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From butterflies to bonding: Saying hello to child #5
Filed under: Newborns, Toddlers Preschoolers, Your Pregnancy, Health & Safety: Babies, Development/Milestones: Babies, Day Care & Education, Baby Essentials, Feeding & Sleeping, Baby-sitting, Research Reveals: Babies, Nutrition: Toddlers & Preschoolers, Expert Advice: Babies, Health & Safety: Toddlers & Preschoolers, Development: Toddlers & Preschoolers, Behavior: Toddlers & Preschoolers, Activities: Toddlers & Preschoolers, Gear Guides: Babies, Gear Guides: Toddlers & Preschoolers, Research Reveals: Toddlers & Preschoolers, Expert Advice: Toddlers & Preschoolers
With my due date now only one day away, I am looking forward to the labor and delivery of this baby, my fifth, with an entirely different energy and perspective.
For one, this pregnancy has been different. Physically, the last nine months have been harder than prior pregnancies. More kids to take care of, less rest, and a heavier belly due to weaker, older abdominal muscles.
On the other hand, the familiarity of it all has also made it easier. With the exception of a few splurges at an overpriced children's boutique and a new Boppy pillow cover, I haven't had to buy anything. No stressing over strollers, infant carriers, or nursery paint colors. My preparations have consisted of washing linens and baby clothes from my "newborn girl" bin in the basement and a trip to Wal-Mart for diapers and wipes.
I will never forget the flurry of butterflies that swarmed my deflated belly on the morning after my first baby was born. Waking from a long sleep to the realization that a baby (MY baby!) awaited me in the nursery was utterly surreal. It actually took me a few seconds to believe it was really true and I could hardly contain my excitement.
Prior to ringing for the nurse to bring in the baby, I, as if by instinct, rushed to the bathroom to make myself presentable for this tiny child. Silly, yes, but not entirely unreasonable as I look back on it. I was a nervous and insecure young mother and this was like an all-important second date. I desperately wanted this baby's approval and in my youthful estimation, that meant, in the very least, brushing my hair, straightening up my gown and applying a little lip-gloss in honor of our first real post-childbirth meeting.
Four babies later, the butterflies (and vanities) have been replaced by calm and wonder. This time, after delivery, I have requested that our baby stay in our room the entire time. No nursery. I have also asked that Sean and I be left alone to bond with the baby as soon as possible after the birth. With the lights turned down, and a few candles lit, I intend to nurse in peace and quiet. Together, mom, dad and baby will savor the precious afterglow of her birth. No lip-gloss, no nerves, no stress. Just sweet time to ponder a sublime mystery that is better left unraveled.
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ReaderComments (Page 1 of 1)
5-12-2008 @ 8:15PM
colamum said...Best of luck to you and Sean and your soon to be new baby girl. Look forward to reading tons about the wonderful times ahead.
God Bless
Reply
5-13-2008 @ 12:35PM
Nicole said...Good luck with the delivery! Best wishes and congratulations to you and Sean! I'm so excited to read your blog and see what life is like with your new little one and also to hear the name you pick out!
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5-13-2008 @ 1:50PM
Paloma said...Wishing you all the best!
5-13-2008 @ 2:15PM
FK said...Good luck and congratulations to your whole family!
Reply
5-13-2008 @ 11:00PM
Jennifer said...Rachel, Good luck and best wishes!!!!!!!!!!
Reply
5-14-2008 @ 7:32AM
Sandyone said...I've been looking forward to your birth news and putting in a good word with St. Gerard for you. I hope all goes well for you guys and I can't wait to hear how it all goes!
Reply
5-14-2008 @ 3:16AM
hope said...Reading your post brought memories of my daughter's birth flooding back...thank you for that!
Wishing you so much happiness with your new little miracle, and much joy for your entire family. Enjoy every second!
Reply
5-14-2008 @ 8:40AM
kim walsh said...Wishing you all the best with #5!! Take care!!
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5-14-2008 @ 4:13PM
Melanie said...I hope you have a wonderful & speedy delivery Rachel. Congratulations to you, Sean and your family on the impending arrival.
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5-14-2008 @ 6:12PM
sylvia said...Best of luck to you Rachel, and your family! Can't wait to see pics!
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5-16-2008 @ 9:51AM
Laura said...Hi Rachel, good luck with the birth of your newest addition to your family. I can't wait to have my own kids. I look forward to hearing back from you! Best of luck and all my blessings.
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5-19-2008 @ 2:14PM
Samantha said...Rachel...
Haven't seen an update or new blog for several days so I'm guessing you and Sean might have a new little one at home with you! Hope all is well and you are feeling great. Can't wait to hear about your new kidlet!
xo
Sam
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5-20-2008 @ 5:38PM
Michael said...Seven children, but only three births in which I was permitted to participate as a husband. I seem to have spanned two generations. I like the later one better. I love all seven of my children, but it is really special to be there coaching at their births.
Actually, I coached a fourth once. A friend whose coach had left asked me to stand in. It was just as exciting. The birth experience is truly a miracle and it is simply awesome. Best of luck to you. Wish I were there.
Michael
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5-22-2008 @ 10:24PM
paul lopez said...Rachel, congrats to you and Sean on the addition of your precious little daughter. Catholic all the way, is what make a beautiful day. We have four little ones also, all under 6, with another baby due late August. Take care and God Bless
Reply
5-22-2008 @ 10:44PM
Dolores said...Dear Rachel,
May God bless you, your husband, and all five of your precious gifts of life. It is so awesome and wonderful to see someone in the world of celebrity to be spreading the Gospel of Life. So much of our secular culture says "no more than two". I only have four and still get stares sometimes as if I'm overpopulating! I commend you and your husband for your courage.
Dolores
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