Thursday night I got to see something amazing, something I had witnessed before, but not for a long time, and something that I am sure will never get old.
I saw a baby be born!
I had the privilege to see three of my nephews be born, the last almost exactly seven years ago. It was just amazing each time.
Then I had my own babies, but I didn’t really get to watch that per se, since Joshua was an emergency C-section, and although Sophie’s was scheduled, they don’t let you watch yourself being carved up for good reason, I am sure.
So – my friend Tosh was in labor alllll night on December 30th and allll day on the 31st, and about nine p.m., she had her sister call and see if I wanted to come because she was ready to push, and I jumped at the chance.
When I got there, I could see the baby’s head and Tosh had pushed a couple of times. Her mom, sister, dad, and grandmom were all there. I felt so privileged to be included in the group. As soon as I came in, Tosh’s mom, my BFF Luanne, started making motions for me to take pictures. So I did.
A few more pushes, and some funny comments from Tosh (after one push -“Is anyone else a little stressed?” and after the baby’s head was out, “Oh my gosh! There’s still SHOULDERS!”) she gave a nice big push and baby Marler Kay was born – all NINE POUNDS FOUR OUNCES of her!! I was in awe. Tosh was so amazing. I know I keep using that word, and I hate to be inarticulate, but it was amazing. I was in awe and overcome by emotion. I sobbed like the crybaby I am as we all hugged and oohed and aahed over this new life and her mother’s efforts to bring her into this world.
A baby being born is such a miracle. It sounds trite to say, but even now, four days later, I am too stunned by what I saw to be more descriptive. It was just indescribably beautiful and miraculous. Truly I felt like the presence and love of God in the process of this baby’s birth.
Welcome to the world, baby girl!
That’s amazing! Great picture!
How wonderful! Way to go Tosh!
I watched both of mine come into the world. First a C-section, then with Donovan a VBAC. Both are amazing. I’m glad I was there.
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How special…and what a great photo! Congrats to Mama and welcome to the world little newbie!
That’s so awesome!! Tell Luanne I said congrats!
I was blessed to be with my sister for my nephew’s birth (which also made me eternally grateful for my own c-sections!) But I always cry when I hear that baby’s cry for the first time, mine or anyone else’s. It really is amazing to be present for that person’s first breath of life!
The best part of my job hands down! Birth is never boring and always beautiful in its own way.
You made me cry. It is amazing!!
I can’t IMAGINE being a part of that. Other than being the laboring mother, of course. 😉 One of my friends was with me when my 3rd was born and she said it was the most amazing thing to witness. Congratulations on your new nephew!
aLWAYS A MIRACLE….CONGRATS TO TOSH!
Even after having 5 c-sections, I still cringe at the thought of “Normal” births it just looks PAINFULL when baby comes out.
I liked the picture of the tiny foot.
congrats to tosh and the family. give her a hug from the brantons.
What a great article and a beautiful and fun picture. You can’t help but feel God’s presence when a baby is born.