The Miracle of Birth

I certainly remember all the details of the births of my two children, even though these occured 39 and 35 years ago. But I could not have imaged the excitement and shear joy of being a part of the birthing of my grand daughter two and a half years ago. The labor process was quick, just three or four hours. I would suspect that Alanna did not see it as quick, but my labor with her was seven hours, so I speak from the perspective of one who has been there, done that!

While I took photos (unlike the birth of my children when grandparents were not allowed to experience these events. And we never thought of taking a camera into the operating room with us!), I would not dream of violating my daughter and son-in-law's privacy on this blog, but I'm glad that we have these photos for Naia to enjoy when she's older and perhaps becomes a mother herself.

I remember how we rooted for and coached Alanna through the last hard labor pains she experienced as we saw the miracle of Naia's birth. And then -- one month before her due date ---- right before our eyes, new life! Plus after her birth, she was not wisked away to some other place to be cleaned, weighed and measured. Instead the neo-natal team came to us, set up in the delivery room and kept our precious little one close while they performed these necessary tasks. Once they completed these, Naia wrapped in her new receiving blanket, cap on head was handed back to her mother to be cuddled as we all oooed, aahed and exclaimed how beautiful she was - all 5lbs 6oz.