Today, John Ross was born, at 1:17pm, weighing 7lbs 3oz and measuring 19 1/4 inches. His birth was a journey of wonder, excitement and beauty. I feel so privileged to have witnessed it, as his parents’ doula.

Just over an hour before John was born, his Mom was laboring by taking a magical walk in their neighborhood woods, stopping for the contractions, warmed by the Spring sun, surrounded by budding blossoms and singing birds.
The baby’s grand entrance was overseen by one of my favorite people in the world, Margaret Strickhouser, the great, caring and super-knowledgeable midwife who also helped me birth Mary 🙂

Please enjoy these images, I get teary-eyed when I see all this beauty, their love, the smiles, the perfection of new life.
Happy birthday, baby John! Happy family-of-four-Day, friends!

PS: note the boys’ boxheroes t-shirts!

Very cute and sweet baby Marshall Bray was born this morning at 7:19. He weighed 7lbs 12oz and measured 19.5in.
His mother labored for several hours and got very fierce during pushing when needed.

I am deeply moved by the relationship these ladies have. I was their doula with their first child, and the way they are atuned to each other is beyond words.

Thank you for having me there again, it truly is my privilege to witness your family grow!

Valentina was born today, December 16th, at 3:35pm, weighing 8lb 4oz and measuring 20.5in.

Her mom worked hard through frequent contractions and arrived at the hospital fully dilated. Though the baby didn’t descend all the way, her parents focused on giving her time and making the best decisions at each step of the process. Labor is always new, unique, memorable and important, and Valentina is lucky to have been granted the space to choose her own birthday and experience natural labor. I was amazed by the teamwork of Marianne and Shamim, they had a unique and effective way of moving together through the contractions – it was a privilege supporting them through the labor. Happy birthday, Valentina, and congratulations, mom, dad and big brother Joaquin!