birth story

My contractions started early Tuesday morning (12/1 am). I was aware of them but didn't pay much attention to their regularity. Around 4am they were coming every three or four minutes. I got out of bed, packed my bag for the hospital, picked up the toys in the front room, and waited impatiently for Trev and the boys to wake up. At 6 am every one was awake and I told Trev that I was in labor. He took care of the boys while I took a long shower before leaving.

I drove myself to the Hospital (which I've been reprimanded by some for having done so) while Trevor tried desperately to find someone to watch the boys. I arrived at the Hospital around 7 am stopping every few minutes on my way to the labor and delivery wing, breathing through contractions. I was dilated to a five and admitted into a delivery room. Meanwhile Trevor had gotten a hold of his sister, dropped the boys off at her house, and joined me in the hospital room at 9 am. Before he arrived I was asked several times if any one was with me or would be joining me. The question did make me feel a bit anxious that maybe he wouldn't make it by the time I delivered. I worried for no reason. When Trev got there I was dilated to a seven and already hooked up to an epidural. (For some reason I felt nervous not having him with me while I receive the epidural, but the nurse assisting me was wonderful. She talked me through it while rubbing my shoulder the whole time. I was so grateful for her.) The next two hours seemed to drag on and the pressure/pain of  each contraction seemed to intensify. (I know what you're thinking, what am I complaining about, I had an epidural. In all three of my labors I've never experienced the complete numbness women describe after receiving the injection. I am always still very aware of each contraction and have to breathe through each one. This is not to say that the epidural doesn't work for me... it definitely takes a lot of the edge off the pain. But I still feel quite a bit, which is just fine.)

By 11:30 the urge to push came. The nurse called in my doctor and after one push, little Dean made his entrance into the world. One push! Crazy, I know. They immediately lay him on my stomach and Trevor cut the cord. I first noticed his dark curly head of hair (both Jonny and Zach had blonde hair) Trevor pointed out the dimple in his right cheek and we both kind of giggled/cried at the miracle of another healthy, beautiful baby boy.

I have already fallen in love with sweet little Dean. He is just perfect. Trevor has done a wonderful job of playing Mr. Mom, while at the same time juggling work and church responsibilities.  While I was in the hospital, resting and recovering, I felt anxious about not being with my other boys. Now that I am home I feel much happier and calm, and I'm enjoying this time to bond with Dean and stay at home with my family. Life is wonderful!