Now, let's get something clear right from the start.⠀

It is NORMAL and RIGHT to want to touch your stomach when pregnant. ⠀

As normal and right as it is to touch your baby once born.⠀

Your stomach holds precious life... nestled within your womb. Touching, cradling or stroking starts to create these vital bonds of love and respect. It is also a sign of protection toward your unborn child. ⠀

Now, considering the threatening nature of our gutter press I am not at all surprised that when out and about Megan tended to hold her bump. However, the press reaction for this was not kindness but a scathing disdain.⠀

No women should be made to feel that touching her own body, her own unborn baby is wrong in any way. It isn't. There is nothing showy or narcissistic about bonding with your unborn child. Bonding is the RIGHT thing to do. As is checking in on them, knowing when things don't feel normal or usual.⠀

Another wonderful way of checking in with your baby is just to sit still and breathe. Imagine the in-breath flowing in through your finger-tips and up to the top of your head and then the out-breath flowing down your body, around baby and out through the soles of your feet. Each time you do this just mentally and physically check in with your baby. Notice her or his movements. Become aware of when they sleep, or when they play. Get used to their little patterns. ⠀

Smile when they get the hiccups. Talk to them. Sing to them. And rub or touch them when they push out against the confines of your body.⠀

You'll get to meet them soon enough, as will everyone else. But for now it is just you two. Growing together.⠀

Don't let anyone diminish that. 💕