Renly’s Home Birth Grand Forks, ND Birth Photographer

Before I even begin, I know I am way late on this blog post but was such a lovely home birth, I couldn’t resist sharing.  Here’s Renly’s story:  I met Ash, Drake and little Lestat at a birth rally in Grand Forks, ND, back in 2013. I remember visiting with Drake on how wonderful it was that he was there to, not only support his wife on Improving Birth, but also that he was there in support of  the National ‘Labor Day’ birth rally as well.  What a great guy!  Fast forward to July 2014, I was super excited to find Ash had messaged me on FB to let me know she was pregnant and inquiring about my services!  It was wonderful getting to know her and her family better through the months leading up to the stormy night she gave birth.  She texted me just before midnight on February 23rd letting me know she was having contractions 3-5 minutes apart and feeling clammy and trembly. As a birth worker, I know that can mean one of two things: Either early labor or nearly transition. With her contractions lasting 30-45 seconds, it sounded like it still may be early labor but with this being her second baby, I didn’t want to  take any chances so decided to get ready and head out. I’m so glad I did! With no mention of a storm, I (and the midwife) encountered some pretty blustery weather and at times blizzard-like conditions where I needed to come to a complete stop as I simply could not see a thing! Funny thing is the next day, you couldn’t tell and no one even knew there was a storm! So glad for the times the wind tamed down enough for me to speed off down the road in my little car. Needless to say, this little guy decided he was going to come quickly, leaving little time for the midwife and I to get there!  It was a lovely water birth, and his mother scooped him right out of the water without hesitation.  Little Renly made his appearance in the early morning hours of this stormy night on February 24, 2015, and shares a birthday with my husband. I know the storm helped you to come fast and furiously, but am so glad you and your momma waited for me to get there before you made your appearance! Here are a few of my favorites from your birth.