In May of 2014, I wrote a blog called “Transitioning into new beginnings” where I talk of my excitement for my daughter’s graduation and celebrate her accomplishments as she headed to college.
“Though I celebrate her, I also feel that this is a graduation of my own, a graduation of transition and acceptance of a new beginning and possibility for me,” I wrote.
As a meeting planner, I thrive on being organized and having a plan. In my work, organization is required. That’s what keeps me on track, and, quite frankly, allows me to feel in control.
Or so I thought.
In April of 2015, I was given the unexpected news that I was pregnant. Never did I think that today I would be a mother of two daughters!
One morning in April 2015, I had an appointment for and MRI (that I had put off since February). By 9 a.m., I was back home and saw that I missed four calls from my doctor. Scared, I returned his call right away.
He tells me the results, and then says “We found something else. … Are you sitting down?”
“That’s it my life is over,” I thought. Then I heard him say the words I had longed for for many years—that is until I came to accept that it wasn’t in our cards to have more children. We felt blessed to have one child who has grown to be a wonderful woman.
“You’re pregnant!” WHAT?! BUT HOW?! (Ok, I know how).
Not just pregnant, but 13 1/2 weeks pregnant. Needless to say it was the shock of our lives.
Through all the emotions, I remember my husband’s response when I asked: “Are we really doing this again?!” His answer: “We got this. We’re a team, right?”
Having a baby after getting one child in college was enough of a surprise, but then I went into labor three weeks early. I had no hospital bag packed; even the nursery room didn’t have any furniture.
Through all of this amazingly unplanned, unprepared, unorganized, uncontrolled experience, I have come to accept that planning is not always In The Plan.
Fast forward to today, my heart is filled with gratitude for all that is my life. Valentina has brought a new light, happiness, and joy to our world. Our family has grown and love has multiplied.
Here’s to new beginnings. Or you could say, “Here’s to being All Anew!”
Gabriela Contreras is director for meeting planning for Women of the ELCA.
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Photo of Gabriela, Victoria and Valentina
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