Jeana and I checked into the hospital Monday morning, August 29th, anxiously anticipating the arrival of our baby girl. During the morning hours we played some games to pass the time until the contractions became strong enough for Jeana that I began dominating a game that I normally lose. Jane’s arrival came with some drama and scare, but in the end everything worked out fine.
Jeana’s parents came to town to help take care of kids while we were in the hospital. From what we hear, Simon was respectful of their napping.
One of our family traditions is that the older children bring gifts to the baby, and the older kids receive a gift from the new baby. Jane gave Audrey and Kate some sticker books and she gave Simon a Cars 2 sticker book (well played Jane, Simon loved it). Audrey and Kate made some burp cloths and I think Simon piggy-backed on the gift.
Audrey was really cute when both Kate and Simon were born. Kate was excited to be a big sister when Simon was born. I had no doubts Audrey and Kate would do well with their new sister. Simon, on the other hand, is at that “loose cannon” age where you can’t predict much. Add to that the fact that he’s a boy, and you can start to imagine the trepidation of placing a newborn in his arms.
To my surprise, Simon was so gentle and soft with baby Jane. I think he sensed the sacred nature of his newborn, baby sister. One evidence of his concern for her is found at prayer-times. When he says our family prayer and forgets to ask Heavenly Father to bless baby Jane, he puts on a really sad face and says, “Pray baby Jane!” He insists on saying a follow-up prayer just for baby Jane.
It has been a few days now since Jane was born. A couple people have told us how the transition from 3 children to 4 was difficult. I’m starting to realize some truth to that statement. I wish I could have another week off of work to make it easier!
Welcome to the family sweet baby Jane!
