Leap of Faith

I recently wrote a letter to a friend who is making the decision to follow his dream, or stick to corporate America, and I thought it would be something to include in my blog.  We all reach a crossroad in life, and sometimes they call for a leap of faith.  Another friend of mine, who is going through similar situation, compared her experience to the Indiana Jones scene where he has to step out on the invisible bridge.  What a great metaphor and imagery for facing the "unknown", I was happy to be able to post the video below:

• Letter to a Friend:
  
  I'm not sure if we knew each other when Dustin and I took time off of our "regular life" to tour with his band. It was definitely a big decision, he was at the crossroads of following his dream vs. corporate stability also. In the end, we both agreed that if the opportunity was there to follow a dream, we should take it and there may be regret later down the road if we passed it up.
  
  Things panned out in an interesting way--we traveled the country, even into Canada and Jamaica, and definitely made some amazing memories. We lost money, but looking back--no amount of money could compare to the experiences we had. The band had a quick opportunity for success, but the lead singer quit and closed that door for everyone. Ironically, we decided before that time that this wasn't the life we wanted to lead: late nights, travel, bad food, wild company, tolling on marriage...but through the experience itself, we learned more about ourselves individually and as a couple. And again, you can't put a price on that.
  
  As some of your other friends mentioned, we have very few opportunities in life to really pursue our dreams, but when they come knocking--it's for a reason. There definitely is a leap of faith involved, and there's no sure way to know what the outcome will be. But it's truly the journey that matters, and that journey can be one of the most influential times in one's life. You just have to make the decision to take it.
  
  Dustin and I are now embarking on a new journey--parenthood. When you mentioned the "unknown", it resonated quickly with me. Pregnancy, being a mom--all of this is the "unknown" for us. It can be scary at times, but I have chosen to stay focused, mindful, and appreciative of each small step so things don't seem overwhelming. I was just telling Dustin last night that even though pregnancy isn't easy, or the preparation for parenthood, it already feels so rich and rewarding. There is no way we would ever turn back from this incredible decision, no matter how hard or scary things get.
  
  I believe in you, and know that if you choose to follow your dreams--you will open new and amazing doors for yourself and your future. Anytime we are able to honor ourselves and where we are in life, there is little room for regret. I know how passionate you are about your dream, and it seems like you are at the crossroads of honoring that passion. My vote is "do it!".
  
  Much love,
  J.

Week 32: We love you.

This Spring has been flying by!  And as our birth approaches quickly, there are definitely a whirlwind of emotions circulating around me.  For the most part I feel well, there are definitely tired days, but I'm still in full-swing with my job that can be physically tolling.  I'm slowly starting to taper off teaching classes while starting birthing classes this month.  I'm also trying to make sure I stay plugged in to my own physical health through prenatal massage and personal yoga practice.

The "speculation of the unknown" has started to set in a bit more--wondering what birth will feel like, be like, what motherhood will bring, etc.  But all of my wellness practices have helped fight off any anxiety that could manifest when my thoughts get ahead of me.  As a friend once told me:  information remedies anxiety, and that has proven true when it comes this pregnancy adventure.  Having friends and family who have been willing to be candid and open with me about their own birthing and parenting experiences have made the world of difference.  I only hope I can offer others the same kind of support after Lelu arrives.

Researching more about childbirth has also been invaluable, learning more about what the body goes through and what women are truly capable of when it comes to delivering a baby.  I would say the biggest challenge for me as I anticipate a home water birth is keeping my confidence level high.  Natural childbirth is undoubtedly intimidating; but my friends who have chosen that route, and paved the way, continue to remind me that women are built to do this--and I am more than capable of a natural delivery.  I remind myself that it is only one day and I can do anything for one day.  I go back to the fact that I truly believe in my birthing plan and would feel less comfortable if I chose an alternative way.  I remind myself that my body will know what to do when the time comes, it just takes a little trust.  I think about the emotional and spiritual transformation that has already taken place over these last several months, and how my childbirth will be a major building block of empowerment within this transformative journey.  These are anchoring thoughts, and I gain my confidence when I revisit them.

Overall, I think there is anticipation surrounding any approaching childbirth, the process itself brings many emotional and physical changes.  I would say for me, this most important factor through this whole experience has been honoring myself and what I believe is right for me and my child.  There is a sense of integrity when you are "true to yourself" and no matter what the future holds, there is no regret when you are able to get in touch with that inner truth and integrity.

My sister-in-law came over last night and did some maternity photos for us--they turned out amazing!  She is so talented with such creativity and a great eye for photography.  I am happy to include some of the photos on my blog, hope you enjoy!