tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-24211017139264129892024-02-02T08:44:01.516-08:00How to Birth like a Rock Starthe Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-64375881657414345742015-04-27T12:53:00.000-07:002016-01-06T13:46:43.087-08:00<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to How to Birth like a Rock <span style="font-size: large;">Star</span> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">A "Rock Star" birth does not have to be blissful, pain-free, or even drug-free, but it does have to be <span style="font-size: small;">a birth</span> where a woman feels that she is powerful, prepared, in control, and respected in her choices. <span style="font-size: small;">This program will <span style="font-size: small;">give you the information you need to create the birth that you truly want<span style="font-size: small;"> for yourself and your little one.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Don't let <i><span style="font-size: small;">anything</span></i> stand between you and the beautiful experience <span style="font-size: small;">your baby's</span> birth c<span style="font-size: small;">an be! Knowledge<span style="font-size: small;"> is power<span style="font-size: small;">, and we want women feeling powerful during the<span style="font-size: small;"> births of their babies.</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>This</span> class is designed to accommodate women who are planning for an un-medicated birth as well as women who are planning on using an epidural. <span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Whatever your approach, <span style="font-size: small;">make the choice to invest your time and energy in making this experience the very best that it can be. </span></span></span></span></span>C</span>heck out the class dates and schedules, and send <span style="font-size: small;">an email wi<span style="font-size: small;">th your registra<span style="font-size: small;">tion info to reserve your spot.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> This is a time like never before where women are taking the lead in every facet of their lives, and choosing what is right for themselves and their families. Decide today to take ownership of your birth experience and arm yourself with the tools you need to make it everything you hope it will be.<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Serving women in: </span></span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Las Vegas, Nevada; Colorado Springs, CO; American Fork, Utah;</span> and St. George, Utah. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Go <a href="http://www.facebook.com/howtobirthlikearockstar?fref=ts">here</a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/howtobirthlikearockstar?fref=ts"> </a>to "like" How to Birth like a Rock Star on<a href="http://www.facebook.com/howtobirthlikearockstar?fref=ts"> </a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/howtobirthlikearockstar?fref=ts">facebook<span style="font-size: small;">.</span></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /><a href="http://howtobirthlikearockstar.blogspot.com/2011/12/positive-birth-movement-meetings.html"></a></span></span></div>
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the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-89141449747604074112013-05-23T08:24:00.000-07:002016-05-23T08:24:54.050-07:00Colorado Springs Classes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXpqyiu8Jt9dSKFLu28LDevXs9X2qXtGiJj3Yth-cT46g3G8J_gJ8n3MejQxp9cU9jSDTXX9Ba8Chw5widgIEwD7U9lSA9X8K7vKQlCTqIwzVsrx5lYnNxk1yObZ3li4TDMgXj-QOIefk/s1600/Rock+Star+FB+header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXpqyiu8Jt9dSKFLu28LDevXs9X2qXtGiJj3Yth-cT46g3G8J_gJ8n3MejQxp9cU9jSDTXX9Ba8Chw5widgIEwD7U9lSA9X8K7vKQlCTqIwzVsrx5lYnNxk1yObZ3li4TDMgXj-QOIefk/s640/Rock+Star+FB+header.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Colorado Springs, CO </span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> <span style="color: #9fc5e8;">$150</span></span><br />
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JUNE Series<br />
14th<br />
16th<br />
21st<br />
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Each class held from 5-8 PM<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Email
your registration information to shellee@whitelotusbirthservices.com Additional
class instructions and directions with be sent via private email once
registration has been received. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #9fc5e8;"><span style="font-size: large;">Go <a href="http://howtobirthlikearockstar.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2012-04-13T10:23:00-07:00&max-results=1&start=3&by-date=false">here</a> to register now<span style="font-size: large;">.</span></span></span><br />
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the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-41303672256685652692012-08-06T14:28:00.000-07:002016-05-23T08:03:37.392-07:00utah classes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd0rdXGV5yYJkUBa_0kx46S1r8JKMivpTVKWzI_zqcYj_qNnsSFzaRceVJRBaVZqqvF0kOAYw9_ZJ0p3y4SPoMH3lwKVu1xxtTfaoy7sdHbCdZAjlZZyoMD79rJe-H6I69xCyQ_q317xM/s1600/Rock+Star+FB+header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd0rdXGV5yYJkUBa_0kx46S1r8JKMivpTVKWzI_zqcYj_qNnsSFzaRceVJRBaVZqqvF0kOAYw9_ZJ0p3y4SPoMH3lwKVu1xxtTfaoy7sdHbCdZAjlZZyoMD79rJe-H6I69xCyQ_q317xM/s640/Rock+Star+FB+header.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://s882.photobucket.com/albums/ac30/thelolaletters2/Pregnancy/?action=view&current=_MG_8491.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><br /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">American Fork, Utah <span style="color: #9fc5e8;">$125</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">JUNE</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">23rd</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">28th</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">30th</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Each class held from 7-10 PM </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">AUGUST</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">3rd</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">9th</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">16th</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;">Each class held from 7-10 PM</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">SEPTEMBER</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">8th</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">15th</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">21st</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;">Each class held from 7-10 PM</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">OCTOBER-NOVEMBER</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">20th</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">27th</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">2nd </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: small;">Each class held from 7-10 PM</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Email your registration information to jenmontynelson@gmail.com. Additional class instructions and directions with be sent via private email once registration has been received. </span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #9fc5e8;"><span style="font-size: large;">Go <a href="http://howtobirthlikearockstar.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2012-04-13T10:23:00-07:00&max-results=1&start=3&by-date=false">here</a> to register now<span style="font-size: large;">.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: cyan;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTNSF8dhTYpLbXs3WM_eh3N3dP9Zs_zcF_7Hrih5nCB0DaRTJIDG_3MOFPR63a6hLfIz6r2_Y0g_sMgmCD1R-uwoR3wl504aZEU6XcWu5QxRxKTVHBvI_3-jgkeDXE84SkDWxYct5cHYQ/s1600/because+rockstars+do+it+their+way.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTNSF8dhTYpLbXs3WM_eh3N3dP9Zs_zcF_7Hrih5nCB0DaRTJIDG_3MOFPR63a6hLfIz6r2_Y0g_sMgmCD1R-uwoR3wl504aZEU6XcWu5QxRxKTVHBvI_3-jgkeDXE84SkDWxYct5cHYQ/s640/because+rockstars+do+it+their+way.jpg" width="640" /></a> </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">St. George Rock Star Classes in 2016: Coming Soon</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span> </span></span></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="color: #9fc5e8;"><span style="font-size: large;">Go <a href="http://howtobirthlikearockstar.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2012-04-13T10:23:00-07:00&max-results=1&start=3&by-date=false">here</a> to register now<span style="font-size: large;">.</span></span></span><br />
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the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-64356985297391536092012-04-26T18:00:00.000-07:002016-01-06T08:48:12.043-08:00What does it mean to Birth like a Rock Star?<div style="text-align: center;">
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The mothers I educate and attend to as a doula are all unique, however, while they may come from different walks of life, they all have one thing in common. When they are in those final stages of labor, they are 100% pure, bona-fide Rock Star. It's the title their nurses use to describe them, and the name that goes through my head over and over again as I assist and support them throughout the remarkable process of bringing a new life into the world.</div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc;"><span style="font-size: large;">THIS METHOD OF CHILDBIRTH IS <u><b>NOT</b></u> HYPNOSIS BASED. </span> </span></div>
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<a href="http://s882.photobucket.com/albums/ac30/thelolaletters2/Pregnancy/?action=view&current=_MG_8570.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i882.photobucket.com/albums/ac30/thelolaletters2/Pregnancy/_MG_8570.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
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<span id="yui_3_7_2_21_1353020503490_266" style="color: #7a7a7a;">Image Credit:Ashlee Raubach Photography</span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_21_1353020503490_278">
<a href="http://ashleeraubach.com/" id="yui_3_7_2_21_1353020503490_281" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_7_2_21_1353020503490_280" style="color: #7a7a7a;">www.ashleeraubach.com</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What you will learn in your "How to Birth like a Rock Star" education series:</span><br />
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* Why are we so freaked out? {How cultural influences have skewed the way we view birth.}<br />
* Myth busters!{Like the TV show, only less messy...usually.}<br />
* How the birthing body actually works.<br />
* How you can work WITH your body for a faster, smoother, more empowered birth.<br />
* The power of your mind.<br />
* Eliminating the fear-tension-pain cycle <br />
* Deep relaxation and meditation techniques.<br />
* Affirmations that will re-frame the way you approach your baby's birth.<br />
* Breathing techniques for every stage of labor and birth. <br />
* Nutrition <br />
* Choosing a care provider<br />
*Questions for your Care Provider <br />
* What is a doula, and what exactly does a doula do?<br />
*Doula Interview Questions <br />
* Safeguarding your birth experience.<br />
* The "Back to Square One" model. <br />
* Labor & Birth positions<br />
*Comfort Measures <br />
* Birth companion training.{Techniques and tips for dads and other birth companions to be at their best!}<br />
* Step by step guidance: A simple, daily guide to prepare you {and your body} for success. <br />
* Baby is here...now what?!?! <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Y</span>ou will also receive:</span><br />
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* All of your printed learning materials.<br />
* CD containing: Morning Meditation, Evening Meditation, Awesome Affirmations<br />
* Printed Fear Release Script.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I created this course to:</span><br />
<br />
1. Be more accessible for women, especially
those who decide they want to have a natural birth late in their
pregnancy. Less classes {3, in total} are required to complete the
course, and there is a lot of flexibility in how the classes can be laid
out.<br />
<br />
2. Be FUN.<br />
<br />
3. Be something that<span style="font-size: small;"> the</span>
women of today can relate to. My methods are simple, clear, and precise.
I recognize that there is no ONE right way to give birth. I'll help you navigate through the
myriad choices that lay before you, and help you make the best
choices for YOU. <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">4. Be <span style="font-size: small;">NICE. <span style="font-size: small;">Women <span style="font-size: small;">and mothers are already so hard on themselves. We don't need to add to the stress of daily life by judging one another.<span style="font-size: small;"> This method is founded upon <span style="font-size: small;">evidence-</span>based information, and it is inten<span style="font-size: small;">ded to help mothers <b>decide for themselves</b> what kind of birth experience they want to create.</span></span></span></span></span></span> <span style="font-size: small;">I was recently asked by an expectant mother: "But will yo<span style="font-size: small;">ur
class just make me feel awful about possibly wanting to have an
epidural?" The answer is an emphatic, "NO." While this method is desi<span style="font-size: small;">gned to equip mot<span style="font-size: small;">hers with everything they need to have a <span style="font-size: small;">successful natural birth, it also has great information {e<span style="font-size: small;">specially<span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-size: small;">with</span> regard to post<span style="font-size: small;">-</span>birth choices}for any mother wanting to learn more about what her choices are<span style="font-size: small;">. It's ALL about choices and helping mothers understand that they have them!<span style="font-size: small;"> Healthy<span style="font-size: small;">, empowered mothers and healthy babies are the goal.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">5. Be simple.<span style="font-size: small;"> My information is easy to understand and the game-pla<span style="font-size: small;">n<span style="font-size: small;"> is</span> easy to follow. You will feel con<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">fi</span>dent as your baby's birthday approache<span style="font-size: small;">s knowing that you've been well-prepar<span style="font-size: small;">ed<span style="font-size: small;"> for this beautiful life event.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </span></span><br />
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the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-88526184071098534492012-04-22T20:28:00.000-07:002016-01-06T08:38:28.624-08:00Doula Services<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s882.photobucket.com/albums/ac30/thelolaletters2/Pregnancy/?action=view&current=_MG_8541-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i882.photobucket.com/albums/ac30/thelolaletters2/Pregnancy/_MG_8541-1.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_21_1353020503490_268" style="text-align: center;">
<div id="yui_3_7_2_21_1353020503490_267">
<span id="yui_3_7_2_21_1353020503490_266" style="color: #7a7a7a;">Laura Dugovic </span><br />
<span id="yui_3_7_2_21_1353020503490_266" style="color: #7a7a7a;">Image credit:Ashlee Raubach Photography</span></div>
<div id="yui_3_7_2_21_1353020503490_278">
<a href="http://ashleeraubach.com/" id="yui_3_7_2_21_1353020503490_281" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><span id="yui_3_7_2_21_1353020503490_280" style="color: #7a7a7a;">www.ashleeraubach.com</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="color: cyan;">"If a doula were a drug, it would be unethical not to use it."<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>~John H. Kennell, MD </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="color: cyan;"></span></span> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">What is a doula? </span><br />
<br />
A doula is a trained labor companion. I am trained to give women the support they need in labor. The great part about a trained labor companion is this: I don't work for a hospital, I don't work for a doctor's office, I work for YOU. I work to help you prepare for your birth beforehand, and then, once labor starts, I am there with you every step of the way as you labor to bring your baby into the world. I have completed an intensive and thorough training
course, read several books required by nationally recognized doula
certification institutions, and have completed my certifying births. I love what I do, and I am committed to
safeguarding your birthing experience so that it can be everything you
hope it will be. <br />
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Doulas don't replace the role of dad. They enhance the birth partner relationship and work to serve BOTH parents during this sacred and emotional process.<br />
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You can find a great article about dads and doulas <a href="http://pregnancy.about.com/od/doula1/a/dads-and-doulas.htm">HERE.</a> <br />
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As a professional Labor Companion, I offer the following:<br />
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Emotional / Mental Support</b></div>
<ul type="circle">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 11.25pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">I talk you through each phase of labor.<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 11.25pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>I help you understand where you are in the
process, and what your body is doing.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 11.25pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">Using encouraging words and feedback, I help you
keep perspective and stay on course for the birth you have planned for
yourself.<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 11.25pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"><span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span>I will talk you through relaxation, visualization,
and meditation techniques. Or I will enable your partner to talk you through them.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> I allow your partner to participate at his/her
comfort level</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-right: 11.25pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I stay with you to the end. No matter what.Whether your birth takes 4 hours, or 24 hours, or
48+ hours. I am there for you. Not only am I there for you, but I am HAPPY
to be there for you – regardless of length</span><span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;"> </span></span></li>
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<br />
<b>Physical Support</b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b> </b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>I keep you as comfortable as possible.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>I suggest different positions that you may like
to labor in.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>I use light touch massage to help you feel good.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>I use essential oils, lotions, and massage to
help clear nausea, headaches, and body aches. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>I help give dad/birth companion direction so he/she has clearly
defined avenues to help and serve you best.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>I bring you water, ice chips, food, hot packs,
cold packs, anything you need to increase comfort levels. I also bring dad any of those things and any other thing he might need to feel supported and empowered to be your #1 support.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-indent: 1.5pt;">
<br /></div>
<b>
</b><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Informational Support</b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>I can help you understand what doctors or nurses
are saying when they use medical terminology.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>I am a medical jargon dictionary/decipher-er. </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>I can talk you through the pros and cons of
different choices that need to be made so that you'll have enough information
to make a choice that works for you.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>I will respect and support you in your choices -
whatever they may be.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>I am NOT there to make choices for you or to
pass judgment on any choice you may decide to make, rather, I am there to give
you all the information you need to make the choice that is right for YOU.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>If you say: "I really want to stay the
course and have an unmedicated birth." I will say - "GREAT!"</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>If you say: "I have carefully considered
all of my options, and now I want an epidural." I will say -
"GREAT!" </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Courier New"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Courier New";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">o<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span>If you say: “I really feel the urge to jump up
and down and sing the ABC Song at the top of my lungs.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will say… {Yep, you guessed it.} “GREAT!”
And then I will jump up and down and sing the ABC’s at the top of my lungs with
you. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Because no one should have to do that alone.. </span>It will be awesome.</div>
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<b>Studies have shown that when doulas attend birth, labors are shorter with fewer complications, babies are healthier, and they breastfeed more easily.</b><br />
<br />
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<![endif]--><span style="font-size: large;">Doula Statistics<span style="font-size: large;">:</span></span><br />
<br />
<b><span class="statsHeading">Effects on Birth Outcomes:</span></b>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Labors are 25% shorter.¹</li>
<li>There are fewer complications.</li>
<li>Cesarean rates are reduced by 50%.¹</li>
<li>There is 40% less need for oxytocin to speed up labor.¹</li>
<li>Need for forceps is reduced by 40%.¹</li>
<li>Women request 30% less pain medication and 60% fewer epidurals.¹</li>
</ul>
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2421101713926412989" name="mother"></a><b><span class="statsHeading">Effects on the Mother:</span></b>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Greater satisfaction with their birth experience.</li>
<li>More positive assessments of their babies.</li>
<li>Less postpartum depression.</li>
</ul>
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2421101713926412989" name="baby"></a><b><span class="statsHeading">Effects on the Baby:</span></b>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Babies have shorter hospital stays with fewer admissions to special care nurseries.</li>
<li>Babies breastfeed more easily.</li>
<li>Mothers are more affectionate to their babies postpartum.</li>
</ul>
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2421101713926412989" name="healthCareSystem"></a><b><span class="statsHeading">Effects on the Health Care System:</span></b>
<br />
<ul>
<li>The cost of obstetrical care is dramatically reduced.</li>
<li>Women are pleased with the personalized care doulas offer.</li>
<li>The Benefit of continuous support in labor is recognized by:</li>
<ul>
<li>The World Health Organization</li>
<li>The Medical Leadership Council (an organization of over 1200 U.S. hospitals)</li>
<li>The Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada</li>
</ul>
</ul>
<span class="emphasis"></span> <span class="footnote">¹ <a class="book" href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ISBN=0201632721" target="_blank" title="Review this book at Amazon.com">Mothering the Mother, How a Doula Can Help You Have a Shorter, Easier and Healthier Birth</a>, by Kennell, Klaus, and Kennell (1993)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">I support women living in the greater Las Vegas area.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span>My Doula Services include:</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">1 prenatal
appointment where I get to know you and understand your wishes for your
upcoming birth. </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Birthing positions and pre-birth exercises taught to mom and birth companion. </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Full Doula care
{light touch massage, counter-pressure, etc.} and continuous support
throughout entire birthing {regardless of length}.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> Access to me by cell phone 24/7 in the weeks leading up to your birth.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">A postpartum call, followed by a postpartum visit {and additional visits as needed}.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
Go <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=u792CxDT7cE#!">here</a> to watch a more in-depth docu-video all about doulas. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-66300632873452978312012-04-20T19:13:00.000-07:002012-12-11T13:50:51.107-08:00Resources<span style="font-size: x-large;">Pain vs. Suffering.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
They are two very different things.</div>
Penny Simpkin sums it up perfectly in this video:<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/rlj9ehB-hLc" width="420"></iframe><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Flex born in bed at home. </span><br />
A beautiful example of a calm, confident mother gently bringing baby into the world...and RIGHT onto her chest.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/wp8z29mddU4" width="420"></iframe>the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-73954251114262488142012-04-05T12:08:00.000-07:002016-01-06T13:24:50.283-08:00RegisterTo register, please email the following information to:<br />
<br />
<span style="color: cyan;"> <span style="color: black; font-size: small;">howtobirthlikearockstar@gmail.com</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"> - for Las Vegas Classes</span><br />
<span style="color: cyan; font-size: small;"> <span style="color: black;">howtobirthlikearockstar@gmail.com</span></span><span style="font-size: small;"> - for the webinar series {available nation-wide}</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">jenmontynelson@gmail.com - for Utah Valley Classes</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">1allenkaren@gmail.com - for St. George classes</span><br />
<br />
In the subject line of your email, please specify which class you are registering for.<br />
{i.e.: "Las Vegas Classes" or "Utah Valley Classes" or "St. George Classes"} <br />
<br />
Name:<br />
Name of Birth Partner {if any}: <br />
Phone:<br />
Email:<br />
City/State of Residence:<br />
Name of the class you wish to attend: <br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Dates</span> you wish to attend class: <br />
Due Date:<br />
What number child is this?<br />
Are you planning for a natural birth?<br />
How did you find "How to Birth like a Rock Star?"<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
***Just copy and paste the above questions into the body of your email, fill them in, and send it to the instructor in your area***<span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
<br />
<br />the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-12714887507436507222012-04-04T12:24:00.000-07:002016-01-06T08:29:52.299-08:00las vegas classes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s882.photobucket.com/albums/ac30/thelolaletters2/Pregnancy/?action=view&current=_MG_8491.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i882.photobucket.com/albums/ac30/thelolaletters2/Pregnancy/_MG_8491.jpg" height="640" width="479" /></a></div>
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<span id="yui_3_7_2_21_1353020503490_266" style="color: #7a7a7a;">Ashlee Raubach Photography</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">COMING SOON!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Go <a href="http://howtobirthlikearockstar.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2012-04-13T10:23:00-07:00&max-results=1&start=3&by-date=false">here</a> to register now<span style="font-size: large;">.</span></span><br />
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the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-42069230399136107902012-04-04T12:11:00.000-07:002016-01-06T13:16:42.388-08:00Contact<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s57.photobucket.com/user/ldugovic/media/Dugovic60-Copy2.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo Dugovic60-Copy2.jpg" border="0" src="http://i57.photobucket.com/albums/g233/ldugovic/Dugovic60-Copy2.jpg" height="400" width="302" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Laura Dugovic</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Child Birth Educator</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">Professional L<span style="font-size: small;">a</span>bor Com<span style="font-size: small;">panion</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">801.372.2405</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;">ldugovic@yahoo.com</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Las Vegas, Nevada</span></div>
<br />the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-23177579438619250622012-04-03T11:58:00.000-07:002016-05-23T08:11:43.503-07:00about laura<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYNPGrdbZBtKBmk00Qoir7LAO5l4cAfO28_J2GphZf7LTHCeh-Ye71LrAPQIV2F9OPuBgDptZK_0weuBmdX5vozXB8juxTcwK5Ieedibf-9o8OOx6HgnjIUfiIIgfclEJpAiI-tVSs4dE/s1600/Laura+Web+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYNPGrdbZBtKBmk00Qoir7LAO5l4cAfO28_J2GphZf7LTHCeh-Ye71LrAPQIV2F9OPuBgDptZK_0weuBmdX5vozXB8juxTcwK5Ieedibf-9o8OOx6HgnjIUfiIIgfclEJpAiI-tVSs4dE/s320/Laura+Web+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
Hi, I'm Laura.<br />
<br />
I
developed the ROCKSTAR system of childbirth
because there was nothing like it available in the birth world. I
don't happen to believe that women should have to choose between
preparing for a relaxed, meditative birthing experience, OR preparing
for an active birthing with a well-trained birth companion. It felt dishonest to tell women that their birth would fit a specific mold. <br />
<br />
I thought to myself:<br />
"Wouldn't it be amazing if women were given the opportunity to learn multiple methods and techniques
so that they'd have a wide variety of tools to put in their tool belts?"<br />
<br />
The answer, it turns out, was a resounding "Yes."<br />
<br />
It is amazing, and it continues to be amazing as I watch woman after woman take full ownership of her birth experience.<br />
<br />
You, my friend, happen to be totally and completely unique. And as such, you should have the
opportunity to custom-design a birthing experience tailored to your
individual needs and desires. No judgements. No "shoulds." {"Should" is a swear word in my book.} No belief that I know what's best for you.<br />
<br />
<br />
I don't believe that I know how your birth should go. I do, however, believe that you can take the information I have to offer, and use it, {coupled with your own inherent brilliance} to create a powerful birth experience. Many education courses
are too complicated and time-consuming. Don't get me wrong, you can
never invest too much time and effort in preparing for this amazing time
in your life, However, I wanted my classes to be efficient in teaching
only the very most important fundamentals focused on transforming the way each woman approaches her birth experience.<br />
<br />
Birth
is unpredictable, however, with the right education and training, you will be better prepared to navigate their experiences with greater peace,
joy, and power.<br />
<br />
As for a little bit about me?<br />
<br />
I'm married to a great guy. He does laundry, dishes, and all the dad-things with our kids. He is working his dream job as a character development director at a high school here in Las Vegas. We have 2 boys {ages 12 and 5} and they, too, are some of my favorite people on the planet.<br />
<br />
I hate the cold, and love desert heat. For me, there's no such thing as too much sun. We have a 12-year-old Golden Retriever rescue named "Bubbuh." He is also known round these parts as: "the other man." It would not be an over-statement to say that I am obsessed with him. Bubbuh likes long walks anywhere, naps, and leftover cheesy scrambled eggs in the morning. He also likes to sleep on top of the hubs during lightning storms. So, that's fun.<br />
<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdP0Y7Bzdf-zfNCkQHMeLFLGetXy5yq_VGlsjjvly-ETQ4c4gw6fm0UeXpK21KU0bCmxd3CBvX9TK9xV6eu_NETHuXKQEhuxtcNsti26LY-avTTA7jSNekHBmOwmLJkR_rZkEpaa1pn94/s1600/Laura+Web+5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdP0Y7Bzdf-zfNCkQHMeLFLGetXy5yq_VGlsjjvly-ETQ4c4gw6fm0UeXpK21KU0bCmxd3CBvX9TK9xV6eu_NETHuXKQEhuxtcNsti26LY-avTTA7jSNekHBmOwmLJkR_rZkEpaa1pn94/s320/Laura+Web+5.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5HpNsi514lmz5OV8lRfX2HifhA7r7le2HAUKhNNdLJdZZbxFgf086AAcc_k0zO4G1pXRTuIzkeCozE0EYM_nvmcMrJ_l-gk8Ny5pNimHTMA6IoUteITFiYOxILhP6N0O2LhmG5ZayvF4/s1600/Laura+Web+6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5HpNsi514lmz5OV8lRfX2HifhA7r7le2HAUKhNNdLJdZZbxFgf086AAcc_k0zO4G1pXRTuIzkeCozE0EYM_nvmcMrJ_l-gk8Ny5pNimHTMA6IoUteITFiYOxILhP6N0O2LhmG5ZayvF4/s320/Laura+Web+6.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMJQsff3vXTxgGAOdWQjV3jEL2qUmE2kTd-Jn8PiNHmKY8yPTXVUAXuL1y7hXTYEYuFuZYBfvRdcwQH-MVAoJ0z5LTbWjZgaxx7vTQgtMg-Aq5t_uoY1KPpG-9zB2nCkmi0jzPnJ6Acfg/s1600/Laura+Web+7.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMJQsff3vXTxgGAOdWQjV3jEL2qUmE2kTd-Jn8PiNHmKY8yPTXVUAXuL1y7hXTYEYuFuZYBfvRdcwQH-MVAoJ0z5LTbWjZgaxx7vTQgtMg-Aq5t_uoY1KPpG-9zB2nCkmi0jzPnJ6Acfg/s320/Laura+Web+7.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkZbmsm7eqlJJjo_xxlj_8klnz4Vug88PohZLOSy2LwMvjZY12R5mkKIzUsdsQ20GVDwExOUUaY-Jx-dkfkLTz8GHGiJ9ptvvCTqinkSMmGdipkxhEgld0kaaCdWYQQb8LkwrvjO6ciGk/s1600/Laura+Web+4.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkZbmsm7eqlJJjo_xxlj_8klnz4Vug88PohZLOSy2LwMvjZY12R5mkKIzUsdsQ20GVDwExOUUaY-Jx-dkfkLTz8GHGiJ9ptvvCTqinkSMmGdipkxhEgld0kaaCdWYQQb8LkwrvjO6ciGk/s320/Laura+Web+4.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqubLA8wndwvgE-RppRw9M4n_BlGJ6ekkApIZuMaq7Tsui4m7XQMpXLmmpsp00rMCs3bxFznjXxWjSNyHIzSDXLsFMz11MPXAOGbf3os4et1c2NYXWAfAZxd9gV3GrbxHqvR-0udz8-5M/s1600/Laura+Web+3.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqubLA8wndwvgE-RppRw9M4n_BlGJ6ekkApIZuMaq7Tsui4m7XQMpXLmmpsp00rMCs3bxFznjXxWjSNyHIzSDXLsFMz11MPXAOGbf3os4et1c2NYXWAfAZxd9gV3GrbxHqvR-0udz8-5M/s320/Laura+Web+3.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTbbyr5UPmputQskxFXkJ6Ki6_5SlsWmrHAFD64sz7rqhtumnht4CKqZ-xr0DJwF_hXzMrLkOwLcc5R-b0-TfvcejSsfGXJX6gD6NerN3kIL01CB6Q7N-8gc9d9jjO5WylxZ6kEngKunc/s1600/Laura+Web+2.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTbbyr5UPmputQskxFXkJ6Ki6_5SlsWmrHAFD64sz7rqhtumnht4CKqZ-xr0DJwF_hXzMrLkOwLcc5R-b0-TfvcejSsfGXJX6gD6NerN3kIL01CB6Q7N-8gc9d9jjO5WylxZ6kEngKunc/s320/Laura+Web+2.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYNPGrdbZBtKBmk00Qoir7LAO5l4cAfO28_J2GphZf7LTHCeh-Ye71LrAPQIV2F9OPuBgDptZK_0weuBmdX5vozXB8juxTcwK5Ieedibf-9o8OOx6HgnjIUfiIIgfclEJpAiI-tVSs4dE/s1600/Laura+Web+1.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a></div>
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the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-81305958335337301452012-04-02T13:00:00.000-07:002012-04-27T18:44:35.291-07:00Tennyson's Birth Video<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/vT4CjpfRpgE" width="420"></iframe>the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-24652521885061968782012-04-02T12:59:00.000-07:002012-04-27T13:01:08.299-07:00Tennyson's Birth StoryTennysonthe Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-3191741607987051892012-04-02T12:29:00.000-07:002013-01-31T23:14:08.563-08:00Kortland's Birth Story<a href="http://s882.photobucket.com/albums/ac30/thelolaletters2/Pregnancy/?action=view&current=_MG_8564-Edit_30x40_CGW.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i882.photobucket.com/albums/ac30/thelolaletters2/Pregnancy/_MG_8564-Edit_30x40_CGW.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
When I learned that we were expecting our first, I was thrilled. About a week after taking a positive test, I was cleaning the living room of our one-bedroom apartment in a one hundred year old house when I was overwhelmed with the distinct, and very clear thought: "I don't want to be numb during this experience."<br />
<br />
I was a little surprised by it.<br />
<br />
So far as I knew, my mother had always had epidurals. And why wouldn't she? Why would a woman choose to feel any pain or discomfort if she could avoid it? I didn't have an answer. But the feeling persisted, and strangely enough, I started to get very excited. <br />
<br />
So I started doing some online research. And I got even more excited. Then, I found Hypnobirthing, and I knew in an instant that it was the vehicle I was supposed to use to accomplish my goal of having an unmedicated birth. My husband, who was terrified by the idea of a needle puncturing my spine, gladly jumped on board with me. It probably helped that he had been born at home {in California} on a TWISTER mat, no less, some 25 years earlier, and that his mother had delivered dozens of babies as a lay-midwife and Lamaze instructor for decades.<br />
<br />
As we attended our Hypnobirthing classes, our excitement grew. I awoke every Saturday morning like a child at Christmas, incredibly eager to get to class and absorb more knowledge, more truth about the amazing capabilities of my body. The information taught during the course resonated with every fiber of my being, and I knew, deep within, that for the first time in my life, I was hearing birthing truths instead of being told stories that perpetuated birthing fear and drama. <br />
<br />
I was keenly aware of the fact that I had never done this before, and that I had no idea as to what I was getting into, but beneath the few waves of doubt, there was an infinitely more powerful body of peace. A place where I knew inherently that my body was perfectly designed to do this. <br />
<br />
As the day of our son's birth neared, we grew ever more confident and excited. I practiced with my relaxation tapes every day. I listened to birth affirmations whenever I drove my car. I felt like "Rocky" jogging a snowy, mental mountain, preparing for one of the greatest events of my life.<br />
<br />
We went on a really fun {local} family vacation to Aspen Grove {up above Sundance}during my 38th week of gestation. During this time, I ate A LOT, relaxed, and enjoyed time with my family. Upon returning {a short 20 miles}back home, my husband left for a two day business trip, and I went to my 39 week check up with my midwife, Sarah.<br />
<br />
I weighed in, gave my urine sample, and had my belly measured. And Sarah said. "Hm. That's measuring a little small, let me try that again." So she measured again. Then she looked at my chart. Then she measured again.And then she looked at my chart. She then explained to me that my stomach had shrunk more than two centimeters. She said that sometimes this was normal, and sometimes this was a signal that something might be amiss.<br />
<br />
She ordered a non-stress test and ultrasound. The non-stress test indicated that we were facing some special circumstances, and that it was time for baby to come out. <br />
<br />
I was heart-broken. All of my hard work and preparation seemed to go down the drain in a split second. My Hypnobirthing instructor recommended that we avoid artificial induction whenever possible, {a sentiment that I absolutely agree with} and now it wasn't feeling like we had much of a choice.<br />
<br />
In this moment, I was supremely grateful that I had chosen to birth with a midwifery practice who avoided interventions whenever possible. Because of our shared belief in avoiding medical interventions, I could trust my midwife when she recommended that we induce.<br />
<br />
I knew that she would never recommend it for her convenience or for mine, so I felt peaceful and confident in making the decision to go ahead with her advice.<br />
<br />
I think that it is vitally important that other women take this into consideration when choosing their care providers. Choose someone who wholeheartedly agrees with your birth philosophy and preferences, and if you have any indication that your wishes will not be respected, high-tail it to a practitioner where you know your wishes WILL be honored!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://s882.photobucket.com/albums/ac30/thelolaletters2/Ten%20Birth/?action=view&current=P1570318-Copy.jpg" target="_blank"></a> We checked into the hospital, got settled in, and then Sarah {my midwife} said something I will never forget. She said: <i>"You can still have <u>exactly</u> the birth that you want." </i><br />
<br />
And I believed her.<br />
<br />
A few short hours later, I was almost fully dilated. My contractions were powerful, lasting 90 seconds or more, but the affirmations I had played over and over and over in the months leading up to the birth really paid off! I felt like the contractions were 1/3 the length that they actually were. Each time a contraction would start, I would close my eyes and drop into a deep state of relaxation, and breathe as deeply and slowly as my body would allow.When each contraction ended, I sat up and conversed casually with my husband and mom.<br />
<br />
Then, a really huge contractions started up. It was bigger than any I had felt up to that point. It was almost completely overwhelming. It shook my resolve. I got nervous and started second guessing myself. Thne another one came, and it was equally huge and overpowering. Then then came the fear. "What if I was wrong?" I thought. "What if I really can't do this?"<br />
<br />
The moment that I let fear creep in, I immediately felt tension settle into my shoulders and back. My legs started trembling from the residual shock of the contractions, and I felt like I wanted to cry. All I could think was: <i>What if these last forever? </i> I looked at the hubs with "deer-in-the-headlights-panic in my eyes, and said "I don't know if I can do this!"<br />
<br />
He held my hands tightly, looked straight into my eyes and didn't say a word. {Smart man.}His look said it all though. He had complete faith in me. Then, I looked over at my mom.<br />
<br />
Her eyes were full of tears.<br />
<br />
I asked her what was wrong, and she said:<br />
"I can feel him. He is so close, and I can literally feel him coming to us."<br />
<br />
The fear left me in that moment, and the room was flooded with love, light, and faith. My eyes filled with tears, and I looked at my husband to find that his eyes were filled too. Love and faith are the perfect antidote for fear. They obliterated it instantly. I had renewed faith in my birthing body, and that faith carried me away from fear and anxiety, to a place of peace and positive expectation. <br />
<br />
The rest of the birthing was filled with joy as our baby descended down the birth path and into our arms.<br />
<br />
My midwife allowed me to deliver Kortland on my own. Once his head was out, his shoulders came too, and I scooped my hands underneath his arm pits, and lifted him to my chest in one easy motion.<br />
<br />
It was a defining moment in my life.<br />
<br />
I turned to the hubs, with tears in my eyes, and said:<br />
"I am just so, so sad that you will never fully know what this feels like!"<br />
<br />
I felt so lucky to have been able to be part of that sacred moment, and I found myself thinking that I couldn't wait to do it again...little did I know, that would be MUCH more difficult than either of us had anticipated! But, after dealing with nearly 6 years of secondary infertility, we found ourselves on the baby train once again!<br />
<br />
You can read <a href="http://thelolaletters.blogspot.com/2009/12/pregnancy-journal-december.html"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #e69138;">Tennyson's Pregnancy Journal</span></span></a> or watch <span style="color: #e69138; font-size: large;"><a href="http://thebeautyofbeingborn.blogspot.com/2012/04/tennysons-birht-video.html" style="color: #e69138;">Tennyson's Birth Video</a> </span>to learn more.the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-7306896490239000592012-03-31T13:42:00.000-07:002012-04-27T13:43:05.862-07:00Tennyson's Pregnancy Journal<div align="center">
<span style="font-size: 180%;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is an excerpt from my other blog {the Lola Letters}. It is a series of journal entries leading up to a Christmas pregnancy announcement made to my family after five {almost six} years of infertility. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 180%;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 180%;">Kay, so, I had to keep this secret for a whole month. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 180%;">A WHOLE MONTH I TELL YA!</span> </div>
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And
it was nothing short of physically PAINFUL! So, I kept this journal
(below) in hopes of keeping my sanity, and it worked...eh, sort of. I
was still pretty nutty come Christmas! I couldn't talk to you, so I
talked to my laptop (like, quite a lot) . Feel free to read it what we
(meaning me and my laptop) talked about. Also feel free to disregard
this part altogether. There will not be a quiz next time you see me!
Love to you all.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim5R_03EhDtXO5DUDwJiYe2J0C868e1uCBWtsr6wpNnm9GI27zDZMOg589fgXw9zzA_0ed6umKVqlWYmJd7lQFDqJaR4clhTIOcyeNUDiGobOa8DS3MaEU2b96p0JcEfr2h28nGTrYZCwb/s1600-h/P1480213.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420119953795411202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim5R_03EhDtXO5DUDwJiYe2J0C868e1uCBWtsr6wpNnm9GI27zDZMOg589fgXw9zzA_0ed6umKVqlWYmJd7lQFDqJaR4clhTIOcyeNUDiGobOa8DS3MaEU2b96p0JcEfr2h28nGTrYZCwb/s400/P1480213.JPG" style="cursor: hand; height: 300px; width: 400px;" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 24pt; line-height: 115%;">December 2<sup>nd</sup> 2009 * 11:05 a.m.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I
am at a loss for words. All morning I have thought to myself: “Laura,
you need to write down your thoughts and feelings. You need to express
gratitude. You need to…document this dang it!” But I haven’t been able
to find the words. So I guess I just have to start writing (and
rambling) and maybe the indescribable feelings of joy, gratitude, shock,
awe, joy, joy, joy, and more joy, will manage to convey themselves
somehow as I go along. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Last
night, at 7:00, after we put up the Christmas tree as a family, I had a
headache. I had had one all day long, but didn’t want to take anything.
Why? Because it was “that time of the month” and I hadn’t “started”
yet, and I really like to get all sorts of hopeful and careful whenever I
am a day or two (or seven) late because maybe…just maybe…there is a
tiny little miracle baby residing in my tummy that will opt to split
(a.k.a. blow this joint) the very moment I send toxic Ibuprofen, or
Tylenol, or, I don’t know, one too many spicy chili cheese fries into
his/her sacred, alkaline habitat.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The
hubs said I should take some headache meds. I, (feeling delusional,
just like I always feel at the end of every cyclical month) said “not
without a pregnancy test.” The hubs smiled, got in the car, and went out
to buy a pregnancy test. (Okay, he actually didn’t buy A </span><span style="font-family: 'Georgia', 'serif'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">–</span><span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">
as in one - pregnancy test, he bought four . That’s right, f.o.u.r.
That way he wouldn’t have to head out into the cold night to get another
test next month when his headachy wife was, again, refusing to take
ibuprofen.) He also picked up two, (count ‘em t.w.o.) deeelicious Papa
Murphy’s Take and Bake Pizzas, while he was at it. (Oh, how I love that
man of mine…) So, when he got home, we threw the pizza into the
pre-heated oven, and sat down at the table where he promptly slid the
Test Kit over to me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“After dinner,” I said, “I’m starving.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">This
is another fun “quirk” I’ve developed during the years and years we
have struggled to have a baby. I don’t like pregnancy tests. I rarely
like what they have to say to me. Of the dozens and dozens of pregnancy
tests I have taken in the last 6 </span><span style="font-family: 'Georgia', 'serif'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">½</span><span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">
years, have only liked ONE of them. This is because that particular
test told me that Kortland was on his way, and sure enough, 36 weeks
later, a healthy baby boy came into the world and changed our lives
forever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since then, all pregnancy tests have given me is bad news.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">After
three pieces of pizza (eaten as slowly as humanly possible) I drag my
feet all the way to the bathroom. Part of me wants to know what’s going
on in black and white (or in this case pink or not pink), but an even
bigger part of me just wants to go on thinking about how great it would
be for another 10 minutes, or hour, or day, or, I don’t know, 9 months.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
don’t know why I like to torture myself, but I do. When I am a day
late, I lay in bed that whole morning and think about tiny hands and
little wrinkled feet, and big, grey eyes staring up at me for the very
first time as if to say “Hi mom, I’m so happy to finally meet you.” the
way that Kortland’s eyes did on the day he was born. And I imagine a
time where I will be all sorts of exhausted from the labor, yet so full
of life and I will say to this sweet baby “Where have you been?!” </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I
know that any sane person would want to just rip the band aid off and
get it over with, but if you’ve ever known a woman who has struggled
with any form of infertility for years on end, you’ll know we’re not
exactly the sanest bunch on the vine…to put it mildly. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I
dragged myself into the bathroom and peed into a Dixie cup (you really
wanted to hear about that part I know…) and took the dropper from the
little dollar store test. (HECK YES <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
USE DOLLAR STORE TESTS! It’s bad enough to have some heartless little
pee stick tell you that you’re not pregnant as it is, but knowing that I
just paid $14.95 to be told that my dreams are dead for the 52<sup>nd</sup>
time since we started “trying” is more than I can humanly bear. If I’m
going to pay $14.95 for a pee stick, it dang well better be able to tuck
me into bed, bring me a bowl of ice cream, and rub my feet until I feel
like I can face the world again!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">But, I digress…</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">So, I take the dropper, draw up the pee (you’re welcome) and drop 4 drops of it onto the pee stick.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As
I watch the liquid (a.k.a. pee, you’re welcome again) absorb along the
stick, I immediately see that only one of the “two lines if you’re
pregnant” lines is darkening. I walk over to my bed, get in it, and
start to sulk. I pull my laptop onto my lap and start returning emails,
and then the hubs comes in and says, “Well?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">And I say: “I’m not pregnant. Bring on the Ibuprofen!”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">He
walks into the bathroom to look at the test. He is in there for a long
time. He looks at the test, and then the box, and then the test again. I
am getting annoyed. Why doesn’t he drop it already and come turn on a
funny show so I can forget about the pregnancy test that I’ve just
failed for the 52<sup>nd</sup> time?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Then he asks me: “So, does one line mean you’re not pregnant?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Me: (even more annoyed) “Yup.”<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Then
he walks up to me and holds up the test. He is smiling, and clearly in
some form of shock. I look at the test. There are two lines. Two, very
dark, very distinct lines.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">And then it goes something like this:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The hubs holds the test up for everyone (i.e: me…him) to see and see again. He is definitely in shock. Definitely. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“You’re pregnant.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“I don’t believe it.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“You are. You’re pregnant.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“I don’t believe it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“Two lines.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“I
don’t believe it.”I need to call Abby. I need to get blood tests done.
(Staring at the test. Yep, two lines.)I need to call Abby and see if I
should still be taking the Metformin. I don’t believe it. I don’t
believe it. I won’t believe it until I see the blood tests. Maybe that
test is wrong. (still staring at the test) Do the vitamins you’ve been
giving me have lots of folic acid? I need to call Abby and get some
blood tests. And I need to pee on another stick. I don’t believe this
pee stick. What if it’s an evil pee stick and it just wants to ruin my
Christmas? I need to see if my hormone levels are okay…I need a blood
test. I need to……..” </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Covers
face with both hands, cue uncontrollable sobbing as the shock wears off
and reality (well, some kind of parallel universe/bizzaro-world reality
where my body is actually capable of growing another human being again)
sets in. Sobbing. Hands over my face sobbing. Stand up. Hug Kyle. My
sweet, amazing, trooper of a husband, Kyle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
we cry together. (He cries in a really manly way though…just the ever
so slight glisten in the eyes and such… you know the kind..the way manly
kind for sure) Then I say.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“Oh my gosh, you knew I was pregnant before I did! That is so weird!”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Then
we rambled about it for a moment, then put Kort to bed (not daring to
tell him anything, of course. Not until later when we know more, and
feel 1 million percent more secure about the whole thing) and then sat
in bed in a daze, totally overwhelmed, a million different things going
through our heads. Wow. This is insane. I hardly slept at all last
night. I would wake up and think, “Did that really happen? Was I
dreaming?” Then I would look at the Pregnancy Test. The hubs had propped
it up on my dresser for the world (okay, just us) to see. It stared
back at me at 2:00 and at 3:00 and at 4:00 and at 5:00 in the morning. A
beacon of hope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A lovely little
plastic statue that reassured me saying: “No, you’re not crazy, that
just happened. That seriously just happened. Look at me, I have 2 lines.
Two. Lines. Not one, two. It’s really real. There’s a baby in there” to
me over and over again, and many times as I needed it to. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">WARNING:
“Two Pink Line Joy” (aka T.P.L.J.) may cause random, unexplained side-
effects such as excessive crying, excessive praying, excessive eating of
almonds and other foods believed to be high in fiber, protein, or folic
acid, and also the firm belief that a plastic dollar store pee stick is
talking to you at three o clock in the morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(…..or maybe that’s just me.)</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">So,
I woke up at six and laid there in bed, saying a prayer of gratitude.
It was a really, really long prayer (that begged Heavenly Father to let
me keep this baby and said thank you, thank you, thank you, I am so
happy…) and I guess I fell back asleep while praying. (Oooops, in my
defense, I was deliriously exhausted.)Then I woke up at nine and started
praying again. (Same prayer, maybe a little longer, with more emphasis
on the “thank you thank you thank you” portion of it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Then
I ate sliced apples with peanut butter and a huge bowl of raw almonds.
And no, I never eat like that, but now things are different. The hubs
didn’t have to remind me to take my vitamins (like, 12 times before
nightfall) and I ate a huge bowl of organic oatmeal with fresh
blueberries two hours after eating the apples and almonds. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I
feel alive. My body feels sacred and special. I have called my nurse
midwife’s office like, 20 times today, so I could talk to the brilliant
midwife who put me on Metformin in the first place, and when I <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">finally</i>
got someone on the line, they told me that she was delivering babies
today and could not be reached. So I spilled my guts out to the girl on
the line about how we had been trying for 4 </span><span style="font-family: 'Georgia', 'serif'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">½</span><span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">
years with no luck and that Abby had recently put me on Metformin and
that now I just took my first positive pregnancy test in over four years
and I really needed a blood test… and the girl on the other end got so
excited. It shocked me. She said “Oh my gosh! That is so great for you!
Congratulations!” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">And
I almost started crying again because it felt like I was talking to one
of my best friends (who I desperately want to call right now, by the
way, but can’t until Christmas because it’s just TOO close to Christmas
to announce it any other way…ya know?) I keep picking up the phone to
dial my mom, because I feel like I’m going to burst, but I can’t bear
the thought of telling her and then losing the baby. It would kill her,
and me, and it is just too hard…I even would like to hear a heart beat
first, if at all possible, before making some grand announcement). The
girl on the line said that she would put a message through to one of the
nurse practitioners right away and they could order blood tests for me
(hopefully today) so I am waiting….and waiting…and feeling like I want
to call everyone I know before I explode into a million unrecognizable
pieces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 24pt; line-height: 115%;">December 2, 2009 4:32 p.m.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Just
heard back from my midwife’s fertility specialist. They are all very
excited! (Thank heaven, someone to be excited with while I wait for the
day when I will get to tell my family!) They say that based on my
previous history, they won’t need to do a blood test to check my levels
just yet. They prescribed Progesterone for me to start taking
immediately and said that I need to continue taking the Metformin until
12 weeks gestation. Metformin already makes me super sick and barfy, I
can only imagine how much fun it will be when coupled with full blown
first trimester morning sickness. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Q. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is Laura complaining? (You may wonder…)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">A. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Heck
no! You can cut off my dang arm and gouge out an eyeball if it means
that I get to keep this baby! You won’t hear me complain. I will cherish
every single visit to the toilet bowl, and I will smile with glee each
time I absentmindedly put a gallon of milk in the oven and find it there
(via my highly sensitive pregnant sniffer) three days later.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I’m
really frustrated that they aren’t telling me to come down for blood
tests. Mostly because I think that if I could just do SOMETHING, I
wouldn’t feel so helpless and out of control. There is a tiny baby
embryo thingamajig growing here inside of me, and there is nothing I can
do to make it stay. (Well, besides eat spinach, and soybeans, and
oranges, and liver, etc until I want to vomit… and pray, pray, pray…) <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I feel so helpless, but now is the time to put my trust in God and let this go. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 24pt; line-height: 115%;">December 2, 2009 7:52</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Well,
I’m already having pregnancy space-out moments. I put some butter on
the stove top to melt and left it there on high WITH a plastic stirring
spoon sitting inside the pot while I helped Kortland brush his teeth and
say his prayers. I also left it there, melting, and smoking on HIGH
while I snuggled with Kort, examined his eye 3 times (I’m thinking he
might have pink eye) and turned on his DuckTales DVD. Then I went to my
room to lay down. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Luckily,
just as I closed my bedroom door, I remembered that I had forgotten to
put away the roasted sweet potatoes I had made to go with a spinach
salad (both of which I didn’t end up eating because I was too nauseous).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So,
I went into the kitchen to put away the sweet potatoes, and as I passed
the hall closet, I heard a “puff” or “whoosh” sound. I don’t know how
else to explain it. It’s the sound that objects generally make when they
burst into flames. That sound. And I walked in to find a plastic spoon
on flaming fire on the stove top and the kitchen was filled with black
smoke. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The
dogs just about peed themselves. They didn’t know what to do. They ran
around the kitchen and down the hallway in a panicked frenzy. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
calmly picked up the flaming pot and set it outside on the deck. The
dogs followed me out and ran around the pot, wincing, and dodging like
little nutters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then I filled up
a cup of water in the kitchen and sloshed it onto the flames. They
exploded upward (butter…grease… ya know, grease fire?) then died off
completely. Delightful. This is going to be an expensive pregnancy, I
can already tell.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 24pt; line-height: 115%;">December 2, 2009 10:57 p.m.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I
am in bed now. We just discovered that Kortland has Pink Eye, and he is
freaking. So much goop is coming out of his eye, it is sending him into
a near panic attack. I am so sick and nauseous, I hardly know what to
do with myself, and I am so excited it’s a bit ridiculous. I wish I
could tell Kortland that he is going to be a big brother. He is so sad
and stressed out, and I know that the good news would help take his mind
off of the chaos that inevitably comes with super-boogery eye balls.
Two weeks ago he said to me: “Mom, we really need to start praying even
harder and harder for a baby, you know why?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">And I said, “Why?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“Because I would make a really great big brother.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I
wanted to bawl when he said this to me, because of all the things in
the world I can give him, a baby isn’t one of them. Not on my terms, or
at the drop of a hat anyway… and now, we’re having a baby. I still can’t
believe it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">He really is going to make one heck of a great big brother.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 24pt; line-height: 115%;">December 3, 2009 5:30 p.m.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I
was out and about all day today. I felt tired, and a bit nauseous, but
it was nothing like how sick I got to feeling last night. It is so nice
to note all of the symptoms as they show up. I feel just the way that I
did when I was pregnant with Kort. Sick, tired, sore, peeing
non-stop…and it is oh so comforting. My body is doing what it’s supposed
to do. It’s such a miracle to me. The Metformin mixed in with early
pregnancy is definitely going to kick my booty, but that’s okay.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I
met Jen and Lisa for lunch today, and thought I was going to die. How
do you keep from telling some of the happiest news of your entire life
to some of the most important friends of your entire life? (answer: I
have no idea, but I somehow managed to do it.) Jen is about to pop (in
the most lovely, fabulous way possible) as she is due in 3 days. Lisa is
20 minutes late and glowing. I suspect she had a difficult time tearing
herself away from the love of her life for a whole hour. This thrills
me to no end. My Lisa… finally happy, finally in love. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I
sat at the table, ready to burst. All I could think was: “Does life get
any better than this?” Lisa’s in love and talking about reception
venues and champagne colored gowns, and Jen is going to have a baby any
day now, maybe any minute… if she goes with an extra spicy pasta…. Lisa
and Jen shared a booth bench and I sat across from them (I have a sore
throat that I didn’t necessarily want to share with these lovely
ladies). Jen’s baby got all sorts of wiggly once the thin crust pizza
made its way through his umbilical cord, and Lisa leaned next to Jen and
cradled her tummy, smiling, cooing, eyes sparkling as baby just kicked
and kicked and kicked at her hands.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">It was a sight to behold.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I said: “I am taking mental pictures right now. I never want to forget this moment.” </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Jen
pregnant, glowing. Lisa, smiling, in love. Me, bursting with so much
joy I hardly know what to do with myself… And then we were crying. Don’t
worry Oprah, (who is totally an avid follower of my blog, by the way,
obviously) it wasn’t an “ugly cry” or anything like that, just the
misty, joy-filled tears of three friends exchanging glances and smiles
in silence and knowing all too well that these moments come and go so
quickly that we need to stop and relish them while they’re here.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 24pt; line-height: 115%;">December 3, 2009 7:30 p.m.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Kortland
is not lovin’ his eye drops. No sirree bob. He shudders and shivers and
blinks way too much, and says “Wait! Wait! Wait!” (really fast
together) . Then, when the drop hits the eye, he screams. “Oh the
buuuurning!” Really, I think he just thinks that it’s weird and he
doesn’t like it, but what do I know. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Last
night I googled “conjunctivitis and pregnancy” because I wanted to know
if I should be worried should Kort’s slimy, highly contagious eyeball
disease spread to me… The hubs came into the bedroom and saw what I was
reading and had a good laugh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Are you going to google everything?” he asked. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Probably.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 24pt; line-height: 115%;">December 4, 2009 11:49 a.m.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Wow, they weren’t kidding about the lots of peeing and lots of sleeping stuff!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
fell asleep last night at 9:30 on the dot and woke up (for good,
anyway) just after 11:00. I got up to pee twice though. (I know you
wanted to know that. You’re welcome…again.) Upon waking up, I realized
that I had fallen asleep before I’d taken my progesterone pill and I
sort of freaked. I got up (9-ish) and took the progesterone pill, and
got back into bed, and worried…then I firmly accepted that I was going
to have to live from a place of faith (rather than fear) and fell back
to sleep. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I
get the feeling that I’m going to have to “firmly accept” this
principle several times a day, but that’s okay too. I’m only human. It
will be more than worth my while to remember this daily because I am
only at peace when I accept that Heavenly Father is in control, and that
he loves me. That second part is the most important. He is not a cruel
Father, and he does not want his children to suffer needlessly. Every
tragedy, challenge, and trial will be for my good if I allow it to shape
me. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is not a hair on my
head that He has not accounted for, and whatever the outcome, I hope
that I can have comfort in knowing that it is His will for me. I’ve had
to accept this during the past 4 </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', 'serif'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">½</span><span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> years as we’ve waited (and waited and waited and waited). And whenever I have, it has brought me peace. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I
have come to some pretty profound conclusions about myself throughout
this process of waiting as well. Most importantly, I’ve come to know and
understand that: </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“It’s not all about me.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>ha ha! Fancy that. Maybe this baby has his or her own destiny. (crazy, right?) Maybe he or she was meant to be born on August 8<sup>th</sup>
2010 and NOT April 11, 2005 (the time he or she would have been born
had Kyle and I had our way). And that makes sense. 5 years would make a
huge difference for anyone. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Would you be married to the person you married if you had been born 5 years earlier? (probably not).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Would
you have the same friends? Definitely not. (…well, not unless you are a
high school senior who likes to run with a crowd of ultra hip 7<sup>th</sup> graders…) </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">When</span></u></b><span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">
we are born has a lot to do with who eventually become, and, when you
really think about it, it’s pretty crazy for me to think that I know
when that should be for my children. I can’t see the end from the
beginning, and the second I accepted that the world didn’t revolve
around me and that I didn’t know everything… I could have peace in my
life and began to function as a contributing member of society again. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">That doesn’t mean that it didn’t hurt sometimes (okay, MOST of the time).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">That doesn’t mean that I didn’t ache to have a car full of unruly, sassy children driving me 3 shakes south of batty either.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">It
just means that I was able to find SOME semblance of peace amidst the
raging storm inside of me. And that was enough… if I let it be.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">So,
here I am again. Finding my footing. Finding my faith. Choosing to live
from a place of trust and joy (and finding that I have to make this
“choice” almost hourly…wow. Here we go!). <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 24pt; line-height: 115%;">December 6, 2009 3:03 p.m.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Today
is Sunday. I wasn’t prepared for how overwhelmed I would feel as I
attended church with Kyle and Kort. I have had a deep and sincere desire
to (in the words of our beloved President Hinckley) “stand a little
taller” these days, and that included arriving for sacrament meeting 15
minutes early. (ambitious, I know) It was wonderfully rewarding. No
yelling, no bad feelings, no stress as we struggled to get out the door
and into the chapel before the entire 1st meeting was over… We left at
10:35 and when Kort took a little extra time to make footprints in the
snow as we walked into the church, we didn’t freak out…because we had <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">time!</b> Everyone was happier. Oh what a difference 15 minutes can make! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Anyway,
the opening song was “I Believe in Christ” which was written by Bruce
R. McConkie and is one of my favorite hymns. My heart swelled as I sang
those sacred words and I kept needing to stop and breathe…and try to
calm down so I could keep singing, but then we hit the last verse, which
says: </span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN';">I believe in Christ; he stands supreme!<br />From him I’ll gain my fondest dream;<br /><u>And while I strive through grief and pain,<br />His voice is heard: “Ye shall obtain.”</u>I believe in Christ; so come what may,<br />With him I’ll stand in that great day<br />When on this earth he comes again<br />To rule among the sons of men.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">When
I got to the part that I have underlined up above, I completely lost
it. My heart was so full. To realize the truthfulness of this beautiful
statement in my own life was too much for me. Kort snuggled into me and
asked why I was crying and I told him that it was because I loved my
family so much. And that’s true. I love him. I love Kyle. I love my
parents and in-laws (who I am SO EXCITED to share this news with!) and I
love this little baby growing inside of me. We have all waited for so
long, and all of the love that I’ve been waiting and waiting to give to
this child must have been secretly building up somewhere inside of me,
because now it is spilling out of me in a way that can only be described
as spiritual bliss with no end in sight. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I
can’t sleep at night. I just lay there, head spinning. I think mostly
about the birth. That’s the part I am most excited about. Kortland’s
birth was extraordinary. I have been aching to experience it again. I
remember that there was a while there, during Kort’s delivery, where my
contractions were so intense, I wasn’t sure I could do it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
had been so sure of my decision to have a “no epidural” birth, so
adamant, so confident, so excited, and now, I was wavering. I didn’t
know how much I could reasonably handle. My body trembled after each 90
second contraction, and I found that I had less than 30 seconds to
recover before the next one enveloped me. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">After
breathing through the most intense contraction yet, I looked up at
Kyle, fear in my eyes, and I said “I don’t know if I can do this.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then I looked at my mom, worried that this confession would upset her </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', 'serif'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">–</span><span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">
my protective, sweet mama-bear who would do anything to keep her own
baby from suffering. But she wasn’t upset. Her face was calm. Her eyes
were smiling, full of tears.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“I can feel his little spirit.” She said. “He’s so close, and he’s so excited.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Then
my eyes were full of tears. So were Kyle’s. The fear immediately
dissipated in the presence of truth and light and there was nothing but
joy. It was the most intensely beautiful feeling of peace I have ever
experienced. Then Kortland was here, and he was so beautiful. He didn’t
cry. He just looked up at me with wide, black eyes, excited to see the
face of the woman he had been living in. I held him there on my chest
for a full hour. Nobody bother us. It was just our little family,
getting to reacquainted after spending 23 (me) and 25 (Kyle) earth years
apart. I can’t wait to do it again. Cannot wait. (Can you blame me?)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 24pt; line-height: 115%;">December 18, 2009 2:47 p.m.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">So…
haven’t written in awhile. I think I’ve been avoiding the journaling
process in hopes of making all this time go by a little faster, and I
think that it has actually worked! (Well, a little.)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The
day after the entry above, (on Monday the 7th) we had a little crisis. I
got pretty achy and crampy later in the day on Sunday, but I felt like
it was probably just part growing pains and part standing on my feet (on
and off) for 2 hours to lead the singing in Primary. I got in bed for
the rest of the evening and rested “just in case” I was over-doing it
and my body needed some extra TLC. So, the next morning, I got up to
take Kort to school and I had pretty bad pain on my left side. The best
way I can describe it is like a sharp, repetitive “ping, ping, ping…”
Not good. I got Kort out the door and off to school and climbed back in
bed to see if it would help. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Nope.
In fact, it felt worse. I got back up and called the midwives. I had
never felt anything like this when I was pregnant with Kort, so I knew
something was wrong. When I described my symptoms, they wanted to see me
right away, fearing that I was having an ectopic (tubal) pregnancy. I
did not take this well. Wow. So I go and wake Kyle up (in tears) and
tell him the situation. I am so sad. Not only will I not get a baby out
of this deal, I will also get MORE unwelcome damage to my reproductive
organs! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Nice. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Great. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Fan-tasic.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I want to die. I want to scream. But mostly, I want to cry and cry and cry. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">As
we drove the 30 minutes (through a blizzard) on the freeway to my
doctor’s office, this is how my one-sided conversation went.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“This sucks. This really sucks.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“I can’t believe this is happening. I was so excited.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“Maybe
it’s good news. Maybe we’re having twins and my uterus is exploding
with lots of painful growth to accommodate both of them…maybe.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“I
really hope it’s twins. I really hope that I don’t have to have surgery
today. I don’t want to call my mom and say ‘Hey! I was going to have a
baby, but now it’s going to rupture one of my tubes and float away and
die somewhere in my abdomen, so I have to have emergency surgery. Can
you guys be there for Kort when he gets home from school?’”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Kyle just stared ahead…sober, focused. Trying not to slide off of the road or rear-end a “sudden stopper” up ahead. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“On D-day of all days…” I went on… “Of course something like this would have to happen on D-day.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">“I really hope that it’s twins. Please let this whole thing be because I’m having twins…” </span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 16pt; line-height: 115%;">***</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">When
we got into the appointment, my Midwife conducted an ultrasound…and
wouldn’t you know it? Everything was fine. There was ONE baby, in the
RIGHT place, and we got to see him or her (well, we got to see the
blank, black spot amidst a sea of gray smudging that represented a
gestational sack, anyway).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">It was wonderful. The midwife said that my pain was most likely due to rapid growth because this was my body’s 2<sup>nd</sup>
pregnancy and it knew what to do and would do it faster this time
around. I knew this, and had read about how women show earlier on the
second pregnancy and how they can feel the baby move sooner, but I had
no idea that it would be so painful. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Don’t
get me wrong, I’m fine with having the pain, as long as it’s not the
kind of pain that means I’m losing this baby! I will go through whatever
it takes to get this child here, but I really DO hope to have a sweet
little baby join our family at the end of it all! (Doesn’t everyone?)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">So,
the pain has continued (off and on) but with no bleeding. (Yay!) I am
just growing up a storm in there and that is wonderful news. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">So,
since the whole D-Day Debacle, things have gone pretty smoothly. I am
really tired, and was so sick yesterday that I couldn’t get out of bed.
(awesome.) Kyle is readjusting to a new lifestyle. One filled with Café’
Rio runs, vacuuming, and endless wifey TLC… and if you had any idea as
to how much he hates to “waste gas” and drive 20 full minutes to the
nearest Café Rio, you’d know that he is pretty much a saint. I was
craving a burrito so bad the other day, I swear that fire was going to
come out of my eyes any second if I didn’t get it in my dang belly!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Today it was Winger’s. I <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u>had</u></b>
to have hot wings. (Which, I can only enjoy for a short while in early
pregnancy before the heartburn kicks in and I have to re-evaluate my
eating habits.) The smell of their popcorn (which I usually love) made
me pretty nauseous, but other than that, everything was great. I have
also found that I can only eat about 1/3 of what I used to be able to
put down in one sitting. I used to eat a salad and 8 hot wings, and now I
can eat 3 hot wings. I just have to eat way more often, which is an
adjustment that I am really working on. I would give anything to have a
tube put in that would make sure that I got all of my nutrients at
regular intervals… can someone invent that please?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 24pt; line-height: 115%;">December 18, 2009 6:06 p.m.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Did
I just eat half of a leftover Café Rio Burrito only MINUTES before
heading out to meet friends for dinner at the At City Trolley?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Yep.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">That jeeeust happened.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Totally did.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Being pregnant is sort of awesome.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 24pt; line-height: 115%;">December 20, 2009 10:01 a.m.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Had my first big barf at 3:50 a.m. last night. </span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Note to self:</span></u><span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">
Mexican taco trucks at wedding receptions are not your friend. Well,
not when you’re pregnant anyway… Under different circumstances, I’m sure
we would have gotten along famously.</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Another note to self:</span></u><span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> Cilantro is not your friend.</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Yet another note to self:</span></u><span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">
Those really cute black, high heeled boots with all of the buttons on
them (you know, the ones that you just barely bought and you already
love more than any human should ever reasonably love an inanimate
object…?) are not your friends either. They don’t make you barf, but
they sure make your back and hips pissy come bed time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 24pt; line-height: 115%;">December 21, 2009 11:11 a.m.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I cannot believe that I am writing December 21<sup>st</sup>
on my title! Only 3 more days until we get to tell our families! I am
still feeling pretty crummy, and loving every minute of it. I feel so
blessed! I never thought that throwing up could be accompanied by so
much joy </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', 'serif'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">–</span><span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">
ha ha! I am going to try and get all the rest of Kort’s presents
wrapped today while he’s at school. It will probably take every last
ounce of energy that I have, but that’s okay. Hopefully the next few
days will fly by </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', 'serif'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">–</span><span style="font-family: 'Bulletin Typewriter MN'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"> rather than d.r.a.g. the way that the last 20 have!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sheesh.
Note to self: don’t ever get pregnant around Christmas again! The hubs
will not, under any circumstances, let you tell a living soul until
Christmas day! (Which technically, is a really great thing… and it’s
going to be wonderful, but wow…this has been One. Long. Month.)</span>the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-51133463023965522602012-03-13T00:46:00.000-07:002013-07-23T11:05:45.330-07:00kind words"I hadn’t decided to birth naturally when I took Laura’s classes. As my baby grew larger and larger, however, I grew a little more restless knowing that eventually he’d have to emerge. Initially, I participated with the intention of learning more about relaxation in the event of an emergency! In no way do I consider myself spontaneous, a thrill seeker, or someone with high pain tolerance. I deemed natural labor interesting, but pretty much an impossibility. Then I took Laura’s classes. As we learned about the power of distraction, the mind, and the miracle of the human body—my body—I gradually shifted course. I also trusted Laura; her education, optimism, and birthing stats can’t be overlooked. I felt empowered by her presence, both in class and during labor. More importantly, she enabled my husband to be a companion in a way we never imagined and we’re closer because of the experience. My labor only lasted 8 hours, and the empowerment I received from harnessing my inner strength changed me forever." ~Jessie Davis<br />
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"We attended Laura's How to Birth Like a Rock Star course a few months prior to delivery, her class was such a comfort to me and went a long way in helping me resolve life-long birth fears. I wasn't sure how necessary a doula would be since I planned to have an epidural birth, but Laura had such a calming effect on me that we hired her. Honestly, I was surprised by how helpful and involved she was even after I'd had the epidural and the pain had subsided. She was amazing! She coached me through pushing, calmed my nerves, and helped us make decisions post-delivery to make sure we got what we wanted from our daughter's birth. She was also the only person that believed me when I first thought I was in labor and helped me figure out what steps to take. I HIGHLY recommend the Rock Star course for anyone who wants to gain a more positive view of birth, we could not have spent our time better!" ~Jacquie Cloud<br />
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"Before I met Laura, I was so turned off to the natural birth scene because to me, it seemed so radical and frankly, close-minded. I have been amazingly surprised about how open, supportive, and knowledgeable Laura and her classes are. There really are not words to express what her caring spirit and empowering classes (with a hint of hilariousness), did to give me confidence for my own birth. For the first time as an expectant mother, I experienced a loving professional who truly cared about me and my needs and wants. Her class was very thorough and prepared me for the best possible birth experience I could have. Then, having her as my Doula brought everything together and made all the difference. I would not want anyone else and will have her as my doula even if I opt for an epidural next time. She is your lady if you want to be able to make informed decisions without judgement and are looking for loving, genuine birth support. I am convinced there is no better." ~Lyndsey Van Sickle <br />
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"I have benefited so much from taking "How to Birth like a Rock Star," from Laura Dugovic. From my first meeting with her, I knew that this was the journey that I wanted for me and my baby! I took everything in, and did exactly what she instructed and had the best, most beautiful experience. Her classes have changed me for a lifetime. I look at motherhood in a whole different light, and I have her to thank for it. Not only did I gain the knowledge on how to be in charge of your birth experience, but I gained a beautiful friendship with Laura. I would recommend this class to any and everyone who is planning on having a baby! I am so grateful for my positive experience and it will be forever etched into my memory." ~Julie Burton<br />
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"I am so happy we took Laura's How To Birth Like A Rock Star class! She <span id="yui_3_7_2_1_1374422316418_2484">is super energetic and really enjoyable to learn from. It</span> was
filled with so much great information and really helps moms and dads
feel confident about their abilities and choices as parents. She helps
you understand that birth is a beautiful experience no matter what type
of birth you choose, or end up having (natural, epidural, c-section).
You will leave the class knowing your options and knowing that you can
make informed decisions that will benefit you and your family. Our
birth went exactly how we wanted it to, and I give a lot of that credit
to Laura and the great information she gave us. And though we didn't
have her as our doula, I know that she would be wonderful to have beside
any momma during labor and delivery. She is amazing!!" ~Micah Jackman</div>
the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-41492300260877486152012-02-17T13:39:00.000-08:002013-01-31T13:42:13.277-08:00Dads and DoulasGo <span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: cyan;"><a href="http://pregnancy.about.com/od/doula1/a/dads-and-doulas.htm">HERE</a> </span></span>to read all about what one dad had to say about adding a doula to his wife's birth team.the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-871291133098488862012-02-16T22:44:00.000-08:002013-01-31T13:41:32.414-08:00Positive Birth MovementThis <span style="color: #6fa8dc;"><a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/milli-hill/childbirth-fear-should-we-be-scared_b_2249676.html">lovely little article</a></span> does quite an amazing job of summing up why many women are so afraid of child birth. I especially love that the author has included the "fear becomes fact" cycle which she created and shared on her "The Positive Birth Movement" facebook page. It is brilliant in its simplicity, and the truthfulness of its implications resonate deeply.the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-78696608711925911542012-02-16T16:23:00.000-08:002012-12-11T16:26:12.798-08:00Resources<span style="font-size: x-large;">Mother gives birth on living room floor.</span><br />
These are actually dear friends of mine, and they did an awesome job bringing their baby boy into the world! I love that education gave this daddy the understanding that birth was not something that was dangerous and needed to be feared, rather, it is a natural, normal process of the body when mom and baby are both in a healthy state. Because of this, he was able to be a fantastic support to his wife as she powerfully gave birth on baby's terms. Their story that was the catalyst that pushed me to certify as a doula and HypnoBirthing Instructor...which eventually morphed into dropping the HypnoBirthing practice and writing the course material for How to Birth like a Rock Star. Definitely inspiring!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/pFtUhkRMoZc" width="560"></iframe>
the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-82197667574957781242012-02-16T10:02:00.000-08:002013-01-31T10:03:01.721-08:00to suction...? or NOT to suction...?<span style="font-size: x-large;">There is a fantastic article about suctioning over at<a href="http://www.birthologie.com/birth/routine-newborn-suctioning-is-it-necessary-are-there-risks/"> BIRTHOLOGIE.</a> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Check it out... and then decide for yourself!</span>the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-2482733049108110242012-02-14T15:00:00.000-08:002012-12-11T13:44:28.730-08:00Resources<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Penny Simkin on Delayed Cord Clamping.
</span><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/W3RywNup2CM" width="560"></iframe><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Elephant Birth.</span></div>
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{Caution: Graphic, but all ends well. Baby is fine, and it is incredible to watch the mother elephant's instincts at work.}Animals don't have the ability to have their perceptions of birth shaped and molded by the culture around them. As a result, they easily go into their intuitive, "birthing" minds, and allow their bodies to guide the birth. As the narrator on the video says: no noise, no fuss, she knows perfectly well what's going on, and she knows what to do. We can know and do the same when we trust our bodies and this process.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/gZRuO1YSZis" width="420"></iframe>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Martin's Birth</span><br />
This video shows how beautiful a birth can be when a woman has all of the support she needs. Notice all of the caring, confident, supportive women she has surrounding her. Just amazing. I also love that they made an effort to celebrate and really treat his birth day like the very special moment that it is. <br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/TIKQcZg6L0I" width="560"></iframe>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Newborn Baby Chest Crawl </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">The breast crawl is amazing! B<span style="font-size: small;">abies are bor<span style="font-size: small;">n with the instincts to seek out and <span style="font-size: small;">latch onto the<span style="font-size: small;">ir food source just like every other species<span style="font-size: small;">.<span style="font-size: small;">...if we will only LET them<span style="font-size: small;">. Very cool.<span style="font-size: small;"> I actually didn't know about this with babies 1 & 2, but you<span style="font-size: small;"> better believe that I am doing this with baby number 3!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/lEjM2TkVmK8" width="560"></iframe>
the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-77894747859222609812012-01-12T11:59:00.000-08:002013-07-10T01:20:52.797-07:00Rock Star Class Menu*Visit the "schedule" tab to see current class dates.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">How to Birth Like a Rock Star <span style="color: cyan;">$<span style="font-size: large;">10</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Go<span style="color: #999999;"><b> </b><a href="http://howtobirthlikearockstar.blogspot.com/2012/02/what-is-hypnobirthing.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">here</span></a></span><b><span style="color: cyan;"> </span></b>for a <span style="font-size: x-small;">complete description of this course.</span><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: blue;"></span></span> <span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: blue;"></span></span></span><br />
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<b>Class length:</b> 3 Classes, 3 hours each<span style="font-size: small;">. {<span style="font-size: small;">9</span> total hours of instruction}</span><br />
<b>Description:</b> If you have decided that you just HAVE to know what all of this natural birth stuff is about, then you have come to the right place! Rock Star couples "graduating" from this course are reporting beautiful, empowering birth experiences! It has been fun as a doula to hear the hospital nurses refer to my graduates as "Rock Stars" during labor even without knowing that they had graduated from the "How to Birth like a Rock Star" program. It's proof positive that here's just no way around it. We produce Rock Stars in the delivery room... and people are taking notice. the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-20665404107737175022012-01-12T08:15:00.000-08:002013-04-10T21:31:18.590-07:00Enlightened Epidural<a href="http://s1188.photobucket.com/albums/z408/HousewifeonFire/?action=view&current=babyidol.jpg" target="_blank"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1188.photobucket.com/albums/z408/HousewifeonFire/babyidol.jpg" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Q: Why should women planning for un-medicated births have all the fun? </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">A: They shouldn't! So do something about that, will you?</span><br />
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I decided to become a natural childbirth educator because I loved the un-medicated births of my two sons, and I wanted to help other women experience the empowerment and beauty of birth. At that time, "natural" birth was my main focus. This is likely because this was all I had experienced up to that point.<br />
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Then, I became a birth doula, and it rocked my world!<br />
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The process of going through my doula training was life-changing, and I came away from it with a totally different point of view. The most important thing that I learned was this: True empowerment in child birth comes from women being supported in their choices. A woman can have an amazing childbirth experience whether she has a medicated birth, an un-medicated birth, or even a Cesarean Section, so long as she is honored and supported in her choice to birth in a manner that resonates with her personally.<br />
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But education is key, and it is currently very hard for women to find a great class that suits their needs. <br />
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Have you noticed that there are dozens and dozens of childbirth methods out there for mothers wanting to achieve an un-medicated birth? There are. These classes are amazing too! They teach everything from Fear release, to pregnancy nutrition, to post-birth bonding. Mothers, upon graduating from these classes, are birth experts in their own right, and they often go on to have empowered, informed births. <br />
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<b>But, what about the moms who want a medicated birth?!</b> Do they still want to know how to let go of fear? Do they want to know how to avoid tearing, or an episiotomy, or a Cesarean Section? Do they want tips and tricks for eating right on the go, exercising, and bonding with their baby? Do they want to let go of fear and walk into the hospital confident and prepared for what comes next? The answer is a resounding YES! Moms who are planning for medicated births still want ALL of these things - but they have very few places to find the education. That's where the Rock Star Enlightened Epidural Class comes in. Every woman should be able to have the birth of her dreams, and every baby should have a safe, calm, loving greeting as they come into our world. In your Enlightened Epidural class, I will to teach you how to achieve all of the above! <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">What you'll learn: </span><br />
How letting go of fear and learning to relax can help you have a smoother, FASTER birthing experience.<br />
How you can start parenting your baby NOW.<br />
How moms and dads can bond with baby even before baby is born. <br />
Rock Star Nutrition<br />
Rock Star Exercises<br />
Writing up the perfect birth plan for YOU. <br />
The benefits of meditation and daily reflection.<br />
How the birthing body works.<br />
Timing contractions and how to know when you are in active labor.<br />
Great coping techniques and breathing to help you through early labor. <br />
Choosing the right care provider for YOU. <br />
Avoiding unnecessary interventions.<br />
Posh pushing. {How to make your baby's birth experience personalized and fabulous}<br />
How to avoid tearing.<br />
How to give your baby the gentle, safe, respectful greeting he or she deserves.<br />
How to navigate your post-birth options.<br />
And much more!<br />
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<b>Class Includes: </b>3 hours of instruction<b>, </b>Rock Star Workbook, Birth Plan Preparation<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: small;">Next Available Class: </span></b><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">See "class menu<span style="font-size: small;">" tab to find <span style="font-size: small;">dates for the next class!</span></span></span><br /><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span>the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-59027449786909852802012-01-10T09:24:00.000-08:002013-03-10T09:24:44.528-07:00<a href="https://www.google.com/calendar/render?tab=wc">Calendar</a>the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-60747754930992369602012-01-04T22:57:00.000-08:002014-05-21T10:41:50.976-07:00class overview<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4UQCGHsFlFN9ZNE_BG6ROIzG2uTecFd5WQM5J8u8VPXVCwnDa-mMEvpSfu7uUS6_Sfyte5sZFPNiSw1ZyCF1ZG_VH6TpokWjpO1f4i_9L15ds8khwXwTfeyBOoIKfCcpcBV-QxTlaO2g/s1600/Rock+Star+CLASS+OVERVIEW+Web+Version.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4UQCGHsFlFN9ZNE_BG6ROIzG2uTecFd5WQM5J8u8VPXVCwnDa-mMEvpSfu7uUS6_Sfyte5sZFPNiSw1ZyCF1ZG_VH6TpokWjpO1f4i_9L15ds8khwXwTfeyBOoIKfCcpcBV-QxTlaO2g/s1600/Rock+Star+CLASS+OVERVIEW+Web+Version.jpg" height="640" width="494" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Class #1</span><br />
Introductions<br />
Rock Star Ideals<br />
Rock Star Parent's Rights<br />
Examining cultural influences surrounding birth <br />
Dr. Grantly Dick-Read and the Fear-Tension-Pain cycle<br />
The anatomy of birth<br />
Using meditation and relaxation to inhibit the Fear-Tension-Pain cycle<br />
The top 5 things you can do to prepare your mind and body for birth:<br />
Daily practices <br />
Affirmations<br />
Morning and Evening Meditations<br />
Fear Release<br />
Visualizations<br />
Breathing<br />
Partner Work - Birth partners will learn how to give various comfort measures and verbal support to the laboring mother. <br />
Myth Busters<br />
Exercises that enhance a healthy pregnancy and also prepare the body for delivery<br />
Perineal Massage <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Class #2</span><br />
How Stress affects pregnancy and birth<br />
Stress assessment worksheet<br />
Instruction for Fear Release<br />
Bonding with baby during and throughout your pregnancy<br />
Father/Baby bonding<br />
Questions to ask when interviewing your care-provider<br />
Statistics for birth with doulas<br />
Interview questions to ask a potential doula<br />
Placenta Encapsulation and other birth options you may not know about <br />
Nutrition: giving our body what it needs to grow a healthy baby and maintain a healthy mama.<br />
The gate control theory of pain and how to use it to our advantage<br />
Comfort measures to support the laboring mother<br />
Using visualizations to assist the body in doing its work<br />
How to write an effective birth preference list {Birth Plan}<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Class #3</span><br />
How to manage the final days of pregnancy.<br />
Your guess date<br />
Avoiding artificial induction where possible. Learn how to ask the right questions!<br />
Helping baby get into optimal position<br />
Different positions you may like to labor in<br />
Onset of Labor - possible signs that you are in labor<br />
Early Labor<br />
How to time contractions<br />
When to contact your doula, midwife, or doctor<br />
Active Labor<br />
Transition - parents will learn my "Back to Square One" method and know how to employ it for optimal results.<br />
Dilation completes and baby descends<br />
"Pushing"<br />
Crowning<br />
Birth<br />
Delivery of the placenta<br />
Post birth interventions: Choices regarding baby's immediate care and necessary {and NOT necessary} procedures. <br />
Delayed cord clamping<br />
Nursing and bonding as a family<br />
Birth companion do's and don'ts. A comprehensive list of comfort measures will be practiced {knee press, hip press, shoulder press, etc etc etc}<br />
Intervention questions. Questions you can ask to help you avoid having any unnecessary interventions take place. <br />
Breast-feeding<br />
Self-attachment breast feeding<br />
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*At the conclusion of your class series, you will be provided with FOUR mp3 files that contain the following:<br />
Morning Meditation<br />
Evening Meditation<br />
Birth Affirmations<br />
Baby Love Affirmations<br />
<br />the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2421101713926412989.post-42205962508042667472011-12-22T21:52:00.000-08:002013-04-10T21:32:45.888-07:00Positive Birth Movement Meetings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.facebook.com/positivebirthmovement?fref=ts"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi57QC2SI5aLxTZ68o0R3h57AKpZImidGKmNFK9lFjyq1AuDKLGp5nGbRdMVeo2r04wKSPBKkRYOPLK472RJmaUD2ZIvQXSL9pzLlrz5jw_AgvC8k_ptXXlVCCqc-nTG2hTgktf7tYPuzk/s1600/Positive+Birth+Movement.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #999999;">Join our facebook group <a href="http://www.facebook.com/groups/490088257711098/"><b>here!</b></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What: </span>A Positive Birth Group is any birth discussion group that holds a
woman’s right to a positive birth experience to be of fundamental
importance. I want to create an opportunity for women from all walks of life to come together and share their positive birth experiences and positive birth information. It’s about providing a space for open discussion, a place where women
can empower each other to approach birth differently and to expect and
enjoy a positive birth - whatever that means to them. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">When: </span>3rd Wednesday of the month.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Where: <span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Dr. Christopher's Herb Shop. 188 S. Main Street in Springville</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Time:</span> 6:30 p.m.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Next <span style="font-size: large;">Meeting</span>: </span>Wednesday, April 17th 6:30 p.m.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Cost: </span>Zip, zilch, absolutely no cost!<br />
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Ever since I heard about this grassroots movement, I have been just a-c-h-i-n-g for the opportunity to jump on board and help in the cause! Well, the time has come, and I couldn't be more thrilled! Anyone is welcome to attend. As stated above, this is created to give women the opportunity to hear POSITIVE birth talk. Positive does not, however, mean "perfect, non-medical, natural, vaginal, uneventful, or surgery free." Positive means that a woman is where she wants to be, that she is honored and supported in her choices, and that elements of the experience are what she wants them to be.<br />
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All births have beautiful elements to them. This group is about celebrating those elements in a supportive non-judgmental environment! We hear too many negative birth stories from day to day. Let's come together to talk about the good stuff! I sincerely hope you will join us. Join our facebook group <a href="http://www.facebook.com/groups/490088257711098/"><b>here</b></a> to get regular updates on meeting times and also to let us know if you are coming! the Lola Lettershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11717397768716885420noreply@blogger.com