I've slacked off quite a bit this past month.....so much to do, so much going on! Slowly, one by one, all my new pregnant friends have had their babies! Sam and Sarah had baby Lucia. Rich and Alicia had baby Amelia. Brian and Heather had baby Graham. It's very surreal!
We have agreed to work with Peaceful Beginnings Doulas, a lovely group of strong women who will coach us through the birthing process. They will support Brian in supporting me, which is priceless in my opinion. My never ending "to do" list is shrinking. I'm such a planner, and in true "Acker" style, this baby is being brought into the world with as much preparation as possible! Everything is washed and disinfected. Freezer is stocked. All baby stuff is bought, folded, organized. Bags are packed with a final list for last minute items.
I've been practicing my Hypnobirthing meditations, along with breathing techniques, birthing positions. Brian hasn't really been involved in this part. As the time draws nearer I'm wishing he had. I'm not sure what a big believer he is in meditation and the power of positive thinking, though I know in his Yoga practice he understands how incredible breathwork is in being present in each moment.
Yesterday, listening to Fleetwood Mac, the song "Landslide" came on...a song that I've always known I would sing to my baby. When I heard the first note, I stopped what I was doing and let the tears flow, knowing how soon this would be a reality. The idea that my full grown baby girl is snuggled in my belly right now is truly the most amazing thing that I have EVER experienced in 38 years!
The grandparents continue to be thrilled and supportive, all so eager to meet this little girl. I've introduced myself to Brian's Mom, Alice, via email, and she too expresses excitement and support. We'll meet face to face in early May. What a lucky baby!
I'm trying to savor the end of this lovely journey, before the true adventure begins. I have loved being pregnant. I'll miss feeling her inside of me, stretching, hiccups, kicking. The discomforts of pregnancy have been mild compared to the joys.
I can't wait to meet her. I'd be lying if I said that I wasn't a bit scared. I am confident that I gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which I really stop to look fear in the face and do the thing I think I cannot do. I have never been more grateful than I am this very moment.
