A few words from Michael

It's Michael again.

I hope Melinda won't mind me taking just a minute on her blog (yes I've hacked in without her knowing) but I feel compelled to write just a few words today.

Just over a week ago I watched the love of my life endure the most painful experience she's ever faced. Since she was high on laughing gas she didn't have the headspace to call for me as she labored into the morning on the 27th of February. I slept peacefully until about 6:30am. I must have been awakened by angels because moments later she began to feel the profound pain that only you mothers have felt. The baby was coming.

It seemed like an instant later Melinda was in excrutiating pain and the only relief was to push. The hospital staff were insistant on not going forward with an epidural, and even removed the only pain relief she actually had (this was probably the one time in my adult life I wanted to strike a woman). There are no words that can properly describe my own anguish as my wife, and best friend cried out "Help me, please help me." Tears washed down my face as I relized that although I was at her side, she bore the pain unavoidably alone. Seemingly an instant later this beautful, living, breathing baby was in our arms.

This video is a compilation of some of the moments I've captured within the first 3 days of Claire's life, and is a tribute to Melinda and Claire. Thank you to Kandice, who recommended the song, it is perfect for how I know Melinda feels about our daughter.

I have an entirely new respect for all of you mothers who selflessly bare, and nurture your children. You're nothing less than heroes.

It may take quite a while to load, so if you care to see it please be patient.