Everything went so smoothly! We had some wonderful help with Leah from one of Matthew's friends and my mom, even though it was a little sudden. Labor was around six hours. When we got to the hospital, we found out that I was completely dilated and effaced (or, ready to go!). I was in a lot of contraction pain, but I felt mostly in control. I figured that any pain medication I got, wouldn't save me much pain since I was almost done already. (Which was true... we were at the hospital for about 40 minutes before Grant was born, so by the time I would have gotten any drugs--and they were taking their time--I would have only had them in effect for 15 or 20 minutes. In fact, it happened so fast that I was still wearing my regular shirt and jacket until right after Grant was born!) So I gave birth completely drug-free! The only drugs I got were after birth, because I needed a couple of stitches from a very small tear (MUCH better than when Leah was born).
Some thoughts: I never thought I could handle a "natural" birth. I had read a lot about breathing and relaxing, but mostly with the idea that it would help until I could get some medication. These things really helped me through, though. It really wasn't as bad as I thought it would have been. I mean, it was hard and very painful, but I was able to manage it. I felt very blessed and strengthened... there were a few very late contractions here and there that just weren't that bad, and I was so sleepy from a bad night's sleep the night before that it was easy to relax between the really bad ones. I don't know that I would ever plan for another "natural" birth, but I am SO glad I was able to make it through. I am amazed at how fast I felt good afterwards. No epidural = no epidural headaches!!! That might be the best part :)
Anyway, I am feeling great, Grant is nursing great (even that is going so much better this time), and we are all enjoying this brand new baby so much! Last night, he slept between every feeding so we even feel somewhat rested. Leah has been a good girl, but not showing a lot of interest in Grant yet (some, just not a lot). She has been more interested in playing with Grandma.
Okay, picture time!
Saturday, May 22, 2010, at 38 weeks 2 days ("before"):
Monday, May 24, 2010, at 38 weeks 4 days ("after"):
Right after birth:
Our sweet little Grant:
He has lots of dark hair!:
A smile? Kind of:
Leah came to meet her new baby brother at the hospital:
Leah and her mommy:
And just another cute one of Leah:
