Memory Lane

One year ago today I was on an emotional roller coaster.  I knew I would be going to the hospital that night to be induced, and I had such mixed feelings.   I was excited for Drew to be born, but I was also so sad for Zach's life to change so much.  I wondered how I could possibly love Drew as much as I loved Zach, and I felt a little nervous about how I would take care of two kids and what my nights would be like for a while.  I remember taking Zach to this indoor play area as a special treat for one last fun thing for just him and me before Drew was born.  We had a lot of fun.  That night Mike went to a basketball game while I got Zach in bed and cleaned like crazy, and then we met at the hospital around 10:30 p.m. so we could get things started.  Here's a picture from that night.

I remember getting checked in, and hooked up to everything, and before we knew it, it was midnight and we weren't asleep yet.  And I know the nurse and Mike encouraged me to take the sleeping pill, and I did, but I still remember sleeping terribly from about 4:00 on.  By 6:00 the contractions were getting pretty bad, but I felt like I could at least get up and shower then.  I had gone the hospital all ready to have a long labor like I did with Zach, so I had packed a deck of cards, a book, etc.  However, at about 8:00 I decided to get the epidural, and at 8:45, at 6 cm dilated and just as they finished getting the catheter all set up, my water broke.  At 9:57 a.m. on March 5, 2008, Drew was here.  It was definitely an easier labor and delivery than Zach's was.  Instantly I knew I loved him just as much as Zach.

Here we are with my amazing doctor and friend, Kaaren Olesen.  She delivered Zach, too.

Zach was excited to come meet his new little brother.

Zach came back later that night with Grandma Linda and Grandpa Curt and wanted to hold Drew again.  I love the sweet kiss he's giving his new brother.  He still loves to give Drew kisses and hugs, so I guess we didn't ruin his life too badly by bringing a  sibling into the mix.

I realize Drew's birthday isn't until tomorrow, but I had a few minutes while the boys were napping so I thought I'd get this post done now.  Plus, tomorrow I'll have some 12 month pictures to post, hopefully.  I was just sitting here reflecting on where I was a year ago and decided to write it down.