Welcome to the World, Heidi

The glory of childbirth.

I’ve done it five times myself and have had the privilege of being present at least that many times at other births and I cannot find words that even come close to describing the miracle of life coming into this world.

I think that may be why I am so drawn to birth photography. I may not have the words but I can take pictures that reflect, at least in part, the glory of a human being’s arrival.

This labor and delivery was one of the most beautiful l&d’s that I’ve been a part of either as a participant or spectator. From start to finish is was saturated in the Word and covered in prayer. And the sense of community was profound.

This was Cody and Jessica’s third child but the first time she has ever gone full term before so it was a bit of a waiting game for all of us but the call finally came that labor had indeed started. Little Miss Heidi was also the only day time birth for the family, both of her big sisters arrived in the middle of the night. I think it was incredibly gracious of her myself.

When I got to the hospital they were settling into their room. It was a natural childbirth but periodically Jessica would get hooked up so that heart rates could be checked and contractions were tracked to establish a baseline.

They had made a play list of praise and worship music and had it playing in the back ground. She had also made a list of favorite Bible passages that would be a source of encouragement to her during the hard moments of labor. During some of the stronger contractions her husband would put counter pressure on her back while a sweet friend read various verses giving her something to focus on.

You would think that would be the sweetest moment in the room that day but when things really got going her Dad stood up so he could go hang out in the waiting room until time to meet his new granddaughter. Just as he went to hug her a contraction came on. Without missing a beat her father rubbed her back and prayed over her until it passed.

Later, it would be her mother’s turn to give comfort and prayer.

She had such an amazing support group around her each moving in and out of the way giving her comfort and help as needed.

I love the moments with the family and friends but my favorites are still what is going on between husband and wife. 

No matter how hard the contractions Jessica always rebounded with her beautiful smile and sweet attitude.

Heidi was a pretty big girl and it was a lot of hard work to get her here but mama persevered and at long last she made her debut. She had a little trouble breathing at first but the nurses were fantastic and got her going.

Dad was pretty close by keeping an eye on her.

As soon as he was able he very quietly spoke over her, The Lord bless you and keep you, The Lord make His face to shine upon you…

Beautiful exhausted grateful amazing mama.

Welcome to the world, lovely Heidi Rose! Gad has graciously placed you among a family and with friends that have already covered your life in prayer and in His word.

May grace and peace be multiplied to you

in the knowledge of God and of  Jesus our Lord.

II Peter 1:2

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