arkady was woken at six on the dot by really sharp contractions. She poked me awake, I begged just a little more rest so I could run around more effectively later. She poked me awake again at nine, saying it was definitely happening and my daughter wasn't going to wait. I hopped up, fed the cats and tidied the kitchen while Arkady called the midwives. Her waters burst onto the thankfully pretty tough living room carpet and I grabbed the plastic sheet from the front room. Freda popped out in one push at 9:40am, in a fast dive, a last gush of waters following. I called my helpful co-worker to take over on-call for the day. The midwives arrived about 9:50am and were greeted with many chocolate biscuits and much tea. The placenta came about an hour later.

I am the smuggest man in the world.

The birth was as absolutely smooth as could be. Freda is in perfect health. Arkady has only the slightest first-degree tear, not even enough for a stitch, and that only because Freda came out so fast.

redcountess came downstairs just after the birth and clucked like a very pleased stepmother. It's also Liz's mum's birthday, so that's the perfect birthday present for the step-grandmother as well.

I think we'll all be having a quiet one today. Another midwife is popping over this afternoon, our assigned midwife again tomorrow and our GP on Monday. Arkady will let the world know when she's up to receiving visitors.

Freda being weighed. That's the clamped-off cord.

Mum, Freda and Dad. Note bags under eyes. Pic by Liz.