10 days late, Doodle decided she wanted out. Pains started at about 2.30pm but were manageable. DS had a little friend over about 4.30 and I managed to be around and make conversation until they left at 6 and my Mum arrived. Contractions coming thick and fast, I rang the hospital at 8. They said to come in but DH had just made some tea so he had that first. We left to go to the hospital at about 8.45 - contractions now about 4 mins apart. Had to wait whilst DH scraped off ice and demisted windscreen!! Arrived at hospital about 9.15, examined at about 9.30 and told about 5/6cm dilated. Said that I quite fancied a water birth so MW went to fill the pool. I reckon I got in pool at about 10. Labour progressed quickly and DD born at 11.24 after only 18 mins pushing. She was born with waters intact (in the caul?) and apart from the first examination of me, the only thing the midwife did was break open the sac once she was born. DD took to feeding straight away like a pro - 45 mins! and I only needed a bit of stitching (2nd degree) rather than the 3rd degree from last time. Would definitely recommend a water birth!