Some things never change.
In preparation for the most life-altering event I’ve ever experienced, I’ve braced myself in two of the three best ways that I know how: curling every hair on my head and thorough eyebrow grooming.
When it comes to early contractions, it’s true what they say about distracting yourself. Do it. (Or advise it.)
Prayer is obviously the other means of prep. I intend to be constant in that. Would you be, too, please?
There’s something else that I’ve done to prepare for labor, and I think it falls under the category of nesting: extreme grocery shopping. Extreme.
So I’ve been up since the four o’clock hour trying to pay attention to these contractions. Last night they were sneaky and had been manifesting themselves as trapped gas. This was unsettling to me as that pain tends to be sharper and harder to block out. Thankfully by this morning, that has morphed into what I expected them to be like all along, reminiscent to menstrual cramps (or at least the ones I’ve experienced).
A friend of ours who has experienced many natural childbirths recently recommended that during labor, when I walk, to sway… sashay… swing those hips or however you’d like to describe it. Thankfully, at least for now, that seems to be helping immensely!
Watch out now! Square Piece has got some moves!
While curling my hair, if I felt a contraction coming on, I just started grooving. At this point in the game, the movement is so helpful that I’d actually have to stop all the hip shaking to see if the contraction was still present.
If you don’t have a good visual, this is darn near precisely what’s happening in the Spears’ household right now (except for the lunging part):
Now picture that, except I’m alone in a nursery eating a bagel. For good times, when Brian wakes up, I might just ask him to join me in all this seduction. Then we might start moo-ing and blowing raspberries (which sounds crazy if you haven’t read Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth). Here’s hoping that I can keep up my good humor for as long as possible!
Watch….you will probably be one of those women who experience an “easy” labor. Sure I’d be jealous, but I love to see you experience a peaceful, “easy” labor. No matter what it ends up looking like, you will do great. Have fun shakin’ your booty in the meantime.
One of my fav pics for sure!
Huh, very cool. I’d imagine that’s its very helpful in moving things in the right direction down there too. My breathing became ineffective at a certain point (right around 6-7cm) and I resorted to moaning, which sounds whiney, but wasnt and working really well for helping me fully exhale and stay calm and in control. I’m glad you have educated yourself and have a plan. That was huge for me. Praying for all 3 of you! So exciting!
You are SO close Suzy! Praying for you, Brian & Bennett!
I, like Sarah, am glad you educated yourself on all you needed to know … I think he will be here by Sunday.
I wonder if I’ll “know” when it’s happening. 🙂
I’m praying too. Rocking in a rocking chair helped me a lot once I was abut 6cm on. The Lord will be your strength to get through it…one contraction at a time. Hugs!
The rocking chair was a huge help for me, and a huge yoga ball (or whatever they are called!)…sitting on it and moving your hips helps tremendously.
Can’t wait to meet him!! 🙂
I’m so excited for you! Right on schedule!
Another great pic. I know Katie is going to do a fine job. I’m gonna keep my phone near at work. Just in case. 🙂
Fun times ahead! Thinking of you all and praying too.
I wish you , Brian, Bennett and your helpers all the grace and positive energy you need for a smooth, even, perfectly healthy delivery. We’re all with you. xo
Thanks, K!
Haha. The video made my day! Your a goofball and I love it! Ohhhhhh getting excited to see him!!!
I got your comment on my phone as I was sashaying through our neighborhood. 🙂
The picture of you and Brian is spectacular. Just remember, no matter how painful or not labor becomes, you won’t care at all when Bennett is
resting in your arms. I can only guarantee you when it’s over, it’s over!!! And, not just the fat lady will sing, but all of us will join in to praise you and Brian and welcome your boy!
I like a good group celebration!
Definately praying for a smooth labor with no needles 😀