belly blessing

We've had countless events on Pontotoc Farm and except for my wedding, this one my take the cake. It was a mighty revival of sorts. The woman who married us is Rev. Becca Stevens and she is one of the most incredible women I've ever met. I don't even know how to describe what it is, but her spirit and way with words is like nothing I've experienced. At her church they have one yearly baptism on a farm somewhere is Middle Tennessee. This year they were looking for a new home and my parents were happy to help. About 100 people gathered next to the barn in a patch of shade. Folks were dressed for the heat and palm fans were waving steadily in the crowd. A lot of flushed cheeks were a glow, but as soon as Becca started her sermon, everyone was comforted by a slight breeze.






Becca even wanted me to participate. I wish hubs had been there to witness, but he was still en route from coastal trip. The four pregnant women there all gathered up front for a blessing of the belly. Becca rubbed my feet & wrists in this citrus cinnamon scented oil. She crossed my forehead and then touched my belly while she said a small prayer. The sun was shining down and I felt this intense presence and sense of calm from within. It was quick, but the smells, warmth and her touch felt intoxicating. I hope I'll always remember that sensation and can't wait to tell the story to my baby.





Everyone then walked down the path to the river. The band played "Down to the River to Pray" which was very surreal. After the massive flood in Tennessee a few weeks ago, it was only right that we now gathered by the water with reverence. Babies and their parents got in the water and the Baptism was so sweet to watch. Mom & I looked at each other in wonder at what we were witnessing.

New life begins breaking through stone hearts by moving a grain of sand.

Flowers open from seeds watered in secret in the belly of the earth.
Love can grow in crannies between rocks that haven't been moved in years.
Sweet saxifrage, the rock breaker, blooms where other flowers can't see life.
Their pure white tatted blossoms cover hillsides on once barren limestone walls.
Faith should follow love and grow with such grace. - Becca Stevens