Karen's Birth - 30 years ago

Here is my memory of that event. We were living in Soldotna, Alaska in a two bedroom apartment.

I woke up about 3 am to go to the bathroom. My water broke. Yes, that is a really weird feeling. Immediately the contraction started. I called Barbara S. to let her know that it was time and that we would bring Jeremy and Tamara over on the way to the hospital.

The contractions were coming fast and furious. The nurses had a call to Dr. Isaac and were waiting for his arrival. I was ready to push, but the told me to wait. (Silly nurses. I won't listen next time. :) ) The birth was simple and quick. She was born at about 6:30 am. 3 1/2 hours of labor.  I wonder how much sooner, if I hadn't waited for the doctor.

When I was told the baby was a girl, I was glad I told Jerry we needed to pick a girl's name two days before. That was when I decided this one wasn't a boy after all.

When I was told how much she weighed, I was shocked. 9 lbs. 5 oz. !!!!! After having two 7 lbs. 6 oz. babies, I couldn't believe the birth could have been that easy.

Jerry and I picked the name Karen Celeste, because her nickname would be K. C., but said like /case - e/. That went with the nickname for Tamara...T. J. She wasn't named after any other Karen or Celeste. We just liked those names together. I really like the K.C.

I remember so many times hearing Karen telling people her name and making sure they got it right.  My name is /case - e/. Spelled K period C period.

Karen goes by Kai today.  But she is still my K. C. and I love her.