Life Update: I Had a Baby!
Hey, friends! I hope you’ve been well since we last connected here. Last time, I shared the story of how Chris and I fell in love in celebration of our two-year wedding anniversary. I can’t believe how fast time has flown by, because we celebrated our third wedding anniversary just a few of months ago. This year was extra special, because we celebrated another year of beautiful marriage and the addition of our son, Micah, who was born January 7, 2025 ❤️
Writing this brings tears to my eyes as I think about the joy that Micah has brought to our lives and the faithfulness of God throughout my journey to motherhood. From the moment I found out I was pregnant, to the first time I held Micah in my arms, and up to this day (25 weeks postpartum), I’ve been able to trace the hand of God throughout this journey.
When I reflect on my pregnancy, my mind is flooded with positive memories of love, joy, and support. I’m also reminded of the gratitude and excitement that Chris and I felt after every doctor’s appointment. The opportunity to carry life is something I will never take for granted, because it, in and of itself, is a gift to be cherished. And what an incredible gift it is.
Carrying and birthing my son Micah has opened my eyes to the reality that we are all living, breathing miracles. Psalm 139:13-14 says,
“For you [God] created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
I’ve read this scripture many times in the past, but when I read this text now it takes on an entirely new meaning. What an honor and blessing it was to experience God’s miraculous power at work in my body and to be a vessel of His glory. I’m still in awe, and the way I see, connect with, and reverence God has forever changed.
Quite a few people have asked me throughout my postpartum journey – How does it feel to be a mom? How has motherhood changed you? What have you learned about yourself? Honestly, I haven’t been able to fully answer those questions yet, because I’m slowly beginning to process everything — from pregnancy and 36 hours of labor and delivery, to the life changes, the new dynamics of my marriage, the evolution of my body, and my new identity as a mom. There is so much to unpack, and I plan to do more of it here. However, one thing that’s clear is that I love Micah with every fiber of my being, and I wouldn’t have made it this far without God, my husband, and my village.
Speaking of my husband, I couldn’t have dreamed of a better partner to be on this parenthood journey with me. From the moment we found out we were pregnant, Chris has been by my side through it all. His comforting presence, affirming voice, unwavering support, and unconditional love have anchored me throughout each phase of the journey and provided me with an indescribable sense of peace and assurance.
In addition to my husband, I’m extremely grateful for the outpouring of love, generosity, and support Chris and I received from our village throughout my pregnancy. And it didn’t stop there! The support we received following Micah’s birth and continue to receive to this day has been overwhelming; and I know it’s the hand of God working through the people in our lives. Our word for this year as a family is provision, and God has been faithful to His promise, answering our prayers, blessing us in the most unexpected ways, and providing everything we’ve needed for each day. His daily provision of grace, peace, strength, patience, and wisdom has been especially sweet in this season.
Another thing I’m thankful for is the love and support I’ve personally received throughout my postpartum recovery journey. Let me tell you…being seen, loved, and cared for as an individual means the world to a mom, especially when the focus of others tends to shift more towards the baby. I’m truly grateful for the people God has placed in my life — those who have held space for me on hard days, called or texted to check in or offer support, prayed for me, gifted me with postpartum items, and shown sensitivity to my needs and feelings. (If you’re one of those people reading this, know that I appreciate you very much 🥰)
Aside from the usual challenges of adjusting to parenthood and a few really hard days, my postpartum journey has been wonderful. One of the greatest blessings of this season was the time Chris and I got to take off from work. Thanks to our company’s generous parental leave, we shared 4.5 months together, bonding, growing, and adjusting as a family of three. I will forever cherish the precious moments we shared with our son during this time, and I'm so proud of the way Chris and I navigated (and continue to navigate) this life transition together.
Throughout postpartum, I’ve also been intentional about taking care of myself. Caring for myself in this season has involved spending time in God’s presence, regularly attending therapy, hanging out with friends, moving my body (via walks, yoga/deep stretch, or kickboxing), spending time outside, going to the spa, and taking advantage of opportunities to rest. I believe these things have contributed to me having a healthy postpartum recovery, and I’m so thankful to Chris for encouraging and providing me with regular opportunities to fill my cup.
So what are we up to now?! Micah is 6 months old, and his first two teeth are coming in! It’s been such a joy watching him grow and hit so many development milestones! My absolute favorite is when he smiles, laughs, and stares into my eyes while breastfeeding. It’s the sweetest thing ever 🥹❤️ We’re also settling into our new routine as a family. Chris returned to work on May 12th, and I returned a couple of weeks ago. The transition back has been emotional for me so I would love it if you'd say a prayer for me. I’d also appreciate you keeping my sweet family in your prayers as we continue to navigate this new season of parenthood. Thanks for reading, and I’ll meet you back here soon!
With love and gratitude,
Imanne