The reward

They say that your second baby's labor is the reward for the first.  Let me just say how true that was for my dear friend, MJ.  Most of her labor was all about this little dude, right here. MJ refused to have the baby until he was asleep in bed. :O)

 

 

MJ was absolutely radiant in labor. You would not believe her baby was born just two hours after this!

This image is everything I love about home births - laboring in a quiet, comfortable, dark space in the company of those you love.

After her little man finally fell asleep, this mama wasted no time at all! Hopped in the tub, kicked into gear, set her mind to it, and pushed that baby right out.

I think no matter how many times you do it, the moment when you meet your child just never gets old.

Hello, baby!

Enjoying the new view.

Welcome, Silvia Elise! It was an honor to be there for your first few moments.

**Watch the full slideshow below, or click here for the full screen version!**

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A beautiful home labor

Whew, this post is a long time in coming - but I figured I'd better post it before I post this family's holiday session!

Just a few weeks after my own daughter was born, a friend of mine went into labor with her daughter. We had arranged for me too be there for her home birth, so I headed over in the evening when things started picking up.

Ronnie was beautiful in labor!

Unfortunately, not fifteen minutes after I got there the midwives decided this baby needed more attention than they could give. Ronnie just rolled with the punches. I've never seen someone so relaxed in labor.

Ronnie labored a bit longer as the midwives got everything ready, and then it was off to the hospital. I had my own two week old with me and wasn't allowed in to help her labor, but she was in great company. Just a few hours later little Haydee made her dramatic entrance into the world. Let me tell you, she is cute as a button!

Stay tuned for their awesome family session in Georgetown!

P.S. I can't recommend birth photography enough. It's an amazing moment to have captured forever.

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Glowing Mama

Please meet Lauren and her beautiful belly:

Usually it's easiest to do maternity portraits a month or two before the mother is due - moms still have a bit of energy and have an easier time getting around. But this family has been quite busy completing a remodel before the baby comes. Lauren was due one week after these photos were taken and it didn't seem to phase her one bit!

She even has this charmer to look after, and somehow makes it seem effortless.

Aiden is such a sweetheart, and if you ask me, he's going to make a wonderful big brother!

Lauren, enjoy your newest addition to the family. I can't wait to meet him!

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