I meant to set this blog up some time ago and then sat on it (figuratively speaking), waiting for some new part of myself to gestate into becoming a great writer. That didn’t happen. But what did was the realisation that I don’t need to be anything other than myself and share the thoughts, feelings and experiences I have as I journey through my birth work and other life adventures.
What interests me to share today is my personal achievement to have done ‘Around the bay in a day’. Its a cycling event that starts at 5.30am and has you ride your bike around Port Philip Bay in a day. It took me 8 1/2 hrs on the saddle, 12 1/2 hrs from start to finish and enough energy bars, gels and sports drinks that I could barely make myself swallow as I neared the finish line. I went with a group. I had trained through the winter. I had bought a bike and the gear and had got my family on side for their support – If ever I was on a training ride and called out to a birth, my husband would be ready to come pick me up. It was never needed but the back up plan was!
And so I went from unsettled nerves in the body, to finding my groove, pushing away doubt, shouting at my legs to stay strong, keeping my energy up, connecting with other cyclist, appreciating the breaks, feeling good inside, feeling tired inside and playing games with my mind to keep me focused to the very end. And I did it!!! I was so happy. I was fatigued but ok and it was worth it all.
What made me do it? Thats what the important question is for me. I did it for the women I work for and to honour the woman that I am too. I had my baby’s 14 and 12 years ago. It’s been a while since I connected to labour and birth. I wanted to experience that kind of journey again, somehow, and a marathon of sorts would help. I think it did. As I continued to attend births as a doula and as I sat with women talking through their birth preparations I kept making the cross connections. Women in labour do it easier if they are stronger, healthier, more resilient, humbled, prepared, ready to embrace the intensity, seek supportive team. Thats how I felt it work for me. Without any of these my ride would have been so difficult. I was challenged but not overcome and I feel a confidence in me that I am glad to carry with me into tomorrow. Erika
Go Erika!!!