My relationship with my daughter has already proven to be so different than my relationship with Graham and she's not even 8 weeks yet! I knew she would come early and she did. Going into labor on my own was amazing. It was addictive. It was empowering.
I knew ahead of time I'd want an epidural if I had back labor again and- oh, man- I knew right away it was labor because the back pain was just as immense as last time! Still, though, the entire experience left me wanting more.
I had no idea she would be bigger than Graham. I was induced a week after my due date with Graham and that was right for his birth but that isn't how Maeve wanted to come into the world. My labor with Maeve began late on July 8th. I had contractions on and off and they weren't too strong all day the 9th until eventually after Graham was in bed we headed for Sunnyside. I hadn't dilated enough so they sent me home.
I was told to get some sleep but seriously who can sleep with back labor!? The next morning the contractions were just as strong as the night before but they were consistent! Regular! I made my mom come gather Graham and we headed for Sunnyside again. This time, they kept me!
Before we even left the house I had called my grandma and my dad. They were both on their way after Brent called to let them know I was admitted (really my grandma was likely on her way when I called!). He made other necessary notifications and soon Maeve's village was there with us, ready for her arrival.
After the epidural my body stopped fighting the contractions and I progressed greatly. I could feel the contractions but they didn't make me tense up- I need that extra help and I'm lucky I do well with this intervention. By 8pm the nurses were sure it wouldn't be much longer.
And it wasn't. Maeve Elise was born at 9:29pm on July 10th. I pushed for about thirty minutes- she was a big baby and many of my lines echoed those I screamed with Graham. Most especially "I'm all done! She's staying in!" I had so much support and encouragement that I, of course, was not all done. Maeve had a little say in that as well. She was 9lbs 7oz! After Graham was born I was exhausted and hungry. After Maeve I was exhilarated and only ate so they'd give me pain pills. I was in love.
I wanted to hold her and breathe her in- and we had no idea what to name her. She amazed me.
Her brother came in right after Maeve was born. Graham got to witness her first bath and as she was being cleaned up he offered her his greatest treasure- a hot wheels car. He was just as in love as Brent and I were from the start- that's just the kind of big-hearted adorable boy I am lucky to have in my life!
Eventually, of course, we did name her- though it took a few days! Maeve had been on our list but we weren't leaning towards it. Then she was here and it was her: Maeve. After another day or so we chose Elise as her middle name. I rather think it suits her, don't you? Maeve Elise, my daughter.
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