Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Amos Pax is Here
A mere 3 days, (12/11/10) after my last post, our son, Amos Pax was born...
The Story:
It began on a Saturday morning. I woke up at 6:30a and was experiencing a few contractions. But this wasn't new, I had had some contractions earlier in the week that turned out to be nothing. I was definitely wide awake so I went for a walk and then went about my morning as usual along with a quick trip to the grocery store, buying a few extra things "just in case". Aaron met some friends for a run, so I thought I would go along and take another short walk while Montana played with friends. I was having a few more contractions, but definitely not getting my hopes up! Aaron and our friends came home after the run and we hung out for while and then after they left, my contractions started getting stronger and more frequent around noon. I wasn't sure when to call my midwives, because I had already called twice before and it turned out to be nothing. I didn't want to be the girl who cried wolf. By 1pm they were more intense and regular, so I decided to call. I talked with the midwife and she told me I could go to the Birth Center at 2p and we could check in, but I didn't want to waste her time if it was nothing, so I asked if we could just check in on the phone. So we agreed, I hung up, and 20 minutes later I was doubled over and could barely talk. I called her back and somehow told her that I needed to meet her at the birth center. Aaron was running around trying to get packed for himself, me and Montana and I was of little help to him at this point. Aaron ran Montana over to our neighbor, Auntie Caca (as we lovingly refer to her) and I hobbled to the car and laid in the back seat. I had started to write a few friends and family a text, but couldn't finish it, so Aaron drove like mad to the birth center while making a few phone calls (don't tell that he was driving and talking on the phone!). We made it to the birth center around 2p, I fell on the bed with an intense contraction, and by the time the midwife was able to check me I was already 8cm dilated. I started pushing around 3:30, Amos Pax entered the world a few minutes after 4pm, and I fell in love all over again.
The birth center was such an amazing experience. Amos was immediately laid on my chest and his vitals were checked and then the midwives sat down and just let the 3 of us soak in the moment. We laid there with the umbilical cord still attached for a good 20 minutes. Aaron cut the cord and I sat up to nurse Amos.
Aaron called our friends who were taking Montana overnight to Lynden. They were at cohousing picking her up, so we asked them to bring Montana to meet her brother. Aaron introduced Montana to her brother, Amos, and Montana got weepy and said, "his name isn't Amos, it's Chubby Orange." For a brief moment I felt really sad that we didn't name him Chubby, but I think those were the hormones thinking for me and that thought quickly dissipated. Montana got to hold her brother (before Aaron did) and she said "I'm so happy." She left for a splendid evening with a teenager who played dress up with her and made a tent for her to sleep in, fruit snacks galore, and she even got to see the other teenage daughter and her friends all dressed up for a dance. I think she left the birth center and probably thought "what brother?"
Aaron and I were ready to go by 7:30 and made it home by 8pm. The birth center's philosophy is that you rest best at home and both Amos and I were fine and healthy, so that's what we did...headed home to rest. Aaron joked about heading to the mall to finish up some Christmas shopping and then stopping for supper at Boundary Bay on our way home, but we went straight home.
We chose for him the name, Amos Pax, because of the Old Testament prophet who spoke of social justice and reminded the Israelites of God's concern for the poor and oppressed. Amos means "to carry" and Pax is "peace" in Latin. Our prayer for him is that he will carry peace wherever he goes.
Everything went so smoothly. It was an amazing experience (I was definitely not thinking that DURING labor) and I am so thankful that my son is here in time for Christmas. He is the best gift this year, by far! God is the giver and sustainer of life and my heart is full of gratitude for all He has done!
The Story:
It began on a Saturday morning. I woke up at 6:30a and was experiencing a few contractions. But this wasn't new, I had had some contractions earlier in the week that turned out to be nothing. I was definitely wide awake so I went for a walk and then went about my morning as usual along with a quick trip to the grocery store, buying a few extra things "just in case". Aaron met some friends for a run, so I thought I would go along and take another short walk while Montana played with friends. I was having a few more contractions, but definitely not getting my hopes up! Aaron and our friends came home after the run and we hung out for while and then after they left, my contractions started getting stronger and more frequent around noon. I wasn't sure when to call my midwives, because I had already called twice before and it turned out to be nothing. I didn't want to be the girl who cried wolf. By 1pm they were more intense and regular, so I decided to call. I talked with the midwife and she told me I could go to the Birth Center at 2p and we could check in, but I didn't want to waste her time if it was nothing, so I asked if we could just check in on the phone. So we agreed, I hung up, and 20 minutes later I was doubled over and could barely talk. I called her back and somehow told her that I needed to meet her at the birth center. Aaron was running around trying to get packed for himself, me and Montana and I was of little help to him at this point. Aaron ran Montana over to our neighbor, Auntie Caca (as we lovingly refer to her) and I hobbled to the car and laid in the back seat. I had started to write a few friends and family a text, but couldn't finish it, so Aaron drove like mad to the birth center while making a few phone calls (don't tell that he was driving and talking on the phone!). We made it to the birth center around 2p, I fell on the bed with an intense contraction, and by the time the midwife was able to check me I was already 8cm dilated. I started pushing around 3:30, Amos Pax entered the world a few minutes after 4pm, and I fell in love all over again.
The birth center was such an amazing experience. Amos was immediately laid on my chest and his vitals were checked and then the midwives sat down and just let the 3 of us soak in the moment. We laid there with the umbilical cord still attached for a good 20 minutes. Aaron cut the cord and I sat up to nurse Amos.
Aaron called our friends who were taking Montana overnight to Lynden. They were at cohousing picking her up, so we asked them to bring Montana to meet her brother. Aaron introduced Montana to her brother, Amos, and Montana got weepy and said, "his name isn't Amos, it's Chubby Orange." For a brief moment I felt really sad that we didn't name him Chubby, but I think those were the hormones thinking for me and that thought quickly dissipated. Montana got to hold her brother (before Aaron did) and she said "I'm so happy." She left for a splendid evening with a teenager who played dress up with her and made a tent for her to sleep in, fruit snacks galore, and she even got to see the other teenage daughter and her friends all dressed up for a dance. I think she left the birth center and probably thought "what brother?"
Aaron and I were ready to go by 7:30 and made it home by 8pm. The birth center's philosophy is that you rest best at home and both Amos and I were fine and healthy, so that's what we did...headed home to rest. Aaron joked about heading to the mall to finish up some Christmas shopping and then stopping for supper at Boundary Bay on our way home, but we went straight home.
We chose for him the name, Amos Pax, because of the Old Testament prophet who spoke of social justice and reminded the Israelites of God's concern for the poor and oppressed. Amos means "to carry" and Pax is "peace" in Latin. Our prayer for him is that he will carry peace wherever he goes.
Everything went so smoothly. It was an amazing experience (I was definitely not thinking that DURING labor) and I am so thankful that my son is here in time for Christmas. He is the best gift this year, by far! God is the giver and sustainer of life and my heart is full of gratitude for all He has done!
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Anticipation
I didn't have to wait with Montana. Her birth caught us completely by surprise at 36 weeks. Today I am 38 weeks pregnant - more pregnant than I've ever been - and I have to admit the anticipation is killing me. I've told myself that this baby will very likely be on time or even late, but I didn't really want to believe myself. At least 2 or 3 times in the last week, I was convinced that I was about to go into labor and even called my midwives.
My mom just left today after 8 days here. Right before she got here I was having some contractions and just felt that the baby would come while she was here. We ran around like crazy women "just in case the baby comes tomorrow..." But alas he didn't come, but we got alot done.
I have heard everything from, "looks like you've dropped" to "you haven't even dropped yet" to "I have a feeling you'll have the baby soon" to "this baby will probably be late" to...you name it. I choose to only listen to the people who say that he's coming soon and completely ignore the comments on him being late.
I know, I know, I'm being ridiculous, my due date is still 2 weeks away, but it's funny making plans/not making plans during the holiday season. Will I be up for that Christmas party or will I be too big and fat to even get in the car? Or will I be having a baby? Or will I have a newborn?
I have to admit that the anticipation is kind of fun, too. Not knowing when baby's birthday will be, wondering if tonight is the night, and packing a bag. Stuff I didn't think about with Montana. I never had a chance to analyze every pain, contraction, change in my body like I do now. But I may actually even get around to making a birthing playlist for my ipod this time.
Aaron and I were talking about the anticipation of a son being born this time of year. It's kind of cool to think about Mary taking a bumpy donkey ride to Bethlehem (maybe I should give that a try!). Perhaps she wasn't close to her due date yet, or maybe she was late and couldn't wait to get baby Jesus out. Either way, she was probably nervous about birth but was excited to meet her son. What was her anticipation like? Did she have contractions on the way? Of course I'm not in anyway comparing myself to Mary and my son to Jesus, it just makes the Christmas story more real, more human this year.
As I anticipate the birth of my son, I am reminded of the anticipation of the celebration of Jesus' birth and what that means to us today. It brings me focus and reminds me not to get so caught up in all of the crazy details this time of year. I'm waiting and longing to meet my son, but also I am longing when one day I will meet my Jesus face to face. What a day THAT will be! For now, I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of my son. Will he come tonight?
My mom just left today after 8 days here. Right before she got here I was having some contractions and just felt that the baby would come while she was here. We ran around like crazy women "just in case the baby comes tomorrow..." But alas he didn't come, but we got alot done.
I have heard everything from, "looks like you've dropped" to "you haven't even dropped yet" to "I have a feeling you'll have the baby soon" to "this baby will probably be late" to...you name it. I choose to only listen to the people who say that he's coming soon and completely ignore the comments on him being late.
I know, I know, I'm being ridiculous, my due date is still 2 weeks away, but it's funny making plans/not making plans during the holiday season. Will I be up for that Christmas party or will I be too big and fat to even get in the car? Or will I be having a baby? Or will I have a newborn?
I have to admit that the anticipation is kind of fun, too. Not knowing when baby's birthday will be, wondering if tonight is the night, and packing a bag. Stuff I didn't think about with Montana. I never had a chance to analyze every pain, contraction, change in my body like I do now. But I may actually even get around to making a birthing playlist for my ipod this time.
Aaron and I were talking about the anticipation of a son being born this time of year. It's kind of cool to think about Mary taking a bumpy donkey ride to Bethlehem (maybe I should give that a try!). Perhaps she wasn't close to her due date yet, or maybe she was late and couldn't wait to get baby Jesus out. Either way, she was probably nervous about birth but was excited to meet her son. What was her anticipation like? Did she have contractions on the way? Of course I'm not in anyway comparing myself to Mary and my son to Jesus, it just makes the Christmas story more real, more human this year.
As I anticipate the birth of my son, I am reminded of the anticipation of the celebration of Jesus' birth and what that means to us today. It brings me focus and reminds me not to get so caught up in all of the crazy details this time of year. I'm waiting and longing to meet my son, but also I am longing when one day I will meet my Jesus face to face. What a day THAT will be! For now, I am anxiously awaiting the arrival of my son. Will he come tonight?
Monday, November 29, 2010
36 weeks
36 weeks pregnant. I'm thinking that I will be more pregnant than I've ever been, considering Montana's early birth. Definitely feeling very pregnant, but I don't think I'm quite ready for the baby yet. But if he's anything like his sister, ready or not, he will come when he wants.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Happy Birthday, Montana!
Dear Montana,
Happy 3rd Birthday! Today I can't believe you are already 3, but other days I forget that you are only 3 and not 7 or 16! For your birthday this year, we woke up and ate pancakes and opened presents and then went and got our Christmas tree! You wore a pink tutu all day with you
r new sparkly shoes from Grandma, along with a pink Barbie band-aid on your forehead because the night before you fell and bonked your head on a chair. The Barbie band-aid made it feel all better!
You are a constant delight to us. Currently your favorite things can mostly fall under the "p" category. You love preschool, penguins, princesses, pink, people, and your new panda. The pictures that you have been drawing and coloring have seriously amazed me. The other day you cut something out by yourself so well that I am still in awe. You are picking up on so many things and are very observant. So observant and curious, in fact, that your new favorite question is "WHY?" I love you and I am very glad that you are so curious, but I hope that question doesn't drive me to insanity!!
I think you are excited to be a big sister. I don't think you have any idea what is really coming, but it's fun to see your excitement. I love the name that you have chosen for your brother...Chubby Orange...and it's consistently been that name for the past 2 months or so. I think you are going to be a fabulous big sister. You will be such a good helper and a good friend to your little bro.
Because I am pregnant right now, wondering if this baby will have a similar entrance to the world as you did, I am thinking about your birth alot. What a crazy whirlwind it was, but knowing you now and your extroverted personality, I can't help but wonder if you knew there was a party on the outside and you just couldn't wait to get out. Looking back on that week you were born...15 people held you in your first day of life! You continue to be surrounded by people and you handle it so well. We have had a few days when you've told me, "let's just stay home," but most days you are excited when you know you get to see friends.
Here is what I wrote about your birth once the dust settled a bit.
I am so proud of you and love you to pieces. I have enjoyed reading books with you and have valued the time that we've gotten to spend together. You are a joy to my heart and I can't imagine life without you. May you continue to love people and we continue to pray that you will have faith that will move mountains. In the words of Jesus, "Don't be afraid, Montana. Just believe."
All of my love,
Mom
Happy 3rd Birthday! Today I can't believe you are already 3, but other days I forget that you are only 3 and not 7 or 16! For your birthday this year, we woke up and ate pancakes and opened presents and then went and got our Christmas tree! You wore a pink tutu all day with you
r new sparkly shoes from Grandma, along with a pink Barbie band-aid on your forehead because the night before you fell and bonked your head on a chair. The Barbie band-aid made it feel all better!
You are a constant delight to us. Currently your favorite things can mostly fall under the "p" category. You love preschool, penguins, princesses, pink, people, and your new panda. The pictures that you have been drawing and coloring have seriously amazed me. The other day you cut something out by yourself so well that I am still in awe. You are picking up on so many things and are very observant. So observant and curious, in fact, that your new favorite question is "WHY?" I love you and I am very glad that you are so curious, but I hope that question doesn't drive me to insanity!!
I think you are excited to be a big sister. I don't think you have any idea what is really coming, but it's fun to see your excitement. I love the name that you have chosen for your brother...Chubby Orange...and it's consistently been that name for the past 2 months or so. I think you are going to be a fabulous big sister. You will be such a good helper and a good friend to your little bro.
Because I am pregnant right now, wondering if this baby will have a similar entrance to the world as you did, I am thinking about your birth alot. What a crazy whirlwind it was, but knowing you now and your extroverted personality, I can't help but wonder if you knew there was a party on the outside and you just couldn't wait to get out. Looking back on that week you were born...15 people held you in your first day of life! You continue to be surrounded by people and you handle it so well. We have had a few days when you've told me, "let's just stay home," but most days you are excited when you know you get to see friends.
Here is what I wrote about your birth once the dust settled a bit.
I am so proud of you and love you to pieces. I have enjoyed reading books with you and have valued the time that we've gotten to spend together. You are a joy to my heart and I can't imagine life without you. May you continue to love people and we continue to pray that you will have faith that will move mountains. In the words of Jesus, "Don't be afraid, Montana. Just believe."
All of my love,
Mom
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Thanksgiving
My belly is full, along with my heart. I have so much to be thankful for. A home, clothing, health, community, family, a calling, and a savior. Today was spent with friends and food. And snow! How can I forget the beautiful snow falling from the sky?!?
And now at the end of the day, I am tired, but a good tired. The upcoming weekend is still full of celebrations and my mom comes next week. I love this time of year and I am so thankful for a loving, supportive family along with good, authentic friends to celebrate with. Thank you, God, for your mercies that are new each morning. I am beyond blessed. May I live from a grateful heart.
And now at the end of the day, I am tired, but a good tired. The upcoming weekend is still full of celebrations and my mom comes next week. I love this time of year and I am so thankful for a loving, supportive family along with good, authentic friends to celebrate with. Thank you, God, for your mercies that are new each morning. I am beyond blessed. May I live from a grateful heart.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
My husband
Today I am thankful for my husband. And not just because he brings me flowers or coffee cards or bubble bath for no reason. And it's not because he's been gone for 2 days and I miss him. And of course it's not because he puts Montana to bed and does the dishes. It's not because he is excited about the work he is doing, but still makes time for me and Montana. It's definitely not because he has a quirky sense of humor or because he looks at chess strategy books for fun.Well...okay...maybe it IS all of these things that make me thankful that I am married to an amazing partner who happens to be a great friend.
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