Grateful Heart and Helping Hands

All is quiet, the whir of the computer and hum of the fridge roar over the sound of quietly bubbling soup. The guys went skiing and swimming, out to dinner and the Voyage of the Dawn Treader- what a day! I have had the privilege of filling my day with whatever I so chose- and it ended up being filled with my favourite subject, motherhood! This morning started with leavings- the guys off to the hill, then the Babygirl going home. A little later, it was time for tea with a young friend defining her priorities and passions- and so far, she is looking into birth! We had a lovely talk over a cuppa. Later on, I picked up some oil so I can massage when I do home visits with women who are pregnant. I read it somewhere in a midwifery text- and think it will be my new practice! Off to visit my next client to discuss her cares and concerns, her thoughts and wishes for her next labour and delivery. I love this!! I get to attend that most sacred of family events, birth- to help people shape their w...

Wonder. Watching a two year old light up, counting angels and cookies. Seeing the delight in an adult child's eyes when the favourite meal is prepared. Anticipating the joy on faces of family when presents are given and shared, when breakfast is made together, when turkey is ready. Hearing voices of family that is away, long phone calls, cards exchanged and letters read. I have noticed that some of my posts are starting with just a word- and I may just keep this up! It helps me to focus on what to write! Wonder is a lovely feeling, right up there with anticipation. I feel awe when I think of Mary, pregnant and single, traveling on a donkey so far from home, to give birth alone (we assume) in a stable. Giving birth is a sacred time, when women receive the gift of motherhood and join with all women of all time in a sisterhood like no other. But did she have her mother there to support her? A chosen midwife? A best friend? A doula? Or was her husband her only support in a time when t...