Element Tula

Element was born on June 23rd, 2012.  She weighed 8lbs 11 oz, 21 inches long, and was head up! It was pretty intense.  I did not get to have her in the birthing pool like I had thought I would, but I did labor in it, but it was still a great experience. We got to the birthing center at 12am....and she was born at 3:32 am.  I labored in the pool for the majority of the time, but when it came time for her to come out, since she was head up, OP, I got out and did the rest of the pushing on the bed. It was pretty amazing to be able to give birth to her without any pain medication. I have to admit I was TIRED mostly...so when it came time to really push her out, it was tough. But being able to control my body and to feel everything was amazing.

 She is so peaceful. She radiates this amazing loving energy. Everyone who has been in her presence has said the same thing. Definitely a beautiful being.

Her big brother was there. He came in and out of the room while I was in labor. He handled it very well. He's a little timid still when she cries...doesn't like to hold her too long. He'd rather be playing video games or something...boys.

 
I've been breastfeeding my lovely. Its going just as mother nature has planned it. Though I have to say....they are making A LOT of milk!! When the milk came in it hurt really bad, but now its starting to calm down a bit. I've already started pumping for work. Its a bit overwhelming to think about having to pump, having to go back to work...having to actually plan and do things.

This past week if I'm not feeding Element, I'm pumping, eating or watching a movie. Its been relaxing. I really needed it...my muscles were SO crazy sore. I actually have a few things this summer to do for work and those too are stressing me out already. Why do I always like to overbook myself? Keep myself busy!?

I am doing a week long workshop for integrating arts into the curriculum. It should be fun. It seems like a bit of work, and right now I'm just not feeling it...but I'm sure in a week I'll be feeling more up to it.

I also am teaching "private" classes at a studio down from my work.  Right now I only have one kid a week...so its more for experience and getting my name out there than it is to make money.  One student isn't very much...and I have to drive 40 mins there and back for a 2 hour class.

Also I've been asked to do another mural for a friends company.  I'm very excited about this! This is my July/August pay check. Then back to work August 21st.

Where did summer go already?!