It's a Girl!

Olivia Charlotte Mae Mitchell

July 27, 2011 at 5:34 pm

7 lbs. 5 oz.   19 inches long

My water broke at about 7:30 am.  At first I didn't believe that I was really going into labor, since I was convinced she would be late and I was exactly 38 weeks pregnant.  My contractions started almost an hour later around 8:30.  I was still convinced that we had plenty of time so I took a shower, got ready, paid some bills, cleaned a little, and began walking to help progress my labor.  It obviously worked because by 10:30 my contractions were only about 2-3 minutes apart and were lasting over a minute.  Zach decided it was time to go to the hospital.  When we checked in I was half way there (5 centimeters) and we were moved to a delivery room.

 

Just 10 hours later little Olivia Charlotte Mae Mitchell came into this big, new world.  Everything went exactly as planned.  I have to admit I was anxious about being able to do it, but by using all of the breathing and relaxation skills I learned in our Hypnobirthing classes I was able to labor completely naturally with the help of Zach and our doula, Marnie.  They were both AMAZING and I couldn't have done it without them. 

Zach cut the umbilical cord.

Dr. Te was great!

Our AMAZING doulda, Marnie.

One proud daddy!

All of our family members were in the waiting room anxiously awaiting to hear Zach's news, "It's a Girl!"

 

(My sister took lots of pictures of the family holding baby Olivia, so I'll post those as soon as I get them.)

Although the staff at Overlake were absolutely wonderful and we were blessed with great nurses, we were anxious to leave the hospital and be in the comfort of our own home.  Less than 24 hours after little Olivia's birth we were discharged and on our way.  And her "firsts" began...

Her first car ride.  Daddy drove very carefully, avoiding all semis on the freeway.

Her first time at home.

Daddy's first time changing Olivia's diaper.

Her first time meeting her great grandma Doris.

Her first "nap" with daddy.

Her first stroller ride.



Her first bath at home.  

Aunt Mary's first time holding her.

Olivia with Grandpa Jim.





The first few days home I have spent in awe.  I am completely amazed at every little movement and sound she makes.  We both find ourselves just staring at her, laughing, smiling, and in complete amazement at how it feels to be a parent.  Life is never the same again.  The love we feel for this little, precious girl cannot be explained in words.  We can only thank God for making all of our dreams come true.  She is absolutely perfect in every single way!

I think it looks like she's making Daddy's signature hand gesture. (See the picture below with Daddy and Ty.) 

Daddy and his friends celebrating with their "It's a Girl!" cigars.