The Slowdown: Poetry & Reflection Daily 1427: A toast to something beautiful flapping in the wind by J. Hope Stein
Jan 5, 2026
In a heartfelt reflection on early motherhood, the host recalls the emotional chaos of the 'fourth trimester.' Memories of soothing a newborn and the unforgettable scent of a baby’s head come rushing back. The podcast also features a poignant reading of J. Hope Stein's poem, capturing the beauty and intimacy of caring for a child. Through vivid imagery, it celebrates the fragile yet profound moments of parenthood. Join in the appreciation of poetry as a transformative experience that connects us to life's tender phases.
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Remembering The Fourth Trimester
- Maggie Smith recalls being a new mother overwhelmed during the "fourth trimester."
- She remembers exhaustion, missed naps, and both deep love and resentment during those months.
Fourth Trimester As Adaptation
- The "fourth trimester" frames early postpartum as an adaptation period for both baby and parents.
- This perspective explains why bewilderment and intense recovery are common after birth.
Sensory Memory Of A Child
- Maggie Smith says certain sensory memories — her daughter's head smell and its shape — bring her back to those days.
- Those small details still make her weep and bridge past and present.