June 11, 2012

june book.

Okay, I confess that I didn't quite get to finishing my May book, Out of the Silent Planet.  I had to put it down for a bit to get to another book that has been sitting on my shelf for a few months now.  Considering I'm having a baby in two weeks (can you believe it!), theoretically, I figured I should get to this book sooner than later or it defeats the purpose of me having bought it.  I do admit that although it had taken me a while to warm up to the C.S. Lewis sci-fi, I was starting to sort of get into it when the characters finally made it to the other planet.  The lengthy description of the flying craft and even the set up of the characters' initial encounter at the beginning of the book were giving me little hope that I would enjoy this book (read: yawn).  Once I finish my June book, I will make a hearty attempt to finish the May book if middle of the night feedings and lack of sleep don't kill me first.

So, to the June book...

Ina May's Guide to Childbirth
by Ina May Gaskin

This came highly recommended to me from friends and from other sources as THE book to read to get you ready for childbirth, especially since we're using a team of midwives as our primary care providers for this birth.  The first part of the book are stories of women who experienced natural births, for the most part positive experiences, which encourages me that I'm going to survive this birthing deal.  The second part of the book are the ins and outs of the birthing process, from the mind and body connection to what to expect and the practicalities.  I only hope that I can get it done before baby's born, but even so, the pictures of the women smiling and appearing to be in a state of ecstasy while the baby's head is crowning are enough to help me believe that giving birth may not all be as terrifying as I think it's going to be.