As the dust settles from weeks of visitors in and out of our little house on 31st street I am content to be alone in my room warming my feet with the microwavable corn bag that Sister Teresa from around the corner made for me and each of my house mates. She learned of our struggle to both keep our house at a barely livable temperature (it's rare that our themometer sees 65) and not pay more than $300 for our gas bill...when it's 2 degrees outside it's a little tough. So in addition to storm windows, plastic coverings, caulking, blanket upon blanket and the regular use of small space heaters (watch out electricity bill), we now also have little warmers for our toes and hands made from the corn from Teresa's brother's farm in Nebraska and the cloth coffee sacks she gets from her work. I love that it actually smells like corn when it comes out of the microwave :).
Speaking of something coming out of something else...(??)...I attended a birth last week, my first as a certified birth doula! It was 'pro bono' so to speak as I'm needing to get some more hands on experience before I start charging for my services. It went beautifully. My 'clients' were gracious and kind and encouraged me simply by trusting and allowing me to support them in their courageous act of welcoming their lovely little girl into this world. Though I have not born my own children or attended the births of many babies, I'm finding my role as a doula to be familiar and more natural than I could have imagined.
We've had neighbors over for tea recently and a few friends visit from out of town over the last couple of weeks. I love hosting people in my home! It comes naturally to me. I love making and eating good food together and enjoying a special cup of tea with homemad scones, or pumpkin waffles topped with cranberry sauce and yogurt! With the recent addition of fresh blueberries, dried cherries and almond extract to our cupboard the craft of scone making and eating has never been better! Guests have marveled at the use of our fancy serving trays and tea sets; delighted in the warmth of sitting around our small kitchen for hours. I am never happier, more sure of myself or more satisfied than when I'm given the opportunity to make someone feel welcome and at home.
As a doula, I am rediscovering this love for 'hospitality', as I am entrusted with the space where a baby is to be welcomed.
2 comments:
L- I so often cry when I read your blog. I'm not sure why. I guess I just resonate with your words and I think you say beautiful things. I miss you, friend. You are gifted in lovely ways.
Post a Comment