Thankful

As a kid growing up in the 80s, one of the worst insults hurled on the playground was "test tube baby". We didn't actually know what it meant, but we just knew it was something bad. Now, I understand exactly what it means, and it's no longer viewed negatively, at least not by me. I am carrying a "test tube baby", and I'm doing it with pride and great joy. 

This week, I watched Joy: The Birth of IVF on Netflix. It's about the UK team that first tested and successfully launched IVF. There were many scientists, medical professionals, and couples who participated in the trials inspite of the backlash from the church, relatives, and the community at large. Nevertheless, they persisted. Thanks to their efforts, I am able to fulfill my dream of being a mother on my own terms. 

I am grateful for the women who went ahead of me, whether they planned for a baby with IVF or they had an unplanned pregnancy. I am grateful for the women who are mothers to children that they didn't birth and those who are not even related by blood. Motherhood comes in many forms.

It's Thanksgiving in the US, and today marks 32 weeks of gestation for me and Baby Joy. I celebrate every milestone of this miracle. We have less than 2 months remaining until we meet face to face. All is well and will continue to be well.