the birth of matilde isabel :: maryland birth photographer

“There is no difference between normal humans, and Firebreathers. They don’t have extra large lungs, or more ‘Type 1’ muscle fibers than the next person. They may not be very athletic, and they may not have played any sports while growing up. Hell, a lot of them haven’t even run a marathon or competed in an ‘Ironman’. But they do have something – something that any normal person can have, but most don’t want. Firebreathers have the ability to step across that mysterious line, and never look back. They know what’s coming and how much it’s going to hurt, but they run head first into it – ‘no matter what.’ When (or if) you get there – you’ll know what I’m talking about.” ~ Crossift CLE

A birthing mom is a Firebreather. For nine months of pregnancy, she does the work of growing a new human – while holding inside her the knowledge that at the end of that growing comes the birth, and the only way out is through. You don’t get to just decide not to show up. Whatever your birth plan, whatever course your birth takes, you’re the only person who can birth your baby. You know what’s coming, and how much it’s going to hurt – and you read head first into it.

I was privileged this last weekend to witness the birth of Matilde Isabel. Can I just say I LOVE watching a mom and dad work as a team to bring their child earthside? Jessica and Gerardo were beautiful together, and this was one of my all-time favorite births to be a part of. Not only is Jessica a Firebreather, she made it look easy. And I can’t say enough about their midwife, the wonderful Tara Smith of Midwifery Care Associates, who did a fabulous job supporting Jessica through the birth. Everything was as it should be: a strong mama, a loving daddy, a quiet and supportive midwife….and the prize of a beautiful, beautiful baby girl.

Congratulations, Jessica and Gerardo. I hope you’re enjoying your babymoon!