Yes, my labor has begun – March 2, 2003 at 6am.  Please keep me, Baby G, Dad, midwife, and all my other children in your prayers.

Dad or I will be certain to give an update as we’re able.

Ad Jesum per Mariam,

UPDATES

3.2.13

6:45 – I’ve been using a free app on my phone to track my contractions.  Currently, I have a break.  I will get something to eat and rest.

11:15 – My contractions picked up again 8am.  My mother visited me while the kids played Mancala.  The kids are free to join me for the time being. 

The contractions waned and I ate an early lunch, Saintly Sandwich.  Dad also made a variation of this labor cocktail.  The Nuun and labor cocktail are definitely hitting the spot and helping me with hydration. 

I’ve returned to my exercise ball to work through contractions.  They’re intense but nothing close to what is yet to come.  I’m focusing on relaxing and offering up each contraction for a specific intention.

1:30 – I just woke up form a brief rest (15 min) that seemed much longer.  Contractions continue to be intense but there are nice breaks in between each contraction. 

I’m trying out different relaxation techniques and positions as the back pressure intensifies.  So far I seem to like the exercise ball best.

Dad continues to manage the home front downstairs. 

4:00 – I’ve been on and off the exercise ball for hours.  I took a couple of breaks to walk around and try-out a pelvic floor muscle release exercise. 

I took my first shower, while in labor.  It was just as I remembered, heaven.  My contractions picked up and the warm water eased my back pain.  I’m refreshed with contractions returning every 5-7 min.  I’m hoping to get a rest for dinner so I can refuel for the road ahead. 

….

11:46 – Baby G ARRIVED!

~~~

The image is of my newest rosary, a creation by Lauren of Knit in My Womb.

Lauren contacted me to extend a thank you, offer prayers, and generously offer to make me a special gift that she makes all her friends prior to their births.  All I knew was that the gift would be personalized. 

I received the package the following week.  Rose and I opened the gift together.  We were both speechless with the beauty and thoughtfulness of the precious rosary.  (A picture can not due this beautiful sacramental justice.)It was a lovely consolation for me as I prepared my heart to enter the Lenten season.  I shared tears of joy for the charity extended to me from a blogger friend (whom I have never met) and the goodness of Our Heavenly Father for willing such a beautiful present be bestowed upon me during this emotional time.  ALL FOR!