Tuesday, August 24, 2010

almost time...




I'm sitting here in my kitchen once again reflecting on the last 24 hours. Incredibly, we had to make one of the most, if not the most difficult decision we've ever had to make in our lives, in a brief few minutes at the doctor's office yesterday. Because the baby is so big, and things are not really progressing, we had to make the choice between induction, and a c-section. After a pretty smooth and hassle free pregnancy, this was tough news. We new we'd have to make this call last week, after the ultrasound showed the baby was potentially giant, and getting bigger, we were hoping that over the weekend, some evidence of progress or labor might take place to allow us to try things the old fashioned way. Unfortunately this is not to be.

It was clear from the Dr's tone, body language, and choice of words that she was looking at C-section as the best option, but she (probably for legal reasons) could not come out and say it. We had a few moments to decide, and opted for what seems to be the scarier choice, the surgery. It's scheduled a few hours from now, and we'll be headed to the hospital shortly.

While this was the scarier option, because... really who likes surgery? It was I think the safer option. The Dr. indicated there was an increased risk for Shoulder dystocia, which if it were to happen during labor could be a complete disaster (these were the doc's words)... these are not words to take lightly, so while it was a tough call to make. We know that at the end of the day, we're likely to have a healthy baby joining the family, and a healthy mom to keep it all together.

As for my reflections on imminent fatherhood. I pray that I have the wisdom, patience, and strength to do half as good a job as my dad. I think if  I can muster up at least that much effort, things should turn out OK. We're blessed with two loving families to support us, and a pretty strong group of friends all joining the baby parade over the next few months.

It should be a wild ride, and I'm looking forward to meeting the baby. 




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