I'm a bit of a softie, so it doesn't take much, but there have been a number of wonderful moments in the last few days between Jack and his little sister that have choked me up. On Sunday, after we had been playing, he ran into Kaitlyn's room and wanted to just look at her in the crib. Unfortunately, she was in the other room with Beck, but we found her soon. Yesterday he was so excited to help give her some milk, so he got to hold her bottle for a few minutes. Today I found him in the bedroom next to her swing (with her in it). He had brought in his Thomas coloring book and crayons, and just wanted to be near her. He keeps asking after her..."Kait-yn sleeping?" "Kait-yn crying?" "Where's Kait-yn?"

I'm glad we're seeing these great moments! He is doing well, but I can tell he's a little in shock with the whole situation. He's just a little more fussy and dramatic than usual, but we're trying to give him space and not force him into a relationship with little Katie. We know it will develop in time, and we are feeling blessed to be parents of two kids!

Here are some pics of our return home.

Right before leaving the hospital...very much looking forward to seeing our boy!

Becky being assisted out by transportation. They said she could have walked, but who can turn down a free ride :-)

Kaitlyn getting used to the carseat. (it probably didn't help that it had been in the car for 4 days of sub 20's)

Jack first laying eyes on his sis.

The requisite kiss on the forehead (more to come of course)

Jack "giving" Katilyn her pink Minkee. I guess he thought she wanted it on her face.

What is this crying purple thing leaning on me?

Jack valiantly sharing his most prized possesion with his little sis (unprompted!)

another kiss for pictures.

Big bro checking out sister's soft hair.

Checking out her "too tiny" toes.

sporting Best Big Brother and Little Sister duds.

Kaitlyn is a joy! She is also a sleeper, which is great for mom and dad. Becky is recovering well, and we'll probably go home tomorrow, if the ice storm doesn't prevent it. We can't wait to introduce Jack to his little sister! Today has been very quiet, the checkups are less frequent, and the strict hospital visiting policies have kept our guests to a minimum. We're getting a chance to rest and enjoy our little baby girl!

Both of my girls are sleeping peacefully right now, and I'm enjoying hearing their duet of restful breathing. until we get to see you all again, please enjoy a few more pictures of our Katie.

I have a daughter! Kaitlyn Ann. She is amazing! Becky is doing wonderfully recovering from the surgery. Baby and mom are bonding like crazy. these pics are out of order, but I wanted to get some up soon. enjoy!

ah yes...9:30 am, 8lbs 5oz, 19.25in long.

Since our little girl will be arriving soon, we decided to celebrate Jack's birthday a little early this year. It was fun to be able to host is at our new house this year. It all came together and Jack had a great day- thanks to all the help. Here are a few pictures leading up to and at the party.


The making of the cake. Sarah was a dedicated helper. The face was definitely the hardest part, but it turned out great.

The final product!

A super cool birthday sign handmade by my sweet sister.

What...and Sarah also made a little train out of the juice boxes for the kids! She's pretty awesome.

One of my favorite pictures of the day. What a happy kid!

The boys having some lunch. Thanks to mom for the train shaped sandwiches.

Little Syd working on creating a distraction while Abby made a quick getaway to.....

do this! Doesn't she look innocent?

Jack got a lot of great gifts. I still don't think he realizes that they all get to stay here, but the timing is great with baby sister coming. All of the books and toys will sure keep him entertained while we're changing a few diapers,etc.. One big surprise gift was a train table that everyone went in on. Mike and I didn't even know about this one as you can see by my bewildered face. It's been a two-fold blessing- Jack loves playing with it and it makes a great coffee table!

After presents came the cake! Jack was so excited about his Thomas cake. He kept wanting to look at it the day before. You'll notice a small moment of sadness when Thomas made his entrance at the party...maybe it was the fact that he now had flames coming out of him, but Jack made a quick recovery. Blowing out the candles was just too much fun and then came the eating. He took his time with that part- he sure made it last!

After all of the party fun, a few stuck around to help put the train table together. Jack was so excited and of course, several had to help him test out the fun.

Notice the relaxed pregnant lady sitting in the background. Oh..the train table has been good to me! He wakes up everyday asking to play trains.

Very focused on making the "choo choo" sounds for the trains.



Thanks to all who brought and made food, helped decorate, came straight from the airport to attend, called to wish Jack a special day, offered to do even more, and gave Jack and our family such a special day. It was so much fun.