Five years ago around this time (7-ish in the morning) I was feeling fine getting an IV put in preparing to feel the writhing pain of labor. The pain of labor can not compare to the joy of when that tiny one above was placed in my hands. I was still so young, my first-born was only 18-months old and now I was holding this precious ruddy little guy.
***WARNING***If birthing stories make you squeamish skip to the next picture***
The birth of Levi is one of those stories that could be used to advocate for the non-traditional midwife route. After I was induced with Judah we realized that my labor seems to lag and then in a suddenly moment the baby is coming. I was told the sudden transitions and quick deliveries were brought on by my lack of epidural. So we told every medical personnel that came into my room, “things happen fast” in order to avoid the ill-preparedness of Judah’s delivery. Just as we had said I went from “it will be a while” to “oh its time” in a matter of no time. For some reason the nurse decided to step out of the room to notify the doctor. In the time it took her to call my doctor Levi was crowning. As she entered back into the room and the next thing I knew the nurse’s hand was on his head and I was being told not to push. For the mom’s who have been in labor they know one can not simply “stop pushing”. I look back at that moment and wish I would have had with the courage to tell her, “NO! You move your hand!” but alas I did not.
The next thing I know I was surrounded by several nurses (some of whom I think were students – one of the guys looked thoroughly freaked out) just standing there looking at me telling me not to do anything. It felt like an eternity, I am sure it was only a few minutes and finally I saw a nurse step up to get gloves when bursting through the door comes my doctor. After a few pushes Levi was in my arms and all of the crazy was worth it. There is nothing more euphoric than having a soft, squishy, still somewhat slimy baby put in your arms.
Here is that tiny babe many moons later out dinner with his Abba (Daddy) for his birthday eve dinner.
Levi,
My have you grown and changed over the last 1,826 days, from a tiny snuggle bug to a strong and hysterical storytelling youngling. Your laughter is infectious and your hugs healing. You love well and care for those around you. I love how you always think of others and how you bring me flowers. You have one of the tenderest hearts I have ever known and I pray that you will always stay that way — even when the pain comes and tries to take it away. You are strong and brave and a lover of sleep. Now if you could wake up so we could have donuts and start our day of celebrating you I would’t be sad. I love you, the light of my belly! Always be the bold, kind, bright boy that you are. Happy 5th Birthday, Levi Joshua!!!!
~ Momma
