Seeds of anticipation were sown in 1977. I was 13 and my very cool cousin Carol was expecting her first child. She was on a quest to find the optimal birth scenario and numerous options were explored. Lamaze, Leboyea, definitely Natural-the mood was celebratory of the maternal experience. Her enthusiasm was contagious and far reaching. The memory of our conversations took form in my values around childbirth.

December of '92 marked the birth of my first niece, delivered at home with the assistance of Homefirst. The wonder and miracle of her arrival in the this world was central to the day. Her home birth was free of the excessive medical noise inherent in a modern American hospital birth. The focal point remained on the holy space of creation. From that point on I was committed to this vision of childbirth. I soon began a Doctor patient relationship with Dr. Shathauer of Homefirst. I was pleasantly surprised at the respect and attitude of teamwork for my care that was exhibited. I was not merely a passive recipient of some professional's care but engaged as an active responsible player in my own health. Trust was established early on.

The pinnacle of my association with this group of doctors began on Father's day 1999. I was expecting our first child at the age of 36. I really appreciated that they didn't immediately view me as a high risk pregnancy statistic but treated me as an individual. Prenatal care was thorough but not alarmist, Tests were taken when deemed necessary. Nutrition and self care were emphasized. Questions were welcomed and responded to patiently. I went about the business of acquainting myself with the other physicians in the group. It turned out that Dr. Shelton and I had compatible schedules and personalities and we met for the bulk of my visits.

D-day arrived as anticipated on March 1, 2000, however given the onset of contractions on February 28 coupled with being leap year this was a surprise to us. (translated 33 hours of labor and 5 hours of pushing) My surprise was matched in the experience of the parade of care that was provided: 4 nurses, a midwife and 8+hours of physician care, not to mention backup consultations with other doctors. I felt so nurtured supported and honored by their presence. Each one ushered in her own manner of care and expertise. Calm and patience was exhibited by Chris at the beginning. Debbie Geib, who taught our birthing class brought creature comfort through lavender aromatherapy and the warmth of human touch. The other Debbie arrived with a gentle quiet nurturing and efficiency. Aleeca the midwife was amazing in her knowledge of various laboring maneuvers and techniques that brought us our daughter. Karen, the last nurse who walked through our door brought fresh excitement and enthusiasm. I'll never forget her voice full of joy in the final pushes. Finally Dr. Shelton orchestrated, informed educated, supported and supervised all the pages in this story of Marlowe's birth. We worked out of the context of relationship and trust.

I love that Marlowe was born in our home, a space Eric and I have made our own. I love that my Mom was there to support and witness. I love that Eric announced her gender and cut the cord. I love that Marlowe was welcomed by this community of women. I love that I had the privilege of birthing her without the use of extreme measures and she is so much more that fine she is amazing. We have been richly blessed.