the payoff is sweet

I went to my first (and probably only) home birth this weekend. My friend Sarah was 5 days overdue when she finally went into labour on Thursday night, and for hours and hours she laboured at home, working hard to bring her beautiful daughter Tigerlily Beatrix into the world. I've never seen determination and grace so beautifully meshed before. Sarah handled each contraction with the knowledge that it was bringing her closer to Tigerlily, and stuck to her guns about delivering naturally right up to the end.

When all was said and done Tigerlily came out the old-fashioned way, with a tired mom and dad waiting to meet her. With Grandma rejoicing at the first sight of her. With Grandpa and big sister Tara a phone call away.

It was something to behold, and I have a much greater appreciation for partner's who participate as observers in the labour process. Wow.

Talk to you soon.