Esther Lorraine Penney has arrived!!

It's a GIRL!!

Our wonderful new daughter was born on Thursday 8/23/07 at 1AM (she missed mom's birthday by 1 hour!)

She was born at 21 inches long and weighed 7lbs 14oz (a long string bean)
She has dark blue eyes (don't most babies) a head of light brown hair and long limbs (Matt has said that I cannot blame that on him). She also has long feet and long fingers.

Esther is a good mix of mom and dad not too much of either one, very much her own person!

As of Tuesday at our Dr's check-up she weighed 8lbs 6oz so despite some breastfeeding challenges she is growing very well. She is a great baby who loves to sleep especially during the day and she has put us though a couple long nights. We are figuring out how she likes to sleep and nights have been getting a bit easier with a little more sleep for us all.

Mom is doing well and recovering just fine. She is amazed at the birth experience and the whole immediate transition that occurs after birth. Dad is planning on contacting the Ava Maria School for Virgins in Switzerland, or just greeting every boy that comes to visit while holding his hunting rifle and talking about his love of shooting (I'm not sure which option is worse). All kidding aside Matt has stepped into his role as daddy beautifully and has handled diaper changes and held her hand though squirmy feedings like a pro. His little girl is getting him wrapped pretty tightly around his finger!

Our yellow lab Wesley is adjusting very well and has loved having us around this week. He's not sure what to make of our new addition but he is genuinely curious and seems to like spending time around her. We figure as she grows they'll be come fast friends and will entertain each other.

There will be another post with info on the labor and delivery of Esther. Carey was able to both labor and deliver in the water tub at the hospital which made for a good experience.

Here are a few pictures of our little bundle...