Back to Blogging...as a Mom!

So a week ago right now, the fun had begun! I really can't believe that an entire week has gone by already. It has been a whirlwind. Lots of people had told me that it would be, but I don't think there's any way to fully understand.

Tate was born at 8:10 p.m. on Tuesday, so it was a long 13+ hours of labor. I wasn't expecting that. Finally though around 5:00 or 6:00 p.m., things started to really progress and before I knew it, it was 7:30 p.m. and time to do the hard work. I was pretty surprised (and glad) at how fast that part went.

That moment that the doctor placed him in my arms really is an experience I can't even describe. I hope I can keep that memory clear and close forever. It made the aches and pains of pregnancy and the long day of labor all worth it!

Here's our first family picture. (**Disclaimer, this is after Wade and I had recovered from our blubbering crying. In fact, I had to pull out the make-up bag real quick to fix the face. I know that's high-maintenance, but I had gone into the "ugly cry.")

The next day and a half in the hospital went so fast. I quickly realized that when you deliver a baby later in the evening, you lose out of some hospital time. It was 1:00 a.m. by the time he was cleaned up, I was taken care of, and we were settled and moved into the new room. So, the next day was a little chaotic getting all of the checks, screenings, pictures, etc. Before I knew it, we were headed home. (Lesson learned: if you can arrange to have your baby earlier in the day, you'll get a lot more down time in the hospital.)

So here we are, home for the last 4 days. I pretty much just laugh (got to keep the sense of humor) every time I look at the clock. I feel like I'm in some type of time machine where the hours are being secretly sucked away. I have no idea where the days have gone. We've had wonderful family and friends providing lost of meals, groceries, and help. In fact, thanks to my Mom, there have been more home-cooked meals made in our kitchen this week than probably the past few months. Maybe having a baby will inspire me to learn to cook!?

Despite the long nights, total exhaustion, crazy aches and pains, this has been such an incredible experience. I am in complete awe and gratitude for this little blessing which God has entrusted us. I can't wait to learn more and more about this little guy.

Thank you for all of your prayers, well wishes, and encouragement. This has been such a good reminder of all of the wonderful family and friends we have around us. Wade, myself, and Tate thank you!