jessica B photography: A Star is Born

Hadassah Star was born yesterday. 10:48pm to be exact. Hadassah is the Hebrew version of Esther (as in Queen Esther) and means myrtle tree. A myrtle tree is a strong fragrant tree with beautiful blossoms. Hadassah's mom Marcy shared with me her desire to have an unmedicated childbirth. She labored at home for a while, then arrived at the hospital at "4-5cm." We knew we still had some time before the baby would be born and Marcy did her best to entertain us by singing her way through contractions. She treated us to a medley of Phantom of the Opera, the Kit Kat bar jingle, Oomp Loompa, and the "Oh-wee-oh, Ooooh-oh" from Wizard of Oz. She also would do an almost bird-like whistle as the contraction was subsiding. On top of her beautiful singing an whistling, she spoke such encouraging words such as "I love contractions! Contractions are my best friend!" And the look on Jeremy's face was priceless. It still makes me smile! Marcy labored like a champ. As she progress further, she quieted her singing and whistling, and at 9cm there were moments where she was so relaxed, we couldn't even tell she was having a contraction! Way to go Marcy!!! There were precious moments when Jeremy whispered her "I'm so proud of you" and when Marcy asked him to pray for her. He prayed for Marcy to have strength and safety and protection. It was a gorgeous prayer. At the beginning of her labor, Marcy actually apologized for interupting my Sunday. I think this was a fine way to spend the Sabbath!