This birth story is very special because it is for someone who is very dear to me. I have known this mother for over a decade and we have become very close friends, then sisters, and even became new mothers in the same year with our first babies. This is the story of the arrival of her third child, and I have never been more inspired & moved than watching her work through each contraction with such ease and poise. It was truly beautiful to witness.

Chelsea had first let me know her contractions were beginning only a couple hours earlier that afternoon. It was 5:30 pm when I arrived at their home, and when I pulled up I could see my sweetest little niece and nephew, waiting outside for me on the porch. There was an overwhelming feeling of excitement and joy in the air that cold February night. The kids were playing, laughing and running around, and at even such young ages, I think they both knew they were about to meet their little sibling very soon. After a sweet little cuddle with mommy, they soon headed to their grandparents' house down the street to have a fun evening with them so mama could focus on bringing their new baby sibling into the world.

Chelsea swayed and breathed through every contraction with her husband James near her side, every step of the way. As her labour progressed, her swaying quickened and breathing intensified, but not once did she loose her control or her sense of complete and total trust in her body. Between every contraction, smiles and laughter filled the room. There were these gorgeous bouquets of tulips arranged around the room, and little red hearts on the windows for Valentine's Day. It was the perfect night for a birth.

After labouring for a few short hours, her midwives had arrived with many suitcases full of equipment. They quickly set up, and monitored mama and her little one as the night progressed. They were amazing and very attentive to Chelsea and her baby. By 8:35 pm, Chelsea & James welcomed their third baby into the world. It was such a peaceful and beautiful night. They were able to rest in bed shortly after and soak in their new little newborn while some fresh zucchini bread warmed in the oven. A short while later, the rest of the family joined them and came to meet little Hanna for the first time. It was such a special moment to witness big brother greeting his newest sister, and little sister now becoming a big sister. I feel truly honored to capture another birth for my sister, Chelsea and her family.

Congratulations to Chelsea, James & family! And, welcome to the family to my littlest niece, Hanna.  xo