Congratulations to Gaby and Alex on the birth of their son, Aiden James! This sweet couple were college sweethearts; now they're married and starting their family. Gaby was committed to having a natural birth out of the hospital, and she chose to give birth at Austin Area Birthing Center. It was a little before her due date when her water broke unexpectedly. Contractions began soon after but things weren't progressing into active labor. We tried some positioning and walking, and she was exhausted after a day of prodromal labor. She checked into the birth center, and we all tried to get some sleep before beginning the midwives induction routine of pumping, herbs, and castor oil in the morning. A few hours after that, things started to pick up and labor got intense and progressed quickly.
At the beginning of her labor, she did such a beautiful job of relaxing. I love her posture her with her hands open as she surrenders to each surge, letting it open her and bring her baby nearer.
With her eye on the prize, she found her focus to help her through each wave.
Her husband was such a great support to her, giving tender encouragement, and intuitively following her lead.
This is transition, and she needed to clear gaze of her husband to help her through. This look below shows so well the feeling of "I can't do this anymore, please help me." But with constant support and encouragement, she pressed on toward the goal.
Even as she neared the finish line, she was so composed and relaxed. I loved the way she folded her hands so beautifully in front of her.
Now for the pushing--such a powerhouse of strength and determination!
And finally, after so much hard work, baby is in her arms!
This such a beautiful, intimate moment as mom turns to her partner after the birth, with the expression of "we did it!".
This newborn baby knows his dad, and gazed so intently at him.
This beautiful golden hour as the new family settles in and gets to know each other!
Such a proud, gentle papa as he gets to hold his son for the first time!
Welcome to the world Aiden James! This beautiful healthy baby weighed in at 6lbs 14oz and 20 in. It was such a pleasure to serve this sweet couple and witness such strength, love, and beauty as they brought sweet Aiden into their arms.