Welcome Lucia Elizabeth

On Friday March 4th our sweet baby girl was born at 7:37pm, weighing 8.7 lbs and measuring 20.75 inches.  Labor went fast, a total of 5.5 hours and she was born.  I was induced this time around because of severe varicose veins in my left leg.  We checked in the hospital at noon, got hooked to the IV and started the Pitocin by 2pm.  Meanwhile, Cory took a nap, I tried but was too excited to sleep.

At 4:30 pm I decided to get the epidural.  I was 5cm at this point.  My water was broken by the doctor and I went from 5cm to 10cm in just barely over an hour.  Meanwhile Cory and his brother were playing cribbage.  I went from nothing to needing to push now.  I told Cory it was time for Kyle to leave, after a minute of them still sitting there, I once again insisted he leave.  My voice was much more demanding the second time around and he left immediately.  The Dr. came right in and three contractions later she was out.  I was able to reach down for her and she immediately let out her first cry (insert tears running down my face).  After 90 minutes of skin to skin contact she was finally weighed and measured.  Everyone thought I was so small this pregnancy, but no shock to me, she was 8.7lbs.  The nurse was attempting to take measurements, but she couldn't keep up with the paparazzi taking photos.  Luckily we had the BEST nurse.  She was so fun to work with and so kind.

Our hearts are filled with so much joy adding Lucia to our family. 

Proud Uncle Kyle

The next day my parents brought in the kids to meet their sister.  It was love at first sight.  They are all such loving siblings and were so excited to welcome another one.

Our newest family photo

Lucia sporting the hat and head band her Auntie Chrystal made for her.

We are getting used to life with 4 kids....which definitely has its challenges, but we are loving them anyway.  This is our vocation and I find such fulfillment in doing my best to be a mom and wife.  These 4 children bring me so much joy and I cannot imagine life without them.  I'm grateful to be their mom.  Looking into these eyes makes me understand God's love for us in a more profound way.  It is also a reminder of how much I will need the grace of God to get through these years of parenting.  Thank you Lord for sweet Lucia Elizabeth.   Such a great gift! Happy Birthday Lucia!