Benjamin Michael

Sometimes you meet people and you know instantly you were meant to meet them at exactly this time in your life and in theirs!  This is how it is with Elizabeth and Paul!  You might remember these two incredibly beautiful (inside and out) people from their beachy maternity session!  You can check out their fun (Kate Hudson doppleganger images here ).

We initially had planned for a bump and a baby session, but as fate would have it I was honored to capture their birth story as well!

I love being able to capture births.  It’s something that I cherish because every birth is unique and it always reminds me that each and every moment of life is a miracle.  It also reminds me of how much unconditional love we feel for one another and how selfless we can be!

This birth.. and watching Elizabeth labor… it brought me to my knees!

Elizabeth chose to birth her son Ben completely natural and she was an incredible advocate for her son!  Ben was a bit stubborn, but Elizabeth was incredibly strong and patient and she was kind and loving!

Paul was quiet and strong for Elizabeth.  He was right there by her side, constantly making sure she had everything she needed before she had to ask!  He would reassure her with a gentle touch of the shoulder or a back massage when needed.  He constantly ran to the sink to make sure her washcloth was ice cold and in between each contract, he lovingly pressed it to her forehead!

Teamwork doesn’t even come close to describing what these two had and the word doesn’t do it justice either!

Elizabeth tried absolutely everything that was suggested or offered to her in order to continue with her plan for natural birth!  She not only was willing and open to suggestions but she was gracious and she continued to labor with a smile and a light heart!

I will never forget her labor because after going through the process myself and knowing what it is like… I am in awe of her strength and her poise!  As I sit here and remember it today, I am still brought to tears at how she persevered and how incredible she was!

Ben:  you were born into a family that knows more love for you than words could ever wish to describe!  You mother knows more strength and beauty than you will ever see!  Your father understands more about a quiet strength that I hope he passes down to you!  You are so blessed little man!

One of the most emotional parts of the whole day, believe it or not, was when the great grandparents were able to come and meet baby Ben!  Elizabeth was so calm up until this point and then once she saw her baby in their hands… we all began to cry!

Happy Birthday Ben and Congratulations to the new Family of Three!