Sophia’s Birth Story // Cambridge, OH

“A miracle is really the only way to describe motherhood and giving birth. It’s unbelievable how God has made us women and babies to endure and be able to do so much. A miracle, indeed. Such an incredible blessing.” -Jennie Finch

May 20th- We arrived at the hospital at 6:30 am, the scheduled time for Malynda to be induced. Though she was over a week past her due date, the doctor had intended for Malynda to delivery her sweet babe (rather than planning a Caesarean section.) We all knew that this process could take an OCEAN of patience and time, but we had no idea that Sophia would resist delivery for more than TWENTY-FOUR hours. 

We spent the first few hours settling in, watching the early morning news, and chatting about anything and everything. 
The doctor broke Malynda’s water. We continued to wait for a change. 
Soon after noon, they gave Malynda a low dose of Pitocin. (BOY OH BOY) After that, the contractions began slowly. A few hours in, she was a 5. Between 2pm and 9pm, there was a gap with no progression. As they increased the Pitocin, the contractions got worse, and Momma was more than ready to get this show on the road. 

FINALLY at 9pm, there was a progression. At this point the contractions were intense. She begged the nurses to check her again, praying that she would be ready. It was time to push. 

Watching this young mother prepare her body for the WORK of a lifetime was one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever witnessed. After hours of painful contractions, the chance to PUSH was a relief. It’s called labor for a good reason. It is exactly that- hard work. Painful, uncomfortable, and draining. Yet the most amazing sacrifice for LIFE. Going back to the opening quote; Birth and motherhood are a Gift from God. The most indescribable miracle there is. I am honored for the opportunity to photograph and document the story of this precious blessing named Sophia. 

After an hour of giving every ounce of effort she had, Mommy & baby were tired.. The doctor declared that it was in Sophia’s best interest to continue with a C-Section. Though I was not able to follow them for the operation, her Mom, Michelle, was able to snap a photo of sweet Sophia entering the world at 3:49 AM. She weighed 7 pounds 4oz with a head of hair and blue eyes.  

Healthy. Perfect. & Loved. 

In Life,