Birth trauma and what it taught me

Birth trauma and what it taught me
Experiencing birth trauma can leave lasting emotional and physical scars, but it also teaches resilience and strength. In recounting her two traumatic births, the author emphasizes the importance of being prepared, finding your voice and advocating for oneself. Her first birth ended in an emergency surgery, which left her with PTSD and postpartum anxiety due to the lack of mental preparation and consent during the rushed procedure.

Her second birth, although resulting in a stay in the ICU and her baby spending eight weeks in the NICU, felt more empowering because she was able to make conscious decisions and had support to help advocate for her needs. The journey of healing involved therapy, aromatherapy, and supportive communities, allowing her to transform her traumatic experiences into a source of strength and empathy for others facing similar challenges.

The author underscores that while birth trauma is extraordinarily challenging, finding purpose and healing is possible with time and support. She encourages others who have experienced birth trauma to seek help when ready and reassures them they are not broken or alone. Healing journeys are deeply personal and take time, but fostering a support system can make all the difference.
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On becoming a preemie mom

On becoming a preemie mom
In April 2016, I became a NICU and preemie mom. My first son had to be born early because I developed severe preeclampsia, which didn’t respond to any help, and so an induction happened at 32 weeks… Here’s some tips I’ve learned, after I became a mom of four preemies, through birth and also adoption!
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Naomi Reads for fun… Jan Edition

Naomi Reads for fun… Jan Edition
Last year I realized I wasn’t reading much for enjoyment anymore.  Partly because I always had a personal development or parenting book sitting by my nightstand.  Partly because I have impaired vision. 

But it made me sad enough I talked with Sam, my husband, about it. He hasn’t had much time for reading lately either. So we decided the best step was to make some time!
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So tired… but also so grateful!

So tired… but also so grateful!
This mama is tired, and it has been a week! (And it’s only Wednesday!)

This time of year is a balancing act for our family. Gatherings and events increase, yet it’s a hard for our family because our adopted kids were removed between Christmas and New Years. Emotions can run strong, and some days I just want to hibernate…

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To experience beauty every day

To experience beauty every day
A couple weeks ago we detoured from our normal hiking routine to check out the DeFries Calendar gardens, which a fellow hiking & homeschool mom had recommended to us. And even with the fall colors mostly gone, it did not disappoint.

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