Strange spa

I've been thinking a lot about child birth lately. Probably because I'm expecting for the third time and three months away from delivering. But my oldest son's birthday a few weeks ago might also have something to do with it. His delivery was pretty horrific. I'll spare you (if you're there at all, friend reader) the gory details. Suffice it to say that I went in Sunday evening to be induced and then 21 hours, a full course of magnesium sulfate, and a C-section later, BAM! he was here!

Reliving the experience, it plays out something like a horror movie...that's a little blurry around the edges (that was probably from the magnesium sulfate--worst stuff in the world). Panic and hyperventilating coupled with shock makes for a somewhat unpleasant first time experience. My gorgeous boy made it all worth it, though...just so I'm being clear.

So what's the relevance of this somewhat graphic reverie? Well, thinking about the birth of my first naturally led me to think about the birth of my second. And as I was reflecting on the much calmer introduction of my daughter into the world, the thought occurred to me that it was almost like going to a spa.

I know what you must be thinking: "...........???" Allow me to elaborate. When I was pregnant with my second baby, my doctor asked me if I wanted to try a VBAC. Naturally, in that moment, it all came screaming back to me. "No," I said, "I'd rather do another C-section, if that's okay." So the big day came, we got all dolled up, and off we went. We were cheerily led into the operating room where some pleasant music was playing in the background. I sat on the table and the doctor gave me a spinal block, which was awesome, by the way...And then there she was! No whisking her away to NICU, no stress...no hyperventilating.

So you see, it's much like going in for a treatment at a spa. "What are we doing for you today?" "Oh, I'd just like to have this baby removed so I can take him home." "Splendid! Will that be debit or credit?" I will admit, the operating room is a little colder than the rooms would be at a spa. I'll have to take it up with the manager.