
Baby Elena Grace Soo was born on Tuesday morning, August 25, 2009 at 3:14 AM. Mommy was timing her contractions from the night before. It started around 9:30 PM at about 15 minutes apart. Moved to 10 minutes apart by 12:30 AM. During this time, we installed the baby carseat and got ready. By 1:45 AM, we decided to give the doctor a call, and headed to the hospital. Note for all pregnant moms out there, it's much more painful to go through the contractions while laying on your back. Much more manageable on a toilet or standing. By the time we got to the hospital at 2:10 AM, the contractions were already 6 minutes apart. After signing paperwork and checking in to see the triage nurse, mommy was at 6.5 cm dilated and time was about 2:30 AM. After 15 minutes of monitoring, nurse was ready to move us to the labor and delivery room. By this time, however, contractions were much stronger. Had to wait through one at 2:50 before I could walk to the delivery room. Thank goodness it was only about 20 steps away. Once there, had two more contractions. Once before trying to lay down to be checked. Had to hold onto hubby for support through this one. And felt the urge to push. Nurses quickly tried to get mommy onto the bed. Of course, another contraction came and this one was STRONG. Mommy said "I think the baby is coming". Quickly lied on the bed on right side. Phil saw the baby crowning and doctor wasn't quite there yet. Luckily he got there soon enough. After a couple more contractions, a gush of water, and relief; a new baby entered the world at 3:14 AM.

Elana shortly after birth. Umbilical cord had wrapped around her neck 2x. Doctor had to cut it during delivery.

After a long morning's work.

Home on day 4, getting neck cleaned.

After one nursing session on day 3.

Proud, happy, but weary dad holding Elena.

Sophia enjoying one of her new birthday presents.

Sophia and Joshua making wonton dumplings with Aunty Casey on day 4.

Baby Elena doing a photo session.


Visitors enjoying Ni Hao Kai Lan or Hercules on day 4 (Aiden, Joshua, Leah, and Alice).
Labels: baby #3, Elena, first week