Introducing James Emory Christian V!!!

After a morning of labor, an epidural, and an afternoon with family, we were finally getting ready to meet Ian!

Around 5pm, I was complete (dilated to 10cm and 100% effaced). I could tell that the pressure was building in my lower back and I was starting to get pretty nauseous. It was time to start pushing! I have so much respect for moms who give birth, espeically those who do it without any pain meds! It was pretty intense, even with an epidural. James, my mom, and his mom were all in there helping me with ice chips, cold rags to keep cool and keep the nausea at bay, and pushing - I had a great support team! I really don't know what I would have done without all of them. The nurse had me hold onto one end of the towel during the contractions while she pulled on the other end - it was like tug-of-war! I am so glad she did it that way though - it was the only way I could push without being too nauseous. I totally recommend this method for any mom giving birth - it got a big baby down the birth canal much faster than the regular way of pushing.

Two hours later, we got our precious little bundle of joy! He has somewhat of a conehead, just like his Daddy did when he was born. James got to cut the umbilical cord and then I got to hold him immediately.

Meeting James Emory V for the first time. What a precious little baby!

He was soooo good - hardly even cried the whole time he was being dried off and weighed! Nursing took a bit of work, but we got it going without too much hassle (at least the first time).

So sweet - he's holding onto Daddy's hand while the nurse finishes cleaning out his nose and mouth.

Weighing in at 8lbs 7oz!

Nana and Gramma K watching the nurse put on the HUGS tag (to keep strangers from running off with him).

Warm and dry snuggled in Daddy's arms.

First family photo.

After the nurses were done with his initial cleaning and measuring, Daddy took Ian upstairs to the nursery for his first bath and to finish checking his measurements.

First bath - not too happy about it!

Enjoying a "sun" bath under the warming lights. All newborns stay here for an hour after their bath to warm their body temps and ward off jaundice.

It has been a long journey, but we have an adorable bundle of joy to show for it! Thanks to everyone for all your support and understanding during such a difficult pregnancy!