Charlotte Grace's Debut

The day finally came... Tuesday, November 6, 2012. We have forever been changed after that beautiful day! Our precious angel arrived at 12:45 p.m. weighing 7 lbs 8 oz and 18 1/2 inches long. I still can't believe that Charlotte is actually here!

We arrived at the hospital around 10 am and they prepped me for my c-section. The time was flying by and before I knew it, it was time to wheel me into to the operating room. It literally took 5 minutes and they had her out in no time... and then I heard the most beautiful sound. My baby girl crying! Tears flooded Drew's and my eyes and we couldn't stop smiling. The feeling and emotions of hearing your own child for the first time is compared to nothing in the entire world. Once they had her out and had her cleaned up, Drew and I got to admire her for a minute before taking me to recovery and her to the nursery. 10 fingers, 10 toes, precious little features and every inch of perfection!

Once in recovery I was able to feed her for the first time and Drew and I could spend some alone time with our precious girl as now a family of 3. They took her away again for a short time while they wheeled me to my post-partum room where we would be for the next few days. It was then that our family could come in and we could introduce her to everyone. We had MANY visitors that first day. Most of all our family was there... waiting on pins and needles to get a glimpse of her and hold her :)

The next few days already seem like a blur as we were adjusting to feedings every couple of hours, changing diapers, swaddling, more swaddling, more changing diapers and feeding :) I fell in love with Drew all over again in such a different way during that time. Seeing him transform from this amazing husband into the best father was something I'll never forget. Since I had a c-section, I couldn't get out of bed for 24 hours. What a champ he was! He changed all of her diapers, swaddled her and brought her to me every time for feedings. I knew before she was here that he was going to be such a great Daddy, but wow! He's the best!

Friday rolled around and we were finally able to check out and go home. I had dressed Charlotte in my going home outfit, bonnet, booties and blanket that I wore when I came home. It was special to have her wear that and maybe start a tradition someday for her future daughter. After loading up everything, we headed home to our new life. It was very strange to come home after several days, now with a baby. Lucy was sooo excited to see us and meet this new little thing that has arrived in her home. She adjusted very quickly and now loves her so much. It melts my heart.

She is such a precious miracle and joy! I can't imagine now life without her. I thank God everyday for this blessing and will cherish her for the rest of my life.

Welcome to the world Charlotte Grace! It's been waiting for you!

Last picture of a family of 3!

Last bump pic! 38 weeks

Waiting to meet my girl :)

So in love with this wonderful man

She's here!

Seeing her for the first time

First family picture

Sweet girl

Daddy & Charlotte

Another first family picture

Settled in for the next few days

Love my little girl

Going home clothes

The first of many "playing dress up!"

My little doll

Getting ready to go home

On our way!

Meeting Lucy! Our family is complete!