This Incredible Community

My friends had a shower for me and The Bun (as my friend Lara likes to refer to this baby) on Saturday afternoon. The gifts, of course, were too generous—a handknit cabled sweater with a tasseled hood and wooden toggle buttons, a handmade quilt with a map of the world, three classic books, a whole starter kit of cloth diapers, a bag of beloved hand-me-downs, as well as onesies, hats, mittens, socks, lullabies, flowers, and the revelation of a funky hand-crafted diaper bag-in-progress that surely only the coolest of moms could carry.

But even better than the gifts were the dozen or so women gathered there—some moms, some moms-to-be, and some non-moms (and a couple of wee girls), all gathered on the back porch, drinking minty lemonade and listening to the bees hum in the newly blossoming trees.

When Tim and I moved back to Wyoming—and when we chose this little town—it was with the very real hope that we would find a community we could truly feel a part of. Once we were settled, we knew it would be a good place to raise a child. But I think I realized on Saturday just how good it will be. I am so grateful for the start this child will have, buoyed as he'll be by the same kind and loving women and their families that already buoy me (and Tim).

Which reminds me of one other gift: the labor beads. I asked each woman to bring a bead they liked, and I've strung them together as a necklace that will accompany me through my labor and delivery. Whether I decide to wear it or just hang it prominently as a point of focus and concentration, it will serve as as a reminder of the loved ones who will be with us in spirit. Thank you, all!