Hank's Arrival

In an effort not to forget, I’m going to try to keep regular entries about my new life as a Mum, and Hank’s adventures in the big world.

Log Entry #1
06.02.08

It has been a busy and dramatic 5+weeks since Hank entered the world. Every day is a new adventure – filled with small joys and terrors. As we rode home from the hospital, (Thank you Auntie Marion, for getting the car and coming with us on our first trip!) I remember saying that every second of being pregnant and of labor and the cesarean were worth it – as Hank is the ultimate prize. Five weeks later, I would double that. Even when I’m tired and worn out and my patience is at an end, I could not imagine life without my little one. My world is transformed – I’m his Mummy.

Notes about Hank’s birth:

Hank was born exactly one week late. About 4am I began having contractions which moved quite rapidly and after a shower we loaded up and headed in a cab to the hospital. I was giddy with excitement and I’m sure huge hormone surge! Once there we quickly settled into a birthing room – right after the epidural – thank the lord! I never would have made it without that! My advice – if you are in serious pain, and I was, get the drugs! It really allows you to be present and enjoy the process. Not that my process went smoothly, or the way I hoped it might go.

Labor did not progress. By 11am we had already had one scare when Hank’s heart rate did not come back up after a contraction and Dr. Kaplan was concerned that if we waited much longer, he would be in further distress. At noon, we headed for the surgery and at 1:46 pm, Hank pulled out and began to wail! The cord was wrapped around his neck and he was trying to come out ear first – Dr. K. had never seen anything like it! Figures! Additionally, the Doc said he still thought Hank was too big to fit through my pelvis! Not that Hank was so big – 6lbs, 12 oz. And 18 inches long – but for my size and height, my pelvis is rather small.

It was a joy to hear his strong clear wail – and soon he was cleaned up, wrapped like a burrito and in his Daddy’s arms as they stitched me up. We managed to breast feed a bit, then went to our room to begin the process of recovery and getting to know each other. The few days in the hospital were a weird blur. Nurses coming and going, no real sleep, trying to learn to feed Hank. It was strange – and overall, I’m not convinced hospitals are designed to help you recover. Too much activity, not enough quite time – though the food was excellent!

My Dad arrived the morning after Hank was born, and there was something so reassuring about having him visit. I’m thrilled he got to meet him right away – to welcome him to the family so to speak. Other visitors included Marion, Bina and Rob, Cena and Alden, and Helen. It was so nice to see people – though I was easily tired. As I have found, life with a new baby, and recovery from a cesarean often leaves you tired. It has been frustrating to not be able to do the things I enjoy – sometimes even reading is too much - and I just need to nap.

In fact, I think that is what I’m off to do now!
More news soon!
Xx
alizabeth