Thumper loves his sling
We’ve been taking walks each evening, once the heat breaks a bit. Somewhat slow, somewhat short walks, thanks to my incision. Yup. Incision. I’ve decided not to get into the whole birth story here on the blog–it’s just not the place for it, at least not yet. The end result was a healthy baby, and that’s all that matters, but it was a difficult birth.
The overview is that I set out to have a drug-free birth and did a lot of work toward that. What I got was four days of drug-free labor followed by six hours of pitocin and an epidural followed by a c-section due to various complications. As I said, we brought a very healthy baby home and that’s what matters. And our doula was amazing. I credit her with getting me through such a long labor, and for comforting me when things went differently than we’d hoped. I was focused and managing the pain and feeling really positive, even after three nights of no sleep, until things took a turn that required interventions. I can’t recommend doulas strongly enough.
So that’s all I’m going to say about that. We hear a lot about the good, smooth birth stories. I just want to say that even when a birth ends up deviating radically from the birth plan, when you go in committed to a natural delivery without pain meds and leave the hospital having had major surgery, it’s all okay once that healthy baby is in your arms.
Thumper received a beautiful gift from my knitting buddies, which will be photographed and posted very soon.
Thanks so very much to all of you for your good wishes and congratulations.
Oh! You had me at Incision. I’m really happy everybodys healthy! I can’t believe they waited 3 days to go get him though!
Posted by: Julia
I just love that little hand holding on!
Posted by: Cara
God, if Biscuits (and budget backpacking in Europe) taught me nothing else, it’s that flexibility is all. Making plans is a good thing- it’s comforting, makes you an informed traveler in life- but being able to roll with it when the universe has other plans, and to realize that if we’re all here and loving each other (or at least liking each other) at the end of the day, it’s enough- that’s the key. Whew, what a ramble. Beautiful boy- great sling!
Posted by: JulieFrick
Oh.. how sweet! My son was a “sling baby” too.. your sling looks like a Maya Wrap- I had one and LOVED it. You are absolutely right about the delivery- as long as Thumper is here and healthy (and so are you) then nothing else matters!
Posted by: Mouse
Hi
Congratulations from a fellow c-section, not by choice! Take it steady – shouldn’t really be carrying Thumper just yet… Remember, it is major surgery and you need time to heal too.
So gorgeous…
Posted by: Michelle
you both look healthy and happy! i’m glad to hear you’re doing ok.
Posted by: gleek
Oh! You had me at Incision. I’m really happy everybodys healthy! I can’t believe they waited 3 days to go get him though!
Posted by: Julia
I just love that little hand holding on!
Posted by: Cara
God, if Biscuits (and budget backpacking in Europe) taught me nothing else, it’s that flexibility is all. Making plans is a good thing- it’s comforting, makes you an informed traveler in life- but being able to roll with it when the universe has other plans, and to realize that if we’re all here and loving each other (or at least liking each other) at the end of the day, it’s enough- that’s the key. Whew, what a ramble. Beautiful boy- great sling!
Posted by: JulieFrick
Oh.. how sweet! My son was a “sling baby” too.. your sling looks like a Maya Wrap- I had one and LOVED it. You are absolutely right about the delivery- as long as Thumper is here and healthy (and so are you) then nothing else matters!
Posted by: Mouse
Hi
Congratulations from a fellow c-section, not by choice! Take it steady – shouldn’t really be carrying Thumper just yet… Remember, it is major surgery and you need time to heal too.
So gorgeous…
Posted by: Michelle
you both look healthy and happy! i’m glad to hear you’re doing ok.
Posted by: gleek
My dad has a saying: If you want to make God laugh, tell him about your plans. As you said, the healthy baby is the important part in the story, but the healthy mama is important, too! So, I wish you a speedy healing.
Posted by: Jenna
I love that picture — it’s so, so sweet. I’m glad everything worked out so well!
Posted by: Bee
What a beautiful picture. My births strayed from the plans too, but having a healthy baby overshadows any mixed feelings.
You both look lovely. Take it easy with the lifting. But not with the photos (I love looking at babies).
Posted by: Steph
*sniff* i miss carrying my little ones in the sling like that!
he’s just beautiful, and you are, too!
Posted by: Kim
Cari ~ Congratulations on an amazing baby boy, I cannot stop looking at his little face, you must be in heaven. Remember to enjoy every moment, every stinky poop and every messy thing, those are the memories you get to share with his girlfriend one day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Betsy
You have the right perspective and weathering radically changing plans seems to be a good training ground when raising children. Congratulations on your beautiful baby.
Posted by: Silvia
A beautiful picture. We had plans for a drug-free, home birth and ended up with a long labour followed by C-section but a healthy baby at the end puts it all in perspective.
Posted by: Mary
Congratulations! Both my boys ended in C-sections too and while it is difficult not to have the birth you hoped for, you are thankful for modern medicine. Of course, I wanted to bitch slap everyone who said that to me after my C-sections, but I will say it anyway. You look marvelous.
Posted by: Holly Jo
*I* love Thumper’s sling!!!
Posted by: Norma
My dad has a saying: If you want to make God laugh, tell him about your plans. As you said, the healthy baby is the important part in the story, but the healthy mama is important, too! So, I wish you a speedy healing.
Posted by: Jenna
I love that picture — it’s so, so sweet. I’m glad everything worked out so well!
Posted by: Bee
What a beautiful picture. My births strayed from the plans too, but having a healthy baby overshadows any mixed feelings.
You both look lovely. Take it easy with the lifting. But not with the photos (I love looking at babies).
Posted by: Steph
*sniff* i miss carrying my little ones in the sling like that!
he’s just beautiful, and you are, too!
Posted by: Kim
Cari ~ Congratulations on an amazing baby boy, I cannot stop looking at his little face, you must be in heaven. Remember to enjoy every moment, every stinky poop and every messy thing, those are the memories you get to share with his girlfriend one day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Betsy
You have the right perspective and weathering radically changing plans seems to be a good training ground when raising children. Congratulations on your beautiful baby.
Posted by: Silvia
A beautiful picture. We had plans for a drug-free, home birth and ended up with a long labour followed by C-section but a healthy baby at the end puts it all in perspective.
Posted by: Mary
Congratulations! Both my boys ended in C-sections too and while it is difficult not to have the birth you hoped for, you are thankful for modern medicine. Of course, I wanted to bitch slap everyone who said that to me after my C-sections, but I will say it anyway. You look marvelous.
Posted by: Holly Jo
*I* love Thumper’s sling!!!
Posted by: Norma
Cari, it sounds like Thumper was anxious to teach you to be flexible right from the get-go!! So glad that things worked out in the end. And, you’ll have lots of bragging rights to go along with the best ‘prize’ in the world!!!
Posted by: Bonney
Your doula sounds wonderful. I’m so glad you had her with you through all of that.
And yes, no question that a healthy baby to bring home is more wonderful than anything. Take care, and rest when you can.
And Norma, yes, I know it looks comfy and cozy, but you’re too big for a sling now dear.
Posted by: Rachel H
Congrats on your cute baby. I didn’t have an ideal birth story, for both of my kids, nor did I have a real great hospital stay. However, once you are home with the baby it is all different. Enjoy your babymoon. 🙂
Posted by: Wendy
I think Thumper just wasted no time in teaching you a valuable life lesson – life with kids is all about the unexpected, your plans will go awry all the time but as long as you get through it as a family it’s all good.
Take it easy on yourself! I’ll bet the Iggys are thinkin that sling looks pretty comfy too. 🙂
Posted by: stephanie
I am so glad you pulled through okay. I cannot imagine what four days of labor must do to you.
(Thumper, take it easy on her, okay?)
Posted by: David
All that work you spent making sure the delivery would be as natural as possible did not go in vain. It helped you stay focused and look at your wonderful SON! Have a nice walk this evening, the first day of summer!
Posted by: Carmen
And you’re getting out already? Amazing. But I knew you would be. 😉
Posted by: Carole
I love that sling. Can I ask where you got it? I saw some on ebay – but I’m not sure if it’s cheaper to get it in a store, rather than there. Your baby looks so comfy in it! Congrats on the little one!
Posted by: Knit & Purl Mama
Cari, it sounds like Thumper was anxious to teach you to be flexible right from the get-go!! So glad that things worked out in the end. And, you’ll have lots of bragging rights to go along with the best ‘prize’ in the world!!!
Posted by: Bonney
Your doula sounds wonderful. I’m so glad you had her with you through all of that.
And yes, no question that a healthy baby to bring home is more wonderful than anything. Take care, and rest when you can.
And Norma, yes, I know it looks comfy and cozy, but you’re too big for a sling now dear.
Posted by: Rachel H
Congrats on your cute baby. I didn’t have an ideal birth story, for both of my kids, nor did I have a real great hospital stay. However, once you are home with the baby it is all different. Enjoy your babymoon. 🙂
Posted by: Wendy
I think Thumper just wasted no time in teaching you a valuable life lesson – life with kids is all about the unexpected, your plans will go awry all the time but as long as you get through it as a family it’s all good.
Take it easy on yourself! I’ll bet the Iggys are thinkin that sling looks pretty comfy too. 🙂
Posted by: stephanie
I am so glad you pulled through okay. I cannot imagine what four days of labor must do to you.
(Thumper, take it easy on her, okay?)
Posted by: David
All that work you spent making sure the delivery would be as natural as possible did not go in vain. It helped you stay focused and look at your wonderful SON! Have a nice walk this evening, the first day of summer!
Posted by: Carmen
And you’re getting out already? Amazing. But I knew you would be. 😉
Posted by: Carole
I love that sling. Can I ask where you got it? I saw some on ebay – but I’m not sure if it’s cheaper to get it in a store, rather than there. Your baby looks so comfy in it! Congrats on the little one!
Posted by: Knit & Purl Mama
What a beautiful picture of both of you! And your outlook is so positive. I have to say that seeing that little guy brings back very sweet memories.
Posted by: Kathy
I’m glad Thumper’s ok, and I’m glad you’re ok. HUG.
Posted by: Riin
I’m very glad you’re happy with the outcome. It’s all that counts. Plans are nice, but life is different.
Posted by: valentina
Oh what a beautiful pic of Thumper and you! Enjoy the little guy. He’s gorgeous and I’m glad everyone is home and doing well.
Posted by: Susan
That’s just a wonderful picture of you two. I’m glad that everything turned out just perfectly. And good for you for hanging with it for 4 whole days. WOW!
Posted by: Vicki
Its delightful to see Thumper outside of the belly.
BTW, nice rack.
😉
Posted by: claudia
(((HUGS)))) I’m glad you’re both doing well.
Posted by: Catherine
The change in plans is always a bit of a difficult thing to come to terms with. Although it sounds like you’re doing it remarkably fast (compared to me at any rate – we have to talk about the details).
He looks gorgeous – what a great picture.
PS – I’m still waiting for the “peep”. Just reminding you.
Posted by: Cassie
Hello, my dear! I’m really sorry that Thumper’s birth didn’t follow your birth plan and expectations — that’s probably hard — but I think you have an incredibly positive attitude about it all and I can see how much love you have for Thumper.
How do you like wearing the sling? Do you know where you got it or who made it? I’d like to try one, too. One of my friends might be passing one on to me… I hope!
xoxo, take care of yourself!
Posted by: Karma
What a beautiful picture of both of you! And your outlook is so positive. I have to say that seeing that little guy brings back very sweet memories.
Posted by: Kathy
I’m glad Thumper’s ok, and I’m glad you’re ok. HUG.
Posted by: Riin
I’m very glad you’re happy with the outcome. It’s all that counts. Plans are nice, but life is different.
Posted by: valentina
Oh what a beautiful pic of Thumper and you! Enjoy the little guy. He’s gorgeous and I’m glad everyone is home and doing well.
Posted by: Susan
That’s just a wonderful picture of you two. I’m glad that everything turned out just perfectly. And good for you for hanging with it for 4 whole days. WOW!
Posted by: Vicki
Its delightful to see Thumper outside of the belly.
BTW, nice rack.
😉
Posted by: claudia
(((HUGS)))) I’m glad you’re both doing well.
Posted by: Catherine
The change in plans is always a bit of a difficult thing to come to terms with. Although it sounds like you’re doing it remarkably fast (compared to me at any rate – we have to talk about the details).
He looks gorgeous – what a great picture.
PS – I’m still waiting for the “peep”. Just reminding you.
Posted by: Cassie
Hello, my dear! I’m really sorry that Thumper’s birth didn’t follow your birth plan and expectations — that’s probably hard — but I think you have an incredibly positive attitude about it all and I can see how much love you have for Thumper.
How do you like wearing the sling? Do you know where you got it or who made it? I’d like to try one, too. One of my friends might be passing one on to me… I hope!
xoxo, take care of yourself!
Posted by: Karma
hi cari, yaysus you’ve been through it, but you’ve got this beautiful little guy in your arms now. glad you’re feeling well enough to walk about. take care, kaarin
Posted by: k
Many congrats on weathering the unexpected complications. I went through something similar twenty years ago (next Tuesday) expecting a home birth and ending up a c-section in the hospital. Our healthy baby has grown into a healthy man, who we love beyond belief. You are wise to remember that it’s the healthy child and not the birth that’s important.
Posted by: Celia
after baby 1 just the thought of labour made me vomit. so many things went wrong. a doula would made a big difference! women would say whata spiritual experience their labours worry. i wanted to slap some one. the baby that is the spiritual part. it is what is mirrored on your face as you stare at the incredibleness that is thumper. sigh. love that! congratulations! and quick healing!
Posted by: heatherly
A wise post, and glad that you can be positive about it rather than piling mental anguish on top of a physically difficult birth. The sling looks very comfortable; I’m about to go and look for one like that on ebay.
Posted by: Karen
I had a similar situation – not 4 days in length – but definitely had my mind set on natural childbirth and other circumstances were at play. In the end, I avoided a c-section but all that counts is our healthy baby boys. Thumper is beautiful. I am impressed with your attitude – I struggled a bit with my labor afterwards but I forget all about it now when I hear “ba ba ba” coming out of Felix’s mouth.
I love the sling. We used ours a lot in the beginning but we are in the market for a new one for summer. Ours is made of a pretty heavy material which just doesn’t fly for summer. They are fantastic though…I think they result in very mellow babies 🙂
Posted by: Sarah
As many people will tell you, you don’t get pregnant to have a birth, you get pregnant to have a baby and a life with that baby post birth.
Thumper looks very much at home in the Maya wrap, adore that little hand holding on – is he really just a week old?? – that’s one wise looking babe in there.
And you look glorious! – enjoy your walks and being out and about – can’t recommend reconnecting with the world enough for new mums.
Posted by: Alison
Beautiful picture! You both look fantastic 🙂
Posted by: Rebecca
Four days of labour, what a fight! You are one strong mama. Tiny Thumper is very lucky to have you and what a beautiful treasure he is. Take care of yourself and your new little family. Congratulations to both you and dad from over the sea.
Posted by: Emma
Yes! The bottom line is that you have a beautiful healthy baby. 🙂 That photo just makes me get all weepy.
Posted by: Wendy
hi cari, yaysus you’ve been through it, but you’ve got this beautiful little guy in your arms now. glad you’re feeling well enough to walk about. take care, kaarin
Posted by: k
Many congrats on weathering the unexpected complications. I went through something similar twenty years ago (next Tuesday) expecting a home birth and ending up a c-section in the hospital. Our healthy baby has grown into a healthy man, who we love beyond belief. You are wise to remember that it’s the healthy child and not the birth that’s important.
Posted by: Celia
after baby 1 just the thought of labour made me vomit. so many things went wrong. a doula would made a big difference! women would say whata spiritual experience their labours worry. i wanted to slap some one. the baby that is the spiritual part. it is what is mirrored on your face as you stare at the incredibleness that is thumper. sigh. love that! congratulations! and quick healing!
Posted by: heatherly
A wise post, and glad that you can be positive about it rather than piling mental anguish on top of a physically difficult birth. The sling looks very comfortable; I’m about to go and look for one like that on ebay.
Posted by: Karen
I had a similar situation – not 4 days in length – but definitely had my mind set on natural childbirth and other circumstances were at play. In the end, I avoided a c-section but all that counts is our healthy baby boys. Thumper is beautiful. I am impressed with your attitude – I struggled a bit with my labor afterwards but I forget all about it now when I hear “ba ba ba” coming out of Felix’s mouth.
I love the sling. We used ours a lot in the beginning but we are in the market for a new one for summer. Ours is made of a pretty heavy material which just doesn’t fly for summer. They are fantastic though…I think they result in very mellow babies 🙂
Posted by: Sarah
As many people will tell you, you don’t get pregnant to have a birth, you get pregnant to have a baby and a life with that baby post birth.
Thumper looks very much at home in the Maya wrap, adore that little hand holding on – is he really just a week old?? – that’s one wise looking babe in there.
And you look glorious! – enjoy your walks and being out and about – can’t recommend reconnecting with the world enough for new mums.
Posted by: Alison
Beautiful picture! You both look fantastic 🙂
Posted by: Rebecca
Four days of labour, what a fight! You are one strong mama. Tiny Thumper is very lucky to have you and what a beautiful treasure he is. Take care of yourself and your new little family. Congratulations to both you and dad from over the sea.
Posted by: Emma
Yes! The bottom line is that you have a beautiful healthy baby. 🙂 That photo just makes me get all weepy.
Posted by: Wendy
I’m glad you had the support you needed and that everything turned out alright in the end. That is a beautiful sling, and I just love the way his little hand is grasping the edge.
Posted by: LaurieM
Sounds very much like how I was born…my poor little mom was in labor (wanted it to be natural, just like you) for 36 hours before they said, “Um, your baby’s head is hugenormous! Time for a C-section.” I’m so glad that Mr. Thumper is healthy, and he is certainly a very cute little fellow. I hope your incision goes away quickly and your memories of the bad parts go even more quickly!
Posted by: Mia
Congratulations on a beautiful son. That sling looks fabulous
Posted by: janine
Hurray for great doulas! I’m glad she helped you so much. And isn’t looking at your sleeping child the finest thing in the world?
Posted by: marrije
Glad to hear that all is well. He is absolutely a gorgeous baby! Good luck in the weeks that come. (mental note to me: get a doula for November! Thanks for the advice 😉 )
Posted by: Jenni
What a sweet boo, and I love the wee hand! Beautiful picture.
Posted by: Michelle
I’m glad you had the support you needed and that everything turned out alright in the end. That is a beautiful sling, and I just love the way his little hand is grasping the edge.
Posted by: LaurieM
Sounds very much like how I was born…my poor little mom was in labor (wanted it to be natural, just like you) for 36 hours before they said, “Um, your baby’s head is hugenormous! Time for a C-section.” I’m so glad that Mr. Thumper is healthy, and he is certainly a very cute little fellow. I hope your incision goes away quickly and your memories of the bad parts go even more quickly!
Posted by: Mia
Congratulations on a beautiful son. That sling looks fabulous
Posted by: janine
Hurray for great doulas! I’m glad she helped you so much. And isn’t looking at your sleeping child the finest thing in the world?
Posted by: marrije
Glad to hear that all is well. He is absolutely a gorgeous baby! Good luck in the weeks that come. (mental note to me: get a doula for November! Thanks for the advice 😉 )
Posted by: Jenni
What a sweet boo, and I love the wee hand! Beautiful picture.
Posted by: Michelle
What a dear picture; you are blessed. C-section here too after long labor and 20 years later, thankful every day for our wonderful son! BTW, how are your dogs doing now that Thumper is here?
Posted by: delia
Congratulations on having a beautiful, healthy baby. I’m so glad to see that photo!
A dear friend of mine also had a c-section despite all of her best efforts, and she has been working on a website about c-section recovery over the past few years. Please take a look if you think it will be handy: http://www.csectionrecovery.com/ She isn’t a doctor, but she’s had assistance from my Mom, who is a labor and delivery nurse, and from several other pros. Good luck to you and yours, and fast healing.
Posted by: lanea
beautiful!
Posted by: patricia
Just one word – OY. Well, maybe some more words. I have two children, one born the regular way, and the second a caesarean birth. The regular way was no walk in the park either, and harder, at least for me, to recover from than the c-section. Your photo is beautiful – a real “Madonna and Child.”
Posted by: Mary K. in Rockport
You two are beautiful. I’m sending you all the ‘heel soon’ vibes I can muster.
Posted by: amandamonkey
That photo just takes my breath away. you are both so beautiful!
I also opted for a drug-free birth when #1 son was born, and i wound up needing pitocin about 8 hours into my labor. i wish some wise soul had advised me to ask for pain meds with the pitocin. I insisted on not having any, and boy, did that suck. As you wisely observe and many others echo, all that matters is that you and Thumper are fine and home together. I completely agree with Alison that being out and about and connecting the world is the best thing for new moms. Being home with a new baby can be extremely isolating, so it’s great that you’re already strapping on the sling and venturing out. Please call or write if you want some company. I’ll get right on a subway.
xox!
Posted by: regina
My Birth Plan was similar to the one you describe. Everything went according to plan from the inital pregnancy test until the actual pushing. Then, suddenly my hospital room was full of people running around and pushing me into all different positions. Then there was a man in my room, not my husband. I closed my eyes because I didn’t want to see what he was doing. After much pushing and suction, I looked up to see my baby being carried over to the exam table. I didn’t feel him come out; but there he was, bright blue and screaming like a banshee.
That was two years ago. I barely remember how I felt then because I am so wrapped up in who my “baby” is becoming now. Motherhood is about caring for your baby as best you can all the time, not just the few hours and days surrounding labor and birth.
Congratulations and hang in there!
Posted by: casio
What a dear picture; you are blessed. C-section here too after long labor and 20 years later, thankful every day for our wonderful son! BTW, how are your dogs doing now that Thumper is here?
Posted by: delia
Congratulations on having a beautiful, healthy baby. I’m so glad to see that photo!
A dear friend of mine also had a c-section despite all of her best efforts, and she has been working on a website about c-section recovery over the past few years. Please take a look if you think it will be handy: http://www.csectionrecovery.com/ She isn’t a doctor, but she’s had assistance from my Mom, who is a labor and delivery nurse, and from several other pros. Good luck to you and yours, and fast healing.
Posted by: lanea
beautiful!
Posted by: patricia
Just one word – OY. Well, maybe some more words. I have two children, one born the regular way, and the second a caesarean birth. The regular way was no walk in the park either, and harder, at least for me, to recover from than the c-section. Your photo is beautiful – a real “Madonna and Child.”
Posted by: Mary K. in Rockport
You two are beautiful. I’m sending you all the ‘heel soon’ vibes I can muster.
Posted by: amandamonkey
That photo just takes my breath away. you are both so beautiful!
I also opted for a drug-free birth when #1 son was born, and i wound up needing pitocin about 8 hours into my labor. i wish some wise soul had advised me to ask for pain meds with the pitocin. I insisted on not having any, and boy, did that suck. As you wisely observe and many others echo, all that matters is that you and Thumper are fine and home together. I completely agree with Alison that being out and about and connecting the world is the best thing for new moms. Being home with a new baby can be extremely isolating, so it’s great that you’re already strapping on the sling and venturing out. Please call or write if you want some company. I’ll get right on a subway.
xox!
Posted by: regina
My Birth Plan was similar to the one you describe. Everything went according to plan from the inital pregnancy test until the actual pushing. Then, suddenly my hospital room was full of people running around and pushing me into all different positions. Then there was a man in my room, not my husband. I closed my eyes because I didn’t want to see what he was doing. After much pushing and suction, I looked up to see my baby being carried over to the exam table. I didn’t feel him come out; but there he was, bright blue and screaming like a banshee.
That was two years ago. I barely remember how I felt then because I am so wrapped up in who my “baby” is becoming now. Motherhood is about caring for your baby as best you can all the time, not just the few hours and days surrounding labor and birth.
Congratulations and hang in there!
Posted by: casio
Birth is what it is, honeybee…and we can go to births with philosophies, ideas, the way we’d like it to be…there are things we can do to make it more likely or less likely that our births will reflect our philosophies, but in the end there are things we aren’t in charge of. Babies come, the world turns and that wee plumper is a very, very beautiful child.
You have my number, right?
Posted by: Stephanie
Wowee. Thank goodness you had something to look forward to after all that. I am glad you and Thumper are doing good. I hope you heal quick!
Posted by: Maryann
LIke you said, that’s all that matters. That beautiful son of yours.
Posted by: Rebekah
It’s such an eye-opener–the fact that it’s been done billions of times before somehow doesn’t make the gestation and expression of a bowling-ball-sized new person any less terrific.
Posted by: Anne
You know, you can plan for the best and ultimately realize in the end that that, in itself, was an enormous act of mother-love. I had a factory birth, a home birth, and an emergency c-section that ended my birthing career and left mom and baby in ICU for two days. The incision is rough, and be careful because I went back to normal too fast and ended up ripping stitches (yeah, feel good!) You know what I did to get my belly back? BELLY DANCING!
Posted by: farm-witch
Look at how he is holding the side of the sling. That, coupled with the fact he arrived in his own way, lends me to believe Thumper has his own ideas about how he wants things to go. You have an original. Which seems entirely appropriate!
Posted by: Laurie
Phew – I SO hear you on dealing with the trauma. It’s now more than 6 years later – and while some of the pain has certainly faded and it’s quite a bit less sharp than before – yes, Toby is just perfect. I too went into pregnancy wanting the most natural un-medical birth possible, and ended up with a whole lot of intervention. In our case, it took 3 months of NICU before he could come home and be in our arms – but the experience truly shows what’s important in life…that little perfect bundle. Which will just keep getting more perfect with each passing day!
You look wonderful with your sling baby – many many congrats. Toby LIVED in his (same sling, different fabric).
Posted by: Sara
I’ve given birth three times, and will just say that the last time — the 12 hour induction which ended when he was delivered with forceps — was the easiest of them all. Birth is unpredictable. All you can do is prepare yourself and be aware of possible complications, so that you can handle them if they arise. Which you did. And you and Thumper are home, and healthy, and beautiful, and that’s all that matters.
Congratulations to all of you ……
Posted by: Ruth
I too ended up with a reality different from what I planned. I was phobic of epidurals, and ended up C section. Kudos on the sling. My baby is 14 months, and STILL rides around in her sling (hip carry now). It was very reasuring to have her riding next to me in crowded airports, and train stations in Japan, when we went.
Posted by: Teresa
Birth is what it is, honeybee…and we can go to births with philosophies, ideas, the way we’d like it to be…there are things we can do to make it more likely or less likely that our births will reflect our philosophies, but in the end there are things we aren’t in charge of. Babies come, the world turns and that wee plumper is a very, very beautiful child.
You have my number, right?
Posted by: Stephanie
Wowee. Thank goodness you had something to look forward to after all that. I am glad you and Thumper are doing good. I hope you heal quick!
Posted by: Maryann
LIke you said, that’s all that matters. That beautiful son of yours.
Posted by: Rebekah
It’s such an eye-opener–the fact that it’s been done billions of times before somehow doesn’t make the gestation and expression of a bowling-ball-sized new person any less terrific.
Posted by: Anne
You know, you can plan for the best and ultimately realize in the end that that, in itself, was an enormous act of mother-love. I had a factory birth, a home birth, and an emergency c-section that ended my birthing career and left mom and baby in ICU for two days. The incision is rough, and be careful because I went back to normal too fast and ended up ripping stitches (yeah, feel good!) You know what I did to get my belly back? BELLY DANCING!
Posted by: farm-witch
Look at how he is holding the side of the sling. That, coupled with the fact he arrived in his own way, lends me to believe Thumper has his own ideas about how he wants things to go. You have an original. Which seems entirely appropriate!
Posted by: Laurie
Phew – I SO hear you on dealing with the trauma. It’s now more than 6 years later – and while some of the pain has certainly faded and it’s quite a bit less sharp than before – yes, Toby is just perfect. I too went into pregnancy wanting the most natural un-medical birth possible, and ended up with a whole lot of intervention. In our case, it took 3 months of NICU before he could come home and be in our arms – but the experience truly shows what’s important in life…that little perfect bundle. Which will just keep getting more perfect with each passing day!
You look wonderful with your sling baby – many many congrats. Toby LIVED in his (same sling, different fabric).
Posted by: Sara
I’ve given birth three times, and will just say that the last time — the 12 hour induction which ended when he was delivered with forceps — was the easiest of them all. Birth is unpredictable. All you can do is prepare yourself and be aware of possible complications, so that you can handle them if they arise. Which you did. And you and Thumper are home, and healthy, and beautiful, and that’s all that matters.
Congratulations to all of you ……
Posted by: Ruth
I too ended up with a reality different from what I planned. I was phobic of epidurals, and ended up C section. Kudos on the sling. My baby is 14 months, and STILL rides around in her sling (hip carry now). It was very reasuring to have her riding next to me in crowded airports, and train stations in Japan, when we went.
Posted by: Teresa
Our mom is typing this for us. Your baby is really cute! I really want to hold him! his hair is so fluffy and fuzzy(that’s hannah).
and now, noah: I can’t wait to see him in person. His hair is the same color as Hannah’s.
Posted by: noah and hannah
Such a beautiful portrait of you two!
I love the colors in the sling, too. You both look wonderful!
Posted by: Pippy
Gorgeous, handsome, healthy son who inherited your love of color! Take it slow and listen to your body. It’ll tell you how much you can do when. Congratulations.
Posted by: Tish
I was set on having a natural drug-free birth for my first, too. It ended in an epidural (not a c-section, for me, though). I’ve heard that some women can get depressed at not having had the birth go exactly as planned. But, then what in life ever goes exactly as planned? I’m happy to hear your outlook on that is like mine. Really, when all is said and done, and you’ve got that baby in your arms, who’s thinking about the events that got him there?
Enjoy getting to know him. It’s a wonderful time to share.
Posted by: Krista
You sound like you’ve made your peace with the unfortunate change in plans. That’s good to hear. Your baby is gorgeous and you look great- and totally in love with your baby! Thanks for sharing the beautiful picture. I wish you a quick recovery!
Posted by: Susan
awwwww, look at that wee hand peeking out…so darling, what a precious gift. take good care of YOU too Mom! Congratulations.
Posted by: Susanne
Congratulations! I hope your recovery is speedy and smooth. Thumper is beautiful!
Posted by: teresa
Awwww, sweet picture of the two of you. I wish they made adult-sized slings! Oh, I guess those are called “hammocks.” Never mind.
Posted by: alison
Plans + kids = HA! Enjoy your beautiful Thumper, as I know you will. One of my favorite sayings about parenthood is “The days are long but the years are short”. Sniff him often. I never fail to be intoxicated by the baby smell. Unless of course it is *that* baby smell. But then again *that* baby smell is a badge of honor for you to have endured. Sorry, newborns make me a crazy happy rambling dork. Mazel tov and many blessings to you and your family. Squeee!
Posted by: KT
Our mom is typing this for us. Your baby is really cute! I really want to hold him! his hair is so fluffy and fuzzy(that’s hannah).
and now, noah: I can’t wait to see him in person. His hair is the same color as Hannah’s.
Posted by: noah and hannah
Such a beautiful portrait of you two!
I love the colors in the sling, too. You both look wonderful!
Posted by: Pippy
Gorgeous, handsome, healthy son who inherited your love of color! Take it slow and listen to your body. It’ll tell you how much you can do when. Congratulations.
Posted by: Tish
I was set on having a natural drug-free birth for my first, too. It ended in an epidural (not a c-section, for me, though). I’ve heard that some women can get depressed at not having had the birth go exactly as planned. But, then what in life ever goes exactly as planned? I’m happy to hear your outlook on that is like mine. Really, when all is said and done, and you’ve got that baby in your arms, who’s thinking about the events that got him there?
Enjoy getting to know him. It’s a wonderful time to share.
Posted by: Krista
You sound like you’ve made your peace with the unfortunate change in plans. That’s good to hear. Your baby is gorgeous and you look great- and totally in love with your baby! Thanks for sharing the beautiful picture. I wish you a quick recovery!
Posted by: Susan
awwwww, look at that wee hand peeking out…so darling, what a precious gift. take good care of YOU too Mom! Congratulations.
Posted by: Susanne
Congratulations! I hope your recovery is speedy and smooth. Thumper is beautiful!
Posted by: teresa
Awwww, sweet picture of the two of you. I wish they made adult-sized slings! Oh, I guess those are called “hammocks.” Never mind.
Posted by: alison
Plans + kids = HA! Enjoy your beautiful Thumper, as I know you will. One of my favorite sayings about parenthood is “The days are long but the years are short”. Sniff him often. I never fail to be intoxicated by the baby smell. Unless of course it is *that* baby smell. But then again *that* baby smell is a badge of honor for you to have endured. Sorry, newborns make me a crazy happy rambling dork. Mazel tov and many blessings to you and your family. Squeee!
Posted by: KT
Claudia completely beat me to the punch 🙂
I’m very glad you’re both okay. You know that I had my girl nine weeks early to save my life–they tried the pitocin and the epidural, and then the c-section, during which time they didn’t find out the epidural was not effective until they reached in to get her. Wicked big change of plans at that point. My first view of my little one was a polaroid. Still, all that hell and the end result was a great kid. I would never want to repeat what I went through, but having my girl made it all worth it.
Posted by: Lee Ann
Oh, I’m so happy for you!!!! I’m really sorry I missed the initial announcement. Hope you’re taking good care of yourself and getting at least *some* sleep!
Posted by: Sneaksleep
I’m so glad that you’re both healthy and home. You have a beautiful baby…and you look fabulous!
Posted by: Heather
Ooh, that is a beautiful picture. A Maya Wrap? Hope you enjoy being a mom in these eary days as much as I did. You’ve got a lovely family.
Posted by: The Purloined Letter
I agree, doulas rock! I’m glad you had one who was so supportive and that your little guy is healthy!
Glad to see you guys using a sling. I wish more moms knew how incredibly awesome those things are, especially when they are small and need to be close to you. They can take a little getting used to, but I love mine. It’s about the only place Knittybaby will take a good nap! 🙂
Posted by: knittymama
Cari, he’s just beautiful. C-section babies put their moms through hell and they invariably come out angelic, round and rosy!
If I may say, you look terrific. I literally had black eyes, like I had been punched, after a long labor and c-section. You look serene and healthy!
Best wishes!
Posted by: Liz
Congratulations! I’m an intermediate knitter that recently discovered & enjoys your blog. What a beautiful baby!!!! I also just delivered (c-section) a baby boy, although natural was planned. Also long story.. he was 10 lbs, 1 oz, at delivery, on 3/11. Take your time recovering, I tried to rush big walks too early on and it set me back. Slow & steady’s the way to go. Enjoy and warm congrats!
Posted by: Michele
I’m with youÂ… the best advice I received prior to my son being born was from my oldest and dearest friend (also an obstetric nurse). She said “Things may not go the way you thought they would but as long as the end result is a healthy baby, they went well.” I don’t discuss my son’s birth because nothing went according to planÂ… and franklyÂ… I don’t want to scare people but my friend’s words helped carry me through. Congratulations on your beautiful baby boy!!
Posted by: marnie
Claudia completely beat me to the punch 🙂
I’m very glad you’re both okay. You know that I had my girl nine weeks early to save my life–they tried the pitocin and the epidural, and then the c-section, during which time they didn’t find out the epidural was not effective until they reached in to get her. Wicked big change of plans at that point. My first view of my little one was a polaroid. Still, all that hell and the end result was a great kid. I would never want to repeat what I went through, but having my girl made it all worth it.
Posted by: Lee Ann
Oh, I’m so happy for you!!!! I’m really sorry I missed the initial announcement. Hope you’re taking good care of yourself and getting at least *some* sleep!
Posted by: Sneaksleep
I’m so glad that you’re both healthy and home. You have a beautiful baby…and you look fabulous!
Posted by: Heather
Ooh, that is a beautiful picture. A Maya Wrap? Hope you enjoy being a mom in these eary days as much as I did. You’ve got a lovely family.
Posted by: The Purloined Letter
I agree, doulas rock! I’m glad you had one who was so supportive and that your little guy is healthy!
Glad to see you guys using a sling. I wish more moms knew how incredibly awesome those things are, especially when they are small and need to be close to you. They can take a little getting used to, but I love mine. It’s about the only place Knittybaby will take a good nap! 🙂
Posted by: knittymama
Cari, he’s just beautiful. C-section babies put their moms through hell and they invariably come out angelic, round and rosy!
If I may say, you look terrific. I literally had black eyes, like I had been punched, after a long labor and c-section. You look serene and healthy!
Best wishes!
Posted by: Liz
Congratulations! I’m an intermediate knitter that recently discovered & enjoys your blog. What a beautiful baby!!!! I also just delivered (c-section) a baby boy, although natural was planned. Also long story.. he was 10 lbs, 1 oz, at delivery, on 3/11. Take your time recovering, I tried to rush big walks too early on and it set me back. Slow & steady’s the way to go. Enjoy and warm congrats!
Posted by: Michele
I’m with youÂ… the best advice I received prior to my son being born was from my oldest and dearest friend (also an obstetric nurse). She said “Things may not go the way you thought they would but as long as the end result is a healthy baby, they went well.” I don’t discuss my son’s birth because nothing went according to planÂ… and franklyÂ… I don’t want to scare people but my friend’s words helped carry me through. Congratulations on your beautiful baby boy!!
Posted by: marnie