beWARM

Vera Uslé Wisdom arrived on March 18!  7lb. 1 oz., 20 inches long.  Proud parents – Emily and Ray         God has blessed us with yet another beautiful grandchild!

After watching my daughter’s progress through labor and delivery, I have new appreciation for the fortitude and stamina required to bring a precious new life into the world.

(Thankfully, God blesses all Moms with selective memory – especially 35 years later.)

Emily had a multi-faceted birthing experience; labor had to be induced after her water broke.  I cannot imagine anything more strenuous than super-hard contractions every 2 minutes.  Once it was time to push, they discovered that little Miss Vera had twisted enough to impede her safe passage – and so a last minute Caesarean was in order.

Phew! Nothing like a continual change of plans to keep you in focus.  I think by the time Vera was born, it was according to Plan G. (God’s)

Ray is in training for a marathon in a few weeks.  He is an amazing runner, and I sure hope Vera inherits a bit of his speed and endurance. He is also a committed and wonderful dad.

As I marvel at his training regimen, I got to thinking about the athletes that compete in the events reserved for the most elite – like the Ironman competition.  Hours and miles are religiously logged – all for the purpose of fitness and achieving excellence. Post-race, celebrations and rest are in order – and perhaps a thought about the next challenge in the offing.

The paradox of labor and childbirth is that the finish line is non-existent.  Your baby enters the world…and the race has just begun.  R & R is not an option. No resting on your laurels here.

Pregnant women log in their miles with an extra 25-30 pounds on board, then endure Labor & Delivery Boot Camp in preparation for Active Duty. Recovery time and uninterrupted sleep are but a figment of the imagination.

I have great admiration for the super athletes whose endurance is astounding – my son-in law Ray included.

But…truth be told…new moms rock when it comes to stamina – and all out dedication. Talk about hitting the ground running…

IronWomen, I salute you everywhere!!!