The Arrival of SA

He was born one week ago today, and he's stolen our hearts! We are so thankful for the life of SA, who shares his PopPop's middle name (which was my Grandmother's maiden name)and his Uncle Matthew's birthday. Here's a parade of photos!

The night before, at bedtime, taking the final opportunity to get a photo of RL on his tummy seat!


Just a few hours after the kids went to bed, as T and I were making final preparations for our anticipated 2:45 a.m. trip to the hospital to start an induction, I started feeling real contractions. We went ahead as planned to our appointment, and here I am for one last tummy shot between contractions!


SA was born at 7:19 a.m. and Dr. K immediately commented that he was a big baby. T had the honor of cutting the cord and some thoughtful nurse caught the moment for us!


Big baby alright! He weighed in at 9 pounds, 4.8 ounces and measured 21.5 inches. To put this in perspective, the biggest of our other kids weighed 7 pounds, 10 ounces. I was more than a little surprised to have such a big boy! As Dr. K pointed out, his size would help him handle all the handling he was sure to be getting from his sisters!


Having his prints made...


Getting to know one another


Later that morning, the girls, RL, and Gran and PopPop came to meet SA. The girls were especially eager to know his name and, of course, hold him!




Gran and PopPop had a turn to hold him, too...



RL seemed a little unsure of the whole scene at first, but he finally made a move to meet his brother and even gave him a kiss.




The next day while the girls were visiting, they got to watch SA have a bath. He'd lost a few ounces...then at 8 lbs, 14 oz.


Saturday morning we got to head home! Out in the real world for the first time...and with a huge green pacifier covering half his face! Sorry, SA. :)


At home he received a warm welcome. Who would hold him first?


LL somehow got her hands on him first, again!


AG seems especially thoughtful when she's holding him.


Nana and Grandpa were here to welcome him, too!



So many precious,snuggly moments.


Big yawn...


Our handsome little guy


We look forward to introducing him to friends and family in the coming days! Thank you for your prayers and care for us all during these wonderful, tiring, precious days.