The ultrasound, and what we saw

It’s funny, because when I see other people’s ultrasound pictures, I’m usually like, “okay.” No big deal. There’s a vaguely human-shaped thing in a kind of blotchy black and white rendition–excellent . . . good for you. I guess.

But my baby . . . our baby . . . it’s so different.

And why make you wait any longer–it’s a girl. She’s a girl.

After those assertive kicks while we were listening to her heartbeat, I was expecting more of the same in the ultrasound room–flips, kicks, maybe a little boxing. But she must have been worn out from her earlier endeavors, because she just kind of hung out along the bottom of my uterus, right next to my right hip.

Which appears to be her favorite spot, since that’s where that weird lump appeared Sunday on my belly.

The idea that this little girl has a favorite spot to hang out . . . it just thrills me. She’s a little person, with little preferences, and a little personality.

I love that verse from one of David’s psalms that says, “Yet you desired faithfulness even in the womb; you taught me wisdom in that secret place.” (51:6) I don’t pretend to know what that means–but it obviously implies that spirituality doesn’t start when we are born, or when we can say a word or two, form a complete sentenece, or even–God forbid–recite some sort of confession of faith! Spirituality doesn’t start once we can articulate thoughts with our mouths, or even in our own heads. It starts before that–in the womb. This baby of ours already has a relationship with God. I have no idea what that looks like–but I know in my soul that it’s true, and I rejoice.

For the majority of the ultrasound, I lay in the darkened room holding my husband’s hand while the ultrasonographer moved the gadget over my gel-covered stomach and typed things on her computer. But at the end, she turned the screen and let us watch.

Wow.

The best moment was when suddenly her little hand–with all its little fingers marvellously visible–came into view, and she started moving it.

She was waving to us, I’m convinced.

“Hi, little girl,” I couldn’t help saying out loud in response.

The fingers opened and closed as we watched her. It was a graceful, almost nonchalant princess wave. Elegant like a little dancer.

27 thoughts on “The ultrasound, and what we saw”

  1. Erica

    Hi little niece! I don’t know you yet, but I already love you.

    p.s. Jenna, I can still hardly believe that you’re pregnant. By the time it sinks in, she’ll be here cooing and being her adorable self!!

  4. kelsey

    Jenna, this is so sweet! It’s wonderful to hear your reflections and thoughts as you journey through pregnancy. Thanks for sharing. 🙂

  6. Jesse

    How wonderful! I love how you just came out with it rather than making us read in anticipation :o). This is a beautiful post, congratulations!

  8. Amy

    I love that you wanted to find out the gender – I could never wait with either of mine. I’m too impatient and way too much of a planner. And a little girl! No doubt, she’ll be as gorgeous as you.

  12. Julie M.

    Such beautiful words Jenna. My heart is smiling and I’m thrilled that you’re having a girl! Thanks for sharing with us. Pregnancy is such a miracle and gift. Treasure every moment of it. 🙂

  13. Anita

    ahh, makes me cry with the sweet memories….My youngest just graduated High School last week, and yes, when it is “your baby” it changes EVERYTHING!

  17. Eve

    Yah… You official get the my united color of benetton yellow ducky girl cardigan!! She is so sweet!! The shopping is on, girl:) there will be mystery package arrive in your door sometime soon….. Hehehe;)
    And love your writing and spiritual, always so pure!!

  22. Veronica

    Wow, dreams do come true! I was very much hoping it would be a girl after your dream, wow, it’s like God was telling you the future! 🙂 I imagine it would be much different to see your own baby, alive, in your womb. I like what you said about a baby having a relationship with God before it’s born. It reminds me of how John jumped for joy in his mother’s womb when Mary came to see Elizabeth and he recognized Jesus in her womb. How would that have been possible without God being involved in some way? *shiver* Thanks for sharing the good news–I’m so thrilled for you!

  23. Heidi

    Jenna! She is so beautiful… even all graylookin’. I love her little hand! And I love the shot of her feet! I still can’t believe that the next time we get to see you she’ll be on the outside, and we get to meet her!!! She is already so loved…

  24. Suzie

    Aww…a little girl 🙂 The ultrasound pictures are very clear compared to some I’ve seen, you can make out all the details! Congrats to you and Adam xoxo

  25. joanne

    Normally I look at ultrasounds and am like…that looks like an alien. But yours looks like a baby! A real live adorable baby! And yay on it being a girl!!!

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