My Most Amazing Husband

I know how blessed I am to have such an amazing husband, but I sometimes get so caught up and take it for granted.  Then suddenly I'm blown away by how strong Lance's love is and it's like falling back in love for the very first time again. 

This weekend I got a glimpse of what a terrific dad he's going to be when we attended the "You and Your Baby Class".  As  you know, I wasn't sure what to expect with the class.  I did expect to learn about breathing techniques and I did expect to see some graphic videos.  I guess I didn't expect to see how involved Lance would be and to show so much interest in the entire birthing process and what he could do to be there for me as my birthing partner.  Throughout the class he took notes, asked questions and worked on massage techniques with me.  And it was more than just going through the motions, he was so tremendously  focused on me.

I've often felt alone throughout this pregnancy when it came to my expectations for giving birth.  When I tried to voice my opinion to Lance on what was important I always felt like he either didn't understand or just didn't care as much as I did.  I come to realize that he just moves at his own pace, gathers all the facts first and when it comes down to "game time" he's going to be there by my side 110%.  = )

So...here is what I learned from our birthing class. 

I learned that I can't really have a "Birth Plan" but I can be aware of all my options set a goal of what I'd like to happen and if it doesn't then there's always Plan B, Plan C and the "Oh screw it...let's just get here outta me safely" plan.

I learned that I'm still anti-Epidural but its not because I want to be "Strong Woman..here me Roar!".  I've realized I just don't like the idea of being confined to a bed during the birthing process.  This is something that only happens once in a lifetime if I'm that lucky and I want it to have meaning and I want to take part in bringing her into this world.  I don't want to sit in a bed for 6-8 hours with no feeling of control.  I learned that the moment I have an epidural I will be laying in the bed with an IV in my arm, an epidural catheter in my back and a urinary catheter as well.  The thought of that type of confinement and restriction just bothers the heck out of me.  Seriously, anyone who knows me, knows that I need some sort of control at all times in my life!  Plain and simple. 

I learned that the idea of being able to go through relaxation techniques with Lance will only make our bond stronger.  As convenient as "no pain" and being told when to push sounds to some people, I like the idea of struggling and sweating through something with the person you love.

I've also learned that I will probably ask for the epidural but not after being able to push through the contractions and progress labor as much as I can with labor positions and breathing techniques.  You can play a bigger role in the progress of your delivery when you aren't just laying there, but the thought of crowning with no drugs still scares the hell out of me.  So sometime between 6-8 cm dilated I will be asking about that precious needle.  = )

Like I said, I can't rely on a true birthing plan because a hundred of things can happen now before her delivery, but knowing now what is important to me helps me feel more confident and prepared.   I'm more excited now about labor and delivery than before.  Only 6 more weeks to go!!!