12:00 PM
Kevin and I are enjoying a nice lunch out when my pager goes off. It's C. His wife is due in 4 weeks but the doctors want to induce her that night for IUGR. I agree to meet them at the hospital at 7 PM, an hour after they get there to talk about the changes that this will make to their birth plan and discuss what they'd like to do.
April 23rd
8:30 PM
I just got home. The baby is finally here and everyone is happy and healthy. I'm tired and grouchy. The kids want to rub my feet with the things I keep in my birth bag. Kevin is trying to bring me something to eat but none of his suggestions sound good, although I'm starving. I'd probably be happier falling into bed with all of my clothes on and waking up in the morning.
May 13th
7 PM
I just managed to be able to sit through the entire school program without my pager going off!
May 17th
12:18 PM
I just caught a baby because the midwife didn't make it in time! This was a dear friend of mine and my son's birthday to boot!
We're all smiles when the midwife runs up the stairs about 3 minutes after the baby, and hears that familiar "Waa, waa!"
I'm so excited to be here for this birth. She's waited so long for this baby. Years of infertility treatment, many miscarriages... And I was privileged to be here, what a special day!
Once home I tell Benjamin of the wonderful new baby who will share his birthday and a special place in my heart forever!
June 13th
No baby on my birthday...
July 19th
11:30 AM
I'm at the hospital with my client who has decided to have a scheduled cesarean. Her husband will be joining us in a bit. She's nervous, worried about her decision, worried about the surgery. I sit calmly with her in the waiting room and we talk about the positive things that are going to happen. I explain the procedures and assure her that she will never be left alone. We've already agreed that dad will stay with the baby and I'll stay with her.
Her husband comes in and we're almost ready to go meet this little one! The nurse hands dad his scrubs and didn't bring mine. She doesn't want me in the OR with them. The doctor comes back and tells them he's about ready, he assures the nurse it's fine to have me along too. We are all relieved.
As dad and I stand outside the door while she's getting the spinal, we hear some mumbling and the word "doula" said several times. Dad and I laugh pretty hard.
