A Birth with Midwives at HCA Conroe Hospital

Dear Atlas,

Today is your birthday. You are now a year old. A year ago yesterday I got a text from your mom that her water broke. You see, I wasn’t even supposed to be there the day you were born. I got lucky. I got lucky that you chose this day to be born and that I was the one to get called to back-up the original photographer.

Your mom was so anxious to meet you. She labored overnight and could not sleep for anything. I arrived around 5 am on January 11th and she was still wide awake even though your dad and grandfather were out like lights on the couch near her.

As it got closer to your appearance, the intensity of your mom’s labor increased. No matter what she did, she couldn’t quite get relief from the contractions and the sharp pain in her back. The only thing that gave your mom a little relief was when your dad lightly rubbed her back and belly. It was such a sweet thing to watch him lightly rub your moms back and see your grandfather stroke her hair. I could see in their faces that they wanted to do everything that could to bring her an ounce of relief.

Finally it was time to meet you. At 1:09 pm, after a little trouble with your shoulders, you plopped out. All 8 lbs 15 oz of you. You were the cutest, roundest little thing.

I have enjoyed watching you over the past year from the many posts your mom makes on FB. My wish for you is to always know how much you were and are loved because I see it constantly radiating from your parents.

Happy BIRTHday!