Welcome baby Olivia Kate Herman! May 8th!

Olivia was born this Friday, May 8th at 3:47pm at the Birth and Women's Center in Dallas. She was 7lb 8oz, and 19 3/4 in long! Labor began with regular contractions that morning around 11 am - while having breakfast at IHOP. When we got home at noon, we called our midwife and she said that since we lived so far away in Keller that it would be a good idea to drive in just to make sure. When we got there, I wasn't quite ready to have a baby - but on my way! We were sent to the park to "walk" and that is what we did for at least an hour. Around 2, we came in and sat on the birth ball, listened to music - breathed through some strong contractions and went to walk the park again! around 3, we came in and had a sandwich and a fruit cup... gatorade and some more contractions followed. At 3:30, we all made the decision to break my water. I was dilated to a 5 at this point...
At this time, I began having "real" strong contractions and they filled the sauna bathtub for me. This was helpful, but I was still in a great deal of pain from the contractions. At this point, I felt the baby coming and after about 2 more contractions (17 minutes after my water broke), Olivia was in my arms for the first time. Jason was able to deliver her (catch her) in the waterbirth. It was pretty much amazing. Thank you for all of your prayers for a "fast" birth. That is exactly what happened. We think she is beautiful, and a mini me of Audrey when she was born.
We were home that evening by 10, having pizza and watching TV as a family! ha!

Audrey and friends!