Friday, July 28, 2006

God: The Giver Of All Good Gifts


Christmas 2005
Originally uploaded by Beth.
• Was this planned?

• How did this happen?

• Ever think about doing something permanent?

• How old are you?!

• Opps!

• Laugh, snicker, giggle . . .

Okay, I think I’ve heard all of them this pregnancy. So glad we’re almost past the “comment” stage. I’m convinced there are some people in the world who would do well just do keep their lips firmly pressed together!

David and I welcome this soon and coming arrival as a gift from God. It was just two days after Christmas when we found out we were pregnant. Though not planned by us, we know this little baby was planned by God. We are amazed that He would allow us the privilege of being Mommy and Daddy to yet another awe-inspiring little miracle.

The verse that today fills my heart the most is found in the book of Jeremiah, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (verse 11)

Just to even the score, for all the wrong things people have said, there have been twice as many right. Not all the world is cynical and skewed. We are surrounded by so many who understand the true value of life and whence it originates. For them (and probably you if you’re reading this), I am quite thankful.

16 comments:

Anonymous said...

No one loves children more than me. I would have had twelve, but that was not in the plans laid for us. Please make sure someone passes the word on to me when your wonderful blessing arrives! He does know the plans He has for you...love that verse and cling to it daily.

Anonymous said...

Do I get to see at least one picture of you before the blessed event?

Beth said...

Everyone in my family has strict orders to keep the camera pointed AWAY from me when I'm pregnant . . . I'm sure there are some out there, but thankfully none on my camera! :)

Anonymous said...

Hi, Beth-David mentioned your blog and I just had to check it out. I am very impressed. Nice to hear what is going in your life.
Okay, I must admit you were talking straight to me...I am sure I typed the words, "Guess it wasn't planned..huh"? I am one of those that needs to learn to keep my lips firmly pressed together. You would think after 35 years I would know that. Anyway- Congratulations, we were excited to hear and have been praying for you. He is blessed to be a part of a family like yours!
Michelle Franzen

Lisa H said...

To Ginger,
Just want you to know that even though Beth doesn't allow pictures of herself while she's pregnant, she is very beautiful even while she is pregnant. And even when you know she must be hot and uncomfortable and seriously miserable....she's always still smiling!

Michelle said...

We are so happy for you guys. As a parent of a "surprise" baby myself, I know full well the blessings that God intends for you all. What a gift from God! I think you should podcast the birth on your site so we can all be there :-)....just kidding.

Beth said...

To Monica, (above)

I couldn't figure out how to leave a comment to you on your site, so I'll leave it here. I remember at my wedding shower one older lady told me to cherish the early days of our marriage when money was hard to come by because later you would miss them and cherish them. She was so right.

We got pregnant with Ashley our first year of marriage. Everything I had for her, other than gifts, came from garage sales. I still love those 25 cent little clothes that she wore. I keep them in a box and sometimes pull them out just for the memories.

Though finances were tight (I stopped working as soon as I got sick with her), those memories are the best! And by the way, she had a really adorable nursery and a wardrobe that really wasn't bad. Garage sales can be great depending on where you live!

Anonymous said...

Your post you put on my "How to walk like a catwalk model" is SO funny. I thought that article was hilarious and I have to admit I did give it a try :-)

Anonymous said...

Beth I never really thought of all the cruel things people say when people naturally become pregnant. For us infertility has had its own challenges, but when you put peoples hurtful and many times well meaning words on top of it... well it can be a lot to crawl out from under. The one thing I have really learned in this journey is many times it is better to say nothing and I'm not just talking about where pregnancy is concerned. It sounds like you are getting your on lesson right along the same line of how to tactfully talk to people. I hope for your sake people back off.
Did you guys ever decide on a name? I know you have had more planning time than me in this area, but we are still kicking names around. My husband is determined to name the child after him or his father if it is a boy. I told him that baby already gets his last name and that is good enough. =) We find out in September what we are having

Anonymous said...

Beth, when are you due and have you all decided on a name yet??

Just curious - by the way, you don't know me, I was an intern 02-04 (UG/GI) and your site encourages me. :)

Anonymous said...

I remember a (foolish) college student asking me if I was pregnant with twins when I was pregnant with Kate. Didn't feel too good. I don't know why people say the things they do. I'm sure I've said my share of stupid things. Anyway, this baby will be loved and so special. Love you!

Shanygne said...

Why do people think four is so many? I would LOVE to have four, and in negotiations with God on that one... pray with me??
And, as one who knows, I, too, would wish that, unless it is inspired by God, people would just keep their mouths SHUT! (Oooh, glad i read that before posting, I almost wrote another "SH" word...yikes. That would have been bad, huh?

Michelle said...

Beth- where are you today? Are you in labor? How will we know when the big day arrives?

Unknown said...

Dear Beth, I am so sorry that you ever have to hear those ugly comments from people who don't value life like we do. We are so THRILLED to have you bearing us another grandbaby and can't wait for the big day as it draws closer! Tomorrow camp begins and I hope it gives you the break you need before the baby arrives. (If you wait that long!) Love you! Mb

Karenkool said...

I KNOW WHAT YOU MEAN... those comments can be ruthless and insensitive. I have six wonderful children so I can remember being pregnant with 4, 5 and 6 and all the dreaded comments. When I was pregnant with my 3rd or 4th I remember my pastor jokingly saying, "Are you guys using the rhythm method, cause i think you may want to try a different beat" {laughing at his amazing wit}.

Another minister asked my husband and I if we thought about buying a TV. Ooohhh that one really ticked me off. He didn't even know us. I laugh now because not too many people would deny that our kids are really and truly great.

I hope all is well for you!

Anonymous said...

You know, when someone asks you "how did it happen?" you should look them square in the eyes and say, "How do you think it happened." Sometime one embarasing encounter with the truth is enoungh to teach a person to bite their tounge and keep their lips closed.