The day has come

Lauren was born one year ago today.  Her birth was the fastest of the three (8 hours), and even though I felt like I was the first woman on the planet to have a natural birth, I was proud at the end to have done it that way.  I strained a vocal chord during her birth and spent the next 6 weeks sounding like Tone Loc.  It was awesome. 

We didn't know if this gigantic baby in my belly was going to be Lauren or Beckett so not only were we surprised that I didn't have to have a c-section (previously scheduled for my safety), but I could have her how I wanted AND without drugs, and it was a girl!  Before you think I'm all that for having this 9 pound baby naturally, let me briefly explain.  I knew this was to be our last baby so I did want to labor as long as I could without any help.  By the time I said ,"F THIS" and requested the drugs, the only anesthesiologist on duty had been called into an emergency c-section.  The nurse came back to inform me I was going to have to have this baby on my own.   I've never cried during labor.  But I cried.  And hooted. And hollered.  And cussed at the nurse for the ridiculous policy of having "ONLY ONE F'ING ANESTHESIOLOGIST ON DUTY".  I told Chris I couldn't do it.  I told hm I wasn't capable.  He kind of laughed.  And I hated him.  He said, "Well, honey, you don't really have a choice."  Those were the most insensitive words I've ever heard and I still haven't really forgiven him for it.  Anyway, long story short, I labored, I cussed, I busted a vocal chord, and she was born.  Lauren Walker Peters.  9 pounds, 21 inches.  Beautiful.

    Just minutes after she was born.  Love his smile.

         More exhausted than ever in my life.  And oh, so happy.

                  Drew's first time meeting her sister.

   

William's first time meeting Lauren.  The first of a thousand kisses.

 First day with her at the hosptial.  Everyone is getting to know her.

             The first ever picture of the Peters Party of 5

                                         Daddy time

                                  Sweetness

48 hours after her birth.  'Cause that's how I roll.  Don't ever underestimate what a woman can do.