Welcome George

George’s Birth Story

After I gave birth to Wren, I had a distinct feeling that we would have another baby. It was a clear impression—one that settled deep in my heart—but I didn’t feel ready for it. I prayed the feeling away. The Lord was patient with me and gave me time.

In that time, I poured myself into other things. I pursued my education and earned a master’s degree in library science. I began working part-time as a reference librarian at the Provo Library, and I found so much joy and satisfaction in learning and growing in new ways. I was more physically active than I had ever been. Participating in sprint triathlons and bike events ranging from 26-mile rides to 75-mile rides. I had never felt so strong physically. Still, even as life felt full, something was missing.

Over time, with gentle inspiration from my kids and Andy, I began to feel ready to open my heart again to the idea of another child. Together, we decided it was time to add one more little person to our family. I became pregnant in January 2025, which flew by as I stayed busy with work, the kids, and their numerous activities. I quit my job in April and gave all my attention to the family, treasuring our time together before we welcomed another person. 

On September 10th, I woke up to a contraction early in the morning, around 1 a.m. It was strong enough that I had to breathe through it, but after it passed, I drifted back to sleep. I woke again to one or two more contractions, but since I was able to sleep between them, I knew labor hadn’t really started yet.

That morning, I got up, made breakfast for the kids, helped them with lunches, and sent them off to school. Every so often, I would pause, breathe through a contraction, and then continue on with my day. Once the kids were gone, though, I started to feel a little concerned. I had a massage scheduled, followed by a midwife appointment, and I wasn’t sure I felt comfortable driving while having contractions. Andy decided to stop working for the day and came with me.

Between my appointments, we had lunch together—almost like a bit of a date. It was great fun spending time with him. At my midwife appointment, I asked for a pelvic exam, and she told me I was 70% effaced and dilated to a four. That was so encouraging—I knew my body was making progress.

On the drive home we listened to Forest Frank’s It’s Gonna Be a Good Day and Sunday Best. Those songs make me smile, and I loved hearing them in that moment. Back at home, Andy worked on some projects while I laid down, trying to rest between contractions. They started to feel heavier and more uncomfortable. When I timed them, they were coming consistently about 7–10 minutes apart.

Andy went to pick up the kids from school, and the moment he walked out the door, I had a really intense contraction that made me realize things were becoming real. I messaged my midwife, and she said she’d head over—she was about 30 minutes away. I also messaged Andy and told him I was filling up the tub, ready to get in as soon as he returned.

While laboring, I read my patriarchal blessing. I love the parts that talk about my children and who they will become. It reminded me how blessed I am to partner with Heavenly Father in providing a home for His spirit children.

As soon as Andy arrived home with the kids, I was ready for the tub. Things were intense. The kids each came in to give me a hug. I wasn’t fully aware of who was who, but I could hear their voices, and it comforted me to know they were nearby. Andy stayed close and watchful, giving me so much comfort as we waited for the midwife.

She arrived around 3:40 p.m. and promptly began setting up. Not long after, I found myself wondering, "How much longer will this last?" Are we close, or do I still have hours left? I asked her for updates, and she reassured me that George just needed to get into a better position and that my body was doing exactly what it needed to.

At 4:10 p.m., after about 10 minutes of pushing, George was born. The rush of relief and joy was indescribable. I looked up and saw Charlie, Olive, and Wren sitting quietly on the bed, watching. Their presence gave me the biggest smile—I loved them so much for being there with their quiet support. Andy held my hand, steady and strong, and I felt so grateful for him.

We moved to the bed, where I delivered the placenta while the kids watched. With the hard part behind us, we laughed, talked, and admired this brand-new little spirit who had just joined our family. Grant had been at a neighbor’s house playing, so we quickly messaged for him to come home. He rushed over and met his baby brother, completing the circle of siblings gathered around.

That evening was filled with bonding, joy, and a sense of awe. As the midwife and her assistant took care of me and George, I felt completely surrounded by love. Our family had grown, and my heart had never felt so full.

George Whitaker Watanabe ~ September 10, 2025