If it takes a village to raise a child, then our new baby has landed in the right place. Before our little Frankie even popped her head out, family, friends and neighbours have stepped up, ensuring the transition from womb to world went as smoothly as possible.
When she was still hanging tight in my belly six days post due-date, Mike Shannon called in an extra bumpy ride for us on the water taxi ride from Granville Island. I’m not sure if the boat ride had its intended effect, but I appreciate the effort.
Another boat ride, with Doug Hooper, ensured that Ross got home to me well ahead of when he would have if he had waited for the perpetually late (it seems) Queen of Capilano. That was Monday, after I texted him to say, “I think I’m in false labour, looking forward to seeing you!”
Although we considered it, we did not put in the call for a water taxi during the wee hours of that night. Instead, we held out until the 5:30 a.m. ferry. We left the island knowing that our almost-three-year-old, Shah, would be safe and happy although we were not quite sure yet with whom. Our friend Jeff, who was staying with us from Vancouver secured his title as the best “manny” ever.
Felicity and Jen, thanks so much for getting Shah to “school” with lunch in tow. To the staff at BCC: thanks for fielding Ross’s calls... I knew you would give Shah all the love he needed to get through what was likely a challenging day for him.
To Melanie and Tom: you are brave souls for taking on another energetic redhead. I hope you managed to get some sleep.
And Chrissy... thanks again for bringing Shah to the hospital to be a part of the first day of his little sister’s life; it was nice to have you there too.
Courtney Morris and Alicia Hoppenrath, you weren’t in the hospital with me, but I still consider you both a part of the fantastic team that helped in the safe delivery of Frankie.
Bowen-raised Jazzmin Nagy was with me as my doula for the second time. I credit Jazzmin’s attention, as well as that of our amazing, super-hero of a midwife Natalie Amran, for such a successful delivery. Jazz — I am so glad you were there to share this experience with Ross and I.
Andrea Layzell and all the wonderful mommas who have brought meal train food over — thank you! I feel so spoiled. This is the best among many great Bowen traditions.
And to Geoff and Karen Cowper, your generosity will also be long remembered.
Our family is so lucky to have landed in such a kind and caring village. Frankie (full name: Francis Sparrow Bragg) is looking forward to getting to know you all better in the years to come.
Meribeth Deen
