Chromosomes and Gender

  I'll admit it was strange to hear, "You are, because of your age, considered high risk in your pregnancy." I think I knew it. I mean, I did, but I just didn't think it would be part of the very first conversations that I had with the doctor. "In December, you will be 35, so you need to consider getting tested for the chromosomal abnormalities that can come with an older aged mother." 

  Let's be honest, as much as I have NOT read about being pregnant, the one thing I did know was that I was old and I did understand what that could affect. I already wanted the test. I could have stopped her mid-sentence, but I had just seen the first pictures of you...I couldn't really think of much else. But, snapped back to reality, I wanted to take the test.

  "I don't want to do the amniocentesis test, but I do want to get tested." She was quick to squelch that she doesn't encourage that test unless the blood test came back with an abnormality or positive on one of the 4 things tested. 

  I was scheduled for the following week to get my blood test and the instructions not call that I would be called 10 days to 2 weeks later. Fine. I wasn't worried about the timeline. I really just wanted the reassurance that you, my baby, would be okay. And, if there was something that me and your dad needed to plan for, we would be more prepared to welcome you into this world. 

  Trying to come up with nifty ideas to reveal your gender to your dad was somewhat challenging. I knew I had a week so I had some time, and I had thought an OU theme would be nice. Even if I don't like the team, he does...big time. 

  Friday, one week after the test, I made it to Target for a few things most importantly a little OU outfit. Well... let's just say I wasn't about to pay $22 for a 6 month old OU onesie. Outrageous! I guess I was just going to have to come up with another cheaper idea. I had time...

...or did I? 

  Your dad got home early which was nice we got to spend some quiet time together. We were sitting in the living room watching a show we both enjoy (Avatar...can't wait to introduce you to that!) when my phone rang. Didn't notice the number, but working for the church, I get calls from unknown numbers at times. 

  "Hi, Aly, this is Jan from TWHG. I got the results back from your test."

  "Yes, hi, Jan. I am surprised they came back so soon. I was expecting at least another week!"

  Pretty sure my heart was pounding out my chest! Already? I wasn't ready for the results yet. I hadn't mentally prepared for it. I was sure it was going to be at least another week...not now! I was about to find out if you had any of the abnormalities that are tested for... I just wanted you to be okay. 

  She chuckled, Yes, I guess they must have hired more people in the last little while. Well, your tests all came back normal/negative. We tested for Trisomy 21, 18, and 13."

  "Oh, wow. That is great news! Thank you so much!"

  "Are you wanting to know your baby's gender?" 

  "Yes. Can I put you on speaker? My husband is here and I would like him to hear as well." 

  I felt that this was perfect. He couldn't be with me at my first ultrasound to see you, but he could find out what you were when I did. 

  "Sure. So, congratulations guys, you are having a little boy."

  ...

  ...

  ...

  To be honest, I can't remember how I ended the conversation. I just remember being in shock. Shock. I didn't think I thought of your gender. I guess I did...your grandfather "Royal Falcon" (still working on that name. hahaha) was CONVINCED you were a girl. There was no telling him otherwise. Boy, was he wrong! You are my son. My son. 

  And you are real...and I am still scared shitless. But, me and your daddy now know that we are having a little boy. Eek!!!