It was a long drive for 3 kids 5 and under (not to mention their parents), but the kids did quite well in the car and generally. They seem to get quite excited about new rooms, new beds and all that stuff that comes with staying in a motel. Unfortunately unless we're swanking it up, hubby and I generally don't sleep as well...afterall we're usually going down to a queen when we're away, as opposed to our king, which can accommodate four or five bodies as necessary.
Before we got married or at least had kids we did a lot of road travel, and I think we're still getting accustomed to the idea that kids are lots of work at home or away, and often more away, though others may tell you different. Either way they were ok, albeit a bit off here and there.
The weather was gorgeous on our first full day in Canberra, but turned to crap for the rally...the day in which we planned to stand outside for 3+ hours. Somehow we managed and I must commend the kids on their patience! Master F was quite happy to be 'going to talk to the government' and I think there's a lesson there for when he's a bit older.
Because there has been a bit of backpeddling on the issue of criminalising uninsured independent midwives (the bit about outlawing it is now on hold for two years), it is not unlikely that we will be back in Canberra in a couple of years time to give our support.
I have to say I have never seen so many Ergos (a type of baby carrier for those who don't know it) in my entire life. From afar you probably would have thought you were looking upon a bunch of 'hippies' and I guess there were a fair few who would proudly wear that tag. At the same time I think this is unfairly stereotyping a would-be homebirther. I don't take offence to the term, but I don't identify with it much either. One thing I will say though, that homebirth in itself is transformative and extends to many areas of parenting. In the same way that an interest in all things natural/organic etc may lead one to homebirth, homebirth itself is a path to gentle parenting, and more earth friendly ways of living. I don't always feel I fit with the tribe...but there is a connection amongst homebirthers I feel. I think it is fair to assume that many beliefs and idealogies are shared within that community even though you may not pick us for homebirthers. Either way the Ergo gives away something of our philosophies shared...as well as the skilled breastfeeders...after 5.5 years I'm fairly expert in feeding wherever, whenever, and with bubs in the Ergo is no exception!
I'm not sure what we achieved if anything. There was a small piece on the news. There are discussions being had here and there, but the misinformation and scaremongering make it impossible for me to tolerate. I'm not having any more babies, but knowing homebirth is a safe choice for many families, and also something women have a right to, means I will continue to support and rally as best I can.
PS: Love this banner we spied...says it all really.
2 comments:
What a great experience to share with your kids Rach!
It is interesting to hear you say that homebirthers are likely to share similar philosophies wrt bringing up their children (to paraphrase). I'm not a homebirther but do believe in the right to choose. My two were both born in hospitals - the second in a birthing pool. My family couldn't understand why I chose to leave the hospital after a day both times. They still think it is strange. But that is what felt right for me. Likewise I have always carried them around in various slings (never an Ergo but same notion) and I frequently get bemused comments like "I've never seen one of those before". And so I feel like you in that I don't fit with the tribe. It sounds like I need to find some homebirthers and make friends!
I agree with Sam that it's a great experience for your kids. And hopefully the rally will help to get these thoughtless changes to the law rectified.
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