Tandem Nursing Infant & Toddler: Nurturing Bonds
Tandem breastfeeding, the act of nursing both a newborn / infant and a toddler at the same time, is a topic that can spark curiosity and intrigue among moms — especially with children close in age. The journey of tandem breastfeeding can be both rewarding and challenging, as it involves meeting the unique needs of two children at different stages of development. Below I will explore some of the benefits, challenges, and tips for tandem breastfeeding infant and toddler.
I am writing this after I have fully weaned my toddler at his 2nd birthday (days ago). I tandem nursed for 8 months and it was truly one of my greatest accomplishments, something I am so proud of, and believe it was absolutely the right decision for us.
Benefits of Tandem Breastfeeding
1. Bonding: Tandem breastfeeding can strengthen the bond between siblings as they share a nurturing experience with their mother.
2. Convenience: Nursing both children at the same time can save time and make feeding routines more manageable.
3. Nutritional Benefits: Breast milk provides essential nutrients and antibodies that are beneficial for both infants and toddlers.
4. Emotional Support: Breastfeeding can provide comfort and security for both children, especially during times of stress or illness…(like a new addition coming along!)
5. Promotes Sibling Harmony: Tandem breastfeeding can promote sibling harmony and reduce feelings of jealousy or rivalry.
Challenges of Tandem Breastfeeding
1. Time and Energy: Tandem breastfeeding can be physically demanding and time-consuming, especially in the early days.
2. Balance: It can be challenging to meet the individual needs of both children, especially when one child requires more attention or feeds more frequently.
3. Nursing Strikes: One or both may go through phases of nursing strikes, which can be frustrating for both the mother and the child.
4. Judgement: Tandem breastfeeding may be met with judgement or criticism from others who may not understand or support the practice.
Tips for Tandem Breastfeeding Infant and Toddler
1. Establish a Routine: Creating a feeding schedule that works for both children can help manage tandem breastfeeding.
2. Seek Support: Seek guidance from a lactation consultant for support and advice. Connect with other breastfeeding mothers, or tandem nursing mamas.
3. Self-Care: Take care of yourself by staying hydrated, eating nutritious foods, and getting enough rest to support your milk supply.
4. Communicate: Communicate openly with your children about breastfeeding and set boundaries to promote a positive breastfeeding relationship.
5. Be Flexible: Be flexible and open to adjusting your breastfeeding routine as the needs of your children change.
Tandem breastfeeding a newborn / infant and toddler is a personal decision that requires dedication, patience, and support. While it may come with its challenges, the benefits of tandem breastfeeding can be incredibly rewarding for both the mother and her children. By understanding the benefits, challenges, and tips for tandem breastfeeding, parents can make informed decisions that best meet the needs of their family.
Sincerely,
Summer
10 Tips to Support Your Postpartum Needs
Bringing a new life into the world is a beautiful and transformative experience, but it also comes with its own set of challenges and adjustments, especially during the postpartum period. It is crucial to prioritize and support the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of new mothers during this delicate phase. Here are nine essential tips on how to support postpartum needs:
Connect with Other New Moms
Feeling connected and understood by other new moms can provide invaluable support and a sense of community. Joining a new mom's group or attending postpartum support sessions can help you share experiences, exchange advice, and feel less isolated during this transitional period.
Skin-to-Skin with Baby
Skin-to-skin contact with your baby has numerous benefits, including promoting bonding, regulating the baby's temperature, and boosting the production of oxytocin, the "love hormone." It can also help with breastfeeding and calming both the mother and the baby.
Eat Nourishing Foods
A well-balanced and nourishing diet is essential for postpartum recovery and maintaining energy levels. Focus on consuming nutrient-dense foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein to support your body's healing process and overall well-being.
Hydration
Staying hydrated is crucial for milk supply and overall health. Adequate water intake not only supports lactation but also helps prevent dehydration, fatigue, and other postpartum-related issues. Make it a priority to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Breath and Meditation
Practicing deep breathing exercises and meditation can help reduce stress, promote relaxation, and enhance mental clarity. Taking a few moments each day to focus on your breath and center your mind can have a profound impact on your well-being.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care can be beneficial for postpartum women by addressing the pelvic floor, postural issues, relieving back pain, promoting overall spinal health, and so much more. Consult with a qualified chiropractor who specializes in postpartum care to support your physical well-being.
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
During the postpartum period, seeing a pelvic floor physical therapist to address potential pelvic floor dysfunction, such as incontinence, pelvic pain, prolapse, and more. These specialized therapists can provide personalized assessments, exercises, and treatment plans to help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, improve bladder control, and promote recovery and overall well-being after childbirth.
Sunshine
Getting exposure to sunlight is essential for vitamin D production, which plays a vital role in bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Spend some time outdoors each day to soak up natural sunlight and boost your overall well-being.
Prayer
Engaging in prayer or spiritual practices can provide comfort, solace, and strength during challenging times. Taking moments for prayer or reflection can help center your mind, calm your spirit, and foster a sense of peace and connection.
Ask for Help
It's important to recognize when you need support and to ask for help when necessary. Whether it's assistance with household chores, childcare, or emotional support, don't hesitate to reach out to family members, friends, or healthcare professionals for assistance during the postpartum period.
Supporting postpartum needs is a collective effort that requires understanding, compassion, and proactive care. By implementing these nine tips and prioritizing self-care, new mothers can navigate the postpartum period with greater ease, resilience, and well-being. Remember, you are not alone, and it's okay to seek support and prioritize your own needs during this transformative time.
Sincerely, Summer
My Food Philosophy
Let your food be Healthy + Happy + Heavenly.
Food is art. Good art is supposed to stimulate your senses in some way after all, right?
Cooking is love. Happy cooks are always the best cooks.
Before trying to figure out WHAT to eat, figure out HOW to eat.
Make food your friend.
Approach every meal with gratitude.
Bring awareness & mindfulness to the table.
Be present with food. Eat slow. put down the fork.
Savor each bite, chew completely, taste the sensations.
Breathe between bites.
Share meals with loved ones.
Find YOUR balance. No guilt, just love & acceptance.
Eat the foods you love that just so happen to be good for you.
Let your body be the guide.
Everything we eat, breathe, think or do has the ability to build or break our health.
Diet is not one size fits all. one person's food can be ahother's poison. Embrace bioindividuality.
Eat real food & freaking enjoy it!
Eat fresh produce, lots of it. Aim for loads of color.
Make greens your best friend. This means making it a priority to sneak them in if they aren’t currently your best friend.
Eat local, organic, seasonally & non- GMO wherever possible.
Invite in Fiber, Fat, and Protein daily.
Experiment with food. Find out what your body likes and dislikes at this time, understanding it will change throughout life.
Eat animals by choosing wisely & with compassion.
Forget the nutrition panel, check the ingredients. If you cant read it, don’t eat it.
It's all about quality. Aim for the best quality version of the food you want to eat.
Eat carefully, not obsessively. It's about being sane around food.
Calories don't count. Remove the math equation From the plate.
The diet industry is a business; choosing to nourish. yourself is a lifestyle.
Eat sustainably.
Cook your own food, often- Let the processing happen in your Kitchen, not a factory.
Eating real food will help you experience vibrancy to better serve the world.
Say yes to revolutionizing the way you relate to food, body, and health.
Remember the role of food is to nourish your body.
Take ownership of your life. Start with eating well.
Love your body and let your body love you back.
Say goodbye to nutritional confusion.
Say hello to a beautiful relationship with food.
Sincerely,
Summer
Busy Girl Guide: How to Get More Done with Less Stress
OWN YOUR DAYS INSTEAD OF LETTING YOUR DAYS OWN YOU
Feeling stretched too thin, overwhelmed, and/or overworked? Like there’s not enough hours in the day for you to accomplish what you need to? Do you want to feel more present and intentional in your day-to-day? And maybe even have some time to actually do all those things you’ve always wanted to do?
This guide is for you if you feel like you are “too busy,” overwhelmed, and in search of some relief + strategies on how to get out of this cycle and be more efficient with your time!
Read on if you are a busy gal looking to maximize your time.
As a mama of 2 under 2, who also values being the best wife, dog mom, homeowner (and Jesus follower, daughter, sister, friend, employee, etc) that I can be... oh, and let’s throw taking care of myself in the mix too – I realized something has got to give. I hated feeling like my focus could only go to one or two of these areas and the others would suffer. If you feel like you often “can’t keep up” with everyday demands, the tiniest things could be adding to your overwhelm & reducing productivity. I’ve learned it’s about creating a system to set ourselves up for success. Stay with me to learn how I have been combatting this (because I KNOW the feeling). Here I have compiled my best tips to get MORE DONE with LESS STRESS.
BECOME AN ESSENTIALIST
AKA do less, but better to make the highest possible contribution. Hot take: Living with the mindset “you can have/do it ALL” doesn’t serve us well. It’s time to trade it in for the pursuit of “the right thing, in the right way, at the right time” to help you regain control of your choices about where to spend your time and energy. HIGHLY recommend the book “Essentialism” by Greg Mckeown to learn more.
PLAN MONTHLY, WEEKLY, AND DAILY GOALS
At the end of each month, create your top big 3-5 “must accomplish” goals for the upcoming month.
Based on those monthly goals, at the end of each week, break down your top 3-5 goals for the upcoming week.
Based on those weekly goals, yep you guessed it — break down your top 3-5 goals/tasks/activities for the day.
Tip on daily tasks 💡:
Prioritize order of importance of the tasks and try to start the day with the “hardest”/most dreadful one. The rest of the day feels easier if you get that one out of the way quickest. If you complete those goals/tasks/activities and still have some extra time, you’ll feel great and anything else you do that day will be a bonus!
TIME BLOCK
When planning the above day-to-day goals/tasks/activities, learn to ask yourself how much time it will *actually* take you. Often in the past I have not been realistic, as I plan a months worth of to dos for one week and then feel so down on myself for barely making a dent in it all. For example: If you decide a particular task will take you 30 minutes, put it in your calendar and block out 30 minutes of fully present time to complete it – knowing you have a break after it’s done (or plan something to look forward to for when time is up!).
Tip on time blocking 💡:
Color code everything; it helps a lot if you are visual. Each color represents a different category of life/work.
Meal Plan + Cook in Bulk
We all know eating healthy is important for physical and mental health, but it can be challenging when we don’t have a plan in place. Unhealthy foods are always the most convenient. Not so much meal prepping, but having meals *planned* with a running grocery list of items needed for them + other items you notice throughout the week that you need more of, is huge. Consider getting a fridge magnet or dry erase board as your “menu” for the week with a “grocery list” next to it, but it can be as easy as writing it down in the notes on your phone. Then cook in bulk 2-3x/week. Cooking in bulk is great so you can eat the same dinner for a couple nights (and even pack for work lunches to-go!).
Move Your Body
There are endless benefits to exercising each day, but here I want to emphasize it’s positive impact on mental clarity (bye bye brain fog) and productivity! If possible, get your workout in first thing in the morning and reap the benefits for the rest of your day. If not then, find whenever you can sneak in as little as 10 minutes to just move – it MATTERS and will give you the boost you need. Even if you start by “habit stacking” to equal total of 10 minutes of movement a day, it counts.
Habit stacking example:
Do squats while you brush your teeth. Your brain will thank you, and your endorphins will reward you!
Become an Early Bird + Stay Consistent with Sleep Schedule
Don’t roll your eyes yet! When you wake before the world wakes, there are less distractions & more hours you can get stuff done. This could also apply to being a night owl, so pick your poison! It’s important to figure out what time you can commit to waking up/going to bed & being consistent so your body can get in a rhythm & your eating patterns are consistent. Challenge yourself to go to bed + wake up 1 hour earlier & see how you feel.
Bonus tips 💡:
Try to unplug from devices/electronics 1-2 hours before bed & notice how the quality of your sleep improves. Add in magnesium to your nighttime routine for your best sleep!
Keep Your Space TIDY
You don’t have to be a clean freak but do understand that a messy space can make a mess out of you... it really is true! A clean space sets the stage for a clearer, less chaotic mind. Instead of doing a big deep clean at the end of the week (dreadful), work to keep your house clean-ish all week long by doing “maintenance” cleaning.
How to:
Split your home up into sections & block a small amount of time to tackle specific rooms/tasks on specific days. P.S. if you have a partner/roomie, they can & should help (or hire someone if you can & take it off your plate completely)! Always divide + conquer household chores where you can.
Eliminate, Simplify, Automate, Delegate
These steps originate from Tim Ferriss book “The 4-Hour Workweek” & as you begin implementing, you’ll find that you do get time back that you can then invest in the most important aspects of your work/life.
The system works like so: If you don’t need to actually do a task & it doesn’t demonstrate any meaningful value, then eliminate it altogether. If you can’t eliminate a task but you can find a way to simplify or automate all or part of it, do that. If a task is necessary & can’t be automated, delegate it. Easier said than done but so worth it to figure out how you can apply this in your work/life!
Limit Distractions
If you are tired of hearing yourself saying “I don’t have the time,” make it your mission to track your time & find out where it is all going! You may find you still had the time to scroll on social media + binge your fave shows... It’s okay that we take breaks, we can’t be “go go go” all our lives. DO block out time for relaxation, joy, fun & self-care because these things make us show up as better humans! BUT there’s a difference between that & wasting time vegging out, so set boundaries on how much time you give to your “distractions” – sometimes you may need to be more strict than other times, depending on if you are working toward a goal or have a deadline coming up.
Give yourself Grace + Give it to God
At the end of the day, we are only human. Imperfect beings. Not robots! Our worthiness is not found in our accomplishments or productivity. We are not meant to go through this life alone, so when things get crazy, bring it to the Lord. Let Him restore you. Continually remind yourself of God’s word: Matthew 11:28 “come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
Small changes add up – I hope these tips were helpful! Please remember this is what has worked for ME, but it’s important to test and find your sweet spot and what works for YOU! I’d be happy to hear from you on what is working! Shoot me an email anytime at sheliveswholly@gmail.com.
Seriously, don’t be a stranger :) If you are a mama like me, we have unique time restraints and as beautiful as motherhood is, it can often be accompanied by quite a bit of overwhelm and intensify the feelings described in this guide. That is why I created a digital planner to keep me on track toward being the mama I was created to be, serving my family (and myself) best...
Introducing the “In My Mom Era” Digital Planner
The ultimate ALL-IN-ONE tool to help you navigate the beautiful chaos of motherhood with grace and intention. This digital planner is your secret weapon to staying organized, focused, and inspired as you juggle the demands of being a mom. Much of it has built into it the planning strategies you just read about. Effortless Organization: Say goodbye to scattered to-do lists and overwhelming schedules. The In My Mom Era Digital Planner provides a seamless and intuitive platform to keep track of your appointments, tasks, and goals all in one place.
The “In My Mom Era” Digital Planner IS...
Designed for Moms:
This planner is carefully crafted to cater to the needs of busy moms, placing emphasis on their health and well-being. It offers a wide range of features including meal planning and grocery list templates, health and routine trackers, household management logs, goals and dreams journals, and more! With this planner, you'll have all the necessary resources to stay organized and thrive in your mom game, allowing you to be fully present and give your best to your family!
The “In My Mom Era” Digital Planner OFFERS...
Grace-Based Inspiration:
This digital planner is infused with uplifting guided prompts to help you cultivate more faith, joy, gratitude, and purpose in your journey.
Accessibility Anywhere, Anytime:
With this digital planner, you can access your schedule and plans from any device. Whether you're at home, on the go, or traveling, your planner is always at your fingertips. Additionally, it is UNDATED so it is fully customizable and HYPERLINKED for the simplest, most efficient use.
The “In My Mom Era” Digital Planner JUST MAKES SENSE!
Because you don’t stumble into a healthy, intentional life with a happy, fulfilled family... YOU CREATE IT.
Don't let the chaos of motherhood overwhelm you. Embrace the transformative power of the In My Mom Era Digital Planner and experience the joy of intentional living ✨
Get your digital planner now and embark on a journey of organization and fulfillment in your mom era!
DOWNLOAD YOUR DIGITAL PLANNER HERE!
Sincerely, Summer
Valentines Ideas for Each Love Language
Valentine's Day is just around the corner, so it's time to start planning a special day for your loved one! According to Gary Chapman's book "The Five Love Languages," each person has a primary love language that they respond to the most. So, why not tailor your Valentine's Day plans to match your partner's love language? Here are some ideas for each love language to make this Valentine's Day a truly special one.
If your partner's love language is…
words of affirmation:
Consider handwriting a heartfelt note expressing why you love them and what they mean to you. Take the time to really think about what makes them special and write it down. This simple act of writing and sharing your feelings can make a big impact on your loved one.
Acts of service:
Surprise them by checking off something on their to-do list or tackling a task they've been dreading. It could be something as simple as cleaning the house or running errands for them. Alternatively, you can make their favorite meal and serve it to them as a gesture of love and care.
Quality time:
Create an "all about us" trivia game or plan a shared experience that revolves around your relationship. Think about activities that you both enjoy and find a way to incorporate them into your Valentine's Day plans. This could be a romantic walk in the park, a picnic, or even a couples' cooking class.
Gifts:
Opt for something meaningful that shows thought and effort. Consider getting your favorite picture together framed and explaining why it's your favorite. Personalized gifts or items that hold sentimental value can go a long way in showing your partner how much you care.
Physical touch:
Plan a cozy and intimate evening. Give each other massages, light some candles, and cuddle up close for a movie night. Physical touch can be incredibly soothing and comforting, so make sure to create an environment where you both feel relaxed and connected.
Remember, the key is to understand and cater to your partner's love language. By doing so, you are showing them that you truly understand and appreciate their unique way of feeling loved. So, this Valentine's Day, go the extra mile and make your partner feel cherished and adored in the way that speaks to their heart!
Sincerely, Summer
The 4 Conflict Styles + Exit Strategies
In any relationship, conflicts are bound to arise. How we handle these conflicts can determine the health and longevity of the relationship. Understanding the different conflict styles and having effective exit strategies can help navigate these challenging situations.
1. Escalation:
The escalation conflict style is characterized by negative responses that lead to increased hostility and negativity. For example, when criticized, individuals with this style tend to hit back even harder. This type of interaction often leads to both parties feeling hurt and the relationship crumbling.
The exit strategy for escalation is to call a time-out. It is important to recognize when emotions are running high and take a step back. Communicate to your partner, "I'm really fired up right now, and I love you enough to not go there with you. I need some space for an hour to gather my thoughts." Taking this time to cool down and reflect can prevent further damage and allow for a more productive conversation later.
2. Withdrawal/Avoidance:
The withdrawal/avoidance conflict style is characterized by an unwillingness to engage in important and sometimes uncomfortable conversations. Individuals with this style tend to shut down when faced with conflict.
The exit strategy for withdrawal/avoidance is to get and stay in the game. In a healthy partnership, it is crucial to learn how to communicate and resolve conflicts together. If your partner has this conflict style, it is important to respect their efforts to stay in the conversation. Be mindful of your tone of voice and keep the conversation conversational. This approach can help them feel more comfortable and willing to engage.
3. Invalidation:
The invalidation conflict style involves subtle and indirect put-downs of another person's thoughts, feelings, or character. It often stems from ego and the desire to "win" or be "right."
The exit strategy for invalidation is to remember that the goal is mutual validation and understanding, not winning or losing. Instead of putting your partner down, seek to understand their perspective and serve them. By showing empathy and respect, you can create an environment where both parties feel valued and heard.
4. Negative Interpretation:
The negative interpretation conflict style involves believing that the motive of the other person is more negative than it actually is. This style often stems from insecurity and can lead to misunderstandings and unnecessary conflicts.
The exit strategy for negative interpretation is to believe the best and ask for clarification on intentions when needed. Trust that your partner is with you, not against you. Instead of assuming the worst, give them the benefit of the doubt and have open and honest conversations to clear any misunderstandings.
Conclusion:
It is important to have compassion for both yourself and your partner's conflict style, as it is likely influenced by past experiences and upbringing. These conflict styles are often rooted in ego, insecurity, and trauma. To have a successful and healthy relationship, both parties must be willing to do the necessary inner work and practice these exit strategies. By understanding and implementing these strategies, you can navigate conflicts more effectively and foster a stronger connection with your partner.
Sincerely, summer
9 Mistakes You're Making in Your Relationships
Building and maintaining healthy relationships requires effort and understanding. Unfortunately, many of us unknowingly make mistakes that can hinder the growth and happiness of our partnerships. In this blog post, we will explore 9 common mistakes people make in their relationships and provide insights into how to overcome them.
1. Mistake: Believing that the goal of communication is to be heard.
Truth: The goal of communication in a partnership is mutual understanding.
What to do: It's not just about expressing your thoughts and feelings but also actively listening and empathizing with your partner's perspective.
2. Mistake: Underestimating the impact of your words and tone.
Truth: What you say and how you say it matters.
What to do: Words can have a lasting impact on your partner, so it's crucial to choose them wisely and be mindful of your tone to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings and hurt feelings.
3. Mistake: Ignoring negative communication patterns.
Truth: It is a vital part of a healthy relationship to take the time to learn about the four conflict styles: withdrawal/avoidance, escalation, invalidation, and negative interpretation.
What to do: Recognizing these patterns can help you address and improve your communication habits.
4. Mistake: Assuming that a lack of conflict means a healthy relationship.
Truth: Conflict is inevitable in any relationship.
What to do: Instead of avoiding it, view conflict as an opportunity for growth and understanding. Embrace it as a chance to work through differences and strengthen your bond.
5. Mistake: Believing that saying "I'm sorry" ends the conflict.
Truth: Forgiveness is an ongoing and active process.
What to do: It's not enough to apologize; you must also make an effort to understand and change the behaviors that hurt your partner. True forgiveness requires consistent effort and growth.
6. Mistake: Blaming your partner as the main reason for fights.
Truth: Conflict arises because humans are inherently selfish.
What to do: It's essential to recognize your own role in disagreements and work on becoming more selfless. Taking responsibility for your actions can lead to healthier conflict resolution.
7. Mistake: Neglecting structure during conflicts.
Truth: Practice active listening during conflicts.
What to do: Paraphrase what your partner said to ensure understanding, and then add your perspective. The goal is for both individuals to feel heard and reach a mutual understanding.
8. Mistake: Failing to take a "time out" when needed.
Truth: Respect your partner's emotional state and the environment during conflicts.
What to do: If your partner is hungry, angry, late, lost, or tired (HALT), it may not be the best time to engage in a productive conversation. Take a break and revisit the issue when both parties are in a better state of mind.
9. Mistake: Not seeking support or asking for help.
Truth: Surrounding yourself with healthy couple friends and mentors who can provide guidance and support is one of the most helpful things you can do for your relationship.
What to do: Don't hesitate to seek professional help when needed. Remember, you don't have to face relationship challenges alone; help is available.
In Conclusion:
Building a healthy partnership requires commitment and effort from both individuals. By recognizing and addressing these common mistakes, you can create a stronger and more fulfilling relationship. Remember, it's not about perfection but about continuous growth and improvement. Embrace the journey together and enjoy the rewards of a thriving partnership!
Sincerely, Summer
My Car Birth Story
I had meticulously prepared myself, both mentally and physically, for the water birth I had dreamed of. My midwife would tell you I was an over-achiever.
The first contraction jolted me awake, filling me with doubt about my ability to endure the upcoming, more intense contractions that typically accompany a several hour labor.
We sped towards the birth center with me in my Jeep’s trunk, which was my attempt for more space in hopes I could find a position that could offer some relief on the way there. I see my one-year-old son dressed in his pajamas looking back at me from his rear-facing car seat, unaware of the chaos unfolding around us.
Suddenly, I found myself on all fours, on a patch of grass at a gas station surrounded by curious onlookers. Through my tears, I see Drew handing Jesse to my parents, who had swiftly come to meet us halfway after receiving the urgent call of our change of plans and the need to take Jesse into their care immediately.
In an instant, I was back in the confines of my car's trunk. As my water broke, a surge of panic washed over me. Over the sound of my own screams, I heard my midwife's voice on speaker phone calmly telling me that I may need to catch my own baby and assuring me that I could do it, with her guidance. In disbelief, I refused to accept the reality of the situation. But then, while still on the highway, I felt the unmistakable sensation of my baby's head crowning.
All of my preparation, the carefully practiced breathing techniques, and the planned labor positions seemed to vanish into thin air, slipping away like the wind through the open windows in my car. I pleaded with God for more time, strength, and protection as the pain intensified with each passing second.
Next thing I know, flashlights from my midwife and doula pierced through the darkness. As my eyes adjusted, I could make out the open trunk and the reassuring presence of my husband by my side. We were in the parking lot of the birth center. And then, she was here.
As I laid there in a state of shock with my baby cradled in my arms listening to her cries, all I could think to do was inquire about her well-being. The response was always the same - she was healthy, she was perfect.
The journey was far from over, though. I faced a severe postpartum hemorrhage as a result of the precipitous birth. The road to recovery was long and non-linear but I continued to cling to those words: my baby “was healthy, she was perfect.”
Despite the fear and uncertainty, I had brought new life into the world. And in that triumph, I discovered a strength within myself that I never knew existed, something that could only be described as supernatural strength from God.
Since that day, I’ve cherished every moment with Lilah, we’ve never been apart 3.5 months later. I know we share an unbreakable bond + a unique story that will forever be etched in our hearts.