You know all those awful stories you hear about having a baby? Bet you most people could find some enjoyable aspects existed in those in-between-catch-your-breath-count-your-blessings moments.Not to say that it's
easy... but there's no other challenge more rewarding or fulfilling.
So I made it to 36 weeks...
barely.
10 days after the hospital visit, my water broke. It's 7:30am, May 13th - the day before Mother's Day and my birthday.
I don't even have the hospital bag completely packed yet. And I realize that since I'm 4 weeks early, I better find some smaller clothes for the baby. But momma ain't goin NOWHERE without a shower first.
We get to the hospital at 10am. Mom, Dad, sister Ju, and niece Little Jo showed up in short order. I was dilated to a 4 and 80% effaced. I got some quick-acting anti-nausea medicine. My nurse suggested soaking in the tub and
WOW was that the best idea ever.
In 2-1/2 hours, I dilated to an 8 with my mom, Mr. Daddy, and friend Gerri by my side. Couldn't ask for better coaches. Got through it all without much more than a "whew" after the bad contractions.
Here's the un-horror story part... no back labor, no throwing up, no hours of pushing, no yelling or screaming or being rude (I asked afterward, haha), no epidural or pain medicine. Simply a lot of blessing, focus and some great support people. Gerri kept me calm. Mr. Daddy made sure I was comfortable. I'm sure Mom prayed me through those contractions. Ju was my ice girl - lots of encouragement and smiles. I caught a glimpse of the in-laws - they are the warmest people you'll meet.
An hour later, I was at a 10 and they got me out of the tub. After a couple pushes, the nurse figured that the IV fluids had made my bladder too full. So they threatened a catheter if I couldn't pee. You never saw me waddle so fast! I got back to the bathroom and tried desperately to pee.
Contractions were non-stop and I was having no luck after 5 minutes. Suddenly I realized that things were progressing and told my mom "he's right there!" She helped me stand and tried to get me back to the bed. After 2 steps I knew there was no way we'd make it. Mr. Daddy raced across the room as I said "he's coming!" He grabbed my arm, mom had the other. The only medical staff in the room was my nurse. Gerri dove with a towel and managed to catch a very slippery Itty Bit.
As unplanned as it all was (the doctor had stepped out - get this - to pee!), God had orchestrated everything beautifully. I was thrilled that Gerri got to catch Itty Bit, and that I was spared hours of pushing. I was grateful to have a wonderful labor & delivery experience.
Itty Bit was born at 3:55pm. Just in time to celebrate Mother's Day, and to be able to say he was born when momma was in her 20's! *
grin*