A labor of love!

She's here! On Thursday, January 8th, I started having mild contractions at 1:00. I had a dr. appt. and found out several hours later that I was having regular contractions but it was still too early to do anything. It was suggested that I stay somewhat close to the hospital in case things picked up. I headed over to the Arboretum (a shopping area) and went to Baby Gap. My contractions were starting to pick up and I had to sit outside the store for a bit. (Should have been a clear indicator but I think I was still in denial...who knows me to sit outside a GAP?). I called our doula, Sara as well as Dan who both were on their way to meet me. Sara suggested I grab a bite to eat since I still had an appetite. I waited at Cheesecake Factory for their arrival but by the time my salad got there, I had really lost my appetite. By the time Sara came, I was shaking. We packed up all our food and the three of us headed to the hospital. After checking in, my labor stalled so we walked the halls for 90 minutes, saying "hi" to all the staff we had when Jack was born. At 8:30, I had another cervical check and I am convinced that Nurse Melissa from Tennessee got in there and made something happen. From 8:30-10:00, I was miserable...hard contractions et cetera. At 10:00, I received an epidural and nodded on and off until about midnight. I think that was the best sleep I have had in years! At 1:00, I pushed 3 times, was told to wait for the doctor who arrived about 1:10, I pushed 3 more times and Kate Elizabeth was here! January 9th, 1:14 am. 7 lbs. 2 oz. 20 inches long. Dan and Sara were so wonderful, we had great staff and were blessed to not have any post-labor problems like we did with Jack! We spent the next 3 days in the hospital where we were spoiled with visitors and good care. Our neighbors, the Thomas' watched Jack the entire time we were gone, (a million thanks to you!) so we were able to have some great one-on-one time with Baby Kate. Jack came to the hospital twice to visit and in a matter of minutes destroyed the room. He pointed at Kate and said "Baby" but was way more interested in the balloons friends had brought.
We have survived our first night at home...thank goodness Jack is a great sleeper. I can't imagine what we would have done if he had woken up too!
Thank you for all your good thoughts, messages, et cetera!