Miles’ birth slide show received some attention recently, when his mama submitted it in response to a call for doula-assisted births for International Month of the Doula. Her first son was born via cesarean section and she missed his arrival entirely because of sedation. This time, she had her heart set on a different outcome–a VBAC. Her labor was long, hard and in most settings, would have resulted in a repeat C-section. However, she was attended by Aimee Roberts, an incredible doula from Birth InSight here in Virginia Beach, along with the patient midwives at Depaul Medical Center. Because of her hands-on birth team, Miles entered the world naturally and into his mama’s open arms and heart.

If you’re pregnant, please consider adding a doula to your support team. Their knowledge, support, intuition and presence for you, your partner and baby is invaluable. It’s a decision you will most certainly, never, ever regret.

Emily is a dear friend of mine and it was an honor to attend her birth last year. This slide show is long — but she truly needed to see every moment captured. Eventually, I’ll be adding birth photography to my list of services. For now, I have my third bundle of joy on the way with doulas Aimee and Christy and the midwives from Seven Cities Midwifery attending.

She wore her yellow sun-bonnet,
She wore her greenest gown;
She turned to the south wind
And curtsied up and down.
She turned to the sunlight
And shook her yellow head,
And whispered to her neighbour:
“Winter is dead.”

Spring has finally arrived…and the entire earth is blooming beneath our feet. It’s my favorite time of year for outdoor portraits. If you think living near a beach means the best photo sessions are at the beach, maybe these will help change your mind. My dear friend spotted this nook of wildflowers, so we gathered up our kiddos and headed out. I love the vibrant colors, the sense of renewal and symbols of God’s creation scattered everywhere. This is the beginning of a spring season in my family’s personal life too — so maybe that’s why I’m especially drawn to the time and its gentle reminders this year. Meanwhile, if you’re considering a portrait session, don’t wait for the blooms to fade…this scenery is magic.

xoxo
stephanie

You are 18 months old this week. Time is whizzing by, but for now you are my snuggler, my feisty one and my baby (for just a bit longer). How I adore you sweet Muffin.

xoxo,
mama