Merrick Elyse Murphy

Today started very early. Merrick was over a week late in coming so an induction was scheduled at 7 am. We left Ella in the capable hands of our neighbor Julie (thanks so much!) and headed for the hospital at 6:30 AM (yawn). We arrived with plenty of time to spare, about an hour before Katie, the midwife, arrived. Debby was hooked up to the magical elixir that causes contractions around 8 AM. Things proceed, although a bit slowly, with regular contractions throughout the day. Around mid-afternoon the heavy duty contractions kicked in. Debby was a trooper for a about an hour, but after a fierce battle she opted for the good stuff. About 45 minutes of relief, then it was time to push. Pushing lasted about 45 minutes. Overall things went smoothly and a little after 4 PM we had a tiny little healthy Merrick Elyse. I went to get the big sister and by the time we returned Debby was up and around and feeling good. Mommy and new daughter are both healthy and doing well. Ella took very well to her new sister, her first reaction was to offer her a french fry. Ella is very excited to have new new sister come home so they can play.

Really there is a baby inside that bundle or blankets.

Brrr, it's cold in here! Record lows in Florida two days after Hurricane Wilma wanders through south Florida.

Happy Mommy.

Seriously, she really did just have that baby.

More Mommy and Merrick.

Peaceful little girl. Very mellow for the few hours of her life. I'm sure that will change.

Merrick was opening her eyes right away and looking around checking out her new surroundings.

OK, maybe more hungry than sleepy. Merrick had no trouble figuring out the food supply.

I'm sleepy, can I go back inside for a nap?

This is Ramona she was Debby's head cheerleader and all around helpful nurse. (Picture was taken later, Ella was not at the birth.)

This is Katie, she delivered Merrick.

Can you believe this gorgeous woman just gave birth?

I think I'll keep her.

Dad is a bit overwhelmed.

Merrick weighs in at 7 pounds and 8 ounces. 22 inches long.

Merrick being cleaned up and given a little O2.

Debby after getting the good drugs. Before the good drugs, I wasn't able to pry my hand out of her clenched fists to take any pictures.

Debby before labor starts.

Hey mom, is this baby you keep talking about ever going to come out? Maybe soon...

I'm watering! What fun!

Where are the monkeys?

Ella with her toolbelt. I'm ready to help painting now, Mom.

Granny Max and Ella at the petting zoo.

Two young ladies out for a stroll.

Granny Max and Ella looking for butterflies.

Mom look at that!

Granny Max and Ella taking a break.

Granny Max and Ella in the butterfly garden at the zoo.

Get this hat off!

I'm too cute.

Ella-phant.

Ella is helping Mommy water the plants.

A bench just my size.

Watering is serious work.

I've got my snacks and I'm ready to go.

Ella having fun on a walk with Granny Max.

More!

Funny tasting.

Ella in a box.

Ella is ready to go for a walk with Granny Max.

Merrick, two weeks before her birthday.

More tongue out.

Raspberry