Praise God from Whom all blessings flow...
I've been lying here in bed cuddling with my little precious daughter since 4 a.m. and just wanted to take a moment to type up a few thoughts which have been running through my head. I can't tell you how glad I am to have yesterday behind me. I just keep looking at Kaitlynn and realizing what a miracle her life is and how many answers to prayer yesterday held.
I was planning to wait to type up the detailed birth story until I'd processed it for a few days, but as I started typing this morning, I couldn't stop with just a quick synopsis. I have such gratitude in my heart to the Lord for the great things He has done for us recently and felt it was incumbent upon me to share just how incredibly needed and powerful your prayers were yesterday.
Without a doubt, yesterday was one of the hardest days of my life. It was also a day where God's grace and mercy shown forth more abundantly than I've ever known. Going into the birth with very low hemoglobin and weary from my sickness earlier in the week and being induced and hooked up to monitors, I knew that it would probably be a difficult experience. However, there were other things I didn't know ahead of time which would make it much more difficult than I imagined.
When they started me on pitocin around 8:00 a.m. in the morning, contractions came fairly soon thereafter. By 1:00 p.m., I was dilated to 3-4 cm. and really encouraged and confident. I was guessing with the intensity of the contractions and how I was progressing, I would have the baby within a few hours. My mom and sisters kept me distracted from the pain as much as possible, and using techniques which had worked with Kathrynne's birth, I felt like things were going along very well.
Around early afternoon, things started to really pick up in intensity and by 3:00 p.m. or so, my midwife was thinking from the way the contractions were going that I was probably dilated to around 7 cm. Contractions were short and hard, seemed very effective, but still very manageable. I was feeling like we were going to pop this baby out in no time.
When she checked me at 4:00 p.m., though, we were very surprised to find out I was only stretching to 4 cm. I had almost been there three hours before and had very good, strong, regular contractions consistently since then. I was feeling weary at this point and ready to have it over with. My midwife was a little concerned that we were going to be overworking my uterus and not going anywhere.
We decided to be more aggressive with things for an hour and see what happened. They upped the pitocin, and I got on all fours in the bed (I found throughout the day that the multiple monitors I was required to be on due to being on pitocin made it quite difficult to maneuver freely about, even in a limited way. But we did our best to work with what we had!). Things really started kicking into gear at this point - at least the contractions greatly increased in intensity. I had to breathe through them and focus more. I was sure things had to be really progressing at a fast pace at this point, especially since they had upped the pitocin a lot higher than normal.
However, after another hour and many contractions, I had only progressed to around 5 cm. I was feeling very tired and we were unsure what to do. Since they hadn't broken my water yet, we had the option of shutting things down and waiting and starting again the next day. The thought of doing that was overwhelming to me. I had just gone through lots of intense labor and was very ready to get to the finish line and just be able to hold my baby. But, if we waited, it increased our risk of complications and it also might just prolong things out a lot further and make me much more tired. The other option was to up the pitocin some more and break my water. We had avoided breaking my water in the first place (though this is very standard procedure for inductions), as my midwife and I both wanted to do things as naturally as possible and we both knew that once you break your water, there is a much higher risk of complications in the birth and the end result of a C-section.
I felt very torn in what to do and so did my midwife. She left for a few minutes and Jesse and I discussed it, talked through the pros and cons of all of our options, and he decided he felt breaking my water was in the best interest of myself and the baby. I felt a real peace about letting God direct through him.
When my midwife returned, she said she was feeling it would be best to break my water - and then we told her we felt the same way. They broke my water around 5:00 p.m. and we were all pretty sure things would really pick up from there. I was now dilated to 6 c.m. and felt as if I had worked hard for every single millimeter of that!
The contractions now became fiercely intense. After an hour of these very painful contractions, my midwife checked me again. I was guessing I should for sure be almost complete. No, I was at 7 cm. That was very difficult for me. I was feeling as if I couldn't go on for one more contraction and that I was on the verge of complete breakdown. Since I had gone from 4 cm to complete with Kathrynne in the space of an hour, I had never experienced transition. I always wondered what it felt like when other women would talk about it. Well, let me just say, I no longer need to wonder!
Unlike Kathrynne's birth, I couldn't talk or think coherently in between the contractions. All I could do was try and gather my little meager ounces of strength left, try to relax, and try to focus on getting ready for the next contraction. I wanted to break down and cry from the pain and exhaustion - which, for those of you who know me, is not at all typical.
It was only the Lord's grace which kept me from completely losing control. I just had to keep focusing on trying to take one contraction at a time, trying to stay calm, and getting through them. I found that exhaling while counting to 20 or exhaling and repeating to myself a portion of Scripture were the very best helps. I kept thinking of Christ enduring the Cross, the pain, the torture, the mockery. I would repeat over and over in my mind, "He endured the Cross. He endured the Cross." I kept thinking about how many people were praying for me and reminding the Lord that all these people were praying for me and He had to help me through this. It was His Name and for His glory. I also kept begging Him that He would please give me strength and please help things to go fast.
The funny thing was that all of this was going on in my mind without anyone else but Jesse (who was at my side almost the entire birth and the best coach anyone could have ever asked for!) cluing in. My mom and sisters said I was doing super and that they couldn't believe I wasn't making any noise. I was too tired to make any noise besides exhaling and whispering prayers! Maybe that was a good thing?!
I didn't want to be checked again as I really couldn't deal with finding out I was not complete and ready to push. When I asked Gretchen to please post (entry ten) and ask you all to pray was when I was feeling as if I couldn't take one more moment. Little did I know that I only had a few contractions left!
Literally within a few minutes of Gretchen posting that post, I had a contraction and an incredible urge to push. The midwife was just getting ready to check me and while she did, Kaitlynn's head appeared and was almost crowning. Though I was thrilled, I was also wondering how on earth I was ever going to conjure up the strength to push the baby out. Everyone in the room just erupted with encouragement and, somehow, with two contractions, she was out!!
I was so relieved and so tired. All I could think of was trying to crawl back up to the head of the bed (I'd been in a hands and knees position at the foot of the bed for most of the last hour and this was how I pushed her out - it was very effective.) and lie down. I was shaking and all twisted up in cords. I weakly asked, "What is the baby?" and turned around and Jesse looked and we both let out a surprised, "A girl!" That was such a wonderful shock (for some reason, we were both completely sure we were having a boy!) and I was so glad we waited to find out!
I was so grateful that I didn't hemorrhage as I was so wiped out after the birth and so shaky and weak that I can't imagine what would have happened had I hemorrhaged. It was only after Kaitlynn was born that we discovered why my labor was so difficult and progression was much slower: Kaitlynn was sunny side up (or occiput posterior). Labors are usually always much longer, slower, and painful when the baby is in this position. They also often end up in C-sections - from what I've heard. I'm sure that the pitocin, breaking of the waters, and my anemia also contributed to the difficult labor, but I was grateful to know that it wasn't just those factors as I was sort of feeling like a wimp after reading about all the great induction stories from the rest of you!
In realizing that she was OP afterwards, I began to understand just how much I needed your prayers and just how much of an impact they made in the birth process. It is truly amazing that the labor progressed as quickly as it did and that no complications arose. I am thankful, so very thankful, for a wonderful midwife who was so patient and willing to work with my body in the midst of a difficult labor. I couldn't have asked for better care! I am also so thankful for how much of an encouragement and support Jesse was. In addition, it was very helpful for my mom and sisters to be at my birth. Not only was it a very special experience, but their cheerleading went a long way. And how could I forget all of you and your prayers? I thank you all from the bottom of my heart. God has carried us through so much these past few weeks and I can't tell you how much of an encouragement you all have been to us in the midst of it all.
Just a few other things we are so thankful for:
The cord was around Kaitlynn's neck when she was born and this could have posed complications during the labor or delivery. We are grateful to the Lord for His mercy in not allowing this to cause any problems. We are also grateful for His leading and direction in having us induce early. Even though I would never, ever choose an induction again if I have any ability not to, there were other things which presented themselves in the labor and birth which made me very grateful we didn't wait longer - she had very little amniotic fluid when they broke the water and her placenta was very small and unhealthy (they are assuming this was because of my anemia). It is amazing that with these things and all of the problems I experienced in the birth, that Kaitlynn was so healthy. We are humbly grateful to the Lord for His protection on her little life.
This birth was definitely much, much different than Kathrynne's birth. I am so thankful that even though we ended up with an induction and a hospital birth and numerous difficult situations, God provided a midwife who was so willing to work with us and our desires for as natural of a birth as possible given the circumstances. I'm also grateful that she was patient and willing to try different things instead of just resorting to a C-section. I'm also grateful that she honored my desires to want to have a drug-free labor and birth. She was so helpful in coming up with different positions, encouraging me, massaging me, and working with us. My mom and sisters were absolutely amazed at how much like a home birth my birth was inspite of the fact that it was in the hospital. God was so gracious to allow us to have the birth experience we did.
There is so much more I could write, but this is already rather lengthy. I mostly just wanted to thank you for your prayers and for standing with us during this difficult time. It has been a very faith-building experience and we have learned so much more of the depths of God's Love and grace. I pray God's richest blessings on you all.
By the way, I will be posting many pictures soon...
I was planning to wait to type up the detailed birth story until I'd processed it for a few days, but as I started typing this morning, I couldn't stop with just a quick synopsis. I have such gratitude in my heart to the Lord for the great things He has done for us recently and felt it was incumbent upon me to share just how incredibly needed and powerful your prayers were yesterday.
Without a doubt, yesterday was one of the hardest days of my life. It was also a day where God's grace and mercy shown forth more abundantly than I've ever known. Going into the birth with very low hemoglobin and weary from my sickness earlier in the week and being induced and hooked up to monitors, I knew that it would probably be a difficult experience. However, there were other things I didn't know ahead of time which would make it much more difficult than I imagined.
When they started me on pitocin around 8:00 a.m. in the morning, contractions came fairly soon thereafter. By 1:00 p.m., I was dilated to 3-4 cm. and really encouraged and confident. I was guessing with the intensity of the contractions and how I was progressing, I would have the baby within a few hours. My mom and sisters kept me distracted from the pain as much as possible, and using techniques which had worked with Kathrynne's birth, I felt like things were going along very well.
Around early afternoon, things started to really pick up in intensity and by 3:00 p.m. or so, my midwife was thinking from the way the contractions were going that I was probably dilated to around 7 cm. Contractions were short and hard, seemed very effective, but still very manageable. I was feeling like we were going to pop this baby out in no time.
When she checked me at 4:00 p.m., though, we were very surprised to find out I was only stretching to 4 cm. I had almost been there three hours before and had very good, strong, regular contractions consistently since then. I was feeling weary at this point and ready to have it over with. My midwife was a little concerned that we were going to be overworking my uterus and not going anywhere.
We decided to be more aggressive with things for an hour and see what happened. They upped the pitocin, and I got on all fours in the bed (I found throughout the day that the multiple monitors I was required to be on due to being on pitocin made it quite difficult to maneuver freely about, even in a limited way. But we did our best to work with what we had!). Things really started kicking into gear at this point - at least the contractions greatly increased in intensity. I had to breathe through them and focus more. I was sure things had to be really progressing at a fast pace at this point, especially since they had upped the pitocin a lot higher than normal.
However, after another hour and many contractions, I had only progressed to around 5 cm. I was feeling very tired and we were unsure what to do. Since they hadn't broken my water yet, we had the option of shutting things down and waiting and starting again the next day. The thought of doing that was overwhelming to me. I had just gone through lots of intense labor and was very ready to get to the finish line and just be able to hold my baby. But, if we waited, it increased our risk of complications and it also might just prolong things out a lot further and make me much more tired. The other option was to up the pitocin some more and break my water. We had avoided breaking my water in the first place (though this is very standard procedure for inductions), as my midwife and I both wanted to do things as naturally as possible and we both knew that once you break your water, there is a much higher risk of complications in the birth and the end result of a C-section.
I felt very torn in what to do and so did my midwife. She left for a few minutes and Jesse and I discussed it, talked through the pros and cons of all of our options, and he decided he felt breaking my water was in the best interest of myself and the baby. I felt a real peace about letting God direct through him.
When my midwife returned, she said she was feeling it would be best to break my water - and then we told her we felt the same way. They broke my water around 5:00 p.m. and we were all pretty sure things would really pick up from there. I was now dilated to 6 c.m. and felt as if I had worked hard for every single millimeter of that!
The contractions now became fiercely intense. After an hour of these very painful contractions, my midwife checked me again. I was guessing I should for sure be almost complete. No, I was at 7 cm. That was very difficult for me. I was feeling as if I couldn't go on for one more contraction and that I was on the verge of complete breakdown. Since I had gone from 4 cm to complete with Kathrynne in the space of an hour, I had never experienced transition. I always wondered what it felt like when other women would talk about it. Well, let me just say, I no longer need to wonder!
Unlike Kathrynne's birth, I couldn't talk or think coherently in between the contractions. All I could do was try and gather my little meager ounces of strength left, try to relax, and try to focus on getting ready for the next contraction. I wanted to break down and cry from the pain and exhaustion - which, for those of you who know me, is not at all typical.
It was only the Lord's grace which kept me from completely losing control. I just had to keep focusing on trying to take one contraction at a time, trying to stay calm, and getting through them. I found that exhaling while counting to 20 or exhaling and repeating to myself a portion of Scripture were the very best helps. I kept thinking of Christ enduring the Cross, the pain, the torture, the mockery. I would repeat over and over in my mind, "He endured the Cross. He endured the Cross." I kept thinking about how many people were praying for me and reminding the Lord that all these people were praying for me and He had to help me through this. It was His Name and for His glory. I also kept begging Him that He would please give me strength and please help things to go fast.
The funny thing was that all of this was going on in my mind without anyone else but Jesse (who was at my side almost the entire birth and the best coach anyone could have ever asked for!) cluing in. My mom and sisters said I was doing super and that they couldn't believe I wasn't making any noise. I was too tired to make any noise besides exhaling and whispering prayers! Maybe that was a good thing?!
I didn't want to be checked again as I really couldn't deal with finding out I was not complete and ready to push. When I asked Gretchen to please post (entry ten) and ask you all to pray was when I was feeling as if I couldn't take one more moment. Little did I know that I only had a few contractions left!
Literally within a few minutes of Gretchen posting that post, I had a contraction and an incredible urge to push. The midwife was just getting ready to check me and while she did, Kaitlynn's head appeared and was almost crowning. Though I was thrilled, I was also wondering how on earth I was ever going to conjure up the strength to push the baby out. Everyone in the room just erupted with encouragement and, somehow, with two contractions, she was out!!
I was so relieved and so tired. All I could think of was trying to crawl back up to the head of the bed (I'd been in a hands and knees position at the foot of the bed for most of the last hour and this was how I pushed her out - it was very effective.) and lie down. I was shaking and all twisted up in cords. I weakly asked, "What is the baby?" and turned around and Jesse looked and we both let out a surprised, "A girl!" That was such a wonderful shock (for some reason, we were both completely sure we were having a boy!) and I was so glad we waited to find out!
I was so grateful that I didn't hemorrhage as I was so wiped out after the birth and so shaky and weak that I can't imagine what would have happened had I hemorrhaged. It was only after Kaitlynn was born that we discovered why my labor was so difficult and progression was much slower: Kaitlynn was sunny side up (or occiput posterior). Labors are usually always much longer, slower, and painful when the baby is in this position. They also often end up in C-sections - from what I've heard. I'm sure that the pitocin, breaking of the waters, and my anemia also contributed to the difficult labor, but I was grateful to know that it wasn't just those factors as I was sort of feeling like a wimp after reading about all the great induction stories from the rest of you!
In realizing that she was OP afterwards, I began to understand just how much I needed your prayers and just how much of an impact they made in the birth process. It is truly amazing that the labor progressed as quickly as it did and that no complications arose. I am thankful, so very thankful, for a wonderful midwife who was so patient and willing to work with my body in the midst of a difficult labor. I couldn't have asked for better care! I am also so thankful for how much of an encouragement and support Jesse was. In addition, it was very helpful for my mom and sisters to be at my birth. Not only was it a very special experience, but their cheerleading went a long way. And how could I forget all of you and your prayers? I thank you all from the bottom of my heart. God has carried us through so much these past few weeks and I can't tell you how much of an encouragement you all have been to us in the midst of it all.
Just a few other things we are so thankful for:
The cord was around Kaitlynn's neck when she was born and this could have posed complications during the labor or delivery. We are grateful to the Lord for His mercy in not allowing this to cause any problems. We are also grateful for His leading and direction in having us induce early. Even though I would never, ever choose an induction again if I have any ability not to, there were other things which presented themselves in the labor and birth which made me very grateful we didn't wait longer - she had very little amniotic fluid when they broke the water and her placenta was very small and unhealthy (they are assuming this was because of my anemia). It is amazing that with these things and all of the problems I experienced in the birth, that Kaitlynn was so healthy. We are humbly grateful to the Lord for His protection on her little life.
This birth was definitely much, much different than Kathrynne's birth. I am so thankful that even though we ended up with an induction and a hospital birth and numerous difficult situations, God provided a midwife who was so willing to work with us and our desires for as natural of a birth as possible given the circumstances. I'm also grateful that she was patient and willing to try different things instead of just resorting to a C-section. I'm also grateful that she honored my desires to want to have a drug-free labor and birth. She was so helpful in coming up with different positions, encouraging me, massaging me, and working with us. My mom and sisters were absolutely amazed at how much like a home birth my birth was inspite of the fact that it was in the hospital. God was so gracious to allow us to have the birth experience we did.
There is so much more I could write, but this is already rather lengthy. I mostly just wanted to thank you for your prayers and for standing with us during this difficult time. It has been a very faith-building experience and we have learned so much more of the depths of God's Love and grace. I pray God's richest blessings on you all.
By the way, I will be posting many pictures soon...
posted by Crystal Paine at 7:42 AM
95 Comments:
Guess by now you could say we are part of the Paine fan club-can't think of anything else to call it.
How encouraging to hear the stories of how God did watch over you and the baby.
Enjoy the day and looking forward to some pictures.
I am rejoicing with you in God's goodness and provision and answers to prayer!
By the way, my second was induced, and it was very difficult, much like your experience, but you asked that those with horror stories not share them, so I didn't! :-) So glad and thankful that it is behind you now. Enjoy your sweet wee one!
GrammaMack
I'm so glad you have your sweet baby in your arms and the labor is all done! Looking forward to those pictures... :)
Congratulations!!! I hope you are happy and thrilled with your little girl; I know many people are hoping for the "one of each" scenario and disappointed if they don't get it, but I personally would be THRILLED if I had two girls! I think it's adorable! Just wanting you to know that if I have what you have, i will be OVER THE MOON! :) Congratulations again!!
I praise God for all of His marvelous answers to prayer in your birth story. I can not wait to see the pictures of your new baby!
I am rejoicing with you and I am so grateful to the Lord who brought you and your sweet little girl through it all. I feel after reading your birth story that she is a miracle and that you came pretty close to a C-section in some hospitals...
I am praying you will heal quickly, and regain your strength.
Ruth
Crystal,
Thank you for the update and birth story. I too was induced when I had my son, Caleb. Unfortunately, it didn't go as I planned either. After 36 hours of iduced labor I had only progressed to 4 cm. I went into this not wanting a c-section and willing to work towards that. The pain was so bad and it took so long that we approved of a C-section. When Caleb was delivered the doctors saw the cord was around his neck too and that was affecting his breathing. They had to put him in the NICU to help him breathe for about 15 minutes. Even though the birth didn't go as I planned I am thankful to God that it turned out the way it did because Caleb is healthy as a horse now. You are a real trooper and I am inspired by your faith during this time. By the way, I borrowed your idea for Bible verse cards and gave them to my friend who just had her baby on June 7th. She was very thankful. Can't wait for more updates and pictures. :-)
Sarah @ To Motherhood and Beyond
Praise the Lord for His abundant grace!!! I was very encouraged by your birth story. My first home birth with my now 5 year old, sounded much the same. I did the hula for 2 hours to help get him turned around. Very long day!! But praise God for great midwives who work with you to help you have a great birthing experience. I am just overjoyed that I have come across your great website and was able to be a part of your blessed day. My prayers will continue as you rest and recover and enjoy your sweet baby.
Love and blessings, Pamela
Thanks for the great birth story! My second baby was posterior and that is THE HARDEST labor to endure! I feel for ya! Rest lots and give that sweet baby girl a kiss from me.
Crystal -
(((HUGS))) to you from a mommy who always has sunny-side up babies. So happy that your new daughter is here safe and sound. Looking forward to seeing her soon.
Melanie B.
Aaah, Crystal! I'm so proud of you! I went through a very difficult labor with my first and it did end in a c-section. Praise God in His merciful provision for you and Kaitlyn. His Mercy is great and ever present.
As I read your story, I felt tears of joy well up. I'm just so very happy that although the experience was a difficult one for you, it has turned out to be such a blessed event.
May the Lord continue to bless you and Kaitlyn. Congratulations again to you all!!!!
Lots of love,
Sommer
P.S.
I'd like to send a little something to you, would you send me your snail mail address? Send it to sommer_l_sorenson@yahoo.com if you'd like.
Congratulations! Can't wait to see the pictures. I'm sorry you had such a long and difficult labor, but happy that it ended very well and with a healthy mama and baby. Having had a posterior baby and two inductions, I can understand the intensity involved...glad that it's over for you. Cathy
It is SUCH a relief to get through such an experience. They say you forget such things afterwards...but I beg to differ. My son was born, in a similar fashion back in 1975...I have not forgotten the difficulty yet!! He was worth it, but it was indeed a scary and difficult thing (was on that nasty pitocin for 13 hours and they had me pushing for 5 hours...it was only the grace of GOD that got us through that day). I am glad your situation was not quite so bad as it could have been and that you both are ok. SO fortunate she was smaller...my son was almost 10 pounds. We almost lost him in the birth canal...no one has a canal that large...they pulled and cut him out and reconstructed me!! You should recoup well, if your blood problem will cooperate!! Yep, now you know what many of us have gone through...but glad you have the other wonderful birth to remember too. I am so grateful my 2nd one was a breeze!! Cause now I know both ways it can go. Blessings on you all!!
I'm tearing up reading this. That must have been so hard. George was OP, too. However, I had an epidural when I pushed him out and didn't feel anything. The Drs also say that my hips are more than adequate since I only pushed three times for him. I had extreme back labor with him which is a sign of OP. i tore really bad with him, though. Eeee.
I can't believe that anyone could push a baby out on all fours. That must take strength. You are very tough.
Praise God. Enjoy your baby, today.
-Zan
Awesome ~
:-)
Reading your birth story brought back my memories of giving birth a couple months ago, also via induction. I can SO relate to slow dilation, especially when it's a second birth and you assume alot of progress HAS to be have been made due to the fierce pain. :-) My son was in a difficult position to birth as well, so I can also relate to that. It's amazing that Kaitlynn came out so easily once you got to the pushing stage. I'm glad it all worked out in the end in spite of the various problems and complications. I'll still be praying for you all and hope you are starting to get some strength back. Be sure to eat and drink alot and of course, to enjoy that new little girl!
What a wonderful testimony to our God's complete control over our lives. I am in awe.
Thank you so much Crystal for letting us share this very private moment in your and Jesse's life. I am so very thankful that you and the baby are doing so well.
Last night, right about 6p.m., I was fixing macaroni and cheese in the microwave for Samuel and Isaac (can you believe the stove is still BROKE????!!!) and I didn't even think about it, but I just hung my head and really prayed for you for strength and perseverence and also that you wouldn't hemmorage. A little while later, Lauren ran upstairs and gave me the latest update. I don't know what was going on with you at exactly 6p.m., but I believe God put you heavy on my heart at that time. So very.....no words...just speechless feelings.
Much love and blessings to you all. C.
Reading this brought tears to my eyes, Crystal. God is magnificent!
Congratulations on the birth of your new little girl!
Wow, it sounds like you had quite an ordeal. Having recently gone through a difficult labor and delivery with a posterior baby (his head was actually sideways but turned slightly up), I can understand how absolutely draining they are. And yet afterward, it felt so rewarding to know that I had made it through the delivery and had a beautiful, healthy baby. There is a sense of accomplishment that comes when you work extra hard for something that wouldn't be there had everything been easy. Rest up and enjoy your new little girl!
Praise the Lord! It is evident that His hand was in every detail of Kaitlynn's birth. I had 48+ hours of labor with a sunny-side-up baby, so I know how intense (hee hee...that's a nice way of putting it!) things can be.
I am proud of you, as I'm sure all your friends and family are as well.
I guess you won't be needing those preemie diapers after all! Kaitlynn sounds perfect and so healthy even though the conditions in the womb weren't ideal. What a blessing! I'm surprised at what a good sized baby she turned out to be in spite of everything!
Wow, what an amazing story. Can't wait to see the pics of your little one!
So glad to hear that you and your new baby girl have made it through everything safely! Sounds like you had the ultimate support team with the ultimate Coach.
Can't wait to see those pictures. :-) Many blessings to y'all!
Congratulations!! And what an exciting birth experience (well, you know what I mean... tiring, but the relief at the end is indescribable!). :) I loved reading all the details. :) Enjoy your new little blessing, and time with your family. :)
The Luna Family :)
Aaaaaaand I am weeping with joy. :-) How great is our God! Please catch all the love and hugs we are sending to you!
Well, I'll be the first commenter here instead of the 149th commenter on the announcement. ;)
CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
You have been much on my thoughts and in my prayers these last few days, and I'm so glad to hear that all is well!
Your birth store had me all choked up and ready to cry. You have such an amazing attitude about it all!
Praising God with you!
Crystal, I am SO proud of you! Both for the hard work you did, the endurance you showed in the face of trial AND for your determination to rely on God's strength. I know He has increased your faith through this experience. He is so good and so faithful. Congratulations on your new DAUGHTER!
Oh Crystal!
I am writing with tears in my eyes; what a beautiful, moving testimoy of God's grace.
Best Wishes to you and Jesse,
Trixie
Thanks so much for posting about the birth, Crystal.
Congrats, congrats, congrats!!!
(again.)
:)
My husband and I are grateful to our Heavenly Father for the successful delivery of Kaitlynn and for how He enabled you to endure all that your pregnancy, labor, and delivery entailed.
I have prayed for you and thanked God for your blog many times since I 'discovered' it, and we were some of those praying for you just before (or maybe as) you felt the urge to push. It's pretty incredible that God let us be a part of your & Jesse's daughter's birth!
You frequently encourage me by your consistent example of a biblically submissive wife--thank you. I read part of your birth story to Ryan just now-the part about Jesse being the one who decided to have the midwife break your water. It was another great example. Praise God for who He is and for the fact that He lets us show a teeny tiny part of who He is through our marriages!
Love,
Sandi
I am praising God with you today Crystal! Hug your precious baby girl and rest in the knowledge that God has His hands upon you always. I can't wait to see pictures soon! (I also had two OP babies - Very different labor from my other one as well!) Love to you and the family!
Dear Crystal,
God is good. Thank you for sharing your experiences with us! We are so thankful for the way God worked yesterday! You rest, regain your strength, and let everyone dote on you! You have the rest of your life to enjoy this beautiful gift! May God give you and Jesse wisdom as you raise your daughters.
With love and thanksgiving,
Ruth, PA
pitocin brings on contractions that are not normal and it can make very, very difficult handle them. You do good:) congrats on that baby!
Oh, wow, do I ever know what you feel like! My first (24 years ago) and last (17 years ago) labors were like that--didn't seem to be going anywhere! By "sunnyside up" do you mean you were in back labor? That is when the baby is turned around and is pushing against your back. It really hurts and doesn't do much for progress.
I offer you the warmest congratulations on the birth of little Kaitlynn. Holding a precious new baby in your arms...well, there is no more wonderful gift, is there?
By the way, if you're up for it, you've been tagged! :) See my blog for details.
I'm so glad everything turned out so well Crystal! I had an OP baby too, and while it didn't result in a long labor (less than 10 hours from water breaking to baby) or a C-section, I did have terrible back labor. My son was also born with his cord around his neck, though I had no idea until later.
God is so good to take difficult and potentially dangerous circumstances and give us healthy children. This is why it's called the miracle of life!
Can't wait to see pictures!
What a beautiful story, Crystal:) God is awesome!
Congratulations, Crystal! We are still praying for you, for strength and grace as you recover and adjust to your new life as mom of two little girls!! Thank you for sharing this birth story. My mom had ITP with the last three of 5 births, and she can relate to your story in some ways. I know with my one brother's birth she had a difficult labor as you did, and yet found the same strength in looking to Christ and His work on the cross. We serve a gracious and faithful Lord!
Oh, praise the Lord for He is GOOD!!
What a beautiful story!!! They are worth all that pain over and over again! I love what you said "He endured the cross" I will have to remember that if the Lord gives us another baby.
Cant wait to see the pictures!
With my first induction, there was hardly any amniotic fluid and the placenta was also very small, so it was amazing that my son was as healthy as he was---and has continued to be. What a blessing that Kaitlynn is healthy and beautiful...I already know she is without even seeing a picture yet!
Crystal,
How wonderful! This brought tears to my eyes. God is so good and so loving and so intricately involved in every detail! Praise Him!!!
I'm praising the Lord w/ you all for a safe delivery and a healthy momma and baby girl! Her name is beautiful! Praying for a quick and wonderful post partum recovery!
Bless you dear,
Amy B.
Many blessings and congratulations! Thank you for giving God the glory in your difficulty and in your blessings.
Praise God! Another arrow for God's army.
Dear Father, we thank you for the blessing of this new life. Please be with Crystal as she recovers from the birth, and help to restore her strength. Amen.
Valerie
Thanks for sharing. It was an encouragement as we go through our own very different trial to meet our child, and we also fix our eyes upon the cross of Christ! Many congratulations to you, Jesse, the big sister and the precious new baby.
Congratulations, and praise the Lord! What a relief to have all of that behind you! Count me in with the many who feel that we know you personally and were praying for you yesterday. When I was having my youngest baby a year ago, I remember focusing on the crucifix on the wall of that Catholic hospital (and I'm not Catholic!) and meditating, as much as you can meditate when you're in labor like that, on the suffering that Christ went through for us. Get lots of rest!!
Wow! God is so good. Your actual labor sounds very similar to my last one 6 mos. ago with #5. She was also sunny side up. I REALLY know how you felt.
It makes you enjoy that baby so much more when you've been through so much pain.
God bless you and your growing family.
Rain
Dear Crystal!
Congratulations to your little daughter.
I know what you have been through. My second one was 'sunny side up' :-), too, and it was very, very painful. I remember lying in the bath falling asleep between contractions because I was so exhausted. Unlike you I almost let go, I felt, I couldn't do it any longer.
He was also born on all fours and came out with real force.
I was so proud of myself after that birth, I felt so strong and grateful.
I wish you all the best for recovery and a wonderful time getting to know your second little angel. :-)
God bless you and your family,
Sarah, mother of three, Germany
Congratulations Crystal, Jesse and family! Such wonderful news.
God is good.
Love Louise
Hi Crystal,
I've been reading your blog for a while now, but have never commented before. I just wanted to say I rejoice with you and yours at the arrival of your 2nd born. I praise the Lord for helping you through delivery! It was so exciting to read about your experiences with a midwife and "as natural as you could" birth. I'm interested in midwifery and as any young woman, I LOVE babies and hearing birth stories! God bless you and Kaitlyn. May she grow up to be a servant of God!
Crystal,
God never ceases to amaze me in all the little (and big!) details of life.
What wonderful answers to prayer, He gave you all. It must have been
wonderful to have so many praying for you at once and still praying for a quick recovery and lots of rest :)
It sounds like Kaitlynn's birth was rather long and much more difficult than Kathrynne's but you're right..... it was worth it and so much could have gone wrong that didn't. Praise God from whom all Blessings Flow- Great is HIS Faithfulness!!! =)
I think one of my siblings was born sunny side up and it seems to me, if I remember correctly, that it was a more difficult birth.
I still can't believe how big Kaitlynn is......full term size!
How big was Kathrynne?
I'm looking forward to pictures of your precious baby.
Thank you for sharing the story of her birth!!! I enjoyed reading it and I love details ;)
Lots of love to you all,
Blessings,
Samantha R
Young lady --- WHERE ARE THOSE PICTURES! hee hee - I love reading birth stories. I have had two sunnyside uppers and it's NOT FUN. It feels as if every contraction lasts through the contraction and the break between contractions. But I'm so glad to hear how faithful God was to get you through it and I'm so glad to see how healthy everyone is. And I hate to say this - but everyone deserves to know what transition feels like! hee hee
Oh, I am so very, very happy for you!!!! I prayed, and prayed, and prayed yesterday!!! God is absolutely amazing!!! :D He is so good! I am speechless! He has richly blessed you, and I am so grateful and thankful to Him for that!! It is amazing and only by God's grace that you didn't hemorrage and that she was so very healthy!! Oh, I am so happy for the 4 of you! For some reason, I was absolutely positive that you were going to have a boy!! Isn't that funny? :) But that is so sweet and wonderful that Kathrynne will have a sister that is only 2 years younger than her! They will be so close throughout life! What a blessing!
Thank you for the step by step announcements! They made all of us feel almost as if we were there with you! I just wish I could be there to see that precious baby and hold her! :) Can't wait to see the pictures!!
God bless!! You are such an inspiration to me, Crystal! :)
"you did it, you did it"! I knew you could! God bless you and new baby K... enjoy these first precious days!
Bless your heart! Congratulations again!!
Congratulations, Crystal! Your difficult induction experience sounds very much like my labor and delivery with my second son. Though no one knew what I was doing, I remember silently repeating "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength" for several hours. I'm so sorry you had such a rough time, but praising God for a healthy mom and baby. What joy! Love, Patricia
I can so relate to your experience...OUCH! :-) I had terrible back labor with my son because he was also sunny side up. The whole labor was *only* nine hours, which I guess isn't too bad, though at the time I didn't think I would make it through. It's amazing that somehow once it's over the memory of pain fades and you reach the point of wanting another baby eventually. :-)
I'm so glad all of that is over for you and today you can just relax and soak up all the TLC that I'm sure everyone is showering on you after what you went through. What a difference one day can make. Rest as much as you can and enjoy your two little princesses.
You didn't need the whistling! ;-D I know with my last birth, I was praying, "Have mercy on me, Lord."
Praise the Lord for His tender mercies towards you in Kaitlynn's birth and for answers to prayer.(Think I spelled her name right. My apologies if I did not.)
Blessings,
Theresa
Crystal - I am so glad to hear that you hae finally met your sweet baby girl! i et Kathrynne is adoring her! Thanks for lettins us all know how you are doing and how things went. This last birth I went thorugh transition as well and man was that intense! So different from teh first 2, with the first birth I was on pit. and that did make things tougher than they should have been but the point that I could not handle labor anymore was when he was born - thank God! He is so gooad and He knows what we can and can not handle! I am so glad that your family was able to be there with you and encourage you!
Rachel
www.homeschoolblogger.com/MrsStevens95
Your story brought back so many memories. It's so wonderful to see how much God had his hand in this. He is so very good! I am so thankful that you and the baby are both doing so well and are both healthy and enjoying eachother. That's the best blessing of all. Congratulations!!!
Congrats!!!
Congratulations to you mom! God is so good. I'm so thrilled for you. Each little life is such a gift and a blessing. Enjoy your new little one.
Thank you all for rejoicing with us!
Sommer, you are so sweet. Our address is on our contact us page here:
http://www.biblicalwomanhood.com/contactus.htm
Crystal and Jesse,
Congratulations on the birth of your darling little girl. I just wanted to tell you that my nephew's birthday was yesterday and my youngest son and my grand daughter celebrated their birthdays today. They are 11 and one. Also my oldest daughter's name is Nicole (her middle name is Kristen). Anyway, you picked a good name :)
My last delivery (my youngest daughter) was induced. It wasn't any fun, however about 5 minutes after she was born my husband was holding her and I said something and (I'm not making this up) she cranked her head around to try to find out where that familiar voice was coming from. It was one of those aha moments where I knew for sure that she recognized my voice. It gave me shivers and it's still a fond memory for both my husband and me. We still talk about that moment.
Again, congratulations. I bet she's beautiful.
I had similar labor when I was induced. I have been so thankful to be able to deliver naturally two out of the four deliveries. It is just so much easier!
Congratulations again to you and your whole family, and praise God for his protection of you and your little girl during that difficult process!!
I know a little of what you experienced - my daughter was also OP (something the midwife didn't realize until she actually came out :-), making my labor last from Friday night until she was born Monday afternoon. Her cord was also wrapped around her neck, but praise the Lord, He kept her and I healthy and allowed us to have a natural delivery. It's very encouraging to hear how the Lord also brought you through such a difficult process!
God bless you and your new enlarged family!!!
Congratulations on your new arrival!! So happy to hear you had a safe delivery. My first son was OP and I did end up with a c-section after a very long and difficult labor. So happy yours was natural! Blessings to you and your sweet family!
There is nothing...NOTHING, like the birth of a baby!
What a wonderful blessing!
God is so amazing! His mercy really is an unending stream!! Thanks for posting, Crystal. I wish you, Jesse, Kathrynne, and Kaitlynn a joyful, restful, and refreshing time together in the coming weeks.
I warmed my heart when I read about you cuddling w/the baby since 4 a.m. The love you have when you gaze at your children is like no other. Just tonight as my daughter was saying her prayers, she said, "Thank you, God for letting me go to Applebee's and get ice cream and thank you for my day." My heart just melted. Kids are a precious gift from God. Congratulations again.
Hey! Praise the Lord! And Molti Congrazi! It hit me with a jolt a few minutes ago to see how you were doing. I'm very thankful.
Nehemiah 9:19 Yet thou in thy manifold mercies forsookest them not in the wilderness.......
Praising God for His care in leading you and your husband in this difficult time. Oh, how sweet it is, this time with a newborn daughter. Drink it up deeply, sister, and let your every exhalation send your praises up to Him. I am rejoicing with you!
Blessings,
Keri
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. " Corinthians 1 vs 2-4.
What a blessing and privilege that God allowed a difficult labour, that you might share His goodness and be in a position to share your experience with so many!
I had two induced labours, but the first was easier as the baby was overdue and just needed a bit of help with cervidal which got things going. The second was two weeks early due to health problems with us both. Cervidal didn't work and pitocin had to be stepped up and up and made for a prolonged, slow and painful labour. (also with OP baby)
By the way, she was 2 weeks early and 7lb 12 - midwives reckoned she would have been bigger than her 8lb 15 brother, had she gone to term!)
Blessings to you all,
UK reader
I was surprised at how quickly you were able to post your birth story! Actually you seem alot like I was after giving birth...tired, but happy and excited to share the blessed news. It's so sweet that you had another girl...baby girls are so precious (boys are, too--just had to add that since I have one! :-). It's hard to sleep when the new baby is nearby because you just keep wanting to stare at how tiny and perfect that they are. I suppose if all goes well you might be going home sometime this weekend. Rest up and enjoy your girls!
Thanks for sharing with us your birthing experiences, Crystal. It sounds like you had a very difficult time of it, but you dealt with it brilliantly, thanks to the love of God and your family. How marvellous!
By the way, I ought to have asked this before but I hope you don't mind someone you've never met or heard of joining in your blog! It must seem like I came out of nowhere! I don't normally post to blogs but I really enjoy reading yours and it's nice to hear about some like-minded people, even if only in cyberspace.
Still praying for you and looking forward to seeing your pics!
Wow, "out in two contractions"... what a blessing! I had to push for two hours... I don't know how many contractions I pushed through... (my baby's head was too big for me tp push out and they had to do an inside cut and THEN he came right out!) What a blessing you and your baby are both doing well... I know what you mean about being able to look BACK on the labor a day or two later... it's an amazing feeling to know you, through the Lord's help "did it"! There's nothing else so physically exhausting as labor!!! <3 <3 <3 Enjoy your new baby!!! We love you!
~K~
Congratulataions Crytal!! You did a great job! Thanks so much for such a detailed story of your labor. I'm sorry it was so difficult. For me after the birth of my second the feeling was incredible right after his birth to know I was DONE, although my labor wasn't nearly as difficult as yours. God bless.
~Jennifer K.
Congratulations!!! I am so happy for you and Jesse and Kathrynne. I was looking forward the your birth story because I KNEW you'd talk about how God sustained and strengthened you during the whole process. Praise the Lord!
Looking forward to pictures.
leaving for the weekend camping! i guess i will have to wait til monday for those pictures :) rest well my dear!
xoxoxox
It's 1:30 Saturdy afternoon where I am ....I'm sure you are busy....how about a post from you sister to let all of know that all is well??? God Bless Pam
Thank you for sharing your sweet birth story with us, Crystal. At the time that you were having some troubles and you requested prayer, I was able to take a brisk walk around my neighborhood, just to focus on praying for you. By the time I got back, your sister updated that you delivered. I am so glad that you and your little sweetie are well. Blessings!
Congratulations to all 3 of you on the new baby. Praising the Lord for a safe delivery!
That was a !beautiful! birth story, thank you so much for sharing. I think the plateau with pitocin is pretty normal. That was just one of many complications that happened with my second induction that ended literally two minutes from becoming a C-section. I shared my easy first induction story but not the nightmare second per your request ;). I am so glad it came out so beautifully for you, I was praying for you often throughout the day, hubby said I was obsessed ;).
I remember bringing Tori home from the hospital and laying her on the bed and becoming overcome at the realization that I had been so blessed not just once but twice!!! The fourth was born last fall and it never becomes old hat ;).
Have a blessed babymoon and a quickly-as-possible recovery!!!!
Crystal
Amazing ! God is so good. My first is in Heaven, my other 2 were C-section. Last 2 adopted !!! I have always stood in awe at the birth experience (and fear ). My daughter, Nelle, (she had worked for you, and her husband had testicular cancer right before they were married... you may rememver her) They were planning on a home birth--I was petrified as I HAD to be there....they ended up having to be induced at the hospital. To God be the glory. Nelle did wonderful, Andy was guided by God, and did I get a lesson !!
Your story is so wonderful, scriptural and educational. I read it in tears as joy welled up within my soul for His goodness and for your blessings ! As I was going thru a difficult medical procedures some years back, all I could do to get thru it was to remind myself what Jesus endured on the cross for me, and that he was right there with me enduring what I was going thru right then, too. Oh, for His goodness and faithfulness !!!
I have been lurking on Nelles' e-mail to Merchant Maidens and gleaning and appreciating all there. She never did cancel it and so I just kept it going at home here after she got married and moved into her own home .
We are beginning to home-eduate another generation, and am I reading and learning! Nelle, being 26-it has been a while since we were in the home education arena !I hope that is not breaking any of your rules.
Today, we need to share Gods' glory, blessings and faithfulness with boldness and without apology ! Thank you . Your families birth story will make its way into our home educating course on family and Gods' faithfulness. As my 2 youngest are 4 & 5, it will be some time, but it will be there !!!
Thanks so much and Congratulations !!!!!
Tami 8-)
(nelles' Mom )
I'm so happy that things went well. When I was in practice, I did many inductions and they were always more difficult for the mom.
Praise God He was there to help you. A lot of my patients didn't have that.
I am so thankful everyone is healthy and happy. What a story! All four of my babies were OP, so I relived their births through your entry. I heard and so understood your frustration at the slow progression of things.
Rejoicing in God's awesome provision for you and your family. There truly is nothing better than the smell of a newborn's sweet head. It is a smell straight from heaven!
Enjoy every moment of your sweet littl one.
On another note, how is big sister responding?
Praising God for the new little blessing and for His support and sustainment through a difficult labor.
Congratulations Paine family!
Blessings
A belated congratulations! I've been praying for you since before your induction. Unfortunately, due to my developing mastitis, I haven't been up to checking bloglines since your induction. I have been praying though, and I rejoice in the birth of Kaitlynn. Congratulations!
Heather (mom to 4 children, ages from 5 1/2 down to 13 days)
Congratulations!
You are a WINNER Mommie!
Keep Yourself Healthy!
Healthy Mommies Produce Greater
Results!
God Bless,
Thank You for Sharing!
Praise God! Congrats on your beautiful new little girl. I'm so glad everything went well. God is sooooo good! Many blessings to you and your precious family.
So excited to read of the birth of your baby girl! I was afraid you'd be forced into a C-section, being you were dealing with such stress and weakness! And OP!! Nothing but the strength of God could carry you through, huh? He is so marvelous! My sister gave birth (at home) to her first child on hands-and-knees. Her baby wasn't OP, but it's such a great position for OP babies!! That position can be a better use of your strength, with gravity helping. I've yet to experience the joy of giving birth, but am a doula and I cry at every birth I assist!! :o) I almost cried reading your story!! What a gracious Lord we serve! He had blessed you so much!