Chad and I did a birth preparation course this weekend. We had different expectations for it than what we got. I thought the course would involve a lot of deep breathing. I was really not looking forward to spending all day Saturday and Sunday in the course. This was the only English class we were able to arrange since everyone takes the summer holidays off. Luckily we made it to the course even though we only have a week and a half until our due date. I am officially the furthest along to take one of these courses from our instructor. We ended up being the star students since we have had to do a lot of reading and researching on our own just in case Eden came early.

Even though we were familiar with most of the information there were some really great benefits that came from attending the course. I am still amazed at how incredibly blessed I am to be so comfortable this close to our baby’s arrival. I really couldn’t relate too well with the other women’s discomfort.

Chad and I had the impression that getting what we need as far as pain relief and such during delivery would be a real battle. But it seems that as long as we keep clear communication open with the midwife it will be a much more pleasant and accommodating experience than we were anticipating. The delivery is personal compared to what I imagined. I think the midwifery experience will spoil us here, and make stateside births in the future harder. For example, they don’t expect the mother to spend all day in a cot just because that would make it more convenient for the doctor.

One of the best things I got out of the experience is that I am way less afraid of the whole labor and delivery process. Maybe I am crazy– but I can do it. It is nice to feel more confident that no matter what happens or doesn’t happen Chad and I will be able to work through the whole experience together and we are getting something pretty amazing and special out of it. I am very excited and now can’t wait to just get to it and have our little baby girl.