Haley Kay Cowart is Here!

Haley Kay Cowart arrived yesterday, May 22, at 4:24 p.m. One day before her due date. She was 8 lb, 2 1/2 ounces and 20 3/4 inches long. I am starting to write out the birth story, but it may take a few days to get my mind around it and gather the facts (didn't keep track like I did w/Claire's birth, so I'm relying on other sources for some of the specifics). In the meantime, here are a few pictures to keep the curious satiated.Mommy & Haley 7:17 p.m. 3 hours postpartum.

Haley and her abuelita--Sandra Kay (for whom the "Kay" was chosen. No, not for Mary Kay) Proud sisters Ruby and Claire

So far, Haley is sweet and mild-mannered. She "mews" like a kitten, which is a welcome change to the adult-sized yowl I've come to know as Claire's cry. I'll take that meow any day! It is too precious. She is nursing well and if I'm not mistaken, all bodily functions have "functioned" as of last night. Barb laughs and says the orfaces are present and accounted for, or open for business, or something like that. Both of us are doing well, and I'm quite happy to be on this side of the birth experience!

Could This Be It?

At 4:30 this morning, I awakened to a strong contraction and went to empty my bladder. A few minutes later, another one came, just as strong (sometimes my full bladder can make them feel more intense, so I expected a trip to the toilet to take care of the discomfort). Then a few minutes later, another intense one came. These required my attention and concentration to breathe, stay relaxed and not tense up. I woke Casey to tell him I had just had 3 very strong contractions in the last 15-20 min. and got up to get a snack, as I felt pretty nauseated. I decided to time contractions while eating.
So far, they’ve been 8-13 minutes apart and really intense. I’m glad it’s morning, because I’ll be able to call Barb soon without worrying about waking her for no good reason. Casey will probably stay home a few hours at least until we know what’s going on and if this is labor, and if it is progressing fast enough to warrant not going into work at all. I just remembered I need to take some herbs for my GBS (yes, no surprise, I’m positive yet again). Will update in a few hours if it is not labor, and if so, the next post may be a birth announcement!
For now, it’s herbs and back to sleep. Pray for me!