It was early morning when I got the first message to let me know Andries decided to surprise us a few weeks early, but it was not long after that that Larisa let me know that she is only 3cm dilated and she is on her way back home. Her midwife told her she should come back when she lost her ability to have a conversation ;) Never the less by the time Larisa "lost" her voice, we met at the Midwifes Exclusive Birth House in Pretoria.

Actively in labour, Larisa worked hard, but every now and then she opened her eyes and gave her husband Deon a comforting smile, just to let him know she's okay. Brave! That's what she was! Brave!  I have seen this mama go from strong to feeling utterly weak and vulnerable and back to strong again, but never for a minute has she not been incredible brave!

Hubby Deon, Doula Anina and Midwife Christel made for unbelievable reinforcement team, couching and cheering, breathing and whispering when she needed it most and it was one of those extraordinary never to be forgotten moments when little Andries was placed in his mom's arms. More beautiful birth images in their slide show HERE

Little Andries, may you always know how loved you are, may you always know how capable you are to achieve anything you want and may you always know the closeness of our Creator.

xXx
Sam