As any mother knows, the end of a pregnancy is heavy and uncomfortable. As I neared the end of having Stella, officially a part of me tried to push through the pains making sure to feel every kick and movement with a smile on my face. Stella was much calmer in the womb than Astrid, but with every wiggle, I made sure to make a mental note of how wonderful it is to be able to bring life into the world. I wanted to mark in my memory that this closeness was just a blip in our relationship and it would soon be over.
And soon over it was. After four and a half hours our little Stella entered the world. With no painkillers and a fantastic midwife, this birth was a completely different experience than Astrid. It was intense, let's not lie, but I felt much more in tune with my body this time. I knew a little of what to expect with the pain which helped through the short labor. And I will never forget the first time I saw Stella's face. As with Astrid, that is an image that I will remember all my life.
The first time I was so confused, tired and unsure of myself while caring for a newborn. This time there was much less midnight googling of "is my baby alive." I felt more confident. It was easier to take the time to focus on the smaller joys that I seemed to miss with Astrid. The late night feedings were a time just to relax and feel that small body snuggling against mine. The little froggy legs that curled up against my chest keeping it warm were a welcome and familiar feeling. Even the little sounds Stella made when nursing and sleeping were a comfort lulling me to sleep.
Astrid is the best big sister one could ask for. She is so concerned, caring and interested in helping out this new life. She has shown herself to be so empathetic it warms my heart. She likes to help whenever asked and looks forward to waking up Stella to try to hug her. She is always covering her with a blanket, shushing and patting her back when she cries. I have the feeling they are going to be a fierce duo throughout life.
Though another addition means more work, I am so happy that our family has grown. I am so thankful that we can have two healthy children. I know that the relationship with siblings is something that you can not replicate with anyone else in life. I am so happy that my daughters will have the chance to experience that closeness and will surely grow to be fast friends in the future.
And soon over it was. After four and a half hours our little Stella entered the world. With no painkillers and a fantastic midwife, this birth was a completely different experience than Astrid. It was intense, let's not lie, but I felt much more in tune with my body this time. I knew a little of what to expect with the pain which helped through the short labor. And I will never forget the first time I saw Stella's face. As with Astrid, that is an image that I will remember all my life.
The first time I was so confused, tired and unsure of myself while caring for a newborn. This time there was much less midnight googling of "is my baby alive." I felt more confident. It was easier to take the time to focus on the smaller joys that I seemed to miss with Astrid. The late night feedings were a time just to relax and feel that small body snuggling against mine. The little froggy legs that curled up against my chest keeping it warm were a welcome and familiar feeling. Even the little sounds Stella made when nursing and sleeping were a comfort lulling me to sleep.
Astrid is the best big sister one could ask for. She is so concerned, caring and interested in helping out this new life. She has shown herself to be so empathetic it warms my heart. She likes to help whenever asked and looks forward to waking up Stella to try to hug her. She is always covering her with a blanket, shushing and patting her back when she cries. I have the feeling they are going to be a fierce duo throughout life.
