I knew it would take me a few days to write Lucy’s birth story. And to be honest, I still haven’t fully processed what I can only call “the most defining experience of my life.” So accept this for what it is: a feeble attempt to describe something beyond words.
On Monday, June 24th, I went to the OB with my mom to take a non-stress test. My doctor wanted to watch the baby closely, as I was 5 days overdue. I had several contractions during the test and thankfully Lucy responded exactly like they wanted. My mom and I stopped at Starbucks to pick up water and then headed to Hobby Lobby to buy a few frames for my mom’s guest bathroom.
As we walked around the store, my Braxton Hicks contractions began to change. I started to feel cramps along with the typical tightening of my abdomen. I told my mom, and we both smiled. We knew that this likely meant labor was near. On the drive home, the contractions continued. I called Ryan and sent my doula a message. I didn’t want to get anyone too excited, but I felt like something was finally happening.
I spent the afternoon with my mom and sister. The contractions were coming about every 7-10 minutes but they were mild. I could shop, I could make dinner, I could talk on the phone. As the sun began to set, my contractions died down. By the time we went to bed, they were gone. I felt disappointed and discouraged. Even embarrassed. Would this baby ever come?
The next morning I woke up. Ryan and I talked softly in bed and then I went to make breakfast. There were no contractions. No cramps. Nothing. I called my mom and told her that despite my hopes yesterday, we wouldn’t be having a baby anytime soon. But just after I got off the phone and set the timer for my hard boiled eggs, the first contraction hit. And I knew immediately that this was for real. I called my doula and my mom. I told them we still had plenty of time but to get ready to go to the hospital later that morning. I asked Ryan if we could go and pick up a few of my favorite muffins from a bakery in Manitou. As I got dressed, the contractions continued…and intensified. By the time I was ready to slip on my shoes to leave the house, I couldn’t walk or talk through a contraction. I leaned up against the wall, my eyes closed, and I focused on my breath. When the wave passed, I told Ryan, “Scratch the muffins. Call my mom and Sarah (our doula). Tell them to get here NOW.”
By the time my mom and Sarah arrived, we had our hospital bags at the front door. Ryan ran outside and began loading them in my mom’s car. I stood on the front porch as another contraction hit. I leaned over the metal railing and focused on my breath again.
We arrived at the hospital a little after nine. In triage, our nurse checked me: I was 5 ½ centimeters, 90% effaced, and the baby was in 0 position. We were good to stay.
As we waited to get settled into our room, my contractions grew closer and closer together. I buried my head into the side of the bed, visualizing a calm beach and water rushing up and over my legs, my hips, and my belly. The brief breaks from pain were precious. Ryan and I would talk, hold hands, and I would attempt to regain my strength. Right before we left triage, I had to sit through a particularly painful contraction as the nurse inserted my saline lock (I needed to take a round of antibiotics because I had tested positive for Group B Strep). Thankfully, Marjorie was kind and praised my composure (it’s amazing what a little positive feedback can do for the psyche!)
We were finally allowed to go to our room almost an hour after arriving at the hospital. Lucy picked a popular day to be born…ten babies came during the day time shift! My sister, mom, and Ryan’s mom were waiting for us in the lobby. Seeing everyone’s excited faces made me even more eager to bring this little one into the world.
Marjorie had dimmed the lights in my delivery room, just as we requested. I wanted to give birth in a calm , “cave-like” environment, which isn’t necessarily easy to do at the hospital. But the staff made every effort to meet my requests (from the room environment to allowing me to labor in the tub). I am so thankful for the doctors and nurses who worked with us this past week!
My contractions grew more intense each minute. I spent most of the time in bed, facing away from my family (not because I didn’t want them there…but because each contraction required so much inner focus). This went on for about twenty to thirty minutes as Marjorie listened to Lucy’s fetal heartbeat. After the read was complete, she asked me if I still wanted to go to the tub. I had an intense contraction that almost took my breath away, and after coming down from it, I told her yes.
Ryan and I went to the tub room together. My doula had set up candles and we turned off all the lights. The minute my body hit the warm water, I felt like I had been transported. “I’m in heaven!” I told Ryan as he gently stroked my arm. But just when I had begun to get settled, another contraction came on and this time I felt the distinct urge to push. We pulled the red nurse rope and Marjorie came right in. She asked if she could check me, and we found out I was already 8 ½ centimeters dilated. At this point, it was time to call the doctor and get me back into the delivery room.
My OB is actually a family friend. She lives only a few houses up from my parents and I used to baby sit her young children. I was thrilled when we moved back to Colorado because I knew she’d be a great doctor for me and Lucy. Even though Judy Brinkman only delivers on days when she’s “on-call” she was sweet enough to make a special note in my chart. The hospital was to notify her when I went into labor and she would leave her office or her house to deliver our baby.
She came into the room a little after noon. She checked me and told me I was officially ten centimeters dilated. She also said that first time moms typically take about 2 hours to push. She had patients she needed to see at her office, so she asked Marjorie to monitor my pushing and call her when I got close.
TWO HOURS. I felt like I might pass out. By this point, I was vocalizing loudly, humming in a low and then high octave during each contraction.
My first few attempts at pushing were nothing less than terrifying. I felt the urge to push but I couldn’t muster the strength to bear down. I felt completely lost and confused. I was worried they’d have to cut the baby out of me…exhaustion had never seen like the more apt word. I asked my sister to come over and pray. From what I’ve been told, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room as Susanne laid hands over me and prayed for strength and peace. It was the turning point in my labor.
What exactly happened I don’t know, but I found that the next time I pushed true progress was made. It was almost as if my spine curled around the contraction and then my body was able to focus on the exact right spot to push…such a bizarre but satisfying feeling. Everyone in the room cheered. They could see the baby’s head.
The next fifteen minutes was exhilarating. I was able to bear down and push through each contraction, bringing my baby closer and closer to me. Ryan exclaimed, “She has so much hair!” after a particularly successful round of pushing. It was just what I needed to hear to get me across the finish line.
After I pushed through another contraction, my nurse ran out of the room and told someone to call Dr. Brinkman. I was about to have this baby…with or without her. Two hours had turned into fifteen minutes. The pain was present but bearable. I knew that I was so close to holding her and this made my efforts of utmost importance.
Dr. Brinkman tried to get me to slow down to prevent tearing, but I couldn’t think outside the way I’d been pushing. I just wanted to hold her. After one more strong push, out she came. Seeing her—so alive and tangible—had to be one of the most beautiful moments of my life. I broke out in tears, or sobs, and I reached down to hold her hand as they let the umbilical cord pulse for a few more seconds. As I brought her up to my chest, I kept saying, “My baby, my baby” all while laughing and crying. All while thanking God for this incredible gift. Ryan and I held each other as we gazed into our baby’s eyes. I don’t know if I’ve ever been more in love with him. He was such a support during my pregnancy and delivery. Ryan was able to cut the cord–the life force between me and my daughter. I wouldn’t have trusted that sacred transition to anyone but him.
Words can’t do justice to the miracle that is birth, and I was lucky enough to have Kadi Spurlock from Up in the Sycamore in the delivery room with us. Please feel free to view the slideshow below. I’ve shared a few of the photographs here…but it all comes together in the video. She did an amazing job and these pictures are some of my greatest treasures. Lucy and I are falling in love and recovering more each day. Thanks to everyone for your kinds words and thoughts and prayers. Please enjoy the video of Lucille Amelia’s birth. We couldn’t stop crying the first time we watched it!
Lucy’s Birth (the video)
I’m overjoyed for you Monet! As someone who has not given birth, I’m always hesitant to read birth stories, because frankly, they scare me. But there were so many moments reading yours that I could feel the peaceful energy of your birth process. You exude a calmness that I’m sure your daughter will feel, appreciate and cherish. Lucy is so beautiful, and you look like you were just born to be a mother. Congratulations and enjoy the new journey!
PS: Hope you’ve finally gotten your favorite muffins now that you’re resting and recovering at home:)
Xo, Jenn
Your story is amazing. I am actually crying right now. Hallo Lucy, welcome to this world 🙂 Congratulations to you two 🙂
Congratulations!! What a beautiful little family. So glad everything went well. Now her little life begins!!
Beautifully written and photographed. Thank you for sharing your birth story and congratulations to you and your family. Well done!
This post is beautiful, Monet! What a blessing for you and Ryan, and for both your families! The love you and Lucy feel for each other just shines from the photos. I especially love that last photo – that’s such a precious smile on her face (and yours!).
Thank you for sharing Lucy’s birth story with us, both the good and the sometimes scary. I’m so happy that everything was wonderful at the end (and that 2 hours of labor ended up being 15 minutes!). Congratulations to you, and enjoy your early days of motherhood 🙂
P.S. I agree with above – I hope you were able to chow down on some of your favorite muffins when you got home!
I can’t express in words how truly overjoyed and ecstatic I am for you and Ryan! This post brought me to tears! I know how long you’ve wanted just this, Monet and Ryan, and I am so, so happy to see you exactly where you want to be. What a precious gift from God your little girl is! I hope to meet her if we ever get to visit Colorado, or if you ever visit Austin with Lucy. Lots of love and big hugs to you 3!
Bravo! You and Ryan and Lucy are a great birthing team. Welcome to beautiful baby Lucy and congratulations to all.
Best,
Bonnie
Monet,
Your birth story is a beautiful, loving transition from a 9 month pregnant Momma-to-be to a beautiful Momma with a darling baby girl. I had tears in my eyes as I read and your positive strength shines through. this such a magical time for you and your new family. Cherish every moment!
I am sitting in my office, bawling my eyes out…
oh, well – I knew I would have this reaction, and I don’t mind. I just hope no students knock at my door right now
Congratulations, enjoy your new life, and cherish each moment!
Congratulations, Monet, and welcome to the world, Lucy! I’m glad Lucy finally arrived safe and sound. : ) Looks like she is already smiling in that last picture! Enjoy your new adventure.
Thank you so much for sharing the story and video. I’m so happy for you.
What a beautiful story! So happy it went just as you visualized!! All that visualization and centering- so proud of you and so happy for your beautiful little family! Savoring this is better than dark chocolate! Congratulations!
This story was so beautiful, thank you so much for sharing Monet! She is an absolute miracle. Congratulations!
Congratulations on you bundle of joy!!! Lucy is absolutely precious!!! Glad you are both doing great!!!!!!
Monet, thank you for sharing you and Lucy’s story! So beautifully told. Thank the Lord for the miracle of Birth. I know Lucy will be as beautiful as her Mommie, who, along with her Daddy, will bring her up in the “nurture and admonition” of the Lord.
Beautiful photos and such a memorable event thank you for sharing my friend 🙂
The miracle of birth is really here!
Cheers
CCU
Simply A-mazing!! SO beautiful. You had me in tears!! What a beautiful video. Good job Monet!! Tell me your secrets!!!
xo Jessalyn
Monet, congratulations to you and Ryan! Lucy is adorable and I’m looking forward to updates about her. I’m happy to hear all went well. Thanks for sharing your adventure, and here’s wishing you all the best!
Congratulations!
What a beautiful & amazing story. I’m so glad to hear that everyone is happy and healthy. Congratulations!
Congratulations Monet and Ryan! Beautiful story! Beautiful baby!
Congratulations! She is gorgeous! I am just so happy for you.
Monet!!!!! Congratulations to you and Ryan! Lucy is absolutely gorgeous – she’s already smiling in that last photo you posted! Thank you so much for sharing the entire experience and these precious pictures with all of us. You’re super woman, for sure. I hope you’re resting and enjoying every moment with the newest, sweetest member of your family. Sending much love your way!
Welcome to the world Lucy! My heart is filled with joy and love for you guys!
Dear Monet, Congratulations!!
I am very happy for you and your husband. You are both very blessed with a beautiful baby. Lucy looks so peaceful and satisfied. She too is very blessed to have you both.
I pray for a lifetime of beautiful memories.
Blessings dearest. Catherine xo
I’m commenting again because I just watched Lucy’s birth video. Tears are streaming down my face. I do not know you guys personally but I can honestly say I love all three of you! Beautiful. Monet, you are amazing. Way to go! XO
Congrats Monet and Ryan! Lucy is beautiful. Wishing all the best for your new family! Savor the moment 🙂
Oh Monet, she’s just perfect! I am so, so happy for you guys! 🙂
Pam’s contractions continue, and Jim tries to convince Pam that she needs to go to the hospital, but Pam refuses. Andy also tells Pam not to worry about baby names because his name wasn’t chosen until he was six years old. When Michael distracts Jim, Pam wants Michael and everyone else to distract her so that she can remain calm and slow down the rate of contractions. Michael explains he is awesome at distracting people, even at an early age in school. Michael holds a meeting so that she can keep Pam entertained.
Congratulations Monet and Ryan,
Lucy is just perfect! She is so adorable! Thank you for sharing your story and the video, I am so touched by the video!
You are one busy mommy now! Take care and a hug to baby Lucy!
Congratulations!! she is absolutely beautiful! I’m so glad she’s finally here safe and sound! these photos are lovely what an amazing way to treasure the day!
Dear Monet and Ryan, congratulations from all of us and welcome to precious baby Lucy!!! I am so glad to see and read that all went well with the delivery!!! Your daughter looks so healthy and cute – we could not be any happier for you!!!
And thank you, Monet for sharing so many personal moments during your pregnancy and from your delivery with all of us, you really touched us in many wonderful ways!
Big fat hugs and kisses for the baby and only the very best to the whole family!
Take good care, my friend!
Many congratulations to you both and a warm welcome to baby Lucy!
Monet,
I usually just read your blog and try your wonderful recipes in the background, but I am crying after watching that great video of Lucy being born. Congratulations to you both-she is beautiful!
Welcome, Lucy! Tears were streaming down my face. You wrote such a beautiful story and that video was amazing. I’m so happy for you and your family. These are happy days and I thank you for sharing these moments. Congratulations!
I have had this post up for the last 24 hours… meaning to leave a comment saying how thrilled I am for you and Ryan. Lucy is such a beauty and it’s so wonderful you have these photos to look back on. Congratulations!
Congratulations to the three of you. Lucy is beautiful and that last photo brought tears to my eyes. It’s so much more fun with them on the outside!
Congratulations Monet to you and Ryan!!! Lucy is absolutely beautiful. I loved reading her birth story – thank you so much for sharing it with us. I hope that you are starting to settle in with your sweet new baby : )
So beautiful! And congratulations – I am so happy for you both. What a beautiful baby.
Man, I’ve missed alot! I have been a bad blogger friend, and didn’t know you we’re pregnant. Love the pictures, love the name, congrats!
Congratulations Mom & Dad! And hello little Lucy! Monet, I’m so happy for you. You done good 🙂
I have been waiting for this post for WEEKS! I am so glad that you got through it and are happy and home. What a great recollection. You made me feel much better about my eventual baby birthing! Give Lucy a big forehead kiss for me 🙂
Congratulations to all three of you! So glad I am that your delivery went well and both you are Lucy are fine. I was crying when reading your post… but I think I will understand exactly how it feels when it will be my time in November. Lucy is beautiful! Enjoy your time with her!
Ciao
Congrats again my dear friend. That video brought me to tears! How amazing. Just how amazing.
The way you write about it is amazing as well. I know that a lot of women say they can’t remember much of what was going on, but you seem like you remember each and every last detail. How truly special for you.
Congrats again, I cannot wait for your new journey to unfold for you 🙂
What an amazing story– congratulations and welcome to Lucy!
What a lovely story you have shared with us! Congrats on your bundle of joy!
Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful!! This brings back so many memories for me of Lila’s birth. You truly don’t understand how momentous it is until it happens!
Love to you and your whole family– enjoy that sweet baby girl!
Beautiful post! So well written, and quite moving. I’m so happy for you, Ryan, and of course Lucy. And your whole family. Great pictures, wonderful post. Thanks.
Wow congratulations Monet! Such an exciting read 🙂
I am so happy for all three of you – and thanks for sharing such a precious time!
What a beautiful birth story! Congratulations, Monet and Ryan!
I was absolutely riveted by this story and almost felt like I was there with you! There and desperately wanting an epidural!! Deep and heartfelt congratulations on the arrival of your beautiful daughter. I know the past has sometimes been painful for you but Lucy’s arrival into the world created a shift. Joy from now on.
I’m just catching up on this now and am so happy to hear the birth was successful and you’re all doing well. Congrats on the beautiful baby girl!
Congratulations! I didn’t go through the labor part, but pushing was one of the most exhausting processes ever. I’m jealous of your 15 minutes (and I only pushed for 40!)
congratulations!!!
Dear Monet, I was looking forward to read this story. CONGRATULATIONS. I have been off line for a while but I remebered that your due date was around this period. I enjoyed to read your birth story, it brought back unforgettable moments of my life. Enjoy and relax. Ciao Rita
Congratulations!! I felt the same anticipation about Lucy’s birth as I would for a friend’s child and am sorry to only write now. I was away and then got sick. I am so happy for you that giving birth was such an incredible experience for you.
Congratulations! I’ve been wondering how you are. It sounds like the most perfect birth and you handled it so very, very well. Your Lucy is gorgeous. I love all her hair and she has a beautiful mouth. Can you believe my daughter was the exact same weight! I trust all is going well and enjoy every moment with her as these babies grow so fast – they don’t stay little for long at all. Best wishes to the new family xx
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What a beautiful story! I couldn’t stop reading and you wrote so well in details. I gave birth 7 and 5 years ago and it’s been so long ago that I can’t remember details. It’s wonderful that you wrote this story and can read it later on. It will mean a lot. You made me want to have a baby again. 🙂 Congratulations to you and Ryan, and welcome Lucy! We’ve been all waiting for you!
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Kalynn Wachs had it all planned. Her second son was expected May 1. The bags were packed and, when the contractions were strong and frequent, her husband would drive her to a birthing center in Annapolis, where their baby would be delivered in a soothing water bath.
My beautiful baby girl Elise Ryan Breivik finally made her appearance this last Monday. So here’s the scoop! My water broke at 1:40 am Monday morning. Now, with Sienna I didn’t start having contractions until about 13 hours later. With Elise the contractions started within the hour. I knew that this delivery was going to be quick! I called my mom and told her to be on the alert and to meet us at the hospital when I called again. About 20 minutes later I called her and asked if she could just come over and be here till we were ready to leave. Half an hour later she arrives and I try to go back to sleep to get some rest before the impending marathon. 15 minutes after that the contractions are a little too strong for me to feel comfortable staying. So I got up, woke Ryan up and told him to call his mom so she could come over and be here with Sienna while we went to the hospital. We made our way to the hospital…okay scratch that we SPED to the hospital (Ryan was really hoping to get pulled over so he could give a cop what for!!) and I was admitted about 4 am.
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