Oct 01 2008
Week 41
Here we are at week 41 and this is the last tummy shot you’ll see on champuru.net, because I’ll be induced on Friday, October 3, 2008. That’s in two short days.
Today, we went to lunch with Mahealani at Assaggio Ristorante. Something she said really got me thinking: “psychologists say that, for a couple, having a baby is like dealing with a crisis because of how much your life changes.”
A crisis.
Hubby and I have been through our share of tough times during the past 17 years (15 years of marriage this year). It was during those times of trial and testing that our relationship experienced the most growth. I expect this to be no different.
The birth of Baby Champuru will be an exciting, yet frightening time for the both of us as we are faced with the challenges of being new parents. Everything will be new to us. Neither of us has changed a dirty diaper, bathed a baby, or even handled a newborn. Despite the infant care classes we attended and numerous books and magazines I’ve read, I still feel sorely unprepared for my new role as mother. I really hope that Baby Champuru will be patient with me as I tackle the steep learning curve ahead of me.
Hubby and I have been trying to cram in as much “togetherness” time as possible, knowing that our quiet dinners out will soon be a thing of the past. For 17 years, we have come and go as we pleased, stepping out to dinner whenever and wherever on a whim without much thought for things such as the availability of a changing table in the restroom and a family-friendly atmosphere. Now, venturing out of the house will take much more planning and preparation with a new baby. That is only the tip of the iceberg.
But, those changes are good. It launches us into a new chapter in our lives. One that we have prayed for — for years — and now it’s upon us and I’m still wondering if I’m ready.
Ready or not, here she comes!
A 30-something Christian girl, blissfully wedded to her perfect match (the yang to her yin) of 14 years. A new mom to her miracle baby, born on October 4, 2008. Living life in Hawaii, less than 5 miles from her hometown, a slave to her mortgage payment, but seeking balance in her pursuit of family, faith, recreation, and rest.
Nice post, a few days away from your last day as a just a married coupld, and your first day as parents! Exciting!
I wouldn’t sweat the togetherness time. True it gets harder but at the same time it gets sweeter. You’ll cherish it more and plan for it better, although the first night its just the two of you with baby w/ a sitter or grandparent you’ll spend the entire night thinking and worrying about baby — watch, you’ll see! You’ll both want to end the night early and rush home to be with baby…
I think you were born ready to be a parent, then you were guided and molded by the best and worst you saw in your parents and your upbringing. Biology is amazing. You don’t need to practice breathing before you do it — instinct just takes over. Same with parenting, don’t get too caught up in all the theories, books, suggestions, and thoughts on parenting because when the time comes you’ll know what to do. And besides, if you don’t, there’s always twitter =)
I’ve got happy tears in my eyes for you two. Whether she’s an easy baby or one who requires lots of extra attention, it will be a bit overwhelming and trying at first, but you’ll get the hang of it. And once you do, you’ll wonder what exactly life was like before, because you won’t really be able to remember it.
One (more) piece of advice I have for you, is something that really worked for me with T. He cried (and screamed) a lot in his first months, and I just talked, out loud, to him, trying to “translate” what he was saying with his cries. It helped calm both of us.
Oh, and your spot is reserved for Wednesday the 8th!
Hey Mommy
it was good to see you today
don’t worry with all you guys have been through this is just something that will make you grow even more
good luck this week and see you and baby champuru soon
Ray
Everything you’re feeling is normal! Don’t worry, no one is better suited to take care of your baby than you and your hubby! You are already her mommy and you have done great these 9 months. See! Time soon for baby Champuru to graduate into the “sunlight” phase of life! Best Wishes!
Hi Donna, It was very nice meeting you at “Off the Wall”.
I understand your feelings exactly. My wife and I were just like you. But time really flies. Children grow so fast! Please enjoy her growth.
Bes Wishes from Japan,
Tomo
I’m sure you’ll do fine, despite the challenges ahead with a newborn. I’ve been told the biggest challenge is not enough sleep, hopefully, the lil one will be a good sleeper and not too fussy. I can’t wait to meet your lil girl!
I wanted to let you know we’re having a girl too.
You feel just like I did in the last weeks of pregnancy. The Hubster and I didn’t have ANY experience with tiny babies and I was so worried that we’d break her or something. Six months later, we’re pros and baby is thriving. You learn as you go along and I’m sure you and your Hubby will do a spectacular job.
Here’s my last pieces of advice: REST as much as you can, whenever you can after the baby is born. Don’t worry about taking care of chores, blogging, etc. Take care of yourself, take care of the baby and SLEEP whenever she sleeps which you may find is more difficult than you thought.
Okay team it’s game on!! All I can say to you is when they say “PUSH” you push!! Look forward to some baby pixs on flickr. Ganbatte Ne (^_^)
After following your blog for many years and reading about all of the preparations that you’ve done for baby Champuru, I’d say that you were the most prepared new parents I’ve ever seen! I think you’ll be just fine.
tomorrow is the big day! one positive about being induced is being able to make the most of your time together as husband and wife. after tomorrow, you’ll be a FAMILY…
the night before i was induced, hubby and i stayed up late cuddling, talking–mostly about how life would different would be by the same time the next day.
you’ll be amazed at your instincts…follow them. motherhood is somehow intrinsic. it’s hard to explain, but the nurturing, love and new skill set comes naturally and effortlessly. I’ve been following your blog for a short time but following you and your other half (and soon to be family) has been so exciting and heartfelt…
i’m wishing you positive vibes for a smooth and easy labor. can’t wait to see baby champuru!