Pitocin Inductions + Powerful Support Team | Jorden’s Birth Stories

Meet Jorden

Chris, like, had one leg, and my mom had the other leg. And I remember looking at my legs and thinking, I don't think my legs can stretch like that!

Hey y'all, welcome to The Labor Line, a mom-to-be's authentic look into the birth experiences of her mom friends. I'm your host, Emily, and first of all, happy first episode with my new title as a mom-to-be. Thank y'all so much for helping me decide on that. I truly just, I don't know what it was, my brain just could not pick something, so thank you. And even more so, thank you for your sweet outpouring of love and support from last week's announcement and episode. It was such a special experience. It really helped me just fully embrace and celebrate being pregnant. It was so special how many of y'all messaged me or commented on our post on the Instagram. And it just truly meant so much. And if I haven't gone back to you, I'm so sorry. I am really trying to catch up on all the sweet messages and just know it means the world to me. And I really try to be present with each response. And so I'm getting to it. I so, so promise. So thank you so much. One of my friends also suggested that I do a recap like that for each trimester. And I love that idea. It was really special for me to reflect on my experience and just have that documented. So I'll definitely be planning on doing that when I finish the second trimester, which I just barely started. And in the meantime, I'll also keep giving y'all little updates on the podcast here and there. And I plan on sharing more about my pregnancy over on the Instagram too. So thank y'all so much for being so tender and kind as far as this week goes. It's been pretty pretty good. I started to have a little bit of nausea come back. I got sick a couple of times. But I, you guys, if you saw on my Instagram, I told y'all that I have been craving Olive Garden. Well, my Olive Garden dreams came true this weekend. We went with my family and, oh my gosh, I got angel hair pasta. I got big old meatballs. I pigged out on the salad and the breadsticks. And after the meal ended, I was like, I ate the way I would have eaten before finding out I was pregnant for the first time in months. And it just felt so good to just eat my feelings a little bit and not feel disgusting. So baby's first pregnancy craving meal happened this past weekend and that was amazing. And that leads perfectly in to who our guest is today.

I'm so extra excited because today I'm joined by my sister friend, Jorden. Her name may sound familiar to you because I mentioned her in last week's episode. She is also pregnant right now and she and I are due only two days apart. So we are just on Cloud 9. We got to spend some time together this weekend, and the two of us made that Olive Garden trip happen. It was so funny. We were trying to decide between our big group, like, where should we go? And we both put out Olive Garden as a suggestion. And either my dad or my brother was like, okay, well, the pregnant ladies said Olive Garden, so we have to go. So we have already harnessed our power for good in that way. I am so so grateful to that we could sit down together and talk about all things baby as we share this pregnancy experience together. So let me tell y'all a bit about Jorden. She is incredible. She's been in my life since I was like eight or something. She and my brother Chris were high school sweethearts, so I can hardly remember a time when Jorden was not in my life. She and Chris got married when I was a freshman in high school, and Jorden embodied a lot of attributes that I aspired to. She still does for the record. So for me to just have this living, breathing example of a fun, cool, accomplished, kind person that I could look up to meant so much to me as I started high school and as I was really honing in on who I wanted to be and what goals I had for my future. For example, she is an incredible athlete. When they got married, she was playing softball at a big 12 school. And not only that, she made first team academic, all big 12, which meant she had some of the best grades of all of the athletes in her conference. And she did that three years in a row. And so like total goddess behavior, I was just like so amazed by that. I don't even think I even realized like how rare that was at the time. But at that age, she was the only person I knew personally who had gone on to play sports at a college level. So it really helped me feel like that was possible. She's also incredibly fun and adventurous. And so we've gotten to try a lot of new things together, like skiing, for example. We went skiing together for the first time. It was just the two of us. No one else in my family wanted to go. And it was awkward. It was awkward for sure. It was way out of my comfort zone. And like I was sick before we'd gone, but you have your ski pass for the day or whatever, so you gotta go. And then she ended up getting altitude sickness. And so we were both, we're just like, just surviving out there that day. But doing it with Jorden meant that we could laugh at ourselves along the way, rather than getting stressed or overwhelmed. And that's just the kind of person she is. She's so good at ruling with the punches. And because of that, like I just see her as an incredibly strong person, like a mentally strong person and physically strong. A good example of both. She mentions this for a hot second during her episode today, but she never fully explained the fact that she just went on a giant 45 mile backpacking trip through the Grand Canyon with her dad while she was 13 weeks pregnant. Like, hello? Are you kidding me? I was barely remembering how to eat solids that week, and she was out there bare grills in it. Like, hello? Absolute queen material right there. And that's just the type of person she is. And she, you know, she had it planned, that trip planned before she found out she was pregnant. But instead of being like, oh, well, it stinks. I can't go. She was like, okay, let's let's do this thing. I can totally do this. And she told me it was like the hardest thing she's ever done, but she did it.

And I'm just absolutely amazed by her. And so just as I looked up to her back when I was that young teenager, when they first got married, I look up to her now and I say that she's on my personal Mount Rushmore of motherhood, now that I'm going to be a young mom to be. And so it means so much to me to have my amazing sister friend to walk beside me as I take my first steps into motherhood. This week, she's going to share about her three positive experiences so far, and she'll give us an inside scoop on her current pregnancy experience. Her stories include three Pitocin inductions, learning to make breastfeeding work, experiencing pregnancy at the same time as her younger sister. So this is round two for her of being pregnant at the same time with a lady in her life. And she talks about how sweet that was for her that first go around. And there's a movie-esque moment where her support team like her mom and her, you know, my brother Chris and even her Nana are running down the hospital halls to not miss the quick birth of a baby that was born in just two pushes. So this episode is great if you're looking for an uplifting, but not toxically positive example of bringing babies into the world. Let's get right to it.

Welcome to the podcast, Jorden. Thank you so much for being here. Tell us a bit about yourself and what you and your cute family have been up to.

Jorden + Chris with Sophia, Joey, & Scarlett

Yeah. Well, like you said, we met in high school. We actually met at church camp, me and Chris. And I was 14 and he was 16, almost 17. And we pretty much just like hit it off, became super good best friends and wanted to hang out all the time. We went to high school together for a year. Chris was an early senior. And so I got to go to the same high school with him for a year. And then he went off to college. And yeah, I was super involved in softball. I am a softball player, ex softball player, I guess you could say. And when he went on his mission, I got a lot of offers to play college ball. So I went and picked Iowa State. And when he got home, we picked it up and started dating again. And then after we got married, he followed me out there. So we moved out to Iowa State, and I continued to play softball, and we both got our undergrads out there. Go Cyclones! Woo! Yeah! But I say all this because I remember talking to my coach, and I had told her about this boy back from home that I really cared about. And she knew my religion, that I was Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and she super respected that and was very kind. And one of the main questions she had for me was, okay, so I know that Mormons get married super young. And she was like, so I get it. I've had girls on my team that have been married, but you're not going to have babies right away, right? And I was like, no. I am not planning on having babies right away. I want to have a full college softball career and have fun and do the best I can for my team. And so that was just so funny, because she was like, you can't get pregnant. And I was like, I know. It's just so funny. I'm pretty sure she had a talk with Chris too. She was like, Chris, you for real cannot get Jorden pregnant.

That is amazing. That just goes to show what a freaking rock star you were. She's like, I will literally pay you to not have children. I mean, they didn't go that far. I mean, honestly, I was getting paid. So there you go.

Yeah, I know. That's so funny. I mean, I just remember that, like, it wasn't even on my mind to have kids right away because I wanted to have like my full softball career and, you know, get my degree and really focus in on that part of my life because I knew it was going to be closing soon. Because, I mean, there's not really professional leagues, at least not, what, 10 years ago. So it was just nice to know that, like, I didn't have to rush into that because I feel like a lot of people feel that pressure. But I didn't have any of that pressure. So that was really great.

That's awesome.

Yeah. So I guess this was 2015 when I graduated college. And after that, Chris had another year of school. And I was coaching. And I remember just kind of like feeling ready, you know? People say that. But I knew I always wanted to be a mom. And I knew I always want to have Chris's babies. I'm a little obsessed with him, but that's good, right?

Yes. Yes. That's what we want.

1st Pregnancy: Long Distance 1st Trimester, Light Nausea, & Finding a Doctor with Medicaid

So, I remember us talking and praying and really feeling ready, because we did have so much of that honeymoon time, and it wasn't rushed, that I felt like we really even knew each other more. I mean, we'd already known each other so long. But because we already built that relationship, that becoming mom and dad was a really special step that we could take together. So, yeah, we just felt ready. And so, I was on birth control at the time. Like, I was taking the pill every day, which is hard to remember, but I remember it, like, not really having that much of an effect on my body, which I appreciated, because I know hormone pills can really wreck people. And so, I appreciate that it didn't do that to my body. Like, I feel like maybe my sex drive was lower, but that was like the only thing. And when I got off of it, it took a little bit to get out of my system, which was normal. I remember the doctor telling me that it could take, like, six months to a year before maybe I would start, you know, questioning if I needed to talk to somebody else. And so, yeah, we got off the pills. I got off the pills, and we just started trying. And Sophia, my first, she took the longest to decide that she wanted to come. And so it took about three months, which is very short. Like, I totally understand, like, that is not very long at all. I'm just fertile murder over here. I feel like once we think about it, baby, it's like, okay, here they come.

Which is hard sometimes in its own right, I would say. Like, I feel like that would be, that would be stressful in its own way. So, you know, everything has a pro and a con for sure.

Yeah, I know. I, you are right, but I appreciate that I don't have to wait very long.

Yeah, yeah.

So yeah, it was like the third month and we got pregnant. And right at that time, Chris was actually graduated and moving down to San Antonio to try to find a job, but I still had coaching commitments. And so I had to stay through the summer. And so we were separated for my first trimester, which was hard because it was just kind of scary because I'd never done it before. And first trimesters are always the worst. It doesn't matter if you get super sick or not. It's just hardest on your body, I feel like, in the beginning. And thankfully, I don't get super sick. And actually, out of all four of my pregnancies, I'm in my fourth right now. Sophia's first trimester was probably the hardest. I threw up once and that sounds so sad that that's the only time I've thrown up. And I remember that as very in my mind, embedded in my mind. And the reason why I remember it is because I was actually working at Insomnia Cookies at the time. And Insomnia Cookies, if you don't know, is a cookie shop, usually in college towns, that it's open like really weird hours because college students like to eat cookies when they get hungry late at night. And so I remember working like 5 p.m. to like 3 a.m. And I feel like if I was asleep, I would not have thrown up. But, you know, when you get home at 3 a.m. after cleaning up cookies, yeah, not too fun. So there were pros. I had a lot of cookies during my first trimester, which was great. But the cons were I got sick of cookies and didn't want to eat them anymore. But that's how I like announced that I was pregnant. I like opened up a cookie box and on the cookie box inside said, cookies aren't the only thing baked in an oven. And that was my announcement.

So cute.

Yeah, so we were separated for a lot of my first pregnancy. And then once my commitments were done, I moved down to San Antonio with Chris. And we were actually living in his parents' house while they were on a mission. I think Becca talked about that in her podcast, that she kind of does similar thing. And so grateful that Chris's parents are so generous. And we were able to do that while we were trying to figure life out right after college. So I was actually there too, pregnant. And yeah, I remember swimming in that pool in the backyard, kind of as my exercise. And finding a doctor down there was super great. My mom was super helpful because I was on Medicaid at the time. Shout out to Medicaid.

Woo! Woohoo!

Woohoo!

And I mean, Medicaid is awesome. Sometimes it's just a little bit hard to find a doctor that will take you. And so I remember her calling around and really trying to find me a good doctor that I could trust that was over on our side of town. So Dr. Shaw, she's great. She's in San Antonio. She's still practicing if you need a doctor. And she's very personable and awesome. She's down in San Antonio, and she was my doctor for Sophia. And it was just a great experience. I remember feeling really happy and heard. She is a really fast talker, and she is like get it done person, which I am like that too. And so I appreciated that. But I could still like, these are my questions, and she would answer them. And she was always super open about that. But I get it, doctors are busy. They are going, going, going. And so I knew that I needed to bring my questions to the doctor. And I think a lot of women do that now. And I would suggest doing that is if you have a question in your mind that you want to ask, write it in your notes on your phone because you're going to forget, or you most likely will forget. And so when they say, okay, do you have any questions? Your mind goes blank. You're like, I don't know, I had them, but now I can't think of them. And so that way you can just pull up the notes app on your phone and you can be like, I do have questions and they're right here. So that was really helpful. My pregnancies are super smooth. I am so grateful for a strong body that just kind of handles it so far. Right? I mean, I'm in the fourth one and I'm just a lucky person that it usually goes pretty normal, right? A little bit sick in the first trimester, gained some weight. In the second trimester, gained some more weight, but feeling good, like not as tired, not as sick, and can just get through that second one and get things done, honestly. And then the third one, it's like you're showing, you're glowing, everybody says, which is so sweet. And the baby's cooking and just getting bigger and healthier and happier. And you just get ready. And you really do start to nest towards that end. I remember getting the room ready for Sophia to come home. And my mom is just amazing. She always helps so much with all the babies. Each one is so special to her. And she comes in and helps you get organized and ready. And yeah, so it was Christmas time. I was due on the 22nd with her. And I was the first of my mom's kids to be pregnant. And so we didn't really know how it would go. The only thing I knew right from history is that my mom did not go into labor on her own. Like it was very hard for her to go into labor on her own. And she every time had to be induced with all three of her kids. And so that's all I knew pretty much was, I mean, she's littler than me. She's shorter and I'm taller. I'm about 5'8, and she's about 5'4. And she's pretty petite and I'm not petite. And so I had faith that maybe I could go into labor on my own, but like it didn't make me nervous thinking, oh, well, if I have to be induced, that didn't scare me. I was just like, okay, well, it can happen. My mom did it, I can do it. And so I remember talking to my doctor and she was like, yeah, if we need to do an induction, we do an induction and it'll be great. I'm not worried, you're healthy and strong and we got this. And so lots of positive vibes, which I appreciated. And if your doctor is not positive, get out.

Yes, seriously, we don't need any of that around here.

No, no negativity, only positive vibes. And so we were getting through the holidays and Christmas time. I remember like wrapping presents and I was at my mom's house and she was like, I think you dropped because, you know, towards the end, your baby gets ready and they drop lower. And so your belly looks like it's getting a little bit lower. And so that was exciting. But we would go to the checkups and closer to when you're going to deliver, they'll ask if you want to be servically checked. And I just did because I wanted to know. And she was like, you're not, you're not dilated at all or effaced or anything like that.

Like, okay, lovely.

And so, I mean, I guess this was Sophia is almost nine. So this was like almost a decade ago. And I feel like, I mean, the internet was definitely a thing, but I wasn't just like searching the internet to figure out how to go to labor. All I really knew was like, okay, let's go walk around a bunch and do some curb stepping, you know, not curb stomping. That's a little bit different, but.

I would love to see that, like nine month pregnant Jorden just stomping fools.

Oh, man. So my doctor was like, well, let's just get your induction scheduled. Just in case, because it is around the holidays. You know, we're, we're right in Christmas, New Year's time. So things get kind of crazy. I want to be the one to deliver your baby if I can. So let's just schedule you when I'm on call. And so she scheduled me for December 27th, which I guess is five days after I was due. So like not too short, not too long, just kind of like right in the middle of that. And I was fine with that. I'm a pretty go with the flow person. And so I feel like, you know, whatever happens happens and we'll just get it done. I was grateful that I made it to Christmas because I didn't want to be in the hospital on Christmas Day. I know that that's special for a lot of people, but that's just not what I wanted. And so I was able to have Christmas with my family. We were in San Antonio, so all of my family is in San Antonio. And we had a big Christmas. I remember Sophia, the unborn baby, getting the most gifts out of everybody.

That's amazing. I'm not even surprised, though. I feel like the first grandbaby, you got to do that.

1st Labor: Going Over Due Date, Internal Fetal Monitoring, & Drop in Blood Pressure

Yes. And we were unwrapping presents forever, and it was because of Sophia, and she wasn't even here. But it was great. It was so nice. And so that was the 25th. And then on the 26th, I remember we just had a really special chill day, me and Chris. We went to PF. Chang's. I felt like that was a light meal that I could trust and not feel like I was gonna hurt anything down there. The only one of the downsides about knowing an adduction or a c-section scheduled is that you can't sleep. There's impossible. It's impossible to sleep the night before. I think I maybe got an hour or two, but you're just so excited. You're so nervous, especially with your first one. You're like, I have no idea what to expect. I see the shows, I read the books, but it's your experience. It's different for everybody. And so you just have no idea. So try to sleep. Didn't really sleep. My mom is always in the birthing room with us. And so I remember she met us at the hospital at like 5 a.m. They wanted us there super early. And around 6 a.m., I'm hooked up to Pitocin and it's blowing. And that was... it was exciting. It was nerve-racking but exciting. I will tell you, and so will probably every woman in America, Pitocin is the worst. It is the worst. But it does the trick. It does the job, at least for me. And so basically, there are other things that they can do to induce labor. But I don't even remember them really being options for me. And maybe because it was nine years ago, but people talk about the balloon and maybe a cervical cream and stuff like that. But I never had any of that. I just had straight Pitocin. And honestly, it felt way less invasive as a more of a private person, especially first time around. I was like, okay, well, at least this is the medicine. I use that term very loosely, medicine, that's going to help me deliver my baby. And so let's just see how it goes. And the game plan going in was feel it out. Basically, just feel it out, feel my body out, listen to my mind, listen to my body. Stay strong, stay positive, but be ready to go with the flow. And that was basically what I did. And Pitocin starts 6 a.m. Basically, right when they start it, your contractions start like clockwork. Like every five minutes, you're having a contraction that I've never felt before. I didn't have any contractions, even like Braxton Hicks, nothing. So I was just like, okay, here we go. And it was tough. Like Pitocin makes your contractions the worst they possibly could be right in the beginning, like just right off the bat. Boom, boom, boom. So like a lot of women say, it's hard on your body because you have to do this from the beginning. It's not a natural labor progression. It's, I'm going into labor, I'm forcing my body to go into labor to get this baby here, and it's going to happen every five minutes. They're not going to feel any different. They're going to feel the same. And so that was hard. And so like I said, I was trying to like feel out my body and listen to my body. I really did like feeling out the contractions, and I've done that with all of my births. I've felt out every contraction until I'm like, okay, I'm ready for an epidural. And I think that that was good for me because I knew what they felt like. I knew what they were doing for me. I knew they were getting my body ready and my baby ready. So I really like how I handled it. So I think it was about 1 or 2 p.m. I was so done. I was so done with contractions. Just like 0 to 1,000 and then staying on 1,000, just pedaled to the metal the whole time for that long. That's a lot. It is a lot. It's hard and you've never done it before. And so I remember, well, okay, so here's something really funny and specific with Sophia. Chris, your brother, he's amazing. He's the best and I love him so much. But I remember my contractions hurt so bad that I remember he was so close to me and he was telling me like, it's like, you're doing great, you're doing awesome. But all I could think about was how I needed him to brush his teeth. Like, you have to brush your teeth right now. And you know me, like, you know me, like I wouldn't say something like that to somebody in a normal context, but I'm in pain. And it hurts so bad. And this sweet man is trying to comfort me and he like doesn't normally have bad breath. Like that's just it's just he had to wake up at 5am to he probably had just eaten something because I was in labor for five hours. And he is just like, you got this, you got this. And I turned to him and I'm like, please go brush your teeth.

That is the freaking best.

And he was just like, yes, ma'am, like, like he just like went and brushed his teeth and came back like nothing was wrong.

And so amazing.

I appreciate him so much, like never got irritated or mad, which he like wouldn't.

But yeah, it's so funny.

Yeah. No, you just like you're like, I don't have time to sugarcoat this. I this is what I need. Do it. And he's like, yes. Yes, absolutely. Yeah, I'm sure after that, he like packed some Listerine or something. Just go back.

Yeah. So yeah. So about that time, I was like, okay, let's get an epidural. Like, let's do this. My mom had gotten an epidural with her last kid, and she was like, it helped her labor so much. And so I hadn't really dilated. I was maybe at a two at that point, and I had been going for so long. Not really that long, but I had been going long enough to be like, okay, well, I want to try something different. And so the anesthesiologist came in, and I mean, I remember being nervous, but honestly, I'm not terrified of needles. And so if you're terrified of needles, then yeah, a huge needle in your back is going to freak you out. But they don't show you the needle. They're behind you. You're sitting on a bed, and usually your husband or your support person is in front of you, and you're just holding them, and you kind of have to arch your back. And the anesthesiologist walks you through it, and he's like, okay, here I go. I'm putting it in. And it didn't. I mean, it stays in your back because that's like what releases the medicine, and you have like a pusher that you can push to release more medicine. And it's really instant. Like if they put it in correctly and they do it right, it's pretty quick. And so I am definitely epidural positive. They really take every pain away. But then again, you also don't feel like very much, honestly. Like if you've never had an epidural before, if you've never not had use of your legs before, then that getting taken away from you is very weird. And like every time I do it, because I've had three, like I just touch my legs, I'm like, I don't feel anything.

It's like when your foot falls asleep, but it's like instant and your whole body, though, or your whole lower half, that'd be so weird.

Yes, it is so weird. And sometimes they have to like flip you around because it doesn't get to one side or the other. I'm lucky enough that I've always had it work. I've had to be flipped around a few times, but I've always had it work through my body. And I did appreciate that like the first time I had it, like it works and you really can't feel your legs. But then like as you get closer to it being time, you can feel things. Like at least for me, I knew when I needed to push for Sophia. And so it worked out for me. And that's not everybody. But for my experience, epidural, yes.

Absolutely. Yes.

The one thing is my body does react to epidural a little bit in the fact that I do usually throw up. Which is a downside. I mean, being nauseous is not fun. But I mean, feeling contractions every five minutes, I think I'd rather be a little nauseous. And now that I know that, I can stay ahead of the game and be like, I know I'm probably going to be nauseous. Can you get me some nausea medicine that they can give you? Like if you get the epidural pretty early, they're fine with them. So I got that and then basically I was just chilling. You can't get out of bed anymore after you get your epidural. So that's definitely a downside. And you also have to get a catheter. I don't know if anybody's, I can't remember if anybody's talked about that yet on the podcast, but that is an interesting experience because you can't feel it going in because you're numb. They have like your legs just wide open and bless your brother. Like I just, when we get into baby mode, he is just so like, you're queen, you're amazing, you're beautiful, you're lovely, you're doing this, you're superwoman. And so I never feel weird or like I'm going to gross him out. And I'm so grateful for that. I think you talked about that with Nate, like you and Nate are so good last week because you were like, I can't believe his coworker said this and he was shocked. And I'm like, yes, King, like keep it up because that's going to make you feel so much better in your deliveries that he is so body positive, so beauty positive. I mean, this is the greatest thing you're ever going to do. And Chris is my number one fan when I'm doing all of this. And so like he's just like right there and they're just putting the catheter in. And I can't see, like I'm laying down and I'm like, oh my gosh, you're amazing. You're just like staring at this and thinking it's totally normal. And thank you because I feel so much better about this.

Yeah, no, that's like so tender and so sweet. I'm not surprised at all. Like y'all are just absolutely each other's biggest cheerleaders and fans, but that's like such a good point too of like, he can help set the tone as well because you're like, I mean, this is both of y'all's first experiences, but your body is just like splayed open.

Yes. And so for him to like help set a precedence of like keeping it grounded and positive and like neutral even is, that's awesome.

Yes, and very selfless because like, I'm sure some of the things that your partner sees in labor, any type of labor that you have is interesting. I mean, I would never call it gross, but it's, like you said, something that they've never experienced and you've never experienced it, and there's all fluids and stuff like that, and I'm sure it gets pretty interesting. But if you can stay neutral and positive for your significant other, that is going to help so much. Like you said, like just keep it up because I get it, people are gross out by blood and they pass out and it's like a phobia, right? But if you can really reel it in and try hard, it's going to help so much in that process. So I'm very grateful for that. So yeah, after that, I was just chilling and they would come and check on me. Sometimes like my blood pressure would drop a little bit. I think that that's a side effect from an epidural. And so they would come in and flip me around. And there was actually one, now that I'm talking about it, there was one time when my blood pressure dropped pretty significantly. And I remember they rushing in and having to flip me around because I was getting lightheaded. And they rose the bed a little bit and gave me some water. And it really helped. Back then, back then, I sound so old, like the monitors, maybe they still are like this. Because I remember, I think it was Madeleine talking about this, but they have like the monitor on your belly and the baby's moving constantly. Like they got to come up with something better, which they have, and I'll get to that with Scarlet. But I just remember them coming in constantly to get the heart rate of the baby. And it's like, this is so exhausting. So then actually, okay, so they couldn't keep like getting her heart rate. And so finally my doctor was like, let's just put an internal one in, which was fine because I couldn't feel anything. And so it was like this little internal tube. And I don't really exactly know where they attached it, maybe to her head. But then I didn't have to worry about them trying to find it on my belly. And so there was an internal heart rate monitor for Sophia. And yeah, I almost forgot about that. But that was a thing that I had with her. And so they kept checking me. And about 9 p.m., I started feeling really weird. Like I'm like, I feel uncomfortable, was basically how it felt. And I'm sure if I was actually feeling things, I'd be like, okay, it's go time, I wanna push. But I couldn't really feel anything, but that's what I'm saying. Like with epidural, I could still feel like, I feel kind of uncomfortable, and I feel like I wanna move. And so, you know, they get out the nurse and get all excited, and they're like, okay, let's check you again. And I'm like, okay. And they're like, okay, you're at a 10, let's do this. And because it's my first one, like they weren't like, let's call the doctor right away. It was like, let's practice some of your pushing. Let's see how you are doing down there. It was just nurses. I remember them working me through some breathing techniques. And I forgot to say this, but I did do a lot of baby classes beforehand with Sophia and me and Chris did classes. I made my parents take a class. And so I was pretty prepped on that aspect. And so we were like working through the breathing techniques. And like one thing that they do in the movies that is not real, or at least not when I've ever given birth, is that you'll hear like women screaming, you know, like trying to have a baby. But like every time I'm at the hospital, they're like, okay, just try to hold it in. Like you don't want any noise coming out because that's like your breath coming out. And so they want you to kind of bear down. That's what they say, bear down and kind of use all of your force out and kind of like really visualize that. And so yeah, like I'm not making any screaming noises. And so I just remember doing that breathing technique and pushing, and then you take a break, or you like push for 10 like long seconds, and then you get a break. And they really try to time it with your contractions. And because you can't really feel them with epidural, they have like the monitor and they're like, okay, a contraction is coming. Now you like, now we push. And they're so supportive. Chris like had one leg and my mom had the other leg. And I remember looking at my legs and thinking, I don't think my legs can stretch like that!

You're like, no! I don't think they normally do that. I’m not even going to know because they have a epidural!

Yeah. And you know, in the moment, you're just like, I guess I will figure it out when I can feel something. Oh, my goodness. That is so funny. But that is honestly what I think about every time, too, is when my legs are like up next to my head, and I'm like, I can't do this in real life.

That is hilarious. I have never even like considered how that would be. Just be like, okay. I'm like touching my nose to my knees for doing this thing.

Yeah. And you like kind of do like a curl in every time because they want you to bear down. So your body like curls in and your head's going up. And so yeah, like your legs are like right here. And, you know, Chris is pushing this leg towards me and my mom's pushing this leg towards me. And I mean, your first one just takes time. And so lots of practice. Dr. Shaw finally came in and she's like, OK, let's see where you're at. And she's like, OK, well, you're doing really great. I mean, she she is super positive, but she is like like a good coach and what works for me, right? Like gives me kind of a challenge. And she's like, OK, well, we need to be here. We need to be here. And I'm like, OK, I get that like goal, goal, goal. Yeah. And so I remember her like threatening four sets. And I was like, no, and I'm like, let's get this done. So I got close. It took about an hour. I pushed for an hour. So like right around 1030, she was coming. And Dr. Shaw is probably going to hate me, but she'll never listen to this. I remember my mom telling me afterwards that the nurses had to get a stool for her because she's so short. And so I'm guessing she has to do that every time, to like be tall enough to like guide the baby out.

I'm thinking of like Edna mode from The Incredibles.

That's so funny. That's awesome. Yeah, I love her to death. Like I even was seeing her for Scarlett's pregnancy for a little bit because we were on Medicaid again. And she's amazing. And I love her so much. But that was just so funny when my mom told me about the stool, because I didn't know during it. I'm just, you know, having a baby.

That's hilarious.

She just like gets this little stool and steps up and helps out. So yeah, I remember just like kind of really being motivated because they asked me if I wanted to use a mirror. And that's just not the type of person I am. I know that other people could be super motivated by seeing it actually happen. But I just wanted to stay more positive in my mind. And I didn't know if I wanted to see myself like that. And so she was like, okay, well, if you don't want a mirror, do you want to heal your baby's head? And I don't know, like I can get emotional thinking about it a little bit. But just reaching down there, and she had like so much fear, and I could feel her head. And it was so motivating. Like I'm like, she's right there. She's about to be in my arms. And that's what everybody was saying. And I just remember feeling so good in that moment. Like this is going to happen. Like I'm going to have my baby, and she's going to be with me. And so right before that, actually they did notice that she had pooped in the womb, which happens. It's pretty rare. Well, maybe not that rare. It happens, but not usually. And so the baby's first poop is called meconium. And normally that happens like between day one and day three of them being on this earth. And it's like super black and sticky and tar-like, but because of the stress of birth, she had actually done that in the womb. And so then they kind of get nervous about them swallowing it in the womb. And so I remember the whole NICU team was there with the special bed and the special section stuff, just in case she had swallowed it and they needed to get it out quick. And it was super late, it was 10.30 at night. And so I was grateful that they were already and prepared even super late to help my baby. And so that was like a little scary, but everybody, nobody was like stressed about it. They were just like, here's the game plan. As soon as your baby comes out, Dr. Shaw is going to hold her. If she starts crying, she can give you your baby. But if she doesn't cry, we have to take her and section out to make sure she's clear. And so I knew the game plan. And so she's almost here. And one of my favorite, favorite, favorite moments when I give birth, I just feel amazing because my mom and Chris are just like the biggest cheerleaders and so amazing. And my favorite thing is like when the head is coming out, Chris and my mom like lose it. They're like, oh my gosh, she's almost here. Like you're doing it. I see her. Like I see her. Like you're amazing. And like they're just like, I just feel so good. Like I'm like, I'm doing this. And I have that epidural. And I'm like, this isn't even that hard. I'm like, what? I mean, with Sophia, it took a while. So like I was tired of pushing, but like an hour in perspective with how long some people have to push, it's really not that bad. And so I was just like so happy and so stoked. And I think she took like once her head was out, I think it was like three rounds of contractions, and then she was out. And so then, I mean, just the release of your baby coming out, it's just emotional and physically like lovely to me. Like it just feels so good.

1st Postpartum: Exhausting Introduction Into Motherhood & Adjusting to Breastfeeding

And I remember Dr. Shaw holding her, and the NICU team was right there, and they were just like ready. And she, like, bless her, was like, wait. Like she told them, like, you wait, because this baby's gonna do it. And so she was holding her, and she took a bit. But then she just let out this cry, and it was like the cutest little cry, like, cartoon. Like, wah, wah, you know? Like, just the cartoon cry, which, you know, eventually you're like, oh my gosh, stop crying. But at that moment, I'm like, I love this. I love this noise. And so the NICU team didn't have to take her, and I was able to hold her right away, and they just, like, put her on my chest. And, like, she was crying, and I was just like, Sophia, Sophia, I love you. And she, like, looked up to me, look up, looked up at me, and just stopped crying completely. I mean, they know you. They've been with you for nine months. And they know you. And you're the person that they love and they trust. And in that moment, you just feel the connection between your baby and between Heavenly Father and the trust that he's giving you and the trust that they're giving you. And it's just amazing.

So, wow, it's just so, so good. And I love that feeling. It's like the best, the best feeling. And I will miss it after I stop having babies. But that moment, they put your baby on your chest. It's just the happiest moment of your life. And so, I held her, Chris held her. They had to clean her up a little bit faster. I know now it's more recommended for them to stay in their vernix longer to keep their skin. And that's like the lotion-y stuff that they're born with, which protects their skin. But because of the meconium and stuff, they cleaned her up a little bit faster. And so I just remember my placenta was delivered fine, and the doctor showed me that, which some doctors do. It's kind of interesting to see it. Like it's your placenta and it was, like did all the work in there for you to help your baby. And so that's super cool. Like it came out all in one piece. I know sometimes if it comes out in pieces, they have to do extra work to get it out. And that's hard. But like your contractions are still going. I don't know if people think about this until you actually have them. But they turn off your epidural kind of like when it's time to push, or at least they do for me. And so you're not getting any more of that medicine. And so after you have the baby, that is the most painful for me, is those contractions that you have after. They're so painful because you're like also trying to breastfeed for the first time, which is amazing. And those contractions are happening more because your baby is hopefully latching and sucking. And so that's what makes contractions too. And so that's like the most painful part. I remember just being like, I'm in so much pain. I'm in so much pain because those contractions are just happening because your uterus is trying to shrink back down. I mean, your body is amazing. Like instantly after you give birth, your body is like, okay, let's get back into the mode. Let's shrink, shrink, shrink.

Close up shop.

I know. And back to the internal monitor, they forgot to take it out right away when I was pushing in the beginning, like practice pushes. And so that's what actually tore me was that monitor scraping against the side. And so I did have to get stitches for that, but it was like a really minimal tear. I can't remember like the degrees, which way they go, but it wasn't bad. It just like if you have an internal monitor, make sure they take it out before you push your baby out, because that might irritate. So ditch me up. And after you get epidural, just like I think in a C-section, they want to up and move in like quick. And so like they take you to the bathroom, and they're like wanting you to walk, because they had kind of weaned it off of you while you were pushing. And so you can start to feel things again, and it's still like not all there, but they take you to the bathroom and bless those nurses. Like they're just amazing. I mean, you are completely exposed, and they are just there for you. Like, just so sweet and so caring, and they're like, you're doing great, and here's this, this, and this, and put these undies on, and put this huge giant pad that is like two feet long that you need. And you're like, okay. And so, like, I remember, like, getting to my room. And another thing that I will suggest is to find a birth photographer and videographer that you love, because every single one of my births, I've had a video of, and it's been so magical and lovely to look back on. And we watch them, like, almost every year for their birthdays. It's so sweet, and they all love their individual song, and they feel so special, and they like to listen to their song on their Alexa before they go to sleep at night sometimes, and we'll sing them their song. And so I just loved having that person there. And a lot of them are actually doulas, too. So you can kind of do a doula videography package, and they'll do it all for you and be there for you and be on call from week 36 on. So that's super cool.

That's awesome. Yeah.

Yes. I mean, it's expensive, but when you're getting this video of the birth of your child, it's definitely worth it.

Yeah. I know I've been at some of those birthday parties when we watch it, and it's so powerful and so sweet. And it's been helpful for me as an aunt to be like, oh my gosh, this was just a year ago that this was happening. I've seen it on their first birthdays with them, and it's a really beautiful thing for me to be able to have seen and just, I don't know, feel more connected to them that way. And so it's really sweet that the music is connecting to them. Music is such a big part of y'all's family, I know. And so definitely putting that on my birth plan. I need to make sure that they allow photography. If not, we have to switch things up.

Yes. And so the videography that I use, the videographer I used was actually hooked up with the hospital. Like it was through the hospital for Sophia. And so that was cool. I think it was called like BioLife back then. I think it's different now. But at that hospital, that was really helpful because they allowed that person, you know, that group to come in. And so there wasn't any like, can I have this person here? It was just like, okay, here's the video team. So I didn't have to like fight for that. And thank goodness it wasn't like COVID or anything. So I never had any problems with that. But those are so cute. I've seen those like COVID home video ones where they're at the hospital and those are so sweet and special too. So like any way that you can take pictures and videos of your time delivering your baby and put it together will be special and great. I just encourage everyone to try to do that because you're gonna want those memories. So yeah, one of the number one things that I always want after having a baby is a Jimmy John's Ultimate Porker Sandwich.

Yes, Jorden. Yes. Yes.

And so my dad has a specific task or like that he knows he has to do is well, first of all, he watches my kids because if I have any, which I do now, but he watches my kids during the labor. He is a saint. I love him so much. And then he brings me a Jimmy John's Ultimate Porker with cheese, no veggies sandwich.

Yes. Yes. That sounds so good.

It sounds so good. I mean, people can be as strict as they want with the no lunch meat rule. And you can also heat it up and it's fine. But with my first, you know, you're always super scared. And so I really did not have any lunch meat, all of Sophia's pregnancy. And I was pretty strict about that. And now I'm not as strict or I'll just heat it up or, you know, there's ways to get around it. And also my doctors have been like, honestly, it's like more fruits and veggies, you know, it's the Listeria. That's what they're worried about is Listeria.

Yeah.

And so there's ways around it. But for some reason, after I give birth, it just tastes so good.

Yes. Oh my gosh. I've seen videos of people being like, I waited nine months from this moment, and they're holding their big sub like a baby. Yes. Or it's like a big plate of sushi.

Yes! Dude, I feel that. Like, I mean, it's so funny, but it's also so true. Like, whatever you've been missing just tastes so good when you finally get to have it. And so it's like midnight, and I'm eating a Jimmy John's sandwich. I mean, the cafeteria is not even open, so like that really worked out that I had a Jimmy John's sandwich that late. And you know, you just have a newborn baby and it's your first time parent, and you're like, I need to make sure this baby is breathing every five seconds. And Chris, like bless his heart, is completely exhausted. Like I am exhausted. Like I like I have just done so much. And he's exhausted, like rightfully so. Like he's been up since 5 a.m. 2 and so tired. And what they make the guys sleep on, and I not make, but like what they have for them to sleep on is like this little fold out hard couch with, you know, the hospital sheets. And not like the bed is that much more comfier, but it just, it's hard. It's hard on the guys too. Not as hard as the women. I get it. But like it's not so easy on your significant other.

Yeah.

So I remember him being super exhausted. And I knew that he wanted to be right there with our baby. And like, I feel like I will come up a few times to help me with diaper changes and stuff like that. And he would always pop up when like, it's time to nurse the baby. But like, he was just, I remember him sleeping. And I just could not sleep. Like I was exhausted. But this is like this person I just made. And I'm so nervous. Like I remember like sleeping and putting my hand on her to just like make sure that she was breathing. And I was trying to sleep. And I mean, I love my hospital stays, but they do come in like every three hours to make sure that you take your medicine and check on the baby and do your vitals. And so that is hard. Like in the middle of the night, I just had a baby. We finally get like everybody goes home finally around midnight. And it's like, okay, now I have to try to sleep. I don't know how. I'm so tired, but I can't. And so I think it was like at 3 a.m. And I was just anxious. You know, I wanted her to be okay. I just tried to feed her again. And the nurses were like, do you want me to take her to the nursery? And I was like, yeah, is that okay? And I mean, nine years ago, I don't know what the policy is now, but nine years ago, they were like, yeah, like that's totally fine. You can get some sleep and we'll bring her in when three hours later and she needs to eat. And I was so grateful because I knew she would be so fine in the nursery and I could just close my eyes and sleep. And so I don't know what policies are in different hospitals. I've heard where they like have completely gotten rid of nurseries and that's great. I mean, I know how important it is for your baby to be with you the first 24 hours, but if you are so tired and you're so anxious about your baby breathing and there is a nursery option, I would say go for it. Like they're gonna make sure your baby is safe and secure. Your baby has the same wristband that you have on and every time they leave, they scan your wristband to match it with the baby. And every time they bring the baby back, they scan your wristband to match with the baby. And you know your baby and it was just, it was just a pro. It was a pro for me to use that nursery to get those two hours of sleep, you know, which sound crazy before you have a baby. Like you only stop for two hours, you know, every two hour stretches. But in the moment, you're like, okay, yes, this is like a nap. If you think of it like that, I'm taking a little nap. That worked.

Yeah.

So nursing pro and yeah, it was just pretty smooth sailing from there. I'm lucky that she nursed pretty decently. It wasn't the best, but nursing is just hard, especially when you first do it. And that's kind of taboo. I think it's gotten better. People have been talking about it more. But like 10 years ago, they were just like, you’ve got to nurse this away. And you're like, what? How? And I took classes on it and they were helpful, but it really is like a, you just have to, you'd listen and you try, but like it's what your baby is trying to do too. And she nursed pretty well. She had a little bit of a hard time. I definitely suggest, like, I mean, you take the classes, but like you really gotta stick your boob in there. Like you stick it all the way in, and they're like, their mouth is filled, right? And that's how it should look, because if you're just like barely attaching them, it's not gonna work and it's gonna hurt so bad. And it already kind of hurts because, you know, that's not something that normally happens to you. And so it's just, it's a learning curve. And I say, my advice to anybody with breastfeeding is stick it out so hard for 14 days. If you can push through, because it's gonna hurt, it's gonna be uncomfortable. If you can push through for 14 days and really give it your all, then that's a moment it's gonna like really work, or you're gonna really know that you need to figure out something else out. So I do suggest that pumping helps your supply come in, but also if you're pumping and you're breastfeeding, you're also might bring too much milk in. So that's hard too, because then you'll worry about getting engorged, and your milk coming in is crazy. At first you're like, when is this gonna come in? When is this gonna come in? I'm so ready for it to come in. And then when your milk comes in, your boobs are like rocks. Like, legit. They feel like rocks.

Oh my gosh.

They're so hard. They're so hard and so huge. And like, pushing on them is just like, oh, this is so much. And you're like, please, baby, drink this. Like, and you just put them on there, and you're just hoping they'll drain you. But then the longer they're on you, the more milk you make. And you're like, ah, this is so crazy.

The craziest balancing act ever of like, not too much, not too little, but blah, blah, blah. Like, oh my gosh, so much.

Yes, that's what I have dealt with, is trying to find the balance of producing enough for my baby, but not too much. And I will, I don't know if anybody's talked about the Haakaa on the podcast.

No, I don't think so.

I really liked the Haakaa, because it like, catches the milk on one side, while you nurse on the other side. And so sometimes it like has a suction, but it's not like a breast pump, where it's like suctioning constantly. It like just kind of has like a pull. And so when you're breastfeeding on one side, especially when your milk comes in, you're gonna leak like so much. And you can wear breast pads, but what I do to like have my stock, is to wear the Haakaa and then like put it in bags and put it in the freezer so that I don't have to pump. But I also have breast milk stock just in case I need it, you know, if something happens or I go, you know, on a date or something.

That's awesome. I feel like I remember seeing that at your house, but I like didn't know what the difference was between like a hand pump or whatever. So that's pro pro tip right there. That's awesome.

Yeah, because pumping sucks. And so if you can avoid that and just kind of get your stock up from the haka, then you don't really ever have to worry about pumping. I mean, sometimes pumping is really good for just getting your supply up. And that's useful. But if you just want to have some stock of breast milk in your freezer, then I would suggest the haka. And I think there's like a love-hate relationship, but that's like either you love it or you hate it. So whatever way you are, I mean, just see if you like it and it'll be, you know, use it or not.

Yeah.

So that was Sophia. And now she's almost nine.

She's so cute.

And plus part of them, I remember thinking, wow, if they're all like this, this is going to be so hard. I mean, just because it's so new. And I mean, Sophia, my oldest is so opinionated and very vocal. And that's how she came out. So opinionated and vocal, but she couldn't say those things. She did not have the words. And so she would cry and try to tell me things. It's like, I could almost see it in her eyes. Like she wanted to tell me things so badly, but she couldn't. And so I remember just like walking around with her at night singing her songs. And it was Christmas time. And so I had all the Christmas songs in my head. So I would sing, you know, like Silent Night and Jingle Bells and all the things. The Christmas tree was still up and the lights were still on. And so we'd walk around the Christmas tree and I'd rock her to sleep. And that was really special. I mean, in the time, it was hard because I wasn't getting as much sleep. But she was the only one, right? So I knew, I focused on when she slept, I would go to sleep. And so I knew that there was like an end in sight. I knew that it could happen. And so I just needed to get her back to sleep and I would sleep then. So that was the hardest part was thinking like, well, if they're all like this, this is going to be really hard because everybody would tell you, your first one's your easiest. And I'm like, this is not easy. But she's amazing. And like I said, she's so smart and intelligent and she just came out that way. And so I think what frustrated her was she couldn't really actually tell me what she needed. And she wanted to. So that was the hard part. But now, like she is, she is so independent and she's so strong and she's like the best big sister, the best first child. And I'm so grateful for her because she has really set the tone for our family and done a really great job with that. So yeah, that's Sophia. Then when she was two, me and Chris were like, hey, time for round two. And we just started trying and we were pregnant like a month later.

It's awesome.

2nd Pregnancy: Staying Active & Feeling Less Nausea

It was quick, like I said, think about it and it happened. It was crazy, such a blessing. And we were in Utah at the time, so we were with a lot of our Spendlove family up there, which was so fun. I loved having that time as Spendloves. And yeah, we got pregnant. And again, just like super smooth pregnancy. I was less sick. I felt like I was less nauseous with Joey. And we found a doctor up there that we liked. It was actually a practice up there in Utah. They have a lot of practices where they kind of want you to see everybody because they don't know who's going to deliver your baby. But I didn't really like that. I kind of wanted to know. And so I found a practice that was like a father son practice. And so I knew it was going to be the dad or the son that delivered my baby. And I was happy to know that it was either one of those two and that I didn't have to worry about seven different people delivering my baby. And we lived in Springville, Utah at the time. And we were... I had never had a guy doctor before. I mean, I had Dr. Shaw. She's a girl. And so that was a little different, but they were super kind and super nice. Never made me feel weird. Chris came to every appointment. And I mean, they don't cervical check you until towards the end. And even in like cervical checks with women doctors, they have to have a nurse there too. Like there always has to be somebody else there. And so like it never felt weird. It was very normal. And because I had an induction with my first, I was like, okay, like I'm totally fine with that again. It worked out. It was great. I had a really great experience. And so we scheduled an induction for like a week before. Like it was early. And I don't remember feeling weird about that. I mean, I was 39 weeks and he was like, yeah, like, you're good. I mean, full term is like, I think is it 38, 38 to 42 is full term.

Yes, I believe so. Yeah. If not like 38 and a half. I know when I was a doula, the like practice was like, if they went between 38 and 42 weeks, you were like responsible to be there and anything before or something. I can't remember. But 38 weeks is what I remember. But yeah, I don't know. It could be different now. But so I was finding that, like I said, I'm pretty good with the flow. So that sounded good to me. And I mean, in Utah, they're popping babies out left and right.

So doing it in their sleep, basically.

So I'm like, hey, this hospital does it all the time. Like literally probably every five minutes, they probably have a baby, honestly.

Yeah. I mean, truly that hospital, especially like, I swear, if you've listened to an episode on this podcast and someone's given birth in Utah, 75% of them have given birth at this hospital that you're talking about, Jorden. It's like a place, it's a thing.

Like we should be sponsored, right?

Yeah, seriously.

So yeah, I mean, like I said, the pregnancy was pretty smooth. Fun thing we got to do to reveal Joey's gender was we got to do it in Italy on a big Spendlove family trip. So that was super fun. I remember getting yelled at by the hotel staff in Italian. I'm not going to attempt Italian, but it was like, I mean, it was the first grandson on both sides. And so we were all just like losing our minds. But there was going to be a boy, a boy grandson, and it was probably like 8 o'clock in the morning. And we're outside on the patio eating our Italian breakfast. And everybody's freaking out. And this lady just comes out. And I just remember her finger and she was like, and I was like, I'm so sorry. And your dad said some Italian, like, escuse me, you know?

Yeah. No, I think, I mean, my dad is fluent in Italian. And so I think he worked his little magic of like, it's my first grandson. Like none of us cared. Like we're like, whoa. And it was so cute. You'll have this little like drink mix packet. And so it's either going to be like pink or pink lemonade or like blue Hawaiian something. And it was so fun. It was so cute.

Yeah, it was so fun. So I remember that was super fun experience during my pregnancy with Joey. I was super, super active. Like I worked out all the time when I was pregnant with Joey. And I think that really helped. I mean, I was active with Sophia, but I was more like swimming and walking with Joey. I was like doing like pretty intense aerobics. And that's just, I'm used to that. I would never suggest like go super hard if you've never done it. But if your body is used to it and you're like pretty athletic, then whatever you're comfortable with, I'd say go for it. And your doctor's gonna be on board as long as you're not like in pain, you're not bleeding. If your body is handling it and you feel strong and healthy, then go for what you want to do. Like go on a huge backpacking trip when you're 15 weeks old. That's what I just did. I know.

I was like, we haven't mentioned that yet. You're like, I'm so grateful how strong my body is. I'm like, are we gonna bring up the fact that you just did this amazing feat for anybody, let alone 15 weeks pregnant.

It was a lot. But yeah, we'll talk about that soon.

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

2nd Labor: Strong Pitocin Induction, 2 Pushes, & No Tearing

But yeah, with Joey, it was just so smooth. And he is so chill that it makes sense. Like just, he's like my chill bro. I mean, like he's a kid. So of course he has his moments, but he is pretty go with the flow and chill. And so yeah, induction day, my parents were in town again. And like my dad watched Sophia, and your mom helped with Sophia. I remember that too. And my grandmother came into town. She had actually recently lost her husband, and that was super sad because I didn't get to go to the funeral, and I was pretty close with him. At 36 weeks, I was just too close, and so I couldn't fly. And so I was really glad that she could come up and be there, because you lose somebody, but then there's new life coming in. And so the connection of that circle of life was really sweet for her and for me, because I really did miss him, and do miss him. And so that was really tender, that my Nana could be come up. And then, yeah, like, it was kind of like plug and play, go time, we've done this, so let's, you know, do it again. And the night before I have my babies, my husband always gives me a blessing in our faith. The men hold the priesthood and can give blessings. And that's basically like, they communicate through the spirit to tell you what Heavenly Father wants you to know at the time. So I remember specifically in the blessing, Chris said, you will have an easy labor. And I was like, what?

Yeah, see, that's amazing.

I'm like, I love you, babe, but are you sure the spirit told you that? Yeah, I like using the word easy before any type of birth experience is is a bit tricky. So but like, I felt like really positive and good. And so we like get to the hospital, you know, same thing connected to Pitocin right away. We didn't have to be there as early in Utah. There's so many births that they basically call you the day of. And they're like, OK, you can come in. Or they never called you, so you can't come in that day, which is kind of crazy.

Do you feel like that that helped you sleep better? Because you didn't know? OK, that's good.

I still had, they were like, just be ready at eight. And so I definitely slept better because I knew what was coming and I knew, you know, what would happen. And I was still nervous and excited, but it was a little bit easier. So I do remember sleeping better. And so, yeah, like hooked up to Pitocin and kind of just like feeling it out again. That's always been my motto. Like, I know my body is strong. I know my mind was strong, but I'm going to listen to what my body is telling me and feel things out, feel the pain, like feel what it feels like and see where we go from there. And so, kind of like around the same time, like noon, I was like, okay, I'm kind of done with these contractions. Let's get an epidural. And I knew that it had really helped my dilation in the first round. And I was more dilated. I think I was like a full one or one and a half before I went in. And so, like, I knew my body was doing stuff, but I was just ready for that epidural to help me go a little bit further. And so, same thing, like, I got kind of lightheaded. I don't think I threw up, but I was lightheaded with the epidural and they kind of moved me around a few times. Dr. Nance, my doctor, he was more aggressive with Pitocin. Pros and cons. My contractions were bigger and hurt more, but I definitely dilated faster. And so, I was like, it was like three o'clock or two o'clock. And I was like, hey, you guys, like to my mom and to Chris, I was like, I'm feeling good. Dad's here. He can come talk to me. So if you guys want to go eat some lunch and then come back, like we're good. And so dad was in there with me and he, I could tell that he could tell I was feeling uncomfortable. And he was like, are you okay? And I was like, I just felt kind of weird. And he's like, okay, well, I'll go get the nurse. And so my nana came in and my dad, I think he went to tell the nurse that I needed her. And then he like went to call mom while they were eating down in the cafeteria. And so dad never came back in, but the nurse came in and my nana's kind of like in the corner because I'm getting checked. And the nurse is like, okay, it's time. And I'm like, um, Chris isn't here. My mom isn't here. What do you mean? Like it's, it's 3.30. What do you mean it's time? Like I didn't have my other baby till like 10 o'clock. And I just remember looking at nana and I was like, nana, go get Chris!

It's like a movie. That's amazing.

And she's like, okay, okay! And she like runs out the door and the doctor like comes in right behind her. And I'm like, I, I, Chris isn't here. Like I can't do this yet. And he's like, well, let's see, let's see what's happening down there. He was like, yep, you're ready. You're full 10. And like legit, like a movie. Like I, Chris had, or my dad had said that Chris was like running down the hall with my mom, like trying to get to my room and he like gets in. And basically it was like, I remember looking at the clock because it was like off on the wall and I remember it being 3.55. And I remember thinking, it'd be so cool if I could have a baby right at four. But like that won't happen. Like that's four minutes away. Like I haven't even started pushing. And so it's 3.55. Chris gets in, mom gets in, we like get ready. And then like the funniest thing, Dr. Nance is like right there and Chris like comes up to the side. He's like, do I have time to go to the restroom? And Dr. Nance just completely ignores him and...

Take your dumb questions somewhere else!

It was just so funny. And like Chris like read the room super quick and he's like, oh yeah, that's not happening. He like zipped and did not ask anything like that again. And so I start pushing and first push, heads out. And the second push, body's out. And Joey's out. Joey's out at 3:59 p.m. So I'm like, man, I couldn't have waited one minute to get the four o'clock.

Just hold it!

2nd Postpartum: Quick Recovery & Amazing Community Support

And it was just, it was incredible. Like, okay, so our videographer, because it was so fast, we had forgotten to like call her. And she didn't even see the she wasn't even there for the baby to come out. But she like, if you see the video, you can't even tell. Like the first moment is like them handing me Joey. And so she like got it. I don't know how, but she's incredible. She's in Utah. And her name is K. Shay photography and videography. And she's just I would promote her like she's the best video ever. And so, yeah, he's here. And I so they induce me at 39 weeks. Well, big boy. I don't know if my due date was accurate, but he was eight pounds, nine ounces. I'm not like huge, but like for a week early. So, you know, so they say, I feel like that's pretty big. Yeah. So he and so Sophia, for reference, she was seven, nine. So he was a whole pound bigger than her. And he was a big boy. I remember looking at him like he's almost in three month of clothing. Like, wow. And also for reference, I remember wanting to do inductions a little bit more because our sweet sister-in-law, Becca, had to deliver huge spend love babies. And I had known how big was Bea.

Bea was 10 pounds, four ounces.

Oh my gosh!

Which is how big I was. And that's the only reason I remember that. But for her first baby, her first baby.

And so she had had her a year before Sophia. And that was one of my motivating factors. I'm married to a huge spend love man too. Who knows? I'm grateful that I'm taller than Becca, but I didn't want to have a 10-pounder.

Yeah.

And so I think that's why I was more pro-inductions too, instead of waiting it out because those spend love boys, they get big.

Yes, yes, seriously.

So Spendlove babies can be a significant size. And so eight, nine, I was like, oh, okay, go Joe. So yeah, Joey was born, he came out hungry. He wanted to eat. And that was probably my easiest breastfeeding experience was he just, he brought my milk in in like a day. Like insane, I was at the hospital and had my milk in, which is very rare. Like you usually don't get your milk in till after you go home. And so I was shocked that he was strong, healthy. He came out and we all thought he was bald because he was so blonde, like shockingly blonde.

Yes. Well, and Sophia had such like dark hair that he did look very bald. I remember.

Yes, this blonde eyebrows. Now his hair is darker, but he's still pretty blonde for, you know, I have dark hair, Chris has super dark hair. And everybody's like, where does he get his blonde and it's from Chris's side. Like it's from your side. Because, you know, like Mitchell was born blonde and Chris was born more blonde. And so that's just crazy to me. But he's still our little blondie. I'm sure he'll lose it eventually. But he is almost six now. So that's crazy. So almost nine year old, almost six year old. Postpartum was great. I remember with Joey, postpartum was so like, my mom and dad stayed up there for like three weeks. And your parents were there. I was surrounded by family. And the weather was nice. It was October. So it was just starting to get kind of cold, but it felt good. And it was in Utah. And so all the colors were changing. And like my recovery was really great. I think it really helped that I worked out so much. And so my recovery was smooth. I remember sitting in the hospital bed, like crisscross applesauce and like getting up. I didn't tear it. I just felt so good. Like, and that's not normal. And so such a blessing. But it was so nice with Joey boy. So, yeah, there's two kids and third kid. I feel like this just happened, but she is too.

Yeah, no, I keep thinking in my brain, she's one, even though she's double that age and there's already, you know, but I am with you. I feel like it happened so quickly or recently.

Yeah, I feel like it just happened. So we're out of Utah. When COVID hit, Chris had just recently lost his job and he was in advertising. And that was his major at school. And so we were just kind of like, what do we do? And we weren't freaking out. I remember feeling really good. We were praying all the time and we felt really positive. And then we felt like he should go back to school. Chris's dad had suggested that he go back to school and it felt good, but not just for an MBA, like not just for his masters. We were trying to figure out what he should do. And he's always had this cute little dream to be a lawyer and to do justice. And that's so Chris. So it just makes so much sense that he would want to be a lawyer and now a prosecutor, just fight evil and do good because he is so good. And so he took her practice LSAT, did great on that with the real LSAT, and just like started getting offers from different law schools. And we really wanted to come to Texas and he had applied to Baylor, but they hadn't gotten back to him yet. And Penn State had, and Penn State had offered him a full ride. So we knew we were moving because BYU, which has an amazing law program, said, no, we don't want you. And we said, okay.

The biggest air ball in history.

So it wasn't like super surprising, but it was pretty surprising because we had a house up there and we would have just stayed, even if we had to pay because it was cheap. But they said no, and we really feel like the Lord was like, we're going to, BYU is going to say no because that's not where you're supposed to be. And so we knew we were moving. Baylor hadn't said anything. Penn State said, yes, full ride. And so I was like, back to my college days, back to my recruiting days, I was like, Chris, you need to reach out to Baylor and tell them that you have a full ride at Penn State and say you want to go to Baylor, that's your number one, but Penn State offered you a full ride. And I mean, negotiation, right? I mean, not that they weren't going to offer him a full ride already, but now that they know that they have competition, it's going to be, they're going to be more willing to give you more money. And so Baylor came back. Hey, we want to offer you a full ride, too. And we're like, yes, we love that. And we're moving to Texas. Yes!

Woohoo!

So back in the great state of Texas. So Chris graduated from law school two years ago, Baylor Law, best decision ever. And he works for the county now as a prosecutor. He's an assistant district attorney. And we've been in Waco for over five years, which is the longest we've ever been somewhere. And we love it. Good people, good place. We love our school district.

3rd Pregnancy: Surprise Gender & Switching Doctors in 3rd Trimester

And yeah, so right when he was about to graduate, like the semester before, we were like, I think it's time for baby number three. We felt really good about that. And we prayed about it and we felt ready. And so, kind of like the same thing with Joey, started trying, month later, bingo, bingo, bongo, baby time. So this time around, third baby, I was actually pregnant with one, my best friend up in Utah, and two, my sister, my little sister, shout out to Kaylee. She got pregnant at the like almost exact same time as me, and we were two days apart. So, we were jazzed and so excited, put a lot of stress on my mom.

So, with how involved she is with, you know, like, you've been saying, like, it's a team effort. And so, for it to be like double the go time, that's a lot.

Yeah. The good thing is me and my sister, like, had completely different plans because everybody's plan is different. And so, like, I was still fine with an induction, and she was like, let's, like, I'm having this baby at my house, right? And I have midwives, and the baby's coming when it wants to come, right? And that's totally great, like, super awesome. And she is so amazing and so powerful. And so, our plans were pretty different, like, pretty, like, I was probably gonna have a set day, and Kayleigh, you know, with it being her second, and, like, not, like, forcing the baby to come, she was gonna probably be later than me. So, that was good. And so, we had a good plan with that. I was still fine with an induction. And so, I, honest, this is the, like, control person in me. I wanted my baby to be here by August 31st, so that he or she could go to school and be, start kindergarten, you know, the year, that year that they turn five, instead of having to wait a whole year.

That's just good planning, I think. I mean.

I mean, I think, but, you know, every kid's different. And so, I mean, I could still hold her back, right? Like, I could wait and Scarlett could start a year later. But knowing that I could start her, you know, right when she turns five was helpful. So I knew I wanted to have her before August 31st. And so, shout out to Medicaid again. I was on Medicaid for the first part of my pregnancy with Scarlett because Chris was at school still. And so that was super helpful. And I actually saw Dr. Shaw in the beginning because she still took my insurance and my parents are in San Antonio. So I just drove down there and saw her. And she's so sweet and so cute. And I saw her up through my anatomy scan. So past 20 weeks. And then I had to get a new doctor. And so I'm like, I thought about this the other night. And I'm like, man, I was so chill to be able to switch doctors after 20 weeks. I was like, what?

Yeah, seriously.

I, you know, just my motto, go with the flow. So found a doctor up here once Chris got hired at the county that took our insurance. And shout out to Dr. Erman and Waco. I freaking love her. She's amazing. And she's so awesome. And she took me on and she was excited for me. And everything was so super chill. We weren't finding out the gender this time, which threw everybody for a loop, especially the grandmas because they couldn't baby clothes shop, which was so cute and sweet that everybody wants to spoil the baby. But I really liked it because people can only really buy me diapers. And that's really all I needed because I had a bunch of girl clothes and boy clothes.

There you go.

I was grateful for all the diapers that I got. I feel like they lasted up until Scarlet was like nine months old, like so many diapers. And diapers are expensive.

Yes.

So that's a perk. If you don't find out the gender, then everybody buys you diapers or actual things on your registry. And you can buy clothes after the baby's here.

That is seriously a pro tip right there.

3rd Delivery: Strong Birth Support Team & Scheduled Induction

Yeah. And it just also, nurses and doctors get so stoked when they don't know the gender either, like so attentive. And not that they wouldn't have been, and not that they don't give the same exact care that they do to everybody else. But like our nurses were jazzed. Like they didn't even want to leave their shift because they wanted to be able to be there to see what we were having because waiting to find out the gender is just not a thing anymore. And so, we waited, Scarlett, I worked out a bit. I worked out pretty well, but it was just harder because I have two kids at home and they're running around and, you know, it was just a little bit harder. And so I was way more tired, I feel like, with Scarlett. And we also were gonna move. And so I was trying to get my house ready for that. I mean, we moved like six months after she was born, but still, you know, it's just things were different. I'm older, so it was just a little bit harder because I felt like I was running around everywhere. But same thing, induction. I think I went like five days over my due date and then we had the induction scheduled. Dr. Erman was a lot chiller about Pitocin. We started on a really lower dose. And it was nice because it didn't hurt as bad, but my labor, like I remember thinking, okay, well, if I had Joey at four, then I'm going to have this baby like by lunchtime, you know, and it just wasn't like that. Like it still was taking forever. And I remember all the group chats like, how's it going? How's it going? And it's like, well, I'm still, still early here for some reason, which is fine. Dr. Erman was letting my body do its own thing. And I was progressing and I was going into that, but it was just taking longer. One thing we haven't talked about is I have had to get my water broken every time. So with the induction, I've gotten Pitocin, and then like a couple of hours later, they'll break your water. And I, I don't know why, but for some reason it's just worked out that I've broken my water before my epidural. Like they've broken it for me. And so that is not fun. I mean, it, they take this long stick that has like a little hook on the end, and they stick it up you, and they like pop that balloon or something, but it is, it is not fun. It's very uncomfortable. And I'm like, why am I waiting? Like, why do I wait for that epidural and I do this water break? I mean, I could like not feel this, like, but whatever. It's fine. So yeah, so induction, Pitocin, break my water with the little crochet hook, I want to call it. I'm, I don't know what they call it, but it looks like a crochet hook. And then kind of the same thing. I think I made it to like 4 p.m. Kind of feeling it out. My sweet sister, Kaylee was there, super pregnant and she was there the whole birth too. So it was Chris, my mom and Kaylee, just like cheering me on and helping me. Kaylee had already done an unmedicated birth before, and so it was really helpful for her to be there to kind of coach me through how I was feeling. And like she is the only person I knew that had done so natural like at a midwife. And because my mom had done inductions and gotten medicine before, so it was really helpful for her to be like, this is like what's supposed to happen. Like you're okay. Of course, Pitocin is different, but she was very helpful. And so kind of the same thing, I felt it out as long as I could, was moving around a lot. And then I was like, I'm done. Like I just remember thinking like, I'm ready for the epidural. Like I'm so ready. And it was such a relief when I let myself feel that. When I was like, okay, I'm done being tough. Like not that you're not tough, but like I'm just so ready to let my body relax. And so got the epidural. And this time, like I did get nauseous, but it wasn't really until I got closer. So I got the epidural, and then my body was like, okay, you got the epidural. Let's do this. And so it was so fast. Like an hour later, I was feeling horrible. Like I couldn't feel anything down there, but like I wanted to throw up. I was so sick, and I was so like my blood pressure dropped, and the nurses came in, and they were trying to figure out. And I was like, guys, I think you need to check me. Like I think it's time. And that was the first time where they weren't just like, let's check. I was like, you need to check me. Like, I think it's time. And they're like, oh my gosh, you're in a 10. Like, like you're here. And so that was just so special. I remember super quick labor again, like, everybody's around me. I remember the nurses coming in, and there was this one guy nurse that was stoked to not know the gender. Like, and he was like so happy that I was doing it this way. And he was so positive and so jazzed. And yeah, she, she, yeah, there you go. We had a girl, she like made her debut and like completely shocked Chris. I think he was pretty sure we were gonna have a boy. And when it was a girl, like you see him on the video, like collapsed back, like just so happy and excited and shocked that he was having another girl. And we wanted to wait till Sophia could come in, but we were just so excited that we just called everybody and was like, it's a girl, it's a girl. And she was just so perfect and sweet. And like I said, every time they just put the baby on your chest, you're just so happy and just so content. Literally you could stay in that moment forever because of how good it feels to have your baby with you. And just so happy. I remember Dr. Erman too. She was, she is a really chill person, and she was just like standing at the end, like not even like, she was just nodding her head like this, like, yeah, you got this. It's like so happy for me and proud of me as I'm pushing her out. And Chris and mom, like I said, and Kaylee were just like, she's here. She's happy, like it's coming. She's here. They didn't even say she's here, but until they knew, but like it's happening. It was just, it was amazing. So yeah, still got my Jimmy John's sandwich.

Yes, a must.

A must. And yeah, it was just incredible. She's, and now she's two.

Crazy.

That's that. And Ellie, Kaylee's baby was born nine days later. So they have little cousin twins, and they're so cute. They're so, they love each other so much. They like run and they hug each other and they collapse on the floor because of the big hug.

So cute.

Which segues into the fact that our little babies are gonna be little cousin twins!

4th Pregnancy: Surprise Baby, Positive 1st Trimester, Second Round of Cousin Twins

Yes! Oh my gosh! I know. I, oh, it's just the freaking best. It's, I think I mentioned this on the episode last week, but like we had just found out that we were pregnant and then y'all announced, like, oh my gosh, what the heck? And then it wasn't until I had gotten my first appointment that we realized how closely we're in due dates, because I was way off in my, I think we, didn't you think it was-

We both were way off. Yeah. Like, I was way off in thinking that I was further along than I was. And I don't know, were you, you were earlier or?

Yeah, I was like less along than I actually was. So I thought I was, yeah, like earlier, I guess is the word. So yeah, it's just so sweet and special. And then after that first appointment, I like texted you, I'm like, March 5th, March 5th, oh my gosh. And you know, like, just so sweet, just absolutely the sweetest, like.

Yeah.

And I'm curious to see how it goes, because like, my mom, she always has had her babies early. Like, I think the closest to the due date was Brad, and he was like five days early. And so we'll see. I like really want a March baby though, just, I don't know, I feel like just in my mind, like March is like more of a spring month here. And I think, you know, just like always pictured a spring baby. So we'll see how close we actually get it to that two-day mark, but.

I know, I know. Well, and it's not as stressful because like your mom's gonna be with you and my mom's gonna be with me. And so, like, Mama Love can have her time, you know, with the little baby sweet baby that Em has, and then she can come up and see me when she's ready and it'll be great.

Yeah, get her a HOV pass or toll pass.

Yeah, a toll pass.

I know, because we're like two hours away. That's not bad.

No, yeah, not at all. Not at all.

But yeah, with this baby is our first surprise baby. We were not trying. We were just, you know, doing the things to just, you know, stay the course. And this baby was ready. So we, I was completely shocked. I was a couple of days late and I was just like, well, let me just add a pregnancy test to the HEP order, just in case. Like, I don't think I am, but you know, like I'm a couple of days late. And, you know, I'm not patient. And so I get home and put away the groceries and then go test. And I was shocked. I was like, what? But I mean, we've always planned to have four kids. And so it was just all the emotions, right? Like, okay, Scarlett is almost two. And the age gap is actually fine. It's two and a half years. Scarlett will be two and a half when the new baby is born. And so it was just an experience. I had never been so shocked. I've always been a planner. So this baby is going to throw me for loops, probably its whole life. You know, this is going to shock me, our little babe. So we are very excited. I'm super excited to be pregnant with you. That is so special. Our bookends, our last and your first.

Yes.

But I feel like I feel so seasoned because I'm going to have four kids. Is this the most that you've had on the podcast?

Yeah. I mean, I mean, I have three and you've had some with three, but four pregnancies. Yeah. Which is amazing. And I'm so grateful. I mentioned in the beginning, you are on my Mount Rushmore of amazing moms. And so, I'm like, you need to have your own experience. You don't need to be knocking at your door every 10 seconds. But I'm just grateful that at the very least, our babies will have each other to just grow up with. And it's so special that we live close by too. We just moved here not even a year ago. And so the timing is just really sweet. And because the other two siblings, like my other two siblings, they're done having kids. And so it's just my younger brother that would have cousins potentially for our kids in the same age range. And so it's just really sweet that it just works out. It just works out so well. So I'm just so excited.

Yeah. Well, yeah. So that's, I mean, right now, I'm on this journey right now. I was pretty nauseous in my first trimester, but now I'm just into the second trimester where I feel like I have a lot more energy, a lot more time to do stuff and feeling pretty good. So hopefully we'll start bumping soon. I know we need to get our bumps go. We need bump pics.

Yes, seriously. I know I was talking about that the other day too, of like, I don't know if I'm showing yet. Like, it's like right on that edge. And so, you know, but come like Halloween. That's what I'm curious about. I'm like, I just want a bump for Halloween. Like, I want to like be able to do something, you know.

That's so cute. I know. I have this little cow costume that my mom put me in when I was little, when I was like two. And so, I know I'm going to put Scarlet in that cow costume for Halloween. And my mom was like, you guys could have like a farm scene. And I was like, Mom, I'm going to like, when am I going to be like the cow? Like, as a mama cow, you know, like huge. Yeah, like that's exactly how I want to feel going into Halloween. It's a giant cow.

Just lean in, lean into it.

Yes.

That's hilarious. Oh, man. Oh, my gosh. That's awesome. Well, thank you so much. I feel like you've told this in like such a great story, which is totally like you, totally like your family, just like such like great storytellers and just so like emotionally intelligent. And so I've loved hearing every second of it. It's really special, too, because we talked about this a little bit when you were deciding if you wanted to come on the podcast or not of like, well, I have had positive experiences, so I don't know how much there is to say. But I'm so grateful that like there is always so much more to an experience, even if it goes like relatively smoothly right or whatever, like, your experiences are so beautiful and so worthy of sharing. And so I'm just grateful that you've shared those with us today. And, you know, I love to end every episode with the question, if you could go back and tell your pre-mom self something, what would you tell her?

To My Pre-Mom Self…

I would tell her that you will be making your little best friends, that these people are going to be the most fun, funniest, caring little people. And I know they still have a lot of growing to do, but they're just so amazing. And like, just trust it. Trust the process because these little humans are incredible and they love you so fully. They forgive so easily, and they just want you to be their mom. They want you, they want you to hold them and keep them safe and keep them in your heart. And you are going to do it. It's happening. And to keep that mindset because it is scary. It's scary because you're nervous. And you're scared that these people are for you. You made them. Heavenly Father’s trusted you, and you have made them. They are part of you. Just like I said before, they know you that whole nine months and before, right? And they just want to be in your arms. And I, I'm 32, but I still want to be in my mommy's arms all the time. And she knows that. And so I know that I can keep that positive relationship with them. And I know that I can foster that with my husband. Chris is such an amazing dad, and he's always wanted to be a dad. And so just these people that are coming are for you. They're for your family, and they want to be in your family. And they've been wanting to be in your family for a long time. And so that family unit is going to be strong, and going to be so joyful, so happy. Yes, there's crazy moments, but it's just amazing what your mind and your spirit can do when you're with the people that have always been in your family.

Oh, I don't know if we can have two pregnant people on the podcast anymore, because we're just crying together.

I know. Sniffle, sniffle.

I know. I'm like, no, thank you. In particular, I really, really appreciate that because I'm personally in this phase of like, oh my gosh, wait. It's not just like, oh, you're going to have a baby. It's like you're going to have a person that is in your life forever. And so I just so love that. I love those beautiful thoughts of like, these are your people. Like these are your sweet people, and you are going to get to love them and carry them forever. And again, like I just truly am so grateful. Nate and I are both just so grateful for you and Chris's examples to us of just living life fully and being just absolutely crazy about your kids. And like when Nate and I go over to your house, you just feel that, like you feel like you're just like hanging out with friends. You know, and just such a beautiful, positive counteroffer, I feel like to sometimes we're like, kids are so annoying and blah, blah, blah. It's like, no, these are my people. And we choose each other. And that's like such a beautiful choice and like rewarding relationships. So thank you. Thank you so much for that.

Of course, of course. I am so excited for you and Nate. Like no pressure, right? Like you were saying, there's no pressure to have kids. But it's been so exciting to be like, when's it gonna happen? Like, it's so exciting. And to know that like our kids are gonna be so close and so connected with each other. Little Spendlove cousins.

Yes. It makes me so, so happy.

And you are already an incredible mama. And this whole, this whole journey, I really see how beautiful it's been. And I feel like you're gonna be able to see that on the outside, looking in really quickly. If not, you probably already have. But just the way that you have been so passionate about mothering is incredible. And this podcast and this journey and having these podcasts and all of these people on your side, and you having the back of all these people, it's just so beautiful. You're gonna have so many people to rely on, so many things to think about that you can recall and stay positive about. And this little girl is just the most blessed little babe to have Emily as her mama.

Thank you. That's so sweet. Thank you. I so appreciate that. And I am so grateful, like, you know, I keep talking about week after week, like this community and this friend circle and all this stuff. But like, I really felt that after I announced, I had so many people who like I hadn't had, like even the friends on the podcast, right? Like, just to feel that so reciprocated right away was just so tender. And like, I was getting DMs about things and like already getting, like, supportive insights into things. And it's just like been this next level of like girlhood and womanhood and connectedness. And so I'm just I'm so grateful. I'm so grateful for you for being on the podcast today and just like bringing such like a joyful excitement to your story of like, yes, like these, you know, like it's a crazy thing. It's a huge, big, overwhelming thing, but it is beautiful and worth it. And just and I felt that with every story that you shared today. So truly thank you for bringing that that beautiful energy to the podcast today and to my life every day.

I know I try to be positive, but I don't want to be too positive, but that's the type of person I am.

It is a strength, I think, honestly. Like, you know, I've never felt like it was toxic. I just have felt like it's like a very needed light in a lot of, like, the overwhelm. So grateful you could share that with us today.

Of course. Well, thank you so much for having me on. I'm very excited to have this keepsake throughout the years that I can listen to and share with my own children. I think that they'll love listening to their mama and their aunt talk about them.

Yes, absolutely. And when this fourth little honey comes, we'll have to have a reprise. That would be so fun.

That would be so fun.

So this is not a goodbye but a see you later to our podcast friends. I love that.

Okay, let's do it. Can't get sick of me, podcast world.

All right, y'all. A huge, huge thanks to Jorden for being on the podcast. I thought it was so cool how she was able to tell everything like one continuous story, like weaving in their journey as a family into her birth stories. And I think that's just beautiful because if there's something that I've learned from starting this podcast is that babies don't just happen in a vacuum chamber. They come and they bring this incredibly transformative wave with them that changes every single person involved. And so it's been especially sweet for me to interview my sisters-in-law because it's really given me a fuller picture of their families. So once again, I'm just so grateful for Jorden joining us today. I'm also so grateful to y'all for being here week after week. I am especially grateful for how y'all engage with me. Just like Jorden said, I feel like I have this community of women with me as I start my journey to motherhood and the importance of that cannot be overstated. So thank you for being part of this community and I hope you will continue to share this podcast with your friends so that this community will continue to grow. So friend, will I see you same time next week?

K, love you, bye!