Discomfort AND Gratitude

It was another rough night for me. I slept on and off for six hours, mostly off. My acid reflux seems to be worsening and I have vomited three times since last night. The hardest part for me is the concern that the baby may somehow be affected, as I tend to lose my breath and see stars when the acid reflux is severe. Those with me during these times reassure me that the bean is resilient and will be just fine. When I hold onto that thought, I feel grateful that this is my challenge right now, and not something more serious. It is quite uncomfortable, though, none-the-less.

I want to also share a tradition that my coaching certification colleagues (we are known as the Veronicas) began. Each Friday, we send each other our gratitude list. It is a practice that is especially meaningful and effective on days like today, where I feel worn down and a bit woeful.

I am grateful first and foremost for my husband, Joe. He is my touchstone, and the person with whom I most love to talk, and to share life experiences. (And he looked mighty handsome today when he came in to say hello before heading back to work...)

I am grateful for this home that is warm and welcoming, and will soon enough house our baby.

I am grateful for my midwife, Kelley, and the "mama's group", which is filled with authentic, open-minded, conscious women who are generous with sharing their struggles, advice and stories.

I am grateful for a large extended family that supports us, even when they don't fully understand our choices.

I am grateful, especially today, for pjs, movies, protein-rich shakes, warm blankets, a lap cat named Phoebe, a handy wireless laptop that allows me to stay comfortable on the couch, aromatic candles for ambiance, and warm bubble baths...