Mom's Backyard

Words & Photography
by Shelby Salinas

I'd swing back and forth, rubbing my belly. Breathe in all the worries and stresses from that day, then breathe out love.

This is my mom's backyard. I sat in this swing most days during my pregnancy. I'd swing back and forth, rubbing my belly. Breathe in all the worries and stresses from that day, then breathe out love. With eyes closed and a steady breath, this was my daily meditation. I could've sat on the floor inside, but hearing the birds and feeling the wind somehow brought me closer to E.

Now here we sit. I'm nursing him and listening to those familiar sounds. Isn't life magical?