Sometimes we are blessed to witness and be a part of events that touch our lives and change our hearts forever. I had an experience like that recently. My brother Austin asked if I would like to take pictures at the hospital as he and Rachel had their first child. I've never done a shoot like this, but couldn't pass up the experience of being able to witness the birth of my niece. This isn't really my story to tell. However, I can't let what I experienced be forgotten, so I have to share some of their story to share my story.
Let me tell you a story about my sister, Rachel and how she is the toughest girl I know. I got a phone call on Thursday night, that they were headed to the hospital. Rachel's water had broken that afternoon and they were going to be heading in soon. Well, I panicked a bit. I was 2 and a half hours away. I was at back to school night and I was debating what I should do, when panic took over, I was so worried I was going to miss it! I jumped in the car and headed up to Richfield. I got there at 9 pm and they were just settling in for the night. I was unaware that Rachel was going to try to go naturally. She is one of the strongest people I know. I never even entertained the idea of a natural birth, nor after watching Rachel would I! She is an amazing woman. She was so prepared and Dixie, the midwife, was amazing. It was so neat to watch, but also extremely hard to see. She was just in so much pain. But she pushed through but after 16 hours of natural labor decided to have an epidural at 6 am the next morning. It was almost a relief, because it was so hard to watch. Baby Owyn just wasn't quite ready to come out.
And let me tell you about my brother! Gosh, you would think you know someone after growing up with them and sharing a house with them for most of your life. But this experience showed me a sweet and tender side I never knew existed!! It was so neat neat to see him with Rachel. He also read an entire book on how to take care of your partner during natural childbirth. I also learned that he drinks way to many Rockstars! I had to tease him about all weekend. It was neat to watch them as Rachel went through the process and tried different positions to try to get comfortable. He was at her side, holding her hand, holding her up or laughing and comforting her.
It was a party in the room! We had mom and Rachel's sister Mary with us. At 3 am, mom had, had enough and I took her home and slept for 2 hours and then headed back up to the hospital. We spent the morning letting Austin sleep. Once the epidural kicked in, Rachel was able to sleep a little bit and rest. Mary and I stayed and visited and helped when we could. Probably the best moments for me, was actually being there with Rachel when everyone else had left for a few minutes to check on kids and dogs, and to grab a bite to eat. I was able to just visit with Rachel and hold her hand and I was so grateful that she wanted me there. I hate being so far away and to be able to be part of such a sweet and special experience meant so much to me. Rachels mom passed away last December, right after they found out that they were expecting. There was a few moments that were pretty emotional and I was just so grateful to have been able to be there for her. I know her mom was there, I felt it and that was a neat experience to be a part of.
Sweet baby Owyn arrived that afternoon, August 16th at 2:05 pm and weighted in at 6 lbs. 3 oz. and 20 inches long
. She is absolutely perfect! I've never been so enamored with a baby before, besides my own. I think she will always have a special place in my heart, because her arrival was such a sweet experience for me.
I love this picture. I love the expression on Austins face.
Such a sweet little spirit, so fresh from heaven. It makes you wonder, what is she thinking? Is she scared? Does she miss those she left behind? Does she know how loved she is? Does she know how much she is wanted?
I adore this picture too! She looks so happy and smiley.
I will be eternally grateful to Austin and Rachel for letting me be a part of this experience. Look at what a sweet family they have! I can't wait to watch Owyn grow up and to see their family expand and grow.
I love you guys. Thanks for sharing your day with me.
