As I type from a borrowed chair in the middle of the hall on the first floor of Prentice Women’s Hospital, our son George is just turning six hours old and sharing a meal with his mother eleven floors above. I’ll keep this short because I want to be with them – and this is the only place in the building with a strong and constant wireless signal.
To continue the story from this afternoon: around 4:15, doctors and nurses agreed that the baby was ready to come. Sally gave one full ten-count push, and George’s head emerged. After three little three-count pushes, Doctor Foley held George in his hands. George was a little grey in the hands and feet – apparently normal for newborns. Seconds later, I snipped the cord between two clamped points, and we handed George to his mother for the first time.
He’s got the right number of everything, and he’s pretty well formed. Eating and sleeping appear to be early aptitudes.
Sally is doing wonderfully. She was strong and optimistic all day, and she’s already said, “we have to do this again” while feeding her hours-old baby.
Francis met George around dinner time. The Browns (who are graciously hosting Francis while we’re here) came by with dinner. Francis spent much of her time sitting on the bed with her mommy and brother. “Baby George,” she said upon arrival. Then, stroking his blanket, she said, “Baby George, nice. Nice.”
Thanks, everyone, for checking in on us. We’re so happy to introduce you to our son.
I almost forgot. Here are George’s stats: eight pounds, fourteen ounces, and just barely under 21 inches.
by Sally
Steve and Amy Lou - I was just posting on our blog about you guys and was trying to snatch the same picture you posted when I saw your posting! (I think that qualifies as a run-on sentence). We're so excited for you guys and are so happy you are all doing well. MUCH LOVE TO YOU ALL! Congratulations!!!! P.S. Scoutie says hi!
The Olson Family - We love GEORGE WILLAM FINCH GULDE!
A strong name for a strong boy! We are so happy to have this little man in our family. Desperately want to fly there right now to cuddle and love him. Francie is right. Baby George, nice nice! Cousin David says,"baby Geowge, Uncle Matt, Aunt Sawwy(that's Sally), and Fancis (we are working on our "r's" and "l's". Love you guys.
The Olson Family - P.S.
Sally, you look amazing, manicure looks great!.
Mattie, you look happy. We see the Gulde chin there 🙂
ERIC WELLS - Hey Guys CONGRATS!!! Man-o-Man nothing can beat seeing your child born right before your eyes,best feeling in the whole world(dont tell my friends I was getting all mushy on here)I'm glad everything turned out great and I wish you guys the best…oh and by the way Sally the reunion was great but we really missed you and hope that the new family of four will be at the next one…take it easy guys and thanks MAtt for being able to break away and keep us updated on everything…your friend Eric
Kristen - Congratulations, sweet Gulde family! He's absolutely beautiful and such a little miracle. We can't wait to meet him one day soon. Snatch some shuteye while you can. We love and are thinking of you…
Justin - Congratulations from Justin, Haley and Ella!
Hopefully soon you can update his stats to include boards, assists and Yards After Catch.
Can't wait to meet him!
Donoghue Nation - Congratulations Guldes. George is a beautiful baby. We cannot wait to meet him.
The Gulde Gang - Welcome George William Finch Gulde! You tip the scales as the biggest Gulde of this generation (Joey was only 8lb, 8oz). Sally, you know the story, big babies are easy babies. You guys are going to enjoy him more than you can imagine. Thank God everyday for your beautiful children…we do. Love to you all, J&D, J&J
Anonymous - Matt & Sally — Congratulations on the birth of little George. What a sweet addition to your family. I'm looking forward to the day he comes to visit LOMLR. Bette
Kristen - Boy, what I would give to see just a few more pictures… is it too much to ask, really? Almost twelve hours later? I mean, I'm still checking frequently… I need more, I need more! I hope all is well in hospital land…
Matt - Sorry Kristen, I don't think I'm going to post any more pictures until I get home. I promise to post a video of Francis meeting George tonight.
Lea Parrott - CONGRATS, CONGRATS< CONGRATS!! He is just beautiful!!
katherine petillo - we're so excited for you guys! i can't wait to meet george in a few weeks. he is a handsome little guy. matt, we're looking forward to that video 🙂
Michael - We're so happy to welcome a new Gulde into the world!!! We love you all and look forward to seeing you when we get back to Chicago in August!
take care
love sara and michael
Priscilla (Reyes) Carpenter - Sally, I got your information from Steve. I am so happy for you. You have a wonderful and the kids are gorgeous. You have not changed a bit. After you have rested and enjoyed the birth of George e-mail me pcarpenter@esc18.net. I would love to catch up. Take care and enjoy your son they are soooo much fun. Priscilla (Reyes) Carpenter
Alexia - congrats!!!! lovely name too!