She's here... Welcome to our family our precious Avery Elaine Smith

Avery was born a week ago on August 22nd at 2:16am just missing her due date by a couple of hours. She weighed 6 lbs 3 oz and was 19 inches long. The day of her due date I was feeling really ready to meet her, I even packed the van just in case something did happen. Even though I really wanted her to come early, she ended up coming in perfect timing. The kids started school that day, so I was able to do the whole first day of school thing and take pictures and what not. Also, she came early enough that Taylor had not started his next semester and was able to be home and help. After Taylor and I dropped off Hallie and Ashton at school that day, we took our other boys to my sister-in-laws so we could run some errands. One of my errands was to pick up some materials so I could to do some crafting during the day to keep my mind off of things. I'm so grateful for great family! Just getting out that day with my husband was so wonderful! Thanks Kristy :) I also have some pretty amazing friends. That day they knew would be hard for me and one them brought me over a cute little outfit for Avery and another brought our family over dinner. Later in the evening we ended up staying up extra late rearranging furniture... I guess that is what they mean by nesting. I ended up going into labor just after 1:00am and with a couple of contractions I knew it was time and called Kristy to come over. We then rushed to the hospital and within the hour I gave birth to my sweet little Avery. It all happened so fast; I was so glad to have made it to the hospital in time. I had to prep all the nurses and doctors that my baby would be coming really fast. They had offered me the epidural, but I knew I would not have had time for it even though it sounded really good at that time. I told them that if they broke my water she would come right out and that's what she did. I get a lot of comments of how lucky I am to have my babies so quickly and in the end I am grateful that they do, but it is definitely an intense experience. My body goes into shock from going into hard labor so quickly and without the epidural I feel everything. I also in my last month of pregnancy get a lot of contractions in preparation for the real deal. Like I said earlier though, in the end I am grateful for my quick labors and would not have it any other way. Also, labor ends up being a real spiritual experience for me as I have to rely so much on the strength of the Lord. I remember two very distinct times during my labor where I felt His strength. The first time I was in the van on the way to the hospital and the words "calm Judy" came to my mind and the other time was in between contractions in the hospital where I felt complete peace. I knew Heavenly Father was there with me. My last two experiences with labor with both Brock and Avery have greatly increased my testimony of prayer and that Heavenly Father is aware of and there for us in everything we go through. I am also grateful for all those people He sends to help us through these experiences. I have had so many people help and offer to help. Whether it was a meal for our family, a friend to talk to, or all the sweet messages and well wishes from back home, I am so grateful for all the love and support from all our family and friends! We love you all!