Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Welcome, Hootwo!

Mama's opting for a home birth. Come January, Hootwo will be born in the comforts of my own living room. Why? Because I can. Because I should. Because my mind and body scream to make this choice for us.

The journey from this decision is just beginning. I've decided to put this plan out there so that I can chronicle the timeline, the emotions and the experience. I feel independent, empowered, nervous but steady, ready, and share in the hopes of educating, encouraging other women (and naturally, so that in twenty years, Hootwo can look back and thank me profusely, and treat this Mama to a latte).


Yes.

Latest Reads:

Letters to Hootoo - Back in the Grind

I don't even know where to begin, so much has happened since your birthday post.

Let's start with you. You are quick, in body and mind: you motor when you walk, pull yourself up on chairs or on ledges that I initially think are impossible for you to champion. You have a wealth of vocabulary in sign language and spoken word. You seem to understand more of what Dad and I are asking of you, whether it be a silly question, or a warning of an undesirable behaviour. 
You go to school most weekdays and you LOVE it. You've made some great friends and are learning a ton. Your Dad and I value education, and although it's another expense, it is so worth it.
You're starting to morph into an independent little man. It's a trip, and a great lesson for Mama learning what not to sweat, and when to discipline. You blow kisses, give high-fives, can tell me what sounds farm animals make, sleep through the night, snuggle and still love Elmo, Amma and Maggie.

Life for Mama has changed, too. Child, I am so glad that you love to nap so I could enjoy a few daily moments to refuel. Things have been wild: completing my final, most difficult semester (emotionally and cognitively) of nursing school. Graduating. Studying, then passing the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses. Landing two amazing jobs at the local hospital.
My body is changing, too. I'm so excited to see you share your life with a younger sibling. You're going to be an awesome big brother. Hootwo is going to rock our world.

xo
Yo Mama

Thursday, August 1, 2013

Letters to Hootoo - From Dad

Your Dad wanted to write to you, too. He wrote this letter last December and since there's been an extended vacation from updates (the next one will be a doozy), it made great sense to post it here and now. 

xo
Yo Mama (and Professor Papa)

Dear Rhys,
You entering my life has made me learn a few things. Not just how to change diapers or about babywearing. You have taught me a different kind of love that I never felt before. You have shown me a different kind of happiness that I never considered. You have also taught me that I am selfish. Yes, I am selfish because I want to enjoy every minute of you. I want you to share every smile, laugh, cuddle and tear with me. Each moment that you share with me makes me crave the next. I want to always be there for you. I want to laugh, grow and experience life with you. I want to be a part of every milestone in your life. Budding teeth, crawling and your first words are just the start. Does this make me selfish? Possibly. What I do know is that you have shown me things about myself that I never knew were possible. For this I can never thank you enough.

Love,
Dad