The Birth Saga

If you weren’t one of the 8 midwives, 9 nurses, 2 anesthesiologists or numerous facility people with whom we interacted during our five-day stay at Club Ella (aka UCSD Medical Center), then this post is for you.

In order to give you an idea of the incredible saga that resulted in Ella Margaret’s grand outing, I have put together the following photo montage. From our initial check-in on Monday afternoon, to our arrival back home on Friday, it’s all here – minus any gory birth photos. So sit back, relax, and be thankful or hopeful that your experience was or will be much shorter.

Monday, 3:54 p.m.
Megan goes in for a check up after having 7 hours of contractions.

Monday, 5:05 p.m.
After being admitted to the Birth Center, Jason tries out the birthing ball.

Monday, 5:09 p.m.
After Jason stops fooling around, Megan demonstrates the ball's proper use.

Monday, 8:31 p.m.
Grandparents show up bearing dinner; grandfathers examine belly.

Wednesday, 11:08 a.m.
Fast forward 40 hours of contractions, labor and birth, and here's Ellie at 18 minutes old about to shock her nurses with her exceptional heft.

Wednesday, 11:10 a.m.
Sporting the first of many diapers, Ellie passes some time in the heater crib.

Wednesday, 11:38 a.m.
The proud, tired father gets his first chance to hold little Ella.

Wednesday, 11:52 a.m.
An hour old, Ella relaxes in mom's arms.

Thursday, 3:25 p.m.
A day old, mom and Ella spend some more quality time.

Friday, 1:59 p.m.
After the requisite 48 hours postpartum stay, it's time to head home.

Friday, 2:29 p.m.
After five days in the hospital, we're finally home.

Friday, 2:30 p.m.
Katy takes a closer look at her new sister.


(Click the image to watch a short video)