[redwitch]

Well, gas through the intestines I have had and have never found it to be a very pleasant feeling. Does that mean I haven't missed much in carrying a baby? rofl

I have gone through the sleep deprivation. Actually, longer than most mothers -- Jess had night terrors for 3 years straight. I could actually time them -- 11:03; 1:00; between 3:00 and 3:30 and one at 5:00. I did get to miss the changing diapers and burping, for which I'll be eternally grateful. Quite honestly, when I went through the adoption process I specifically asked for an older child. I did not want to change a diaper or try to interpret unintelligent sounds for three years.

As to being a mother, that I am. No doubt in my mind on that score. Never has been from the first day Jess walked into my home. She was my little girl and I would die to protect her. So, motherhood itself was never an issue for me. Just childbirth and infancy (ugh!) -- not convinced I missed all that much but think I would have liked having Jess be of my blood as well as of my heart.