She's finally here!!!

Maria started regular contractions around 2:30 am this morning, and we decided to leave at 4:00 am for the hospital. We arrived at 4:45 am, and Maria was still at a 2, despite very strong contractions and considerable pain. Her water broke at 5:35 am, and she was quickly admitted to the hospital. She continued to have stronger and more intense contractions until the epidural at 7:00 am. By the time of the epidural she had progressed to a 4. By 10:00 am, Olivia's heart rate was not recovering as quickly after each contraction, and the doctor feared placental deterioration. A c-section quickly followed, and Olivia Aileene Gould was born at 10:39 am today, 1/21/09. She weighs 8 lbs 2 oz, is 19.5" long, is fiesty and has quite a set of lungs!

Maria and Olivia are both doing fine, and are resting at the hospital (with me) for the next few days.