A star is born!

Eden Ann came into our world 4 days late, at 0937 on Monday, August 22, 2005. Weighing in at 6# 1 oz, & 19" long, she was practically perfect in our eyes.

Labor was relatively short for me, but it didn't seem like it at the time, considering the contractions started out strong and 2 minutes apart! I would describe it more like "fast and furious". In fact, for 7 1/2 hours, I was sure I was never going to do this again, and I remember telling Al over and over that I just wanted to go home now. The 'natural' childbirth turned into a 'give me an epidural before I kill somebody' at 7 1/2 cm. and then it wasn't so bad. In fact, I was so content with the numbing drugs, and ready for a nap, that I refused to be checked. I lost that battle a few minutes later. The nurse checked me for progress and I heard her say, "Oh! There's the head! You (pointing to Al) aren't going anywhere. I'm going to call the Dr." So, Al missed breakfast, I missed my nap, and 10 minutes later I was pushing, much against my will.

After Eden was born, I got to watch as Al helped the nurse check her over, cut her cord, get her cleaned up, measure her, and get her footprints in the baby book. That was such an unforgettable moment. I was getting so anxious to hold her, that when she was finally placed in my arms, I just wanted to cry.

I couldn't have asked for a better coach. Al was so compassionate, so patient, and so loving. I was absolutely adamant about going home in the middle of it all, and he was calm and reassuring from beginning to end. I am so blessed to have him as my husband!

As I write, we've been home now 3 days. My house is a wreck, and the mail is piling up on the desk. I love it. Time is flying by, and as tough as it's going to be at times, and as tired and sore as I am, I couldn't be happier. God has blessed us richly and to Him we give thanks. To God be the Glory, Forever and Ever. Amen!