If you missed part 1 of Jase’s birth story, click here.

I delivered at Madison Hospital, which is a relatively new, smaller hospital in our area.  They were super laid back, but completely experienced.  While other hospitals are very strict about procedures and the amount of visitors, Madison allowed me to set my own guidelines.  The nurse told me I could have as many visitors as I wanted, and if it got to be too many to let her know–that she would be the bad guy.  This worked well for us, having such a huge family.

One of my favorite things about Madison was after delivery.  I was immediately given Jase for skin-to-skin, even before the cord was cut.  Being able to watch that process was something I had not experienced with the girls and it is really amazing.  They encourage at least 30 minutes of skin-to-skin contact before doing anything.  The girls were able to come in and see him right away, before he had been cleaned up or anything.  Then they helped give his first bath, right there in the room with me.

The staff at the hospital really made a point to include the girls on everything.  They loved being able to listen to his heartbeat!

The poor little guy was passed around the room after this—Kyndall, Libby, GraGra, Mal, Pops, Papaw–the list went on and on!

Another great thing about Madison–they only came and took him to the nursery twice.  No long waits for the pediatrician to make rounds, no feeling like he was ‘stuck’ in the nursery waiting.  They took him, did what needed to be done, and brought him back.  I did have the option of letting him stay in the nursery for me to rest, but I couldn’t bring myself to do that!

One of my favorite parts of this pregnancy was watching the girls enjoy it.  Each time they felt a kick or saw the ultrasound photos, their smiles would light up the room.  Now that he’s here, one of my favorite things is watching Kyndall and Libby love him.  Full disclaimer:  It took Libby a few days to warm up to him.  Kyndall was head over heels the moment she laid eyes on him.  And now we get to spend our days adjusting to life as a family of five!