She's Here!

Miriam Therese Hale
Born 5/12/2009
8 lbs, 5 oz, 19inches

Howdy Everyone! It's me, Cousin Katy, in for Carly and Matt as they are current in the hospital celebrating (and recovering from) the birth of their new little girl! Many of you may remember that back when Big Sister Cecilia was born, Matt and I had plastered the internet with tons of pics before Momma and baby were even home from the hospital. This go round, however, is a bit different, as 1.) Matt does not have a laptop in the hospital room, and 2.) resident family photog KT (that's me!) has spent less time at the hospital and more time at the (new!) house taking care of Cecilia. Luckily, C & Me were able to visit Momma and Papa this morning, so we retrieved Papa's camera card and snapped a few pics of our own. Then Carly and Matt gave me permission to update the blog, so here I am!

Okay, so I know everyone wants me to get right to the pictures, but before the cuteness begins I want to take a moment to thank and praise God for his blessings to my cousin and her husband. Consider the miracle of these two little girls' existence: not only were they formed and created without complication, but both arrived safely, and are happy and healthy. Truly, it is a wonderous thing. As you read through this post, I hope you will all reflect on your own experiences with birth and families, and pray that God continues to bless not only our friends and loved ones, but all the families throughout the world.

And now, without further ado.......Baby Miriam!

Carly before surgery

So maybe we don't tell Carly I posted this one. But come on, you've got to have the 'before' picture, right? Keep in mind that this was taken at 7:30 and she was probably high as a kite.

Here's the after picture! So pretty!

Miriam and Momma

Carly had a rough time recovering from surgery yesterday, but she's doing much better today! Although this C-section happened early in the morning, it didn't have 20-something hours of labor preceeding it, so I think maybe Car was just more awake for the first day of recovering this time. Regardless, she's very happy to have her little daughter on the outside!

Miriam sleeping

As you might expect, Type-A parents Matt and Carly already have Miriam on a tracked schedule of feedings, naps, and diaper changes. I'm happy to report that she is excelling in all three subjects! :)

Winkin' and Smilin'!

Miriam's personality is already starting to show. She's a curious little baby, frequently opening her eyes and looking around. While most babies are content when they are well fed and warmly bundles, Miram seems to have an enhanced sense of comfort and relaxation; I'd describe it as "chill".

Big Sister!

Yesterday, Cecilia and I made a Publix run (where she charmed the pants off a few dozen senior citizens) to get some gifts for baby Miriam, and some flowers for Momma. This is right before we went into the family center.

Unfortunately, yesterday's visit was made a bit too close to lunch/nap time, so it had to be cut short. However, we went back today for fun family reunion!

Cecilia meets Miriam

Cecilia was playing with the balloon when Matt brought Miriam over to her. Cecilia stopped playing for a second, stared at Miriam, then grinned and held the balloon out to her, saying "Ooooo!" Looks like all the lessons in sharing paid off! :) Cecilia continued to try and share toys with Miriam throughout the visit....despite having no clue what toys were, I'm sure Miriam was appreciative. :)

Family Picture!

Getting Ready to Go

Waving 'Bye'

Well, that's all for now. Hopefully Cecilia will wake up shortly and we'll be able to go back for another visit. Stay tuned for more pictures! Until then, have a fantastic day!