It's a GIRL!!

I was completely and utterly shocked when the doctor announced "It's a girl!"  I asked him if he was sure and he told me I could check if I wanted to.  I kept saying, "Justin, a girl.  I can't believe it's a girl."  I have been convinced that we were having a boy.  From the 13 week ultrasound and the tech already being able to tell what we were having (that made me think boy) to the dozens and dozens of people who studied me during my pregnancy and proclaimed, "Oh that's definitely a boy."  I mean, not one single person ever said they thought I "looked" like I was carrying a girl.  So, I was totally convinced this baby was a boy.  But I was totally wrong.

I was in labor for a total of 11 hours and it was a very long day.  There were times that I got pretty discouraged and feared a C-section might be near, although the nurse never actually mentioned that to me.  But after 4-5 hours of staying between 4-5 cm, I finally made progress very quickly.  I couldn't have asked for a smoother delivery.  I didn't have to push very long at all and our beautiful, healthy, perfect baby was born. 

The excitement of finding out the gender of our baby in that moment was overwhelming.  There are really no words to describe it and I really wish everyone could experience it at least once.  

I couldn't believe how much advancement had been made with epidurals since the one I had with Canaan just 3 1/2 years ago.  I felt so much better after delivery this go round; like I could get up and walk several laps around the hospital.  

We named our sweet baby Merritt Nell.  Justin's grandmother is Barbara Nell, so Nell is a tribute to our beloved Ma.Our very first family of five photo was eventful to say the least.  I'm sure that will be the first of many exciting family photos.  It may be years before we are able to snag a decent one, but I am so thankful and proud of my sweet family.

We were so blessed to have an abundance of family and friends to stop in and see us and even had a few to stop by just after we'd been sent home.  It means so much when people rally around you to support and encourage you during such a special time.  

Just as any "new" parents are, we couldn't wait to be discharged from the hospital and head home with our sweet baby.  It's amazing how much more laid back we already are with number three.  I have prayed for this sweet baby and imagined what he or she would be like for so incredibly long.  God has been so good to us; blessing us far more than we could ever deserve.  We give him all honor, glory, and praise for our little cherry on top!