Eleanor Joyce Porter

Eleanor Joyce Porter was born at 12:41 p.m. Tuesday, March 19. She was 8 lbs. 1 oz. and 20 inches long. The experience was amazing and something I could never really have prepared for. Little Ellie was reluctant to come out into the world, so at 41 weeks I went in to be induced. I was nervous about being induced and really wanted to avoid it, but it ended up being not a bad experience. I also must say that I sure am grateful for epidurals. I wasn't set on having one, but wasn't set on going natural either. Once they started me on Pitocin, the contractions became extremely painful, and they were uneven. I would have three or four strong contractions one after the other without a minute break in between, then I would have a few minutes to rest. After about two hours of this torture, I was finally given the epidural and MAN I was glad I did. I was finally able to take a nap as my labor progressed and within about two and a half hours it was time to push. After pushing for about 20-30 minutes our beautiful little girl came into the world. For me, the epidural let me enjoy that moment without being so totally exhausted. I was able to hold and soak in the experience for about an hour before they took Ellie to be weighed and measured.

 Three generations of girls.

Brian helped out with her first bath. Someday she will learn to enjoy baths like I do.

 Ellie has a thatch of dark hair, with one very blonde streak on top. It is adorable. Surprisingly, I was born with a lot of thick black hair as well.

Brian and Ellie snoozing away...boy having a baby is exhausting isn't it Brian? 

We are so grateful that Ellie is healthy and strong and to have her as part of our family. I could stare at her all day long and not get bored. I am just blown away by her perfection, by the miracle that allows us to create this tiny human being. It truly is a divine experience to become a parent, and as exhausting as it is, the wonder and power of it all is worth it.