When the big day arrives -- All the details you need to get to the hospital

The big day is nearing, and it's time to begin all the final preparations.  Mike keeps pointing out that we really need to pack our "go bag."  He has mastered the route to the hospital and has a few back-ups as well, just in case.  

While we make all our final preparations, I thought I'd share details for all of you as well.  For those who are hoping to be able to come meet the baby soon after his arrival, I want to make sure you're equipped with the information you need.

We're giving birth at: 

Caritas Norwood Hospital

800 Washington Street

Norwood, MA 02062

The entrance to the parking for the hospital is actually on East Hoyle Street, so if you're mapping directions to the hospital, you might want to use the intersection of Washington and East Hoyle as your destination.  After turning into the hospital, you'll pass the emergency ambulance parking and see the entrance for general parking (a ticketing arm) on your right.  Once you're parked, you'll enter the hospital through the main entrance (not the emergency entrance, which is just to the left of the main entrance).  Walk down the hallway to the end and turn right.  Then, take an immediate left.  You'll see the elevators on your right.  Maternity is located on the 2nd floor.  It's the only thing on the floor, so it's very easy to find.  The unit is locked, so you'll have to wait for a nurse to let you in and then they can help you.

Visiting hours are 1pm to 8pm each day.  They try to stick to these hours as much as possible, though if someone must visit in the morning they can try to work it out.  They do have a waiting room if people are there during the labor (only two people are allowed into the labor room, and those must be the same two people throughout - no switching someone in for someone else). That said, the waiting room is small -- only about 6 , maybe 8, people could fit in there comfortably.  If you're in the waiting room at 8pm and the baby isn't born yet, you're welcome to stay as long as you're quiet and respectful, but the only real pay-off you'll get is being able to see the baby through the nursery window.  You won't be able to see me or the baby in person until the next day at 1pm.  

They emphasized that they aren't mean but they do try to keep a very quiet, peaceful enviornment for all of the moms in labor.  If it's a quiet day and we're the ony ones there, then they're much more flexible.  That said, they said people should try to just plan to come between 1pm and 8pm if possible.  

Mike and I should both have our cell phones, so feel free to give us a call to plan your visit.