Normal. You can add that to the list of words I am learning to hate. I have heard that word more times in the last 6.5 months than I think I ever have in my life. The worst part is, it’s usually negative. “Your pregnancy isn’t normal.” “Your daughter won’t be normal.” “Due to the prematurity, your children may not be normal.” Hearing that word used in this context for so long has made me question, what is normal? My normal isn’t going to be your normal and I know plenty of people who would be considered “normal” by doctors but I know they are far from. So I decided to look up the definition, and this is what it reads “conforming to the standard or the common type; usual; not abnormal; regular; natural”
Common? Regular? Usual? These are the words that define normal? Gross. No thanks. I am okay with not being “normal”. I mean, look at my life, my normal is always changing. First, I got pregnant. New normal. Then it was twins. New normal. Then I had to leave work to be put on bed rest. New normal. Now I am the parent of three children and two happen to be in the NICU. New normal. Eventually Briahna and Braxton will come home and life will be chaotic in a different way and that will become our new normal. My life is far from common, regular or usual but one thing is for certain, my life is beautiful. I wouldn’t change it for the world. Regardless of what the doctors think is normal or not – I know I will love ALL of my children. Through the good and the bad, in their strength and their weaknesses. I will love them. So I just want the doctors to know – thanks for your warnings but you can keep them because this mother will embrace her new normal and all that it means.
xoxo
Even if your baby doesn’t have heath issues at all, the stuff the doctors say makes you feel bad. I was an emotional wreck with all the hormones and lack of sleep, worries and decisions. You’re probably experiencing allot of the same emotions all new moms have just in a more public extreme setting.
BTW. Briahna looks adorable holding her daddy’s hand.
Amen, Sister!
Beautifully, beautifully said!
Ashley, I can honestly say that “I’m glad that our life is not normal based on the dictionary definition.” I love your posts and appreciate the time you are taking to keep us updated. Love hugs and prayers coming your way. Aunt Debbie
Who the hell are they or anyone to tell you what you feel inside. Well said. Keep the faith and best to all.