We finished our birth classes last weekend and feel more prepared than ever. It feels like our toolbox is almost filled to the brim, and now we're just anxiously waiting to use it in April. It goes without saying that a parent's toolbox is never quite stocked adequately - there will many times we'll call relatives and friends with questions, in need of support. Nonetheless, we loved going through that class together and continue to ask many questions of our network of supporters and read all of the materials we've received.
Our favorite part of the class was when our instructor asked us to write down the first word that came to us when we heard the word "birth." We were told to write it down quickly, turn it over and hand it to her. Many in our class wrote understandably scary words -- "pain," "fear," "unknown." Then, "excited" was read aloud and Carl squeezed Shannon's hand. She looked back at him beaming, whispering "that's my word too!" -- we are indeed excited, and ready.
At 30 weeks, Shannon's carrying a lot more weight around but handling it like a champ, staying active with long walks and yoga. It certainly doesn't hurt having this gorgeous NC weather to keep spirits high! Carl continues to keep her calm, healthy and happy. Foot rubs have never felt so good!
