Hey friends,
As I hit 6 weeks postpartum tomorrow, I want to share with you honest reflections on the first stretch of being in a postpartum season. But first, let me introduce to you the newest member of our family: Josiah Gideon Noble. He was born at home on November 26th. And if you haven't heard the birth story, listen here (my husband single-handedly delivered him!)
Whether you know this about me or not, one of the beats of my heart is coming alongside other women to encourage them during pregnancy leading up to birth and through postpartum. I really do believe with all my heart that thriving in each of these seasons is possible - but also not without challenges. We can thrive and also have struggle. We can be joyful and also be wrestling with something.
Hebrews 12:2
...for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising its shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
This one scripture is so encouraging to my heart because as I do reflect on the past 6 weeks of being newly postpartum, I can see how every challenge is worth it for the joy of our baby Josiah. Yes. There have been difficulties such as juggling three children and all of the needs...and all three boys being hit with the flu virus + a nasty cold/cough....sleep exhaustion (always)...communication in our marriage...But the joy of having Josiah finally with us is so much sweeter and greater than the challenges. It's worth it.
And maybe you can gleam some insight into this truth also.
This postpartum has been everything I desired it to be. It didn't "just happen" on its own. I had to plan for it months before Josiah was born. I stocked up on freezer meals, snacks and my sourdough breads. I prepared mentally for having a newborn in the winter months + two other very energetic little boys. We asked my husband's parents if they would come up to visit with us and help out for a week. I took a break from my business. I talked to other moms with multiple children who have already walked this road I'm on. And I continue to ask for help! And...this postpartum was easier in that I healed so much quicker than my other two because I truly rested for two weeks until I started doing small tasks around the house.
My greatest challenge (always) during postpartum is letting go of control. Everything comes to a screeching halt once baby is born and I always struggle with not having my daily tasks and responsibilities. I find purpose and delight in them (being the keeper of our home) while also knowing that I NEED & DESIRE rest from all of it.
What have I enjoyed most?
Seeing my older two boys take absolute delight in their little brother =)
Just remember: you can hold both joy & hard together in the same hand and it can be beautiful!
Much love,
Hope
Comments