Friday

Benjamin is 1 week old today. This week has flown by in a blur-and I knew it would. My dad and nephew Jacob arrived late last night to pick up my mom. Then they got back in the car this afternoon to make the long trip back. It has been great having my mom here for the week. The kids enjoyed her so much, as did I. It was very nice to know that the kids were taken care of, especially Samuel, and that they were having a great time. It's always hard when Grandma and Grandpa leave, and today was no exception. It always takes us a few days to get back to "normal", and I suppose that will start happening tomorrow as we adjust from a family of 7 to a family of 8.

I would appreciate your prayers for Benjamin. He is not gaining weight as he should. He is a lazy nurser and would much rather sleep than eat. It is very difficult to wake him up and keep him awake for a feeding. He goes back to the doctor for a weight check next Friday, and I would so like him to have gained some weight.

Benjamin with his cousin Jacob.

Grandpa Adrian

My parents and I

A moth that was in our bathroom tonight. I heard one of the kids say, don't let it get out- you know how mom is about stuff like that. True, so true. Mom doesn't like flying things (or rodents for that matter!)

One of the many games that went on with Grandma this week.

Around Our House today...

I have forgotten...

...how tired a new baby makes you.

..how quickly you can fall asleep when you're exhausted.

...how big an almost 3 year old looks compared to a new baby.

...how easily it is to fall asleep sitting straight up if you're tired enough.

...how big even the tiniest baby clothes look on a newborn

..how much you love this new little baby you just met.

Benjamin's Birth Story

Paul and I arrived at the hospital at 8am on Friday, Feb. 22. I was nervous about two things: the starting of the IV and the starting of the epidural. We were taken to the recovery room and they got started with the IV. It took three tries to get it in- OUCH. After that ordeal, they hooked me up to the monitors and listened to the baby for a bit and waited for the doctor to arrive.

About 9:20, they took me back to the operating room where they tried to start the epidural. It didn't go well. They tried for about 25 minutes, and were going to try again when I heard the doctor say if this doesn't work, we'll have to put her to sleep. Well, I had had enough. If you've ever had an epidural, you understand. It is not pleasant to have needles stuck in your back. So I said just put me out. They didn't want to because then Paul couldn't come in when the baby was born. But I was done with the epidural. I told them to please just put me to sleep. And they did.

The next thing I remember was waking up in the OR with an incredible pain in my stomach. I didn't remember what was going on right at first, but quickly it came to me- I had the baby! I asked if the baby was alright and was assured that he was. They then took me to the recovery room and gave me something for the pain. I will say they got the pain under control quite quickly. Paul soon came in and showed me pictures of Benjamin on the camera.

Within 15 minutes, Benjamin joined us. We were able to spend the first 2 hours of his life alone with him, just the 3 of us. It was kind of nice! The labor floor was full, so we had to wait for a while for a room. Finally they had a room for us and we were able to move to it.

This was the first time that Paul stayed with me in the hospital, and it was kind of nice. I really enjoyed having him there. He helped me out alot, and got to spend lots of time with Benjamin.

We're Home.

Paul, Benjamin and I are glad to be home! It is so nice to be back in my own bed. Sam is glad to have us home also. When we pulled into the driveway this morning, he met us at the van and asked us if we brought baby Ben home and where was he?? He has been "checking" on him all day and asking lots of questions and giving lots of kisses. Ben's older siblings are still taking turns holding him and enjoying him. He is a well loved baby.

Here's some more pictures to enjoy.

Benjamin Robert Anthony

He was born on Friday, February 22nd at 10:03am, weighing 8lbs., 2oz., and 21 inches long. The jury is still out on who he looks like!

I will post all the details this week. We are still in the hospital and planning on coming home tomorrow.

Thanks for all the prayers.

The Night Before

The bassinet has been moved to my room.

The baby's bed is ready
The diapers and changing table are waiting
The room has been cleaned and scrubbed
Even Sam got new letters for his name
It's just awaiting a new little boy.

The c-section will take place around 9:30am. We are all so excited around here (and maybe a bit anxious). I would appreciate your prayers!

Keep checking tomorrow- I know Paul will upload some pictures as soon as he gets a chance.

32 Hours and Counting....

until my c-section. That is an approximation because I won't find out what time I'm going in until my doctor's appointment tomorrow. So close, and yet so far!

My parents arrive tomorrow and the kids are so excited. I don't know who they are most excited to see- Grandpa and Grandma or the new baby. We've got a few last minute things to do tomorrow, but we are ready- for both the Grandparents and the baby.

I am so ready. I am tired, and it seems like every step is painful. Moving is painful. I keep reminding myself that I really have one more week- I'm only 39 weeks. I don't know if I could make it 1 more week.

Have a great evening.

Our New Kitchen

The kitchen looks great! Paul and the boys did an excellent job on it, and not only did they repaint and put up trim, Zack cleaned the fridge and the stove (which both needed it badly!). Thank you boys!

The Baby Quilt

Ok, Baby Ben can now come. I have finally finished his quilt. And I am pleased with it.

And more bubbles!