So what does one do when they are living in India, coping with the stress of all things Indian, two preemies in the NICU, never ending bills and a family and husband who are 7000+ miles away?
Well if they're as lucky as me, they lean on their friends.
Since arriving in Delhi, I have been fortunate enough to form some truly amazing friendships with people from all around the world. Different countries, different ages, different family compositions, but all with the same goal-- to become parents.
Tonight, 18 of us gathered for dinner at TGIFridays. 18! One of my new friends asked how I "found" all these people. To be honest, we are actually fairly easy to spot. Single women alone in India, anyone carrying a few day old baby or often bab(ies), the same guy/gal sitting at the pool... for the 14th day in a row-- just a few clues that one has spotted a bona fide SCIer.
What's really incredible, however, is to listen to the stories that brought each one of us to Delhi. My new friends are the most strong, resilient and creative individuals I have ever met. To hear the obstacles they have overcome to embark on this journey will take your breath away.
I am so proud to have acquired these new friendships-- long-lasting friendships that will surely survive our short stays in India. (Dear Avey, I use the word "short" loosely.)
and now for the update...
As the babies progress, it's of course inevitable that we will have some setbacks. Yesterday, both babies has lost weight and Hayden was intermittently using the C-Pap with no oxygen.
It was fascinating for me to hold some of the other recently born babies last night. How different it was to not be repetitively "extending the neck" for an unrestricted airway, scratching feet to remind the baby to breathe and constantly checking to ensure the baby was not in distress. I am certainly looking forward to this day with my own children.
Below are a few pictures (starting with the most exciting first)!
 |
| An elephant passes us in traffic. I believe this says a lot about the speed at which traffic often moves in India. |
 |
| Hayden requested an eye mask for his daytime naps. |
 |
| Scarlett gives me a knowing smile not to worry, she's got this bottle thing under control. |
Oh I'm so sorry I missed the dinner. I hope there will be another soon! Let's get together this weekend. Sending lots of love and strength to those babies.
ReplyDeleteThe people we all meet through blogging are incredible. I'm glad you are getting support and I can't wait for more pictures of your kids without machine and in your arms. Keep posting, please.
ReplyDeleteAh so nice to hear how many wonderful friends you have gathered. :) Indeed this kind of connections can be long lived!
ReplyDeleteLots of good energy vibes to your bubs!
It's so nice to see that the things we share on our blog actually can be shared in person, as well. Wonderful photos...Hayden and Scarlett look GREAT! Day by day!...or maybe every other day...they will get stronger. And so will you. Thanks for sharing. Take care of yourself!
ReplyDeleteSo - TGIFridays - another place to jot down in my 'must vist' note book? Sounded like a great night!
ReplyDeleteHow wonderful that you've found this community! I am sure they will continue to be a strength to you long after you've brought the babies home.
ReplyDeleteI too organized a dinner with others in Delhi and it is just so wonderful to meet all these wonderful IP's from around the world. Scarlett and Hayden do seem to be having more good days than not so good,which is very encouraging! I love little Scarlett's face, like a little doll! Cannot wait til Hayden gets a full face shot sans tubes etc. Stay strong girlie!
ReplyDeleteScarlett is such a little poser. loll. Yep, Hayden thinks he is at a pool side in the sun and needs a sun shade. They dont look like they have lost weight in the pictures looking at Scarlett's rosy cheeks. C'mon babies, mummy cant wait to carry you in her buggies. All will be well by the grace of God.xx
ReplyDeleteThey are both so cute Bernadette! We've been watching from afar!!!
ReplyDeleteAnd Ahhh... TGI Fridays, I have never been so happy to eat there in my life, and have since sworn I will never eat there again! They do a bang up take away service and will deliver to you once you've established that you eat there every other day!
Take care of those amazing babies!
Bern, I love the new pictures of the babies! I am so happy to hear that you are making new friends and developing a support system. The girls and I ran into Duane at the bank the other day, he helped put the girls in the car (let me tell you, he is an expert with the carseats).
ReplyDeleteI am so glad you had awonderful evening!!!
ReplyDeleteScarlett is so cute with her look she gives the camera... Sending lots of good thoughts to both babies and yourself!!
Best wishes
lisa x
It's awesome meeting people when you travel that you have such a deep connection with. Thanks for blogging the journey!
ReplyDeleteLove the pics!!!
Wonderful that you are sharing such inspiring company : )
ReplyDeleteSurrogacy is definately a situation which seems to create instant and heartfelt connections from almost the first contact - human beings at their most beautiful.
Bernadette and babies rockin' Delhi 2012.
Bernadette, you are such a beautiful person. This shines through in your writing. It is no wonder why people and your blogging/surrogate friends gravitate towards you. So glad you could have some adult time being able to have dinner with them. Scarlett and Hayden still look like they are getting stronger - it's just a little setback and that smile of Scarlett's - she is going to break hearts so Mummy and Daddy may have to not let her date until she is at least 35 !!!!!LOL All the best
ReplyDeleteyou continue to amaze me.
ReplyDeleteso awesome that you got to meet so many other woman who you could bond with and share your story with. totally cool...so happy for you <3
you and your beautiful family continue to be in my prayers. <3
ps-awesome elephant photo
so pretty...the picture of you and your friend!
xoxo
maria
Thanks Bernadette for organising a great night out, we so enjoyed it. We really have met and of course are meeting some incredible people.
ReplyDelete