Chapel

Our Chapel McFarland came into the world at 8lbs 3oz and 19 3/4 inches long on Wednesday, January 12 at 11:56am!

We recognized her immediately... round face, chubby cheeks and lots of dark hair... yes, both of our blondies started out looking very much like little Miss C...

Bright...

Decker John...

The Lord was so gracious to us, the labor and delivery was very smooth and baby sister was born healthy and strong! Such an answer to so many prayers! Peter and I have been very blessed by my wonderful OB, an amazing doctor and believer. He was there for Decker John's birth and also baby Chapel, he has prayed multiple times over our children asking the Lord to bless our family and praying that they will come to know Jesus at an early age. What a treasure!

And while wonderful Dr. Riley was there in the delivery room for 2 of our 3 births, I can proudly say that I delivered both of these babies myself and Peter reluctantly (the first time) and proudly (the second time) cut both of their cords!

There is nothing like the miracle of pregnancy and childbirth. There has been nothing in my life that has shown God's power and love more than watching the way He designed our bodies, lets us be a part of the growing of our children and then entrusts them to us for their teaching and raising. The memory of pulling sweet Chapel out of my body and into this world is so very fresh. It is a moment that cannot be put into words- that instantly brings tears and laughter and praise.

She has been in our arms for over a week now and yet I still feel in awe of watching her sleep, cannot get enough of kissing her sweet head and cannot really wrap my mind around where she came from or how she got here...

There has not been a lack of arms to hold her! How thankful we are for our family that is near and how excited we are to introduce her to all her little cousins and aunts and uncles and grandparents who are far away!

We had a big brother/big sister party on her birthday... pizza and cupcakes and presents for the siblings! The presents were an instant hit... it took a little while to warm up to the baby though :)

Here are some pictures from our first week... she is a loved little girl! Coming into a busy home with a big sister and a big brother who may still not fully understand her role in our family and yet they never forget to pray for her and to thank the Lord that she is healthy.

We've had a few tired and teary moments- but this week has been so sweet and we are all doing so very well! With Mimi here it feels like a vacation for this mama... we've had lots of snuggle time on the couch, been reading and playing games... and eating great food!