Here are the photos you've all been waiting to see, and also the labor story for those who want to know all the details.
I went into the doctor Thursday morning and was only 4cm, but I'd been so antsy and nervous that the baby was just going to fall out, that I asked if I could go in that day to be induced (instead of Fri morn.). Dr. Lovell sent me to the hospital (with a quick stop to jack 'n the box for some real food before the labor diet). I started my antibiotics around 10am... which is nasty stuff! It burns like crazy, all I could think was "this stuff isn't meant to be put in an IV!!!!!" At 2:00 Dr. Lovell broke my water and I finally started having some contractions. They stayed about 3 min. apart for forever! So, after boring myself with walking, I sat in a rocking chair and talked to my mom on the phone while Dallas took a nap. She would laugh whenever I told her to hold on while I had a contraction, but it was a good distraction to talk to her. After a while I stood up and the contractions went crazy, so I told my mom it was time to get off the phone. At this point I was thinking, "finally! I've got to be like an 8 and we're almost done." well... I was only a 5 and only 75% effaced and the baby was still pretty high, -2 station. Let's just say...I think he could have stayed in the oven for a while longer. I was pretty disappointed and gave in to the lure of the epidural. Yes... that is what I said. I had an epidural. Getting the epidural was not fun, but it made for a really nice delivery and after birth. I was surprised that I could still feel most of what was going on down there... only without any pain. I liked that. Anyway, about 6 hours after they broke my water, Tanner finally decided to make his appearance. He weighed 8 lbs 2 oz and was 21 inches long. I actually feel really good. I had told the doctor that my goal was to not tear, so having the epidural made it easier for me to have more control during pushing (big plus). However, I still tore a little, but much better than the past two experiences! My mother-in-law has had the other boys in Rupert and will bring them back tomorrow. That has been really nice. I've had some good one-on-one time with Tanner and I feel ready for the other two to come back. I miss their entertainment! ;o) Anyway... that's the birth story.
