An Intentional Birth Journey: Welcoming Baby Vaylor

The Power of Intentional Pregnancy and Birth

Intentionality - when I think of this pregnancy and birth, that is the word that comes to mind. There was no assuming it would go well, Kinlee nourished well, supplemented well, and moved through her pregnancy and labor. Knowing that those things give you the greatest chance of a good pregnancy, birth and postpartum. And of course she got an amazing birth team together including Kelsey the Darwin Doula! But not only that, during labor she actively sought out the things that brought her joy and made her feel loved.

Creating an Oxytocin-Filled Birth Environment

I asked her for the pictures of moments in her labor (see video here) where she felt her oxytocin boost (times she felt loved) and I love that me taking baby’s heart tones made the list. Between difficult contractions, there were so many laughs, when things didn’t make sense we discussed it and instead of letting it discourage she let the plot twist happen and stayed intentional about trusting the process, moving, staying relaxed, looked for things that made her feel happy and loved…. She stayed the course.

From Community Connection to Midwife and Friend

I’ve known Kinlee 3 years now. Before I moved, I introduced myself on the Minnesota Home Birth page on Facebook and she was one of the first people who reached out to welcome me! I can’t tell you how much it meant to have someone local be so friendly and willing to answer all my questions as I looked for a house in the area. I never dreamed I would get to be her midwife in the future!!! Now I’ve been able to help with both of her little boys and truly get to call her one of my very close friends. This lady, Andrew, and the littles hold a special place in my heart and will forever.

So proud of you, Kinlee, and so happy for you all to have Vaylor in your arms and be doing so amazing!

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Every birth has its own rhythm, its own challenges, and its own quiet moments of courage and love. At Heart Strings Birth Services, we believe birth is more than a medical event - it is a sacred unfolding, lovingly supported and deeply personal. These stories are shared with permission to honor the families who trusted us with their care and to encourage others as they walk their own birth journeys.

This blog post originated from @heartstringsbirthservices - June 3rd 2025