For the official story: On Thursday, the 28th, I went in for my regular doctor's appointment and my blood pressure was high. It had been high on and off for the previous 7 or 8 weeks, but after protein tests and more glucose tests that came back with good numbers, it was decided that I did not have preeclampsia and Dr. Bertsch was not concerned. But, this time the blood pressure was much higher than it had been and she decided it was best to plan to deliver. We were only 36 weeks but after an ultrasound showing he weighed 7 lbs 9 oz, it was decided that we would induce the following Saturday morning. So, I took the next day and a half to rest at home and keep the blood pressure down and at 5:30 Saturday morning, Vic and I headed to the hospital.
We checked in, got settled in our labor and delivery room, got my IV (after 2 tries - my skin is tough!), and began the pitocin. At 9:05, Dr. Bertsch broke my water and I was dilated to 1 1/2. About an hour later, I got my epidural. I'd had some cramp like contractions, but saw no reason to wait. :) The epidural made my blood pressure drop and made me sick but then we got settled back down to wait on our surprise gender baby to arrive!
The day progressed until about 4pm when I was dilated to only a 5. Throughout the day, when I had contractions, the baby's heart rate would drop. So, they would stop the pitocin to let my body do my own contractions but then the labor would still slow down and it was just a back and forth process of starting and stopping pitocin. So, by 4pm, they decided that the labor was progressing too slowly and a c-section would be necessary. After more meds to make me numb from the chest down, they took me to the operating room. It was surreal - everything happened quickly and since I didn't have contacts in, I couldn't see a lot of what was going on. I was sick during the c-section which was a little miserable. But, otherwise, all went fine! The doctors and nurses were great and so nice! Vic got to suit up in operating scrubs and mask and saw him as soon as he arrived and took pictures. I was so glad because as I said, no contacts were in my eyes - and I am as blind as a bat!! They did bring him to my face so I could see him, which was wonderful!
I was in the recovery room for 2 hours and then moved to our post-partum room. We didn't see and hold Atticus until 9:30 that night. I don't think it had sunk in at that point; but it was so wonderful to see his little face and touch him. And to think he had just been in my stomach before that - such a miracle!
He definitely has his daddy's chin and other than that, we will just have to watch him grow to decide what features belong to what family member.
We were in the hospital for 4 nights. We had to stay the 4th night because Atticus had a little jaundice and had to stay in the bilirubin blanket. But, Wednesday, the 4th, we got to come home and start our life as a family of 3. Here are a few pictures....really he is perfect. Vic and I are so happy!
5:30 in the morning in our labor and delivery room...waiting for our baby to make his/her debut!
He is here! This was in the operating room right after he arrived. It was such a wonderful experience not knowing whether we were having a girl or a boy until Dr. Bertsch pulled him out. Vic said that he wants to do it that way every time. He always wants it to be a surprise. I agree! (sorry for the hand on the chest...I was not allowed to touch my body below my chest because of the sterile environment. I was a little sick and turning to the left so my hand just came with me instead of laying out flat to the right. Sort of funny now, but looks goofy!)
Finally we can hold him! 
Vic's parents came Sunday morning to meet Atticus and stay for the day.
He already loves his Aunt Geeg...she came Sunday morning as well and stayed until Thursday morning. She was so wonderful to stay the night on the very uncomfortable couch so Vic could sleep at home and get actual rest. Plus, it was just fun having GG there with me!
Atticus also has a very proud Uncle Charley! Looks like they are already having their first of many conversations right here...
He already loves his Aunt Geeg...she came Sunday morning as well and stayed until Thursday morning. She was so wonderful to stay the night on the very uncomfortable couch so Vic could sleep at home and get actual rest. Plus, it was just fun having GG there with me!
Atticus also has a very proud Uncle Charley! Looks like they are already having their first of many conversations right here...
We had lots of visitors at the hospital - girls from my office, girls from Vic's office, our Pastor and intern, friends, etc.
Also, since everyone asks for background on why we named him Atticus: It started out with Vic liking the name Atticus from the book "To Kill A Mockingbird". Over time, it just grew on me too and Atticus became our favorite boy name! And, our sweet little man just fits it perfectly.
Until next time....
Also, since everyone asks for background on why we named him Atticus: It started out with Vic liking the name Atticus from the book "To Kill A Mockingbird". Over time, it just grew on me too and Atticus became our favorite boy name! And, our sweet little man just fits it perfectly.
Until next time....
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