Christie Ruth
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Annabelle Ruth -- A Birth Story

5/11/2020

 
03 |13 | 2020
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March 12th was a gorgeous spring day. One of those rare days with no wind, clear skies, and the warm sun shining on the snow covered mountains. A perfect day for a birthday. Dad and Gus spent the morning at swim lessons and I relaxed with you at home, sipping a cup of coffee (doing some last minute tidying), and anticipating your arrival. I attempted to calm my nerves but the excitement mounted that today would be the day we meet our baby girl.

At noon, I waddled into the car with Carley, our doula and dear friend, to make the hour long drive to the hospital where we would meet up with dad and start the process to nudge you into our arms. (He had hoped we’d start the induction the next day so you could be born on Friday the 13th just like he was, but due to protocols at the hospital, it was decided that it would happen on the 12th). The drive was absolutely stunning and I even got out of the car half way to take a photo of your beautiful birth day. ​
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It’s a strange thing to arrive at the hospital without an ounce of discomfort, knowing that you’re about to experience one of the most intense nights of your life, and that you’ll leave the hospital with a brand new babe in tow. Emotions ran high as we met up with dad and got hooked up to the fetal monitor. Dr Rommens and the nurses were so amused at seeing your little feet pounding around, turning my belly into your own personal jungle gym for one last day. I tried my best to lock the feeling in my memory. I never want to forget how you felt inside of me.

At 2:30pm I took the first dose of Misoprostol, a pill the size of a grain of rice, and marveled that such a tiny thing could ignite the process of labour. We listened to your heartbeat, ensuring that you were still happy and safe, and then disconnected from the monitor so we could get walking. We walked and walked the halls of the quiet hospital while Carley readied the room with all the calming components, including a pale-pink Himalayan salt lamp at the bedside, electric candles in the bathroom, and the soft scent of lavender filling the room from a diffuser. Contractions were coming, and they were consistent at about 3 min apart, but not painful. I felt hopeful that things would get moving quickly (as the doctor had suggested), but alas, the contractions slowed and several hours later, you were still staying put. I felt bored and anxious and excited and nervous all at the same time as I sent Carley to run her errands and dad to go get himself some dinner (a sushi feast for one, complete with sake and green tea).

During the course of the evening, the conversation turned to this elusive thing called “Coronavirus” that had just made it’s way across the ocean to Canada and was starting to catch the attention of the nation. As we walked the halls, a nurse from the ER warned us to turn and go the other direction as a man with a mask had just checked in with “Coronavirus symptoms” and was walking through the halls. Before long, I felt myself getting anxious at the thought of bringing a tiny helpless babe into a world stricken with a pandemic. I quickly made a pact with dad and Carley that we were not allowed to discuss the virus at all for the remainder of your birth journey. We had way more important things to concentrate on.

You must have been feeling a little anxious too, because your heart rate was increasing, so Dr. Bev Burton (the doctor coming on shift and the alarmingly similar twin sister of our primary doctor), decided to give me a bolus of fluids through an IV to try and balance us all out.

The contractions remained only slightly uncomfortable, but the bolus did the trick, and your heart rate slowed to an acceptable rate where Dr. Bev was comfortable trying a second dose of Misoprostol. I took the pill just after 10pm and once again was hooked up to the monitor for half an hour (as is protocol after a medication administration) to ensure you were tolerating it well. You kept wiggling and your heart rate was ticking along just fine, so at about 11pm we started walking the halls once again. This time we steered clear of the ER where everyone was decked from head to toe in PPE.

It didn’t take long for the contractions to stop me in my tracks as I braced against the railing and your dad for support. They were coming closer and closer together as the intensity picked up, and soon we returned to our birthing room as walking was becoming too tiresome. I continued to pace the room in a circular motion, making small talk with dad and Carley to keep my mind off of the pressure, and pausing at each surge to close my eyes and breathe through the waves. The atmosphere in the room was quickly changing as Carley whispered to dad that things were about to get intense. Together they laid out the yoga mat and ball, covered it with a lovely lilac colored robozo, and I dropped to my knees, draping my upper body against the ball for support. Dad and Carley took turns grasping my hands and whispering encouragement as the contractions increased in strength and I bowed my head and closed my eyes, humbly succumbing to the sensations. With every contraction, I could feel my pelvis being thrust open with the most intense pressure. I gripped their hands tightly, but consciously relaxed every other part of my body, allowing the contractions to do their job, and carry you down, down, down. There was nothing left to do, but breathe and let our bodies work in harmony at our marvelous task. ​
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A couple more contractions and I knew in my body that you were minutes away from entering the world. I told dad and Carley that they should notify the medical team and soon the doctor arrived to check my dilation. 9 centimeters! Another contraction and I felt a pop and a gush of fluid, as the pressure from your head intensified. “My water just broke!” I felt a surge of energy and excitement and was astonished that we had made it so far, so fast, but tried to keep my focus as I moved from the yoga mat, to the bed, remaining on all fours as it felt like the right position for our bodies. I felt the most intense pressure and urge to push, but our nurse, Melissa, and Dr. Bev calmly coached me to breathe through the sensations as your head needed to drop just a tad more. Everyone was so calm and in control and I felt so much love and support from the team as they readied the room for delivery.
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When we were given the go-ahead, I summoned all the strength I had left, relaxed my pelvis, and pushed with all my might. I paused to breathe when Dr. Bev coached, gripped dad’s hands, and could feel that familiar burn of immense stretch at my body releasing your body into the world. The pain was immense, but at the same time, everything felt so right.
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It only took a few minutes before the final push, when at 12:55am you entered our world, and I felt the most incredible wave of relief overcome my whole body. I cried out for you and you did the same for me, opening your eyes immediately, and sending out that reassuring wail we had waited 9 months to hear. I collapsed down from my knees, and onto my back, where your warm, naked body was pressed against my chest and we locked eyes for the first time. Dad wept too, astonished at the sight of his healthy baby girl, as the cord stopped pulsating and he disconnected your tiny body from mine.
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The next few hours were all a blur. The mostly lovely blur that felt like an eternity and an instant all at the same time. I had to keep pinching myself that you were actually here as I pressed your squishy face against my chest and we stared at your perfect, tiny features. You held the heart of everyone in that room as the team marveled at how beautiful and healthy you were.
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On the day you were born, the world stopped spinning. Coronavirus and the isolation that ensued would shut down the world for several weeks (months? years?), but we didn’t think of that in the moment. You were (and are) all that is good in the world, and we basked in your sweet presence and soaked in all your goodness. You, Annabelle Ruth, are the luckiest thing to ever happen on Friday the 13th.
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​Mother earth covered the ground that night with a thick blanket of snow, and didn’t let up for several days. It was as if she was saying, “sleep now, and all will be well in due time”. So sleep we did (in tiny increments of course), as we welcomed you into our safe haven of a home to wait out the storm. One day soon, we will introduce you to this beautiful, imperfect, exciting world full of the most wonderful people who love and care about you, but until then we’ll continue to heal and feed and grow and play and learn and anchor you into our little family. We love you, Annie girl, and are so happy you are here.

Bump on the Hump

8/23/2017

 
08 | 23 | 2017
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Watching a baby grow in utero is like watching the seasons change--slow and subtle and then all of the sudden--BAM! Everything is different. This last year, Max and I (and little Gus) were able to document both in a very real way. After returning from our first family trip traipsing across Africa, we settled in at home in Waterton and started to nest and grow. Taking the time once a week (rain-or howling wind-or shine), we climbed up the steep trail to the iconic lookout over our little mountain village and witnessed the ever-changing views and my ever-changing belly. It wasn't always easy, and there were certainly some weeks I (or my body) would whine and complain the whole way up, but looking back at the photos has been so precious to commemorate this special time in our lives.

Last night, Max and I climbed the all too familiar steps of the hump with baby Gus in our arms--eyes wide open and taking in the views for the first time. It was almost too much for my mama heart to handle as I watched Max hold him high in the air, so proud and loving, finally being able to show his son the view that has grown to be so near and dear to our hearts. 

We sure love you baby Augustus and we cannot wait to watch you grow on this hump over the years. 

We also cannot wait for you to start pulling your own weight--you're getting heavy. 




​​                         16 weeks |  January 12, 2017 | "Welcome to your soon-to-be home baby bean. Now stay put, trust me. It's freezing out here." 
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17 weeks | January 19, 2017 | "The changes to my baby body week to week are slow and steady and subtle. The changes to the hump on the other hand..."
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18 weeks | January 26, 2017 | "The best thing about being one of the lone survivors in Waterton for the winter?
​You get to wear onesies all day and no one's around to look at you funny"
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19 weeks | February 3, 2017 | "My mother always said, to know someone is to love them. Well, we're one step closer to knowing everything there is to know about this itty bitty babe growing inside of me and let me tell you, my mama was right"
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20 weeks | February 10, 2017 | "Just when I think it can't get any windier on the hump...We trudged through thigh-deep snow all the way to the top only to be rewarded with gale force winds pelting tiny shards of icy snow in our faces and trying its best to blow us off the mountain. We survived. Barely."
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21 weeks |February 18, 2017 | "Gorgeous sunny day in Waterton to celebrate the huge strides this little bug has made this week! He's growing like crazy (well, mama is anyway), and he finally made himself known to papa by giving him a big kick during bath time. I just love feeling him somersaulting around in there all day...it's a nice break from the nausea."
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22 weeks | February 27, 2017 | "Another cold, wintery day in Waterton. I woke up this morning after 10 hours of sleep and still felt exhausted. It took all the willpower I had to climb the hump and I felt like my body weighed a million pounds! But. We made it. Now how to make it through this 12 hour night shift in the ER...?"
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23 weeks | March 6, 2017 | "Today I had a serious case of the over-winter-blues. It happened halfway up the hump as I was huffin' and puffin' with wind-chapped cheeks and snot dripping from my nose. Baby was begging to turn around and head straight home so he could have a burrito (yes, frozen chimichangas are his current fav...but he also loves kale salad so it evens out, right?). We stuck it out once again though and papa rewarded us when we got home with a hot bath complete with candles, chai tea, and Gilmore Girls. He's the reason we survive in Canada. Oh and he's a master shoveler."
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24 weeks | March 13, 2017 | "Here's hoping our babe takes after his pa concerning his attitude about the wind. Cuz his ma currently has a hoarse voice from cursing it at the top of her lungs from the hump."
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25 weeks | March 21, 2017 | "Taking a little break from the snow and ice this week and giving the babe a fresh, new view."
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26 weeks | March 27, 2017 | "Awww home, sweet home. This baby bean is growing bigger by the minute and even though he still makes me lose my lunch if I miss a dose of the nausea pills, gives me cankles, and makes my back want to scream sometimes, I can't help but grow more and more fond of him every day. Every little kick, squirm, or hiccup just makes my ❤️  melt."
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27 weeks | March 31 | "Watching the innie slowly become an outie."
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28 weeks | April 10, 2017 | "Another scorcher in Waterton today."
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29 weeks | April 17 | "Celebrated the most gorgeous Easter Sunday with this little wiggly bunny yesterday 🐰  I'm so lucky to live so close to family in this little mountain village and loved sharing this sunny hike with all my girls 😘 ."
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30 weeks | April 24, 2017 | "Is anyone else already feeling like it's been a tough week and it's only Monday?! I guess that's what happens when you work all weekend. Climbing the hump today gave me a much needed boost of energy though and I'm hoping it can carry me through this night shift in the ER 🙏🏻 The rest of the stressors will sort themselves out but for now it's just me and this babe commuting to work with a hot cup of tea and a podcast to get our minds off things ☕️ Here's to a great, busy week!"
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31 weeks | May 2, 2017 | "Had our first real doula meeting today and realized that this baby is coming NEXT MONTH 😳 So glad we'll have our sweet doula to take care of the three of us when the time comes because we can't even make it through a meeting TALKING about childbirth without losing it 😩 Well, daddy can't anyway 😜 I'm so lucky to have such a sweet and supportive partner who props me up in bed with couch cushions when I'm having heartburn, stays by my side when I'm losing my breakfast, and whose favorite thing to do is snuggle up close and feel this baby boy of ours doing acrobatics in my belly. He's even great at turning our bathroom into an all-out spa when I need a hot bath (but don't ask him what happens when you drop gobs of lemon essential oil into the water 😳). This baby sure is lucky to have such a loving papa ❤️ (And in case you do try the essential oil bath, make sure to have tons of coconut oil on hand to stop the full body burn 🔥 Who knew?! )"
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32 weeks | May 5, 2017 "These last couple days in Waterton have been an absolute dream ✨ The temperatures have been rising, the snow melting, and the sunshine has been making her appearance after a long, drawn-out Canadian winter. We had our first family BBQ last night in the warm evening sunshine and I cannot tell you how good it was for my soul. We ate loads of delicious food, played ball with our darling niece and nephew, and the thoughts of pushing our brand new babe around town in a cute little pram got me so excited for this most monumental Waterton summer to date 👶🏻💙☀️ Then of course, we took advantage of the last rays of light with an evening hump 😊."
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33 weeks | May 15, 2017 | "Another week closer to meeting our son 💜 I'm kinda wishing he could just stay put right here in my belly where he's safe and warm. I've never been more proud of my body for what it's been able to create these last 8 months...
​but I sure am excited to be able to tie my shoes again 😬."
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34 weeks | May 22, 2017 |
"My pregnant body. 
Our pregnant body. 
This imperfectly perfect body we both call home for a brief moment. 
In it contains all we need in life, and I’m honored to share it with you. 
You feel so much a part of me, it’s impossible to imagine you as a separate being. 
One who will one day share with me the hopes and dreams and thoughts that are all your own.
Born of you and not of me.
How I long to raise an independent boy who is clever, and ambitious, and above all, kind. 
When that day comes though, please remember that at one point in time, we were one. 
We shared the same breath. 
We trusted in the same beautiful body to keep our hearts beating.
Separate beats, but the same life-sustaining blood. 
Until then, I’ll treasure these last few weeks we have together. 
Just you and me. 
Inseparably connected in a way that feels so foreign and new, but yet so right. 
Right where you belong. 
In my pregnant body. 
Our pregnant body."
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35 weeks |May 30, 2017 | "Saying goodnight to our 35th week with the most lovely post-storm Waterton sunset 🌜Today was a rough (but somehow also wonderful) day for babe and me. He didn't approve of my choice of breakfast (granted, spaghetti squash with cherry tomatoes and feta is slightly strange first thing in the morning 😬) and I swear the hump somehow turned into Everest overnight. I was diagnosed with quite significant anemia this week, which explains all the excessive fatigue, ice chomping, and near fainting spells I've been having, but climbing the hump felt nearly impossible. It took us twice as long as usual, but we managed to make it to the top just in time to catch this lovely view 😍 We had the place to ourselves (just like we did all through the winter), and stared out at the little village we'll soon be bringing our tiny babe home to. The place where just this afternoon we marvelled at the most amazing double rainbow while driving into town, just as a little black bear stumbled his way across the road in front of our car.
​ Sometimes I just can't believe this is our home."
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36 weeks | June 5, 2017 |"Tomorrow marks FULL TERM for this baby of ours! Which means today was spent packing the hospital bag 😳 Wow. It still feels so far away and hopefully we have a few more weeks to go, but the excitement is definitely starting to mount at the prospect of finally being able to meet our son. I cannot believe we can love someone so much that we've never actually laid eyes on. I cannot wait to tickle those tiny toes that have been tickling (and boxing) my insides relentlessly for months. I cannot wait to kiss those luscious lips that have been teasing me on his ultrasound profile pics every time I walk by the fridge. I cannot wait to nestle my face into his neck and take in his fresh new baby scent. But most of all, I cannot wait to finally be able to let his sweet papa hold him in his arms, and feel his heart beating against his chest. If there is anything that can make my heart explode, it will be that 💗 "
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37 weeks | June 12, 2017 | "The type of things I've been saying to Max lately...I may poop during delivery...and you just have to be okay with that."
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38 weeks | June 17, 2017 | "Stormy, cold evening on the hump giving me flashbacks to the winter. Max says it's a foreshadowing of what birth will be like 😳 I don't know about him, but I'm gonna be on a beach the whole time. ☀️🌴🌊"
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39 weeks | June 23, 2017 | "I may have carried you for 9 months, but he has carried us both ❤️ "
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40 weeks | June 28, 2017 | "Well, little one, I didn't think we would make it quite this long, but here we are.
​ I know it's nice and cozy in there but you have so many people who want to meet you! And papa and I are first in line.
Besides, I'm in need of some extra space in my belly for all the BBQ's this week, so move over!"
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41 weeks | July 3, 2017 | "Guess who is still pregnant??? Yup. It's me."
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7 weeks | August 22, 2017
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Augustus James -- A Birth Story

7/17/2017

 
​​07 | 15 | 2017
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​It’s been 10 days since you came into this world, yet as I sit here on the bed, watching you sleep in your bassinet, seeing your tiny chest rise and fall with each breath, I still cannot believe that you are actually here. I am so totally in awe at you and what we went through together just 10 short days ago. It was an experience that no amount of books or movies or practice could have prepared us for because in the moment, we were merely bystanders to the glorious wisdom and process of our bodies working together to do just what they were made to do. 


If there is one thing I’ve learned throughout this pregnancy and labour, it is to trust in my body. I did my very best to eat right and stay healthy (okay, okay, I didn’t totally give up the Cheetos), but in the end, I had to trust that my body would grow and nourish your tiny body and bring you to us when you were ready. Week after week, your papa and I would hike Bear’s Hump and talk and dream of what you would look like, be like, and what we wanted life to be like for you. He would often interview me from the lookout and after I finished cursing the wind, we would send our love to you and let you know just how excited we were for you to join our family. 


In the months leading up to your birth, we decided we wanted to have a natural hospital birth experience. I don’t know the exact moment the decision was made but I knew I wanted to feel all the sensations, good and bad, and experience for myself what so many women before me, including my own sweet mother, have experienced. We knew we would need some extra help and support and decided to hire a doula to coach us through this intimate journey. We met Kim through the community and I was always impressed by her sweet and calm demeanor, so when we found out she was a doula, we knew right away we wanted to invite her to help guide us in our passage into parenthood. We spent months reading books and articles, practicing pain relief techniques, watching prenatal videos, and writing out our birth plan. 


You must have been so cozy and content inside of me because your due date came and went and still we climbed the hump and anticipated your arrival. We tried walking, drinking red raspberry leaf tea, taking evening primrose oil, and all the other ideas thrown at us to nudge you to come, but 10 days passed and still you were in no rush. Grandma and grandpa came up from Idaho and together with the rest of the family, we awaited your arrival by going on walks, picking wildflowers at the land, and making lots of yummy meals to put in the freezer. Grandpa even decided he wouldn't shave until the day you came--so needless to say, he was looking a little scruffy when he finally met you. The day before you were born, we went into the hospital for a check-up and the doctors advised us that your time in my tummy was running out and we needed to consider some alternate measures. We considered acupuncture and Bowen therapy, but in the end realized that time was already of the essence and decided to start with a minimally invasive induction agent called Cervidil and at 1pm we started the process that would eventually lead to your birth. After the medication was inserted, we went home and spent the afternoon reading, relaxing, and working our way through the mildly uncomfortable contractions that started to come more and more frequently.
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Come evening, your grandma ran us a bath while your sweet auntie Jasmine played the harp for us to calm our spirits and ease the discomfort. 
After about an hour in the tub, it was time for us to head back to the hospital for our scheduled check-up and by then the contractions were coming consistently every 3 minutes so we knew things were picking up. I called daddy (who was out changing the oil in our car—yes last minute is how we like to do things), and I told him I thought we should go to the hospital sooner than later. He made it home and we packed up all our gear in the car and headed off. The contractions were intensifying during the car ride, and though not unbearable by any means, required some concentration and breathing to get through. 


When we got to the hospital, I was hooked up to the monitor to hear the always reassuring “thump thump” of your tiny heart, just beating away, never in any distress. The doctor came to check on our progress at about 10pm and after a quick cervical exam and removal of the Cervidil, informed us that we were only 3cm dilated with no real effacement. I wasn’t surprised, as the contractions had not been intense by any means, but he suggested that because we live so far away, we stay the night just in case things picked up. 


Shortly after he left, things started to pick up a bit and we decided to call our doula, Kim, to join us. We tried to go for a walk in the halls, but didn’t make it to the door because of the pressure, and decided to just walk around the room, stopping during contractions for papa to hold me up. Kim arrived and set up the room for labor with salt lamps, and a diffuser for essential oils. I spent the next couple hours with the lights turned down low, draped over the yoga ball, squatting between papas knees, or on all fours during contractions. Kim and papa worked together to ease my pain by putting pressure on my back, gripping my hands, and whispering words of encouragement and reassurance that everything was going as it should. 


A couple hours later, we decided to take a hot bath and as soon as I lowered my exhausted body into the water, with my head resting on papas lap, the pain and contractions went away. The relief was immediate and I found myself wishing I could stay in that moment forever. Unfortunately though, we had a job to do, and we couldn’t bring you into this world unless we continued on the path. In her sweet way, Kim suggested we get out of our watery reprieve and continue our efforts. And so, reluctantly, we did. With the contractions still virtually gone, our nurse, Rosy, came to check on us and do another cervical exam. When she informed us that we were still only 3cm dilated with virtually no effacement, I felt so discouraged and exhausted. It was 2 o’clock in the morning and she suggested that we take advantage of this time to rest. As we discussed Kim going home to get some sleep, and papa taking a nap, the contractions started up again and before we knew it, we were in the full swing of labour once again. Only this time, the pressure was so much more intense as your little body sank lower and lower into my pelvis. We got back on the yoga mat where we would stay until just before you were born. 


The pain I felt over the next 2 hours was unlike anything I have ever experienced. I felt so much pressure and tightening with each contraction and dreaded each wave as it came. No longer did I feel relief with added touch by papa or Kim, and instead just stayed on my hands and knees and gripped their hands so firmly as I tried my best to breathe through the pain. With each passing surge, Kim reminded me that I was doing this for you, my little baby boy, and that each contraction was bringing us closer to you being placed in our arms. I felt totally in the zone as I succumbed to the sensations of my body and tried my best to transport myself to a warm yoga mat in the sun on a sandy beach. 


After a couple hours of this exhausting effort, with little relief between contractions, the doubt set in. I doubted myself that I would be able to continue the process and endure the pain. Papa and Kim were so sweet and reassuring and when I told them I didn’t think I could do it any longer, they assured me that I was already doing it and that we’d soon be meeting you, our son. Never for one moment did I feel alone or abandoned. Instead I felt so much love from daddy and so much support and encouragement from Kim. Just when I felt like I couldn't go on any longer, I felt my water leaking and said “I think he’s coming!”. Kim ran and got Rosy who came promptly to perform another exam, but the contractions were so intense and coming so close together that the thought of another exam was unbearable. She timed the contractions and graciously waited a few more contractions for me to gain enough strength to let her check our progress and when she did, she informed us that it was, in fact, go-time. Kim held my head close and whispered that things were about to get a little chaotic, but to try my best to focus and breath. I could hear the shuffling of setting up the room for delivery, but just clung tighter to papa’s hands as I leaned my body against his and moaned through the pain. I felt a boost of energy as I knew it wouldn’t be long before we finally got to meet you. 


The doctor arrived and with help, I was assisted onto the bed for the moment we had all been waiting for. I felt so much pressure and burning as the doctor prompted that it was time to start pushing. It felt so counter intuitive to push during the contractions because the pain was already so intense and I knew pushing would make it worse, but I also knew we were so close to meeting you and I just couldn’t wait any longer. During the next few contractions, I pushed and pushed with all my might, feeling my whole body shake as I bore down with every bit of strength I had, squeezing papa and Kim’s hands so tightly. The doctor proclaimed that he could see your head and daddy went to his side to witness your grand entry. “He has hair!” they said, and as I reached down and felt your tiny head, I got a surge of energy and excitement as I pushed through the final contractions with the force of a mama who had waited 10 long months to meet her baby boy. I screamed through the pain and bore down again with all my might as I felt your tiny head and then body emerge into this world. 


I cannot begin to tell you how I felt in that moment when I first saw you and you were placed in my arms for the very fist time. You opened your eyes immediately and let out a little cry, and all the pain and suffering disappeared in an instant as I felt completely overcome with love and relief. We wept as we looked at your beautiful face and perfect body, and it was in that moment that papa and I fell totally and completely in love with you. The next minutes were spent in total bliss as papa eventually cut your cord, disconnecting your tiny body from mine, yet it was in that very instant that I felt more connected to you than ever before. 
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During your first few hours, we snuggled you skin to skin, fed you, and then introduced you to your grandma and grandpa and oma and opa along with some of your aunties and uncles. Everyone totally gushed with love over you and confirmed what we already knew—that you were the most beautiful and precious baby boy—all 7 pounds, 13 ounces, 19 and 1/2 inches of you. ​​
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Now as I sit here, watching you sleep, days after the initial “high” has worn off, my heart still throbs with affection for you. I really struggled to put into words the experience of your birth as it was filled with so much love and pain and wonderment, but my hope is that one day when you read your story, you will know that you were so completely loved from the second you entered this world and continue to be loved more and more with each passing day. ​

Africa

2/4/2017

 
02|04|2017
The night before we left for Africa I balled my eyes out. It wasn’t that I didn’t want to go. After all, we’d been planning this trip for months. We were so excited to experience the wild, raw culture of the people and the animals and the food. Oh yes! The food. I can’t tell you how eager I was to partake of the exotic spiced veggies with chicken and couscous in steaming pots of tagine in Morroco. Food is at least 90% of the joy of traveling (and come to think of it, living) for me. 

The real reason I lay on a tear-soaked pillow on the eve of our departure was that we had just discovered we would have a tiny little stowaway accompanying us on the trip. I took a pregnancy test just days before we were to leave in order to ease my mind that my usually right-on-schedule period was just running a little late, and not the more obvious truth; that we were expecting a baby. My heart pounded wildly when I saw the 2nd little pink line appear on the test. This was the moment I had dreamed about for so long, but I didn’t imagine it would be accompanied by such a mix of emotions. ‘Are we ready for this? Is anyone really ready for this? What about Africa? Oh my gosh, we’re going to Africa! With a baby! There’s malaria in Africa! I need to tell Max. Wait, aren’t I supposed to come up with some cutesy way to break the news to him? Bake a cake or something? No way I can keep this in long enough to think of something. Max!’
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​So there I lay, trying to get some sleep before our 3 day journey to Morroco and all I could think about was if I would be one of the unlucky ones to experience the infamous side effects (paranoia, hallucinations, erotic/disturbing dreams, unusual behavior…) from the “pregnancy safe” malaria pills I had been switched to. I was in the midst of my first baby breakdown. That’s when Max took a break from packing and came into the bedroom and kissed me softly on the forehead while tucking me into the blankets a little tighter. “Just sleep on it” he said.
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Well, Africa was just as wild and raw and real as we thought it would be. We were forced to take things a little slower than normal and unfortunately the baby wasn’t quite as excited about the exotic spices and flavors as I was, but we managed just fine and made it home safely with a bucket full of memories of our very first trip as a family of 3. 

Aaaand I only had one erotic/disturbing dream...

Cabo Wabo, Linford Style

5/13/2014

 
05|13|2014
I didn't even know what a green screen was until a few years back, when my dad told me of the new purchase he had made. Now, you have to understand that my dad rarely purchases anything, let alone toys. I was intrigued. 

Apparently, it was this screen that you put behind you when you take a photo and then you can change the background to be whatever you want! The options were endless. And that's why he fell in love. You could be anywhere in the WORLD, without leaving the comfort of your living room. It was perfect. 

And a huge hit with the grandkids. 
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And my personal favorite...pops tightroping Niagra Falls--in his clinic polo, of course. 
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I know what I'm getting Max for Christmas. 

But. Nothing can replace real life adventure, so a few months ago we decided to invite my parents along on a little trip to Mexico. They were so excited of the possibility, but after much deliberation, decided it was not a wise decision. So, they lamented by taking green screen shots of themselves in "Mexico". 
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(Nice try, mom. No one wears scarves to the beach in Mexico.)

We weren't about to let this opportunity pass us by though, so we commissioned our siblings (helps when you've got 11), to pitch in and make their "green screen dream" come true. 

And it worked! 

(Be sure to watch it in HD by clicking on "vimeo"--wouldn't want you to miss the Marlin!)

Cabo Wabo, Linford Style from Christie Ruth on Vimeo.

Perhaps next time they will snorkel from the living room. 

¡Viva Mexico!

4/6/2014

 
04|06|2014
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Two o'clock in the morning. Middle of nowhere, Mexico. It was three years ago (almost to the day), and Max and I were on our very first real adventure together. Despite obvious disapproval from our friends (even the Mexican ones) because of the dangerous state of the country, and continual warnings from my concerned parents, we packed our bags late one night and headed down south in the affectionately named, "4-25 Ride". 

This was a car Max had bought at an auction a couple months prior for $425.00 (hence the name). And though it barely ran most days, it had proven itself on a previous trip to Mexico where I remember Max telling me that at one point he was stranded and had to repair a leaky piece underneath with something that can only be described as bubble gum. 
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We drove all through the night and crossed the border into Mexico just after the sun came up. We felt like two rebel runaways, sweating our faces off in our air-conditioning-less ride, picking up 25 cent fruit at every stand we passed, and not even thinking about the fact that I had to be back to work in just a few short days. Sure there were drug wars going on all over the country (and especially at the borders), but Max wasn't concerned one bit, and though it crossed my mind a time or two, I was more worried about when I was going to try my first real Mexican street tacos. (Which were INCREDIBLE, despite the fact that our teenaged chef was profusely sweating directly into the pan of questionable meat). 
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The salty Mexican air blew through the windows of the 4-25 Ride as we drove and drove and drove, following the coastline all the way down. 
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Finally, at 2 o'clock in the morning, we reached the Tajin Ruins. Our plan was to "camp out" around the entrance and start exploring bright and early the next morning. So, bleary eyed and exhausted we drove down the winding dirt roads in search of a good hiding spot to spend the next few hours. It took much longer than I expected, but finally Max stopped the car after spotting a couple good hammock trees....literally in the middle of nowhere. 

As is often the case, I was much more concerned about the situation than Max was. He set up the hammock and as I lay there, trying to sleep, a few thoughts kept playing in my mind; "Where are we? What animals are making those strange noises? Do they have the same kind of animals that we do? What is the punishment for trespassing in Mexico? Prison?"

I woke up to the sound of a car speeding down the dirt road just as the sun was coming up. Max was still fast asleep, but I knew my fears had been realized as the car slowed right down and came to a stop just before the hammock. I was totally paralyzed. My heart was pounding out of my chest, and I held my breath. This was it. They had found us and would surely take us to prison for intruding on their land! I shut my eyes, bracing for the worst, pretending to be asleep--because that's all I knew how to do. 

And then the most interesting thing happened. 

I peeked one eye open just in time to see the man get out of his car, walk into the field, puke his guts out, then get back in his car, turn around, and drive away. 

Sometimes you just win the lottery of life. 
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We spent the next few days exploring, eating way more fruit than I thought possible, and, of course, falling deeper and deeper for each other with each new experience. But despite all the fun we had, Max will never understand one thing; and that's how close we came to spending the rest of our courtship in a Mexican prison. Dramatic? Possibly. But you never know. 
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Can't wait for Mexico round 2 coming up in 9 days and counting!!!


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10 Lessons to Learn from Children

3/24/2014

 
03|24|2014
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I have always been drawn to children. Maybe it has something to do with the fact that I became an aunt at the ripe old age of 6 and now have 33 nieces and nephews (I think, I lose count sometimes). In fact, when my youngest sister was born and I was in the first grade, I would race home every day from the bus stop so I could be the first to hold her. There's just something about kids that I find totally irresistible. (That and I loved being able to run faster than my siblings)

Not surprisingly, during my travels I am inevitably drawn to those little faces and huge smiles. I've noticed that no matter how foreign a country can feel (and believe me, it can feel FOREIGN), the one thing that is always constant is the children. They have a way of making me feel at-home and welcome, even if I'm millions of miles away. And though we often think that as adults, we have all the answers and it's our duty to teach the ignorance out of children, I've realized more and more that kids are much better than us at so many things. 

Top 10 things I learned from the children of Southeast Asia:

1. Take Risks.
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So you may end up in the ER a couple times...so what? That's what nurses are for. You'll never get anywhere in this world worthwhile unless you step out on a limb every now and again and risk failure. Or embarrassment. Or both. You'll be surprised how many times things turn out just fine, or even GREAT!

2. You're never too small.
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This world can be a big, scary place, and sometimes it can make you feel very, very small. But don't get it in your head that you aren't capable of something just because it's not the "norm". The minute you start to think that you're not smart enough, young enough, pretty enough, talented enough, or wealthy enough, you'll be right. But only because you think so. So choose the tall bike, even if you can't quite reach the peddles yet and have to walk it for a few years. You'll get there. 

3. Be silly.
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We take ourselves way too seriously. And what's the point? To appear cool and level-headed? There's a reason the class clown is always so popular. They make people laugh! And not at another's expense. They're honest and real and vulnerable, and nothing is cooler than that.

4. Stay curious.
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Don't be afraid of the unknown--even if he's white and speaks a funny language. Ask questions, keep exploring, and never lose your sense of wonder. Don't ever become content with your current knowledge. Continue to learn new things every day because the more you know, the more there is to know.

5. Be proud of your accomplishments.
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Sure, there's a time and a place for humility, but if you did something awesome, show the world! Take pride in your hard work and don't be afraid to let others see you shine. After all, you never know who you might inspire along the way. 

6. Don't shirk responsibility.
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Nobody likes a shirker. Especially not your mom (or your spouse). So do her a favor and don't make her ask twice. Better yet, don't make her ask at all! That'll really surprise her...and possibly secure you a place on the "nice list", which is much better incentive if you ask me.

7. Don't be afraid to ask.
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There's only one thing worse than being told "no", and that's not having the courage to ask in the first place. You'd be surprised how many times people are willing to bend the rules just because you questioned if it was possible. Want a free upgrade at the hotel? Just ask. Want a little extra chocolate in your milkshake? Just ask. Want to get through the airport without being attacked by the TSA? Don't ask. (Sorry, there's no getting past that one).

8. Make time to play.
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All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy--so what makes you think you're immune? It's amazing how creativity can soar when you give yourself a break from an otherwise monotonous day. Or maybe just the simple act of getting your heart going a bit faster will give you the extra oomph you need  to handle whatever life throws at you next.
9. Be yourself.
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Diversity is beauty, now more than ever before. Never undermine who you are to fit in with everyone else. Go crazy. Try out that new hair-do, sing along even if you have to make up half the words and strut your stuff in those pleated granny pants. You may turn a few heads, but you'll be a more uniquely beautiful person because of it.


And last, but not least...
10. Clothes are overrated. 
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They just are.

Who's with me?
Anthology Christie Ruth

6 Monthiversary

3/21/2014

 
03|21|2014
6 months ago I married my best friend. It was the first day of autumn and it snowed the very next day. Fast forward to now and we're still up to our eyeballs in this white fluffy stuff. It's been a long winter, yes, but I'll always treasure these months we've had together, all to ourselves, in this magical wonderland we call "home". 
 

Home from Christie Ruth on Vimeo.

Happy 6 monthiversay, my love. And happy first day of spring.
Max Waterton
Vimy Peak Waterton
Christie Ruth Waterton
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No Words

3/16/2014

 
03|16|2014
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Christie Ruth

My First Video

3/6/2014

 
03/07/2014
You know that feeling when you look back at the old scrapbooks you made and you're so embarrassed that you, indeed, were the one who made them? I mean, what's with the confetti? Bubble letters? And why oh why did no one tell me to stop cutting out EVERY SINGLE PHOTO with the alligator teeth scissors???

Well, this is kinda like that. 

Or it will be, in a year or two. I'm sure of it. 

I was really bored one day last week, and while I should have been packing, I decided instead to teach myself how to use iMovie and make a little compilation of our honeymoon. You see, I am totally and completely obsessed with videos--especially travel videos. They have a way of drawing me in and consuming my emotions until I just have to see these places for myself (though I'm often disappointed that I don't immediately hear sweet background music the minute I walk off the plane). It's a real problem. So, not surprisingly, at the top of my "Careers I Wish I had Chosen" list, is videographer. 

There's only a couple problems…

1. All I have is a GoPro.
2. I don't have any video editing software.
3. Oh, and I have no idea whatsoever how to make videos. 

I don't care though. Just like I still love those embarrassing scrapbooks with the Winnie the Pooh stickers and gel pen borders, I adore this video. 

And I can't wait to make more.


Southeast Asia Honeymoon: Highlight Reel (christieruth.com) from Christie Ruth on Vimeo.

  
And if you want to read the stories behind parts of the video, here's a start.
Bagan
Jumping Out of Trains, Myanmar
Phu Chi Fa
Phu Chi Fa, Thailand
Laos Laceration
Honeymoon Gone Wrong, Laos
Muang Sing
Jungle - Part 1, Laos
 
Christie Ruth
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