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We made it through 40 weeks of pregnancy, and beyond, and just like that the maternity series has completed itself. It seems to have made the time fly by.
Well, most of the time it felt that way, I couldn’t believe when the time came to take the next picture.
Then the end of the pregnancy came and it felt like we were just waiting. We’d try and do plenty to keep us busy, but the wait never lifted.
Our first due date came. And went.
Exactly a week later, our second due date came. And went.
And with that, 40 weeks had passed.
Then last weekend, just passed the 40th week, I knew I was due for the last photo for the series, and just didn’t feel like it. I would much rather have been holding my baby in my arms. So, I didn’t. I didn’t take it. I waited.
Finally, last Monday came and we felt like it could happen anytime. So all day I kept busy getting prepared, spent time with Aliyah, and then tried to get some rest.
I also realized that it could be the last time for a maternity photo.
I had a couple of contractions during the shoot, and the rest of the time, my husband was making me laugh. I was giddy. I was hopeful.
7 hours later, I delivered Brayden.
Labor and delivery were a big thrill ride that I’d be happy to detail later, but I need to get some sleep first. You know, somewhere between Aliyah asking me to hold her forever and the baby making a compelling argument to be permanently attached to my boob.
Dear sweet Brayden,
I can’t even type this without tears forming. You are such a blessing, you are my miracle. You took us on a long ride, one that lasted much longer than I thought it was going to, but just as we thought, all that waiting was so worth it. Our last week of pregnancy was a whirlwind, each day preparing for the just in case moment, and then each night hoping we had everything taken care of, just in case. Your big sister would kiss and hug my big belly every single day begging for you to come out. On Monday, February 15, your daddy and I set up to take the weekly photo, and you blessed me with a couple of contractions. Not too strong, but more than I’d felt before. We finished up, got your sister to bed, and we just laid in bed relaxing a bit waiting for a sign that it was time to have you. About 9pm, my water broke and I took a shower while your daddy got the car packed up and ready. Nana and Papa came and picked up your sister and we headed off to the hospital. Labor lasted almost 5 hours and you were born at 1:51am on February 16. Daddy helped catch you. You weighed 6lbs 15oz. You were 20 inches long. We adore you. You’re here.
Erin says
Congrats!! So glad he is finally here! And you still looked fab at 40 weeks…I think I looked like I was ready to rip someone’s face off!
Enjoy this sweet time!
Corey~living and loving says
love this. so wonderful that your 40 week shots are so happy! ♥
Ramona says
Congradulations!Tabitha and family- Hello Brayden, Welcome to the world!!! Tab you made me cry reading your experience awaiting your precious new family member 🙂 Thank You for sharing it with us all, the photos and updates were fun 🙂 God bless you and your beautiful family 🙂
Love Ramona
Jess! says
That is just the sweetest thing. Congrats, so so happy for you!
Kelly says
Your poor belly button looks like it just couldn’t stand another minute.
Sounds like a perfect delivery story. You are very lucky!!!!
Jamie says
I actually laughed out loud at the “permanently attached to my boob” comment! Hahaha. I’m so happy for you guys! I’m looking forward to getting lots of mommy tips from you. Get your rest, girl! And enjoy every day, as I know you always do.
lizcooper.wordpress.com says
Hey Brayden!!! Welcome to the world! This post just makes me so excited and happy for the four of you! There’s so many great things that come with having two children. You lose some things, but you gain so much more! I hope you’re able to get some rest and enjoy your time with your sweet family.
Pam says
What a beautiful post. Can’t wait to view more pics of him in the next few weeks and to see his sissy with him.
Jerrie says
Lovely. Welcome dear boy! Enjoy these first days.
Briony says
he is absolutely perfect 🙂 definitely worth the wait!
Dr. Wifey says
i have enjoyed the maternity series! can’t wait to see pics of Aliyah and Brayden together 🙂
Annikke says
THis is probably one of my favorite posts from this series. I got teary-eyed reading about the day you went into labor. I am so happy for you and your family!
Brittany says
You saved the best maternity series for last!
I love your expression is this photo. It is pure, radiant joy!
I am anxious to hear all about your sweet boy! And, of course, the pictures! 🙂
Caz (The Truth About Mummy) says
congratulations fresh mummy! Yay for 40 weeks and double Yay for a brand new baby boy!!!
Laura says
Yay!!! Congrats. Can’t wait to see him!
Aleta says
Awwwww, I’m so happy for you!!!! Congratulations!!! (You look beautiful in the pictures!)
Jen says
SO happy for you, your family is really beautiful, I hope to have this some day
Angela Giles Klocke says
Congratulations! I enjoyed your whole series, and now you should continue with weekly shots of the new guy in town. 😀
Life with Kaishon says
I am so happy for you. He is beautiful.
Whimsical Creations says
YAY congrats!!
nuts says
oh, wow, i’m speechless. i can feel undescribable feelings here…
Crystal Rae says
perfect end do your maternity series I love it
A Southern Accent says
Congrats to you! So glad to hear everything went well. So, is it much easier the second time around?
Baby Mama says
love these pictures! the perfect ones to end this wonderful series!!!
congratulations on your sweet, precious angel baby!!!
Gerri says
I’m glad he is here and you are both well. Thanks for letting me visit you that day. 🙂
Susan says
I just had to comment on his name – we are expecting a new little boy in May and his name will also be Braden. Congratulations on your precious arrival!!
[email protected] says
Congrats! You look beautiful 🙂