The Adventure Begins!!

The baby was officially due Monday July 28. On Wednesday morning July 30 we had a doctor's appointment and Nicole was dilated about 1cm. We scheduled an appointment for Tuesday night next week for her to be induced just in case the baby did not come.

I had just got back from playing basketball on Wednesday night when Nicole said she had been having some contractions off and on while she was watching TV with her mom, Joanie. This was not unusual so I didn't think anything of it. Around 11pm we were heading to bed when the contractions starting becoming more regular. We started timing the contractions and they were about 5-7 minutes apart. By midnight I knew this was probably it so I made sure we were packed and ready to go and let Joanie know she needed to get ready.

By 1 am we were at the hospital getting checked in and contractions were 3-5 minutes apart. Nicole was checked by the nurses and moved into the delivery room just before 2am. Jeni, the night duty nurse was great and helped us through the night and the toughest parts.

As to be expected Nicole was in a lot of pain but was real trooper through it all. Joanie and I did our best to keep her as comfortable as possible.

After about 12 hours of labor the moment had finally arrived. Dr. Boyd came in to help deliver the baby.

Welcome Daniel John Kessler! Daniel was born on July 31, 2008 at 10:52 am. He weighed 7lbs 3oz and was 20 1/2 inches long. The video above was taken just moments after his birth. After he was cleaned up Nicole got her first look at the baby.

It was a long night but, of course, completely worth it. And so, now the adventure really begins. We've been waiting to see him and Daniel is finally here. Nicole and I could not be happier.

We were blessed to have great nurses like Sharon and Mindy helping us.

Here he is. We've been getting to know Daniel over the last 24 hours. He hiccups a lot and likes to move his arms and legs when he sleeps and when he dreams he moves his lips. So far he has been pretty easy to calm down - one can only hope that this continues in the future.

Lord Jesus, we pray for our son Daniel. Bless him Lord with a long, happy, healthy life. Lord give Nicole and I wisdom and strength as we guide him. To You alone be the glory for your magnificent creation!