If you had asked me a little over a year ago what a "rainbow baby" was I probably would have looked at you like you were crazy. I would have had no clue what it meant. Once we learned that Isaac had Trisomy 13 and would more than likely not live long I began to see this term quit often. When a family had healthy child after an infant loss they many time referred to them as a "rainbow baby." I found this definition on babycenter.com by a mom named Courtney and I thought it was perfect.
"Rainbow Babies" is
the understanding that the beauty of a rainbow does not negate the
ravages of the storm. When a rainbow appears, it doesn't mean the storm
never happened or that the family is not still dealing with its
aftermath. What it means is that something beautiful and full of light
has appeared in the midst of the darkness and clouds. Storm clouds may
still hover but the rainbow provides a counterbalance of color, energy
and hope.
~Courtney
As most you of know we are expecting our "rainbow baby" in a few short months. I didn't know it was possible to be so excited, yet so nervous at the same time. We have VBS this week at our church. I distinctly remember sitting there last year discussing with some friends how I wanted Isaac's memorial service to be. I remember talking about the songs I wanted played and how I wanted the room to look. The thought of carrying a healthy baby seemed so far away, like a dream. Would I want to be pregnant again quickly? Would people think we were trying to replace Isaac. Would I be strong enough emotionally? I read so many stories of "rainbow babies" on different blogs and I think that is part of what carried me through. Isaac will always be a part of our lives and our family. I will think about him each day for the rest of my life. But, Lord willing in about 11 weeks I have will have a sweet new baby to hold. I just can't wait.
It is time for the weekly Wonderfully Made Link Up. If you have ever had or are currently carrying a baby with a negative prenatal diagnosis please link up here. Your story may be just what someone else needs to hear!
Prayer for you & your rainbow baby. ((hugs)) Isaac will be a proud big brother no doubt! ;)
ReplyDeleteI just love this post! Lydia IS your Rainbow Baby! Ryan is ours - I describe him as "our calm after the storm." He helped heal our hearts in ways he will never know. Alex will always be our baby and will never be forgotten. Same with you and Isaac! Such a lucky boy he is to have you as his momma!!!
ReplyDeleteblessings to you and prayers for a smooth countdown and delivery!
ReplyDeleteI love that title, and as a granddad, I am looking forward to God's blessing in the midst of that storm that you and Jonathan traveled through. Last week I spoke on enduring through troubles at North Mountain Church here in Phoenix and briefly once again shared the story of "Isaac" and how you and Jonathan had gone through this time.
ReplyDeleteLove you and miss you!
Dwight