She's Here!

I know I'm 5 weeks late on this announcement but with surgery recovery, a newborn, Christmas shopping and festivities, and no sleep, updating the blog fell pretty low on my to-do list!

Slade Katherine Bradburn

was born on December 1st 2008 at 12:54 pm

weighing 9lbs, 2oz. and 20 1/2 inches.

Everything went perfectly and we are completely smitten with our daughter. So far, she has been quite an easy baby. She is very quiet - only crying when hungry or needing some snuggle time. She is a good sleeper and is even doing 5 hour stretches at night on occasion! She has just begun to smile in the last week or so - precious! I can't believe how quickly she's growing and changing.

I am feeling pretty good these days. The first week was pretty rough as I was suffering pretty severely from postpartum depression. I had this with my other two but it was worse this time around. If you've read my blog for long, you know I suffer from clinical depression already and take medications for it. I was able to up the dose on my medication and started to feel better. But for those who have never experienced this, it's so miserable! I had forgotten just how bad it is to feel so bad. I couldn't eat, sleep, I was crying constantly and completely overwhelmed by the simplest tasks, like taking a shower. Thank you Lord for medicine!! And, I am so fortunate to live close to family. My mom came over everyday for the first 2 weeks, helping me and the boys. I don't think I could have gotten through without her. Pete has also been an incredible dad. He's really taken over getting the boys ready for school - making lunches and helping with homework, & putting the boys to bed. It has helped the transition to becoming a mother of 3 much easier. I am blessed with an AMAZING husband!! Thankfully, because of the holidays Pete hasn't had to travel at all since Slade was born. He does have a trip next week but Slade will be 6 weeks old, I'm all healed up, and getting a little rest. I think I'm up for the challenge.

Forester and Micah have been so sweet with their new sister. Forester is very gentle and concerned. Micah is very loving and excited which translates into squeezing a little too hard and being a bit too loud and in her face. (hee hee) He's learning though and his enthusiasm for her is adorable to watch.

Overall, we are amazed that God has blessed us so generously with 3 beautiful children. All parents wonder how you could love another child as much as your first or second but it just instantly happens. I can't imagine my life without my sweet Slade! Thank you Lord!!

Slade(4 days old) & cousin Jack(3 mths)

Hopefully I'll be back soon with more pictures, videos and stories of our wonderful journey as a family of five!

**Shout out to Randel Hambrick who guessed Slade's weight exactly!! You've won bragging rights my friend!! :o)