon (apart from almost falling to the floor from shock) was sign up to an online forum. I knew absolutely nothing about being pregnant (I’m still trying to figure out how it happened), and it was comforting having a place where I could go, somewhat anonymously, and ask all those funny, embarrassing questions that I would never ask anyone in real life. And do things I would never do in the real world. Like post pictures of my belly for the whole world to see, as I grew bigger and bigger. The last photo I posted I was 7 days overdue, and clearly suffering from baby brain. I mean – seriously – did the world really need to be subjected to that. However, embarrasment aside, I am incredibly glad that I now have that record, and was able to watch the effect that the new life growing inside me was having on my poor body.
When I met with Rod and Jenty on the weekend we got to talking about the same thing, almost. Rod was explaining how, at 20 weeks pregnant, a friend of Jenty’s had posted a picture of her rounding belly, and how he had urged his wife to do the same. She eventually came around to the idea and took a photo at 24 weeks. It was a good thing she did – three days later their twins were born.
I remember finding out about it, and feeling completely shocked. Then feeling slightly puzzled after talking to Rod and hearing how well they were going. Having been pregnant I’d heard all these terms floating about, about the point of viability for a foetus (the earliest stage at which it can survive outside of the womb), and I knew that 24 weeks was VERY early, and I guess I just expected there to be complications. But there weren’t. These little champions, from all accounts, sailed through those early months. And when I say little – you have no idea. Rodney showed me a photograph taken in the early days, with his little princess wearing his wedding ring - over her arm. It would have gone all the way to her shoulder, easily. That’s how tiny they were. And yet they somehow found the strength to fight on. I do know they had a whole host of people, all over the world, praying for them. And on Sunday I got to meet the answers to those prayers – two very happy, healthy, perfect-in-every-way, babies. I couldn’t stop staring at them, marvelling at just how precious they were, losing count of the times I felt goose-bumps run from the top of my head to the very tip of my toes. And, again, I felt very blessed to be able to do what I do, and to be able to capture a small portion of life of these extra special, truly beautiful bundles of joy. What a buzz.
Guys (Rod and Jenty) - it really was a pleasure spending the afternoon with you, and finally meeting your little miracles. I’m still in awe at just how perfect they are. They must have something truly amazing in store for their lives. I can’t wait to hear how they turn out.
This one makes me smile every time I look at it
She’s such a little sweetheart
Love this shot of Mama and her little doll
And those eyelashes. Not fair.
Awwwww
Almost two peas in a pod
Already looking out for her
I see you
Totally love these ones of Daddy and his little guy. Fatherhood suits you, Rod.
And I really love this one too. There’s a whole series of them, each one of them looking like little Brandon has realised what they’ve overcome, and is giving out a little shout of triumph. Shout it out, little guy, you’ve earned it.
Narrelle x
(Oh, and thanks Rod for calling the RACV for me, after my blonde moment of leaving the car headlights on. Matt tells me there were jump leads in the back after all.)
