Meeting Mary

I wanted to share some pictures of our big kids meeting Mary Lu.

You hear a lot about siblings having a hard time adjusting to a new baby in the house and to new demands on a mother's time. I feel really fortunate to be able to say that there were ZERO issues bringing Mary into our family. Really. I don't think Kaitlyn noticed that she was displaced as the "baby" of the family--she has been too enthralled with Mary.

The kids weren't able to meet Mary at the hospital (thanks to the swine flu paranoia) so they first saw her at our homecoming. They were THRILLED. Enchanted, really. Anna didn't leave Mary's side for days. It was beautiful.

Yes it's a bit overwhelming bringing home baby #5. There are four other little ones to care for, afterall. But it is positively precious to see your children rejoicing and instantly falling in love with their baby sister. New life brings something truly magical into our home and family. I'm amazed by it every time.

And we're doing well, positively blessed by the outpouring of support and meals and prayer from dear friends. (I need to go buy some thank you notes, because I have a ton to write.) I still feel like I'm trying to find my footing with this "new normal", but I'm treasuring these days. They are sweet.

More posts to come soon!