Welcome to the World, Della!

Kaitlyn first got in touch with me back in September 2014 through my Heart & Hands doula page on FB. We met in person at a Breathe & Stretch class shortly thereafter. After doing a lot of research, she knew that she wanted a doula for additional support. Her partner, Madison, worked away from home much of the time, but we were finally able to get together one fine day in November. I arrived to their adorable country home, just out of Grand Forks, filled with rustic and country decor and was met by their two curious and uber friendly fur babies, Hayleigh and Carter! Our visit was so fun. Madison had Kaitlyn and I laughing for much of our time together! They were planning a home birth with their midwife, Rebekah Knapp, and I could hardly wait to be their doula and birth photographer!

It was 11:44  Sunday morning, January 25th, when I received a text from Kaitlyn stating that she had been having 3-4 minute apart contractions lasting 20-30 seconds. We knew she was in early labor so stayed in touch throughout the day until she decided she needed me 8:45 p.m. to head over.

They had their birthing space set up downstairs in their family room.  The roar of the fire in the fireplace, and the crackles of the wood burning was nothing short of soothing. The birth pool was set off to the side a bit. It was a lovely set up.  It was warm, welcoming and cozy.

Kaitlyn worked hard throughout the night, the next day and into the next evening with Madison by her side the entire time (outside of an early morning nap). Even though he was a quiet support, it was wonderful to see how much love he exuded through his presence and touch. We thought we may be in for another long night of labor after the midwife found Kaitlyn to still be dilated to 7 cm upon checking her around 7:30 p.m. She and Madison decided to go up into their personal space and have a shower while the rest of us got something to eat. While we were eating, Madison told us Kaitlyn thought she was pushing. We went upstairs and found Kaitlyn standing in her bedroom where she was, indeed, pushing. Needless to say, there was a mad rush to get as much of her birth supplies up to her newly selected birthing space. And, you know, sometimes you just need to change your mindset and go with what works, and this space was it! It was January 26, 2015. Beautiful little Della surprised us all and was born at 8:46 p.m. Welcome to the world sweet girl!

Thanks for reading. 🙂