'til we meet again

Today was B.'s 6 week post partum visit. They are always bittersweet for me. 2 year old E. opened the door and welcomed me with a hug as she squealed to her mama, "Cathy's here" just like she did for all of the prenatal home visits. I flashed back to those visits that started early last summer. The children always came running, eager to listen to their own heartbeats, have their temps taken and touch their mama's belly. They taught me about raising baby chicks and making apricot jam. Their home was respite for me more than once. One tired morning when I just didn't want to start up, I drove to B.'s house. Her kind spirit and happy children with gifts of artwork lifted me. As I got in my car to leave, I looked up and saw 4 little faces and a mama in the picture window waving good-bye. Driving away, the tears started to fall. I remember saying out loud, "I am so blessed to be welcomed into this family's space. I love my work. I love this family so much." Seasons passed, the Christmas tree went up and we knew a baby would soon be born under those lights. With 3 girls and 1 boy, hopes for a baby brother ran high.
Today Baby Brother N. was so chubby and smiley; the adoring siblings were generous with their kisses and hugs. Dad was home, too, so it was a great little family gathering time. Did I already say I love this family so much? I was midwife for Baby E. a couple of years ago and they make me feel like an honored auntie or something. We took some pictures and lingered a bit longer than usual knowing this was the end of another childbearing year, the end of our visits. As I finally said good-bye, B. surprised me with the coolest gift. As I prepare to leave the safe nest at Better Birth and fly off on my own, she knew I would need so many supples of my own. She gave me a new set of birth towels and cohosh tinctures tied with a big bow. What a great addition to my basket of postpartum supplies gathered by a favorite Tri-Cities mama, Karen Sharp. Then Daddy D. gave me a big basket of pretty bath goodies, for relaxing after long births he said. Next, out came a pretty box with pictures for me, one especially sweet one was even framed. We all hugged again and D. helped me carry the gifts to my car. His parting words were, "Our family isn't complete yet. We'll be calling you again." Once again, I said to myself as I drove off, "I am blessed. I love my work. I love this family."