Nov. 11, 2006 - He's Here! He's Here!
Our little Toby is here! Officially, he's Tobin James, 6lbs 13oz, born at 5:01am on November 5 (last Sunday morning).
Birth Story for those who are interested:
Spent Saturday cleaning and finishing up a couple of freezer meals. Hubby went to work in the afternoon. It was just an average sort of day -- nothing happening. I sat down to write down cooking directions for the freezer meals, and hubby walked in the door at about 11:00. He wanted to know if I was heading for bed, but I thought I would finish what I was doing first. 15 minutes later, I had the first contraction that made me think, "Was that a contraction?" Within another 15 minutes I was pretty sure (but still thinking it might just be Toby having his normally painful active time.)
Called the midwife at the hospital and she agreed that since it was my 4th, I ought to come in and be checked. I hadn't stopped to time the contractions or anything-- called my mom to see if she could come and stay with the kids overnight -- so on the 15 minute ride to the hospital I was surprised to have 4 contractions.
The midwife checked me and found I was not effaced, dilated, couldn't find the cervix since it was so far back still. But she did listen to me when I said that meant NOTHING when it came to having my babies. Fortunately she did find that the baby was low and in good position for delivery.
3 hours of walking the hospital floors later, I finally decided I was tired and went to lay down. The contractions basically slowed right down (although they were getting strong) and I was really sleepy by then -- 4am-- but I was afraid that they'd send me home and I'd have to start all over again! So I decided to get up. Well, the change in position immediately gave me a huge contraction and my water broke. I was 5 cm dilated -- and baby was born 20 minutes later.
It was the easiest labor and the most painful delivery. I was in a hurry to get him out so I didn't wait for the nerves to deaden between each contraction -- I just kept pushing -- and that was a mistake. Talk about ring of fire -- it was horrible. I had to have some gas after it was all over to deal with the pain of that stretching! And the delivery of the placenta was equally painful!
But, we're all home now, and he's feeding and sleeping quite well. He gained half a pound between Tuesday and Friday. So we are all thankful!
I've been dealing with quite severe post-baby anxiety. This is my least favorite part of the whole birth process -- it is always the fear. I hate being so vulnerable and with a new vulnerable little baby!
Toby has some sort of an eye infection in both eyes. The doc doesn't like the medicine they use here in Australia, and wouldn't use it for his own kids, so didn't prescribe it for Toby and is waiting for the culture to come back to see what else we might do. In the mean time, we are hanging in there.
We are SOOOO grateful to God for the safe arrival of our new soft, fuzzy, cuddly, sweet little one!
Comments
Nov. 12, 2006 - YEAH!!!!
Posted by Melanieinoh
Maureen he is Gorgeous!!! Absolutely perfect, what a blessing from God. Sorry to hear the delivery was so painful, I hope you are healing well. Thanks for the reminder about being logged on, I was able to catch up on everything!!
Do you need anything for precious Toby from the good ole USA???
Good job Mama, he is wonderful
Melanie
Nov. 14, 2006 - Yay!!
Posted by tallenmomof5
Just got back on the computer today after a bit of a break...
I am overjoyed to hear the good news and see your precious baby!
How wonderful!
I know how rough those first few weeks (months for me) can be after birth. I'm praying for you and rejoicing with you over wonderful little Tobin!
Take care of him and let everyone take care of you for a change Momma!
Blessings,
Trish
Nov. 17, 2006 - Congratulations!
Posted by Lilliepad
He's absolutely gorgeous!
