Lincoln's Hospital Stay {Day 3}

We didn't know when we were getting discharged, so when Dr. Burrough's stopped by unexpectedly on Sunday morning and said we could go home today if we wanted to, we were really excited.
  Our little guy was doing great, and as wonderful as all of our health care professionals were, we were ready to take him home.

They said we wouldn't be released until early afternoon, so we just hung out and enjoyed our last few hours in the hospital.













The time seemed to slow without our entourage of family.







Time did pass though, and before we knew it, we were heading out the door to face the world on our own with these guys.





It happened with Emmy too--that little rush of emotions when they were discharging us bubbled up to the surface.  My eyes filled with tears, my chest tightened, and I couldn't speak.  This was it.  We were really leaving and going home.  This wasn't all fun photo-ops and dress up; this was another real life baby that I was going to be responsible for the next 50 years (maybe not that long, but who knows!).  I really wasn't scared this time though.  I was happy to be going home, and I knew that we could do it...those emotions were still present all the same though.







So on the drive back home, I sat in the back while both of my babies napped in the backseat, and I thanked God for the little blessings that he gave me.  I pray that he will also give me the strength and wisdom that I need to raise them.

Before we drove up to the house, we stopped by Hoffer's so we could take Lincoln's photo with his sign.  Mr. Hoffer is so nice to put up signs like this for his customers.  It's a great place to get your oil changed, and I am so happy we have a place like this by our house.





We were greeted by our wonderful welcoming committee when we got home.



Those first three days, were amazing, but I know for sure that the best is yet to come.

Welcome home Lincoln Bradley!

Lincoln's Hospital Stay {Day 2}

Lincoln's second day started off at a much slower pace.  We were alone at the hospital (Brad, Linc, and I) until early afternoon.  The photographer came in and did his hospital newborn photos, they did his hearing test, and he was whisked away for his circumcision.  Although we enjoyed the extra bonding time, we were ready for everyone to get there to visit.



Before you knew it, I heard the sweet footfalls of my baby girl coming down the hall. She was excited to hold her brother before she left to go to Trey's birthday party.





Some people just loved on this little guy.





Iesha popped in for a quick visit, and we were so excited to get to visit with her!



We took a quickish nap while everyone went to eat, and then we more special visitors.









Big sister got back from the party, and she was ready to hold her baby again.  Everyone else was just out of luck!













It was a very busy day, and by the time everyone left at 9:55, we were pooped.  We wouldn't trade those times for anything though!

Lincoln's Hospital Stay {Day 1}

Our little guy had a very busy first day, and he saw lots of friendly faces.  I'll forever be thankful to the group of people that we call our support system.  We appreciate and love you all!

We had to try out the Pinterest inspired photo.  Thanks Britt and Kari for getting the shot since my legs didn't work yet!





Here's me fresh out of surgery bonding with my new boy!



Don't worry.  I did let his Daddy hold him too!





After some recovery time, big sister got to come in and meet Lincoln.  She was so good with him!



She wanted to sit with Mommy and make sure I was okay too!



I think she is already in love with her new brother.  I hope they are good friends.





Nana and Papa patiently waited their turns, but they needed to hold that boy too!



Aunt B didn't wait too long to get her hands on him either. :)



Slowly other visitors started showing up.  Lincoln thought Mike was really cool.  Mike was a little jealous of all Lincoln's hair.



The nurses came to give him a bath in our room so we could all watch.  After that he was really snuggly.



April, The Smiths, and the Gerdes clan all showed up to shower some love on the baby.







I love this one even though I am all red from the imaginary itchiness the medicine gave me.







Daddy finally claimed his boy again.



Later that evening, Kari made it to the hospital to meet her nephew.  She conveniently showed up when everyone else was gone to eat, so she got him all to herself!





It was a busy first day, but we wouldn't have it any other way.