Monday, July 16th, 2012

Brynley's Birth Blog

Well the big day is finally here! It's time to take this family from three to FOUR!! Erika and I are so excited about getting to hold our little girl later today!

2:09 AM- Around two o'clock this morning, just as I was heading to bed Erika woke up and told me her water broke and she was going to look some things up online.

3:30 AM- After Erika took a shower and talked to the doctor, it was go time! Erika woke me up and said it was time to go the the hospital. We had Bernie come down to watch Mason while we made our way to the hospital. On the ride to the hospital Erika said she was experiencing level 3 pain. Erika had an appointment scheduled for today at 8:30, but Brynley had other ideas.

4:10 AM- Erika started checking in. Let me tell you, finding the place to have babies at four in the morning is no easy task. This place was creepy! We didn't see or hear anyone!

Once we got all set up Erika was at 3 cm and we are monitoring Brynley's heartbeat as we speak.

Stay tuned!! More updates to come. Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers.

5:17 AM- We got moved into the Birthplace a few minutes ago. Nana and Chuck arrived about an hour ago. Erika is doing well, her mom is going to get Mason in a little while. I think I'm due for a coffee!!

7:34 AM- The doctor just came by to check on Erika. They have started a pitocin drip to get things moving along. Nana and Chuck went to get Mason and bring him to the hospital. Erika's contractions are about five minutes apart.

As for me, I'm doing great. Just a tidbit of info on Dad.

8:25 AM- Mason just arrived! He was so excited to see his Mom and Dad! We just ate McDonald's for breakfast and Erika is getting her epidural in the next few minutes. In honor of Brynley's arrival, I wanted to post our 1st picture together as three and our last picture together before we become a family of four.



8:50 AM- Carol just arrived. Erika is closing in on her epidural. I really think that Mason is doing a great job. He has been playing on the iPad and watching Disney Jr. in the room. He isn't too excited about being by Erika, but he is excited about his baby sister coming soon.

10:00 AM- Epidural- check! Erika is feeling great. I had the doctor slip one in on me too! He told Erika that after getting an epidural you can't clean house, wash dishes or do the laundry for a year. That's why I decided to get one too! Mason is now in charge of the housework.

10:30 AM- The Gigis and Pap and Alta just got here. Everyone is spending time with Erika.

Also, the last time we were here I was the one feeding Erika ice chips. It seems the roles have reversed.

12:10 PM- Mommy and Daddy just took a short nap and Mason was watching Cars. Just waking up from a short nap. The doctor came in and Erika is at 5 cm and progressing very well. The doctor will return at 2:00 to check in with Erika. Mason is being awesome! He is getting more and more excited about Brynley's arrival. He has spent some time this morning touring the hospital with Nana.

1:55 PM- Erika is at 10 cm and we are getting ready for labor as soon as Brynley moves down just a little bit more.

2:30 PM- We are pushing...well Erika is! I'm pulling...FOR HER!! Let's Go Erika!!

6:14 PM- Erika just went back for her c-section. Some families throw exciting parties that last through the night and day. That's how we handle births. On a side note, Mason has been the most amazing big brother ever. I can't wait to get him a special treat for everything he has done today!!

6:33 PM- Brynley Hunter Swann arrives. 10lbs 3oz 22 1/4 inches long. More to come. Big Brother Mason is so proud!



Love,
Lawton, Erika, and Mason