Labor Repose

Labor Repose
LaborPayne during her 6th homebirth (9th baby) at age 44

Friday, February 17, 2012

Winter Update

Well, its been three weeks since the 'pilgrimage' and readers should have an update as to what has taken place.  I did go to Mexico, but I did not participate in the walk with my friends.  Instead I spent an entire week writing a grant.  I finished writing it, but I did not submit it.  I plan to submit it in a second round in August.  It has been a very strange odyssey.  I returned home to hacked email and stolen luggage (all of it!).

However in the weeks I have been home, I have started to lay the groundwork for Uzazi Village, made partnerships in the community to support the grant, and assembled a board for the new nonprofit.  I have started a new teaching job (going very well), started the midwife program at KU (loving it!) and applied for a position on a gubernatorial board, and a position as a state-wide breastfeeding promotion coordinator.  I also have a book and article deadlines looming.   I have also identified several other smaller local grants to apply for and continue to work on the national conference slated for my city next year.  I sit for the lactation consultant exam in July, and the certified nursing educator credential in April.  Whew.

I have also never been more satisfied with the direction my life is going.  Folks are appearing out of the woodwork seemingly to help with the work.  I feel a deep sense of peace and commitment to the work I am doing.  All the pieces seem to be coming together. Your continued well wishes and offers of assistance continue to be welcome.