New Arrival

[Optimist]

We are delighted to announce the safe arrival of Amy Catherine on Friday 30th November. She weighed in at a healthy 7lb 6.5 oz, has dark hair and is gorgeous! Her big sister Jennifer is very excited.

Brief labour story: My waters went at 2.30am on Thursday, but no contractions. I had to go in to be monitored, but as all was well with the baby, they sent me home. The contractions started about lunchtime, but came and went all day and by the time I went back in for more monitoring in the evening, they were still coming and going. I thought things had really got going by breakfast time on Friday - but then they stopped again! Back at the hospital, they threatened me with induction on Saturday if the baby wasn't out by then, so we came home and went for a long walk, ate pineapple and bounced on the ball. That did the trick! Back in at 5pm, and Amy arrived at 10.30pm. I used a tens machine, gas and air and a good deal of gritted teeth. Although they ran a waterbath for me, I never got into it as Amy's heartbeat started dropping before each contraction, and then she hurtled down the birth canal. I don't remember it hurting so much last time, but then nature is kind that way, she makes you forget......! But worth every single agonising push We love her to bits!

Will update again when I get the chance. Off to feed now.

Thanks a million for all your support en route.

Love,
Fiona