Week 3 Postpartum Check-in

Here I am sitting at my computer, finally getting a moment to sit down and check in here.  I have so many ideas throughout the day of what to bring to the blog but, alas, I rarely get the time to type it out.

I'm putting this picture in here to lay it all out there.  My hair hasn't been washed in a couple days, there are bags under the eyes and no makeup, and Ian is slumbering on my chest while I type.  This is my reality.  I'm happy but tired.  Not all moments are calm and peaceful but it is getting better everyday.

I posted a couple days ago on my Facebook page that the hardest part of this time period is not being able to get things done at my own pace.  This is secretly a blessing in disguise. Even though it is mentally frustrating, I want to be able to enjoy slowing down and not needing to work through a "list" to feel like the day was worthwhile.  It is kinda like putting on braces.  My teeth resist change but the pain eventually subsides. This baby is keeping me in check, reminding me that this is supposed to be a "restful" period.  Now if only my other kiddos would allow for it!!!

I wanted to share how important it has been for me to take care of myself.  By this I don't mean putting on makeup or showering every morning (maybe for you it will be).  It's by nourishing myself and forcing myself to go slow.  It is essential that I drink enough water, eat healthy, and to try to get sleep when possible. Granted, I went to bed at 7:30 pm last night. I knew that when Ian went to sleep next to me, this was the clock that would eventually wake me up.   My body gets shaky easily if I haven't eaten enough or feel to emotionally worked up.

Someday I will have my freedom back and be able to stay awake later and not pay for it the next day. Today, I get to snuggle with my newborn and listen to his sweet sounds. Today, I get to revel in his new baby scent and rock with him in my chair as I watch birds at our feeder.  Soon, that opportunity will be gone.

For all you mamas just having a baby, take heart and take care.  It's a journey not a race.  Don't judge yourself on this time period.  Slow down and remember to breathe through the tough moments.  Most importantly, don't be afraid to accept or solicit help.   These are all things I have to remind myself often!

Tired yet peaceful,

Jen Starks, Owner
www.ecologicalbabies.com
ecologicalbabies@gmail.com
574.275.1235

Announcing Ian Matthew!

Yep, I'm completely smitten. and exhausted!  My brain is mush and I can't ever seem to muster up the nerve to answer the phone.  But looking at my newest arrival, I'm reminded that all that matter is that I soak up all his newborn-ness.  His features have already changed and I love gazing into his eyes as he looks at mine in wonder.

Ian finally decided to come on April 30th at 5:31pm. 8 lbs, 3 oz and 19 in.  Only 6 days late but felt like eternity.  It's one of those experiences that you start to forget (much like pain during labor!).  Note to all of you who are pregnant.  Remind yourself that you will be 2 weeks late, so that each day from 37 weeks you aren't thinking you might have your baby.  Of course, you want to have things ready around 37 weeks though.

Once I can actually get enough time, energy, and mental clarity I am going to share my birth story.  After that, I want to post on some 2 weeks post partum thoughts.  I can't guarantee I'll get those to you promptly.  I can't predict anything at this point, except that Ian will want to nurse within the next 2 hours and a diaper change will need to happen about that time as well.  :)

Thank you all who were praying for us during our labor and for all your support during this time.  As many of you know, it's crazy at home.

Entranced,

Jen  ;)


Jen Starks, Owner
www.ecologicalbabies.com 
ecologicalbabies@gmail.com 
574.275.1235

Earth Day, Birth Day?

Happy Earth Day!

I've been so busy preparing for our upcoming birth that I haven't spent much time writing in the blog.  I have to admit that my focus of my business and blog has shifted a bit, which is probably why I haven't been as active on my computer.  Instead, I have been actively reading books, journaling, and spending a lot of time enjoying my kids.

In my last blog post, I wrote about this book I was reading, Radical Homemaking.  This book has been a catalyst for the shift.  It has been perfect reading for my pregnancy.  I have been searching for what I want out of our family life after the baby arrives.  Do I maintain both locations of Ecological Babies and keep doing what I'm doing?  Is this feasible?  Do I let go of everything and could I embrace being a stay at home mom completely?  What would be best for me?  What would be best for my kids?  Lots of questions and I hadn't been able to find an answer.  Every pregnancy rocks my world in this way.  I guess it is inevitable with all those hormones and the realization that my life is going to change again when a new member joins the family.

Well, I don't have complete answers but I have found peace within.  I'm slowing down for awhile and focusing on deepening my connection with my family and my local community.  Spring and summer are my favorite seasons for connecting to the land and to experiment with new domestic skills.  I'm going to be learning more about self-reliance and interdependence.

At the same time, I am going to still maintain Ecological Babies as it fits the needs and interest of my community.  But let's just say that I won't be going gangbusters or posting on Facebook every 2 hours.  I'm sure you won't mind too much. :)

Send some good birthing vibes my way.  I'd love to have an Earth Day baby.  And I'd love to finally meet this little guy or girl who's been kicking, stretching, and hiccuping inside me.  My 2 other kids would like my lap back too. :)

In peace,

Jen Starks, Owner
www.ecologicalbabies.com
ecologicalbabies@gmail.com 
574.275.1235