I remember when I was expecting our first baby and I asked my husband, 'Do you want to find out if we're having a boy or a girl?' He said, "Of course!" Truly, his response was basically, "I can't believe you're asking!" He essentially believes if technology is available and it is not illegal or immoral, of course you should take advantage of it!
So, we found out at the doctor's office and were thrilled to learn (confirming all guesses and "instincts") that we were having a daughter. Several friends cautioned, "You know sonograms aren't perfect. I know people who painted the nursery pink and had a son." I didn't take this too seriously. Most accounts of this were many years old (technology has certainly improved a lot) and we made it clear to our doctor that we didn't want a "guess" but only an "I'm certain" answer.
For me, my favorite part of pregnancy is first hearing that heartbeat, feeling a kick, the initial sonogram when you see the baby moving.... all of those wonderful signs of life that the baby is growing, healthy, and full of individuality even before they are born.
The highlight came for me the week of Mother's Day 2005... I was expecting our first little girl (due in August). My husband's "Mother's Day Gift to me/us" was a 3D Sonogram at Prenatal Imaging. I can't even express how amazing this experience was. Right before our very eyes, we watched her move and squirm and wave... and I'm sure I saw her smile. We met our daughter before she was even born and we celebrated the little life that was growing and preparing to meet the world.
Our first daughter: Emily's 3D Photo.
Two year's later, we celebrated Father's Day by meeting our second daughter through her 3D Sonogram. It was just as exciting to meet our second child and see her individual traits and her personality come shining through. From the beginning, she had a personality of her very own. The sonogram was a complete video watching her move and kick and squirm.
Our 2nd daughter: Kayla's 3D Sonogram
This year, we're a week away from hearing the heartbeat of our 3rd blessing. That is all I want for Mother's Day 2009!