Labor of Love

So... where do I begin? On Tuesday morning, my OBGYN's office called to tell me they had a spot open for me to be induced on Friday morning at 5am. I was a little torn about being induced, but my Dr. also told me she wouldn't be surprised if I didn't make it 'til then.

During the last weeks of my pregnancy, I hadn't noticed any contractions or Braxton Hicks. So I was starting to think maybe I would never go into labor, or have no idea I was in labor until it was too late. I kid you not, an hour after that phone call, I was putting the finishing touches on the nursery and looking over the day's "to do list" when I got a cramping feeling. I wasn't sure if I finally was experiencing a Braxton Hicks or a contraction. Being slightly vain, I decide to take a shower and get ready just in case I was going to have to head to the hospital. Meanwhile, the contractions seemed continuous. I couldn't tell when they started or began. I called my mom and described what was going on, and she told me to go to the hospital, then she called Dave to make sure we were leaving. I went and grabbed my hospital bag and told Dave it was time to go. Can you believe this guy proceeded to go pick out 2 days worth of outfits? ( I kept telling him he needed to have his stuff ready) He doesn't listen to me, maybe one day!

So we gather up the dogs to drop off at the doggy hotel, as Dave proceeds to get in the car with everything but the bags. Then he tried to leave with the passenger door open and our poor dog Zheke half hanging out of the car.

So we're finally on the road, and my sister called and texted me continuously suggesting that I call 911, because she didn't think we were going to make it to the hospital. However we made it safely. I arrived 6 cm dilated and was handed the sexy hospital gown. Uhm, I have things to do, is what I was thinking. The contractions got stronger and I started breathing like a panting elephant. Then my water broke. Ok, nobody told me how horrible that is. Actually I did have a friend try and tell me, but there are no words to describe that feeling.

Introducing Owen Kuper

So at 8 cms I finally got an epidural, bleh of course I'm having horrible contractions and the anesthesiologist is having trouble getting the needle in just the right spot. I should have just gone natural. Before I know it, I am pushing! 8 push cycles later, the doctor plopped a screaming, peeing baby boy on my chest. Dave stayed by my side the whole time and didn't pass out.

It was a long day for him

So from start to finish it took 4 & 1/2 hours to bring Owen Kuper into the world. I can't even describe how great it feels, I'm honored, and proud, and humbled all at once. He's such a beautiful baby, not that I'm biased.

Owen and I

Check out that hair and those lips

Just looking around