Babywearing: Annabelle’s first month
It’s about the nine months I carried you in my womb; the hopes, dreams, and smiles with which I anticipated your earthly arrival; the sight and smell and knowledge of you that keeps my heart doing flip flops; and the fact that neither one of us wants to be separated.
1 week before birth
1 week after birth
Because there is no place you would rather be, and it’s the most and the least I can do for you. Because the world is new and wide, and my presence is the perfect reassurance and introduction. Because you have entered into a safe and loving world, and you are close to those who love you.
nursing
You have time enough to stand, and walk, and run, and I look forward to chasing you . . . but not yet.
nursing again
Because sleeping peacefully in your cradle is not as nice, as safe, or as happy as sleeping on my chest. Because here I can see your face, lips, and breath, your fluttering lids and lashes, and every momentary smile or wince as you dream.
at the park
For almost a year my body has kept you safe and focused, reminding you to breath, keeping you connected to humanity, and earth, and life, as no molded plastic seat can.
3 weeks old
The coziness, comfort, safety, and closeness is familiar, as are our heartbeats, and the rhythms and smells of our bodies.
with daddy
with grammy
sweet sister with doll
This is good and right, and no one should be able to threaten it. If you have a babywearing love story, share it here http://www.adventuresinbabywearing.com/2010/10/babywearing-and-call-to-action.html and know that someone will read it who needs it. Learn more about protecting babywearing on the Baby Carrier Industry Alliance Facebook page.
adventuresinbabywear October 7, 2010 at 12:55 am
SO absolutely beautiful!
Steph
Madeline October 8, 2010 at 1:23 pm
What sweet babywearing photos. There’s just nothing like snuggling a baby.
Kat October 12, 2010 at 2:05 am
Love this post, Diana. You’re such a great mom.
It’s inspiring at every stage to know that there are other moms out there doing things their own way – intuitively.
My big burly 4 year old boy brought me a blanket tonight and asked me to “carry him in it like a baby” – we both loved that time.
Merry Rosenfield September 30, 2012 at 7:27 am
Made me so wistful! Beautiful words. Love, Grammy.