Ever the voice of reason, eh, AK? Yes, it is not something to enter into lightly--you have to be certain complications aren't likely (or if something comes up, help is a short call away). Very much life and death, and you're pretty much insisting that third party come along on the trip with you without asking for their approval (very anti-Leary-sounding, huh?). We were actually hyper-prepared for this, and already had a history of quick delivery. If we'd had to go to a hospital, the nearest one dealing with deliveries was over an hour away (heart attacks and hip replacements are more cost-effective, and most have done away with OB facilities!)--and I definitely wouldn't have made it! Honestly, our biggest catastrophes came under a doctor's care. . .

But since you brought it up, I will add a disclaimer (like that stuff you can't read at the bottom of those car commercials): Professional baby-haver on closed course; do not try this at home unless you have read and understand the fine print! (Better? Am I now protected from lawsuits from willy-nilly youngsters who think they can follow my example after reading one discussion?)

GT