He's Arrived!

Monday, June 8th. I wake up early and take a shower. I remember to wish my husband a happy birthday. Then we head to the hospital. From now on my husband will have to share his birthday with someone else. Good thing he is good at sharing.

I can still smile in this picture, because I am not in labor yet. The baby was actually due 10 days ago. June 8 was the date set by the Dr. Since the baby hadn't come on his own, it was time to be induced. I had wanted to give birth as naturally as possible, so at first the Dr. just broke my water. There were still not regular contractions after several hours, so we decided to start a slow pitocin drip around 12:30. At 1:00 contractions took on a pattern of every 2 minutes. And it just got faster and more intense from there. Our precious little bundle was born at 2:23 pm. I was able to labor and deliver naturally, without pain medication. It was a powerful and positive experience.

Our little guy weighed in at 8 pounds, 5 ounces. He was 20.5 inches long. Here he is snuggling Daddy right after his first bath. Baby spent his first several hours awake and alert. On two occasions during these first hours, he began to fuss, but stopped and turned his head to the sound of my voice. Amazing to think this little stranger already knows me! That must be one of the best perks of motherhood: being an instant favorite to a little person.

BigZ, Schmoo, and MJ came to the hospital to visit in the evening. Everyone was excited to hold little brother. He was very calm and patient as he was passed around.

Back at home. The adoration continues. We feel very blessed.