Baby Blessing-Way

 

On Saturday my friend Therese held a blessing-way/baby shower for me. A bit different from your typical baby shower, this incorporated the guests' good intentions for my labor. One of the most touching events was when everyone gathered around while the children put together a beautiful necklace using felted beads they had made earlier in the day. As the beads were placed on the necklace, those who felt inclined to, verbalized (or thought of) their special wish or blessing for my labor and birth. In this way, the necklace was imbued with good wishes, and I will be able to have them with me at the birth.

I felt remarkably relaxed and grounded during this little ceremony. What a nice break from the anxiety I've been having lately. The combination of raising four children, running a business, and the anticipation of the impending birth has been trying at times.

      
The event took place at our house, and this was a wonderful excuse to pretty up the place. Of course we'd been intending to do this anyway, for the new baby, but there's nothing like having guests over for motivation.

 
Michael and I were fortunate to have a lot of help. Our friend Trish cleaned the entire downstairs. Therese and Kristen made amazing cakes, and filled the house with flowers. Jen and Keith arrived early and helped too. Now it will be a lot easier to deal with the clutter that's been accumulating around here!

I'd love to hear about any unusual or interesting baby shower events or traditions you've experienced.

Comments

[Heather Carson]

I am on my third baby in less than three years. I had two wonderful baby showers for my first baby and nothing for my second ( which was fine!). For my third I want to start a new tradition and have a "Nesting Shower" for myself and the baby. I will invite all of my female friends, provide good food and fun music and have everyone help me clean my house to prepare for the new baby. Having a clean house is especially important to us since we have home births. Anyway, I hope it will be fun! Blessings, Heather Carson

[Cecilia]

That's great! We're also having a home birth (any day now). Having had some help with the house has made a real difference.