Announcing Jonathan Seung-Ji Liu

Jonathan Seung-Ji Liu finally made his appearance around 3:45 pm at just over 8 lbs. Mother and baby are doing fine, although the last few minutes of the delivery were fairly tense. Jonathan's heart rate was decreasing in response to the pushing, and the doctor and the medical team announced that we needed to get him out immediately. Some truly heroic pushing by Deborah, along with the assistance of an episiotomy and a vacuum suction, got Jonathan out just in time. (We later found out that the distress was likely caused by the fact Jonathan's umbilical cord was wrapped around his neck.) It astonishes me that this incredible human being was swimming around in Deborah's belly for all this time! More importantly, I never cease to be amazed by what Deborah can do! Contrary to what we expected, Deborah was either calm or laughing through most of the delivery. She was awesome -- and will probably be wanting to give you her first-hand account of the proceedings in just a little while. Thanks to everyone for your thoughts and prayers! Pictures are forthcoming.