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...

Dawning. The morning whispers the breath of a new day, with the promise of vivid colours in the cold. Excitement builds, giggles and whispers heard in the halls as the young and not so young reach for stockings laid out with care. Sweet communion in the bedroom as all pile onto the big bed to open stockings, enjoying one another's thoughtfulness, thinking of the day to come. The 12 year old makes a wonderful waffle breakfast and we share summer's peaches and blackberries, whipped cream and of course, maple syrup. Coffee with gingerbread syrup is today's treat. Phone calls of merriment, best wishes sent over the miles and smiles for each one here. The candlelight service is one of the sweet moments of the year, where we have the story that does not grow old read once again. We share with rambunctious children, elderly who have trouble getting out regularly and many who have faith but not a regular time of fellowship. Candlelight and Silent Night sung by a choir, piano and o...

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...

Friday, not quite halfway through December- and I am already feeling quite exhausted! Trying to keep it simple seems to be tougher to do with more people. I remember when the kids were homeschooling, trying to keep it simple was easier because we were all on the same page. Now I find myself trying to be sensitive to everyone's wishes while keeping my own balance and somehow, not quite accomplishing anything too terribly well! But I do look forward to: music! family! time relaxing together! home without plans! creating more memories a two year old's birthday! Anyone want to share memories, traditions, baked goods recipes,things of that sort? In that attitude of gratitude, I want to share with you that this year, we have made a concerted effort to follow more of the advent tradition. Our 12 year old is enjoying the story time and candles along with the treats. The two year old is taking pleasure in the candles! This second week, the candle is PEACE. At our church each wee...