I am delighted to belatedly announce the arrival of Brodie, who was born on 8th June at home under water after a six hour labour. I didn't tear which was some going as he was a 10 pounder. He ended up being some 12 days late but at least I didn't have to resort to castor oil. The birth was incredible - just me, dp & a midwife. DP was utterly incredible - a total tower of strength. We both have new respect for each other after that experience. For myself, water or not I have never known pain like it! My first boy was induced, I had epidural and he needed forceps so I really had nothing to compare this with. Sadly a day after Brodie's birth we were taken into hospital with suspected sepsis / menigitis. The hospital were superb and after a week of tests (& me, DP and DS1 in tears) we are home with a clean bill of health.