Your Birth. Your Story. {Birth} Greenville Birth Photographer and Doula

"It don't make no difference how foolish it is, it's the RIGHT way—and it's the regular way. And there ain't no OTHER way, that ever I heard of, and I've read all the books that gives any information about these things." -Tom Sawyer

What, you may ask, does Tom Sawyer know about birth? Not much I'd guess, but his sentiments are what get care providers and sometimes Mamas in a pickle when they approach birth. They know the right way and if you would just comply everything would be easier for you. I love when my clients get the birth they want, when they have a birth plan, have taken a childbirth class, have a supportive partner, and hired a doula.  They have a team, a bubble of peace if you will, so even when things may change, even when the "plan" is modified, they have retained control of their birthing time. They have made the decisions. It was a pleasure and privilege to be included in one such birth. This mama balanced the medical with the natural, chose her team, and even though she is a care provider herself and a fourth time Mom, took a childbirth class! This mama had said she likes to birth in the dark and quiet like a cat and this birth was just that, low lit and quiet, although a little goofiness was had in the hallway while we gave this couple space;)

Fourth babies can be a bit funny. I believe they know it will be chaotic once born and are in no hurry;) I think my 4th would have stayed inside forever! This sweet boy was no exception and mama was ready so a little bit of natural induction got the ball rolling. An easy 5 hours later this 4th son, yes ALL boys, came rushing into the water and into mama's arms. 

We had arranged for me to come back the next day, but changed that to the following when everyone was safely home and settled. Mama and sweet baby boy enjoyed an herbal bath and lots and lots of hugs and kisses. Welcome to the world Baby S, you have picked a super family and your brothers are really, really, awesome! 

I do not care what kind of birth you have…a home birth, scheduled c-section, epidural hospital birth, or if you birth alone in the woods next to baby deer. I care that you had options, that you were supported in your choices and that you were respected. -January Harshe

Tiny miracles. {Nicu session} Greenville Birth Photographer

Oh goodness. I really adore NICU sessions. Or maybe the families I've shot are just adorable and kind and such the sweetest mommies and daddies. I'm happy to report that this cutie is home and happy and thriving with his family. Sometimes tiny miracles are born a bit early and this brave VBAC mama had one such baby. I was so lucky to have been there to witness one of his first real feedings at the breast. We joked that he wanted it documented! Emmett is too adorable. Just see for yourself.

Two Less Lonely People in the World. {Birth} Greenville Birth Photographer

I'm so lucky. I get to fall in love over and over again. Just when I think my heart can't burst anymore with love and protection and awe, it does. I meet a new couple, we talk about their birth plans and who they are and this new amazing thing happening and I start to fall in love. I see my Mama's glow like a new bride during their maternity photos and then their birthing time begins. I get to be with them for hours and remember my own births and how my own husband held my hand and comforted me. And I stand in honor as these warrior women rise up to their birthing journey. It is theirs, it is their story and is everything. I get to document this transformation and it is flooring. 

I met this family last fall amidst my own families displacement. I had meant to take off the month of December and so thought that if I didn't feel connected I would refer them to someone else, especially since a Christmas Eve due date would would be a hard sell to my husband. But of course, I knew after our meeting that I could not say no if they wanted to to hire me. 

So on a hazy morning on New Year's Eve, the call came in and I rose and headed up the road to be with this family. Having my friend as their doula was icing on the cake. We spent the morning chatting with them off and on, weaving in and out to support and encourage as the day progressed. We told stories and laughed and watched this strong woman tackle day 3 of laboring with grace and resilience. We found out she's ran 8 marathons, biked 87 miles in a day, and at 6 months pregnant hiked part of the Appalachian Trail! She also gets the award for best birthing time music mix tape. You understand something about a person from the music they are drawn to. We connect over music, at concerts, hanging out with friends and more than once I had to stop myself from singing along.  

We headed to the hospital after she walked the tread mill and played ping pong, which we estimated was when she hit transition! Her husband is one of the most supportive Dads I've seen, although they are all so good, so sweet and strong, I felt his pride and esteem for her. This man beholds his wife and it was such a tender palpable thing to witness.

There are so many things to say with this birth. The doctor was patient and expressed true joy when this Mama was ready to push her baby out.  The nurses were hands off and let us support her in the way she wanted. Her family and friends spent the night in the waiting room and there wasn't a dry eye at the birth of this boy. For 31 straight hours she did not falter, did everything she could to birth her son in the way she had set out to.

She crossed the finish line, with weak knees and a strong heart. 

Sweet baby Jackson was my first birth of this wonderful New Year. At 8:22 am he made a family and weighed exactly the same as his Papa did at birth and looks just like him. 

Tonight I fell in love with you and all the thing I never knew. -AS