Just wanted to share a little inspiration for the day. Even when the odds are against you, and you're constantly told you won't be able to do it, if you truly desire to make something happen, you can. A VBAC to me was so important for so many reasons. I did not want the face the pain and recovery of a c-section again. I did not want to wait to hold my baby again. Of course, there was also the reason that I wanted to know my body could do it. I wanted the affirmation that my body could function the way nature intended. During my pregnancy, when I saw this statistic, I felt crushed. I believed all the negative talk from the hospital staff during my ER visit in May. I believed this number meant that I was going to fail. I didn't want to fail. I hate failing. So I channeled my inner strength. I had some positive people around me as well to remind me of that strength and fire within me to accomplish what I wanted. I decided I was going to defy the odds, defy the people who didn't believe in me, and focus on the positive energy from those who did. With all of that, I was able to overcome this little number. It will serve as a reminder to me forever that I have the strength and willpower to overcome anything if I just believe and think positively. At first it was hard to believe I was actually able to do it, and it still seems a little surreal. The elation on people's faces when they learn that I was able to do this matches what I feel. Always believe in yourself and listen to those that believe in you. Remember the fire within you, the passion that drives you to do the things you love and the things you want. If you want something, don't let negativity in. #vbacjourney #vbac #positivity #ifyouwantitgogetit #fearless

👶🏽🎉 On July 26th, 2017 at 3:40pm, Phoenix Alexander was born weighing in at 7 pounds, 12 ounces and measuring 20 inches long. 🎉 👶🏽 Although it was very difficult in the beginning, our VBAC was a success! I want to thank each and every person who helped me during the days I was in labor and during the delivery. I would not have been able to accomplish my goal if it wasn't for all of you and your support! 😊 #babyboy #babyishere #vbac #vbacjourney #vbacsuccess #40weeks6days #positivity #firstlatch #breastfeeding #laboranddelivery #ilovemyfamily (at Spring Valley Hospital Medical Center)

I feel so anxious; I just want to meet my son already. I know I shouldn't rush him, he will come on his own time and utilize his own methods. It truly isn't up to me how he is going to come into this world, and I am prepared to accept that. I just am hoping for an all natural VBAC. I will accept if it doesn't happen though. We have to learn to accept the things we cannot change. ❤️🐳 The last batch finally arrived. I got a bunch of good deals on Amazon with one of my gift cards. Got an outfit I was lusting after in the mall at a discount of about 85% off. Sooo I got it in three sizes 😅 I just love Gymboree clothing and you can't beat $2.75 per piece! I am washing the last bits of his clothing/blankets that came and it is increasing my excitement. I hurt myself with all the house rearranging I did yesterday, but I have a "push through the pain" mentality 😂 About to go to my doctor appointment and check his progress. Will update soon! #vbachopeful #vbacjourney #whalenursery #whalebaby #babyphoenix #boyswillbeboys #daddysgirl #family #fiveyearold #ilovemyfamily #39weeks5days #countdowntobaby #iwantmybaby

Found the baby some good clearance finds at my local Walmart. Three Onesies for 50 cents each, five 4-pack socks for $1 each, a three piece ensemble for $2, two sleepers for $2.50 and a nice little swaddle me for $5. Not often I go to Walmart so this was a nice surprise 😊 Also got the kids cute little plates, trays, cups, bowls and utensils for $5. And yes, that is Evening Primrose Oil. Went to my OB appointment and learned that baby is not engaged, nor am I dilated or effaced at all yet even though I had constant contractions the past few days. Get this show on the road!! #37weeks6days #naturalinduction #vbacjourney