here's my sister!

a few up close and personal shots.
 
 

For those with interest, here's a long version of the birth...
Around 11pm or 12 on Nov. 18 Nicole thought her water might have broken. She wasn't sure what to do, because she would have to wake up the doctor and a neighbor to get to the hospital and wanted to make sure it wasn't a false alarm! Chris convinced her to call them right away -- so she woke them up and the family packed up to get to a local hospital/clinic. Once there, the doctor confirmed she was in labor but there were no serious contractions yet, so she was told to walk around. It was getting quite late and Nicole was exhausted but she kept walking around in her room for two hours. She was getting a bit worried as the contractions were still light, and she was afraid the doctor might resort to a induction and Nicole really hoped for a completely natural birth. She enlisted Esther's help -- by holding and rocking her, she felt a "pop" and maybe it was the baby's head engaging. That was also when the pain started and she knew the baby would come along soon! Sure enough, around 3am, the birth pangs came like a rocket and she stumbled to the delivery room with the sleepy nurses and doctor, and within 5 pushes, the baby popped out. It was quite interesting to give birth in a local hospital -- as there were many unexpected surprises. For example, the nurse pushed on Nicole's stomach to "help" get the baby out -- and were shocked that Nicole wanted to squat on the delivery bed, and not lie down. (Squatting was such an easier position to deliver in, compared to the first labor!) All in all, we were all so thankful and relieved to have a healthy and easy delivery and also so glad the doctor let us go home early (later on Thurs 11/19) so we can rest at home now. We're getting to know our precious new gift and also catching up on much needed sleep!