It's a Boy (a big big big boy)!!!

After 43 hours of labor - most of that at home - Lil' Smock emerged bravely into the new world as Hans Martin Smith V (going by the nickname "Quin"). Quin was born at 9:19 p.m. on December 19th. He was 9 lbs 4.5 ounces. Quin ended up being born cesarean due the fact that he was huge and occiput posterior in the uterus (facing backwords - but still head down). After 40+ hours of labor at home, we packed our bags and headed to the hospital to see what was going on. Upon arrival, our doctors advised us that they didn't like Quin's heart rate reduction and the presence of muconium. We quickly came to the conclusion that the best thing for Quin was to get him out ASAP - so momma Smock selflessly, and without hesitation, gave up her aspirations for a natural home birth and decided to go into surgery.

All of our birth team (doula, midwife + assistant, and our parents) came to the hospital, and everyone but the parents joined us in the operating room. The medical team was brilliant and truly tender and caring, and they brought our little bundle of joy to us healthy and safe. Needless to say, we are exceptionally please with the results, and we're deeply touched by all the hard work and devotion put forth by our birth team, parents, and hosptial staff in getting Quin to us in wonderful condition. Everyone did their part perfectly!

Soon to follow: lot's of pics of Quin and the happy family! Stay tuned....