I walked into the house to smiling faces at around 9:00 pm. I’ve known Amanda for awhile through the homeschool community, she’s booked sessions with me before, I’ve babysat. I was excited for a baby to be born. At 41 + 3 Amanda was even more ready. All the kids were asleep and with it being her fourth baby we all thought baby K would be born before the sun came up.

Amanda was able to rest most of the night. Jenny, the midwife from Clarksville Midwifery, was amazing. Late into the night she had sent her birth assistants home. She was stuck with me. The next day we ended up taking shifts for naps. Jenny is the nap QUEEN. Her partner Christy was able to come for some of the day which was a blessing. There was cake that Amanda’s best friend baked. I may or may not have eaten half of it. The Red Bulls her partner Chris brought me also saved the day.

Later in the day Chris’s daughter left with her mom. Amanda’s kid’s left with their respective dad. Amanda was able to to labor in her dark bedroom as undisturbed as possible. That evening she let the midwives know at a certain point that she wanted her water broken.

Labor picked up after that and around 24 hours since I arrived it was time to get in the tub. There was only one time where she doubted whether or not she would know when to push, but she did a great job trusting her intuition the entire time. Not too long before midnight baby K made his arrival so he could share his birthday with his mom!

Even though Amanda had a home birth before she said this birth felt empowering and healing. She told me that her entire birth team, including me, allowed her to do what her body was made to. She thanked me but honestly I’m always honored to be trusted in these sacred spaces as your photographer and doula. My ultimate goal it to make sure every one gets the support they deserve.