On Wednesday, the 24th we had an OB appointment scheduled at 4:30 to do a non-stress test on baby and to talk about a possible induction date. Happily we never had that discussion! My mom had called in the morning and asked if I wanted to have lunch with her. I welcomed the company and the distraction of another day being pregnant! We walked around the mall for a bit and I was SO uncomfortable. I kept telling her how low he felt and as I sat at lunch, I literally had to lean back to get in a position that I could deal with. I left for home and was talking with my friend, Tasha, at home and asked her about the feeling that I was having as she has two kids of her own. :) During our conversation I began to realize that the uncomfortable feeling seemed to come and go and it was that moment that I told Tasha that I began to think I was having the start of contractions. She quickly let me go so I could start paying more attention to them and get the timer out!
An hour later, the doctor wanted us to come in early to do the non-stress test - Ryan was home in a flash and we were on our way! They hooked me up to check contractions and baby's heart rate. I was having regular contractions at this point that were 3 1/2 minutes apart. After being checked by my doc, she wanted us to take a walk for an hour and then check into triage at the hospital.
Thankfully it was a gorgeous day and it was great to be outside! After an hour of walking, contractions were 2 1/2 minutes apart. Triage still wouldn't admit me, though, so we were sent back out to walk - this time the walk was not quite as enjoyable, for me at least. :) After another hour and a very slow walk back to triage, contractions were 1 1/2 minutes apart.
Our Doula, Melissa, met us there and was a fabulous help for the remainder of the night! I ended up spending the next few hours waiting to be admitted so I could be in my own room. :) My contractions had been so close together for so long. Although Ryan was the best partner I could have ever asked for, and Melissa gave great support, I needed a little relief. I was given my epidural at 9:45 when I was 8cm dialated. Rowan was close!
After that, it was so nice to relax and be able to enjoy the moment with my husband. At 12:40 I was ready to push and Rowan came into the world at 1:40 on the dot! I will never forget the moment when he came out and I held him for the first time. What a rush and what a miracle! He was perfect. :)
We had a great experience at our hospital with some incredible nurses, but are certainly glad to finally be home with our little boy! Our dog Brandie has been wonderful with him - she's very curious and just wants to kiss his face and be next to him at all times. :) Her and Rowan even took a nap together on our Boppy pillow this afternoon. It was quite a sight!
I love all the pics Sue! He is such a lovely little boy! I miss him already!Looking forward to seeing you guys later today. :)
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