Essay Contest Winner
My husband Josh and I had been trying to get pregnant for a total of about 18 months (with some hiatus periods because of insurance issues from job changes), and each and every month of trying would culminate in excitement and end in tears. We eventually went to see an OB/GYN for a fertility evaluation. I had been charting my temperatures for 6 months and using ovulation predictor kits, and all...
Read MoreMy assumptions
I believe…. labor is a natural normal process and is best left that way. On the other hand, there can be complications, and it is best to be able to have someone there to help monitor both you and baby to make sure all is going well and give medical care when necessary. birth and motherhood are some of the most difficult yet rewarding experiences and are intertwined with each other. labor...
Read MoreExploring our assumptions
Here’s an activity to try. I’ll do this next week and report back to you my answers. “Write as fast as you can anything and everything you assume to be true about pregnancy, labor, birth and being a mother. Write your birth legacy: family/religious/cultural beliefs, images, fears, traditions, unforgettable birth stories, and old wives tales….What is the overall feeling...
Read MoreLetting go of expectations
Part of being able to answer our questions about birth and labor, is being able to understand how culture plays a part in how we view birth, and then being able to break through that. England describes it this way, “In birth preparation, your first task is to empty your mind of expectations and judgements that narrow the possibilities for coping with pain, surprises and the hard work of...
Read MoreMy own question
So here is my question…and since I am done having kids, I am applying this to my mothering also….How will I cope when something unexpected happens and options are pulled away from me? I would hope that I wouldn’t become bitter. I would hope that I could find forgiveness. I would hope that I could find peace. I would hope that I could use my experience to teach others....
Read More