Early August, 2007, Michael and I confirmed that we were indeed expecting our first child. Hesitant to share the word beyond family until reaching the presumed "safe zone" of the second trimester, we quietly waited to spread our enthusiasm. By mid-September, we were telling anyone who cared enough to listen that on or around April 3, we would be proud parents---perhaps ignorant, but proud none the less.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008: 2 cm dilated - hmmm.
Friday, March 7, 2008: Sold the Mustang. Told the baby they were worth it. Cried.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008 - 9:00am: 3 cm dilated, 70 % effaced.
Dr. Watson smiled, "If you'd like to have the baby this weekend, that'd be fine because I'm on call! I'll be at the hospital anyway!" to which I could only reply, "That'd be fine - I can watch the ACC while I'm there."
I was a little concerned that I hadn't felt the baby moving as much in the past week as I previously had. Watson's suggestion: drink something sweet if during a time of usual movement you don't feel anything. If that doesn't spur obvious movement, come on back in.
10:00am - Bought chocolate milk at 7-11
1:00pm - What was that? I don't feel quite right - oh, what a stomach ache.
2:00pm - Meeting - "So, I don't feel great and I'm not saying that anything's going to happen, but just in case, here's how we need to progress while I'm on leave....".
3:00pm - Ok, I've been trying to go to the bathroom, but nothing is happening and this stomach ache is only getting worse. It's making me squirm - I can't sit still.
3:15pm - Email to Michael before he leaves work for lacrosse practice: "I'm either extremely constipated...sorry for the honesty...or having contractions. Ha! Call me when you leave the field."
3:30pm - What do you know? Since I started paying attention, it appears that I am squirming in my seat about every 3 minutes. "Crap! If I'm in labor, I have a lot to do before I leave work!"
4:00pm - Ok, there is no doubt I'm having contractions - but I have too many loose ends to tie up!
5:00pm - Give my manager an update on the morning's appointment. "I haven't felt quite right this afternoon. I'm not saying anything's going to happen, but just in case, here's where I am on things...".
5:15pm - On the lightrail, definitely having contractions and, desperately trying not to let on to the train full of strangers around me.
5:30pm - Driving home and should not be driving at all. Why is there so much traffic TODAY?!?!
5:45pm - That bag they kept talking about...maybe I should pack it. Where's my list???
6:00pm - Michael calls and doesn't have a chance to speak, "Are you on your way home?!?!" "Yes - are you okay?" "Yep...pause...but it hurts and I'm definitely in labor." "Ok, just lay down and relax." Silence. "I am." "Time the contractions and write down how far apart they are." "....yep....deep breath...I'm doing that." "Ok, I'll be home in 10-15 minutes. I love you.".
6:15pm - So this is happening! Maybe... I think we need to call the answering service. Let's both shower first. It may be a while before we can again.
6:30pm - Watson calls, excited, "Hey Elizabeth! So your contractions are 2-3 minutes apart lasting 45-60 seconds? Sounds like you should come on in! I'll see you at the hospital."
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