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Isaiah as a Big Brother

09/01/2016

Isaiah was only 5-months-old when I got pregnant with his baby sister and 14-months-old when she was born. I knew he wouldn’t really be able to understand in advance what it would mean to become a big brother so I spent many nights praying over him as I rocked him before bed, asking God to give him grace, patience, gentleness and understanding; and to help him be a loving and protective brother. We had a few incidents early on with too rough of a snuggle, an accidental toy clunk or a curious eye poke, but all-in-all he’s really done great with the transition to big brother. Now that it’s been 7 weeks I can confidently say that he (at 16 months old) really loves his baby sister, just as he does his big sister. When Josephine cries or if he’s looking for her, he calls, “Baby!” He brings her/me her pacifier or blanket. He gives her sweet gentle kisses on the head many times a day. He calls her “DohDoh” or “Doh.” I’m thankful God answered my prayer. I had prayed a lot for Ali and Zay’s relationship before he was born. I was concerned that 4 years might be too big of a gap for a sister and brother to be good friends but God answered my prayer then, too. They’re sweet playmates most of the time and love each other dearly. I’m so thankful for each of my kids and it brings me even more joy to watch their relationships grow and develop.

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Posted by mahlbrandt

Introducing: Josephine Louise

08/04/2016

Josephine Louise was born July 13, 2016 at 5:46 am, weighing 6 lb. 9 oz. and measuring 18.5″ long

Yesterday she turned 3 weeks old which seemed like a fine time to update my blog. However, I fell asleep halfway through putting this post together. That happens when you have a newborn. I’ll keep my words short for now (so I don’t put myself to sleep…) and share mostly photos. I will write out her whole birth story soon.

In short, she’s a wonderful baby and a sweet addition to our family. We’ve been calling her Jo, JoJo, Joey… trying out lots of nicknames. I also call her Peachie Pie because she has the softest peach fuzz on her warm little head. JoJo is one of those (rare?) babies that sleeps 20 hours a day, making life as easy as it could be with a newborn and two other small children. She’s doing great with breastfeeding and all around a pleasant, easy-going baby. Her big siblings love her. Ali wants to hold her many times a day, wants to match her outfit or at least pick out her clothes, and generally be near her all the time. Isaiah pats and rubs her soft head, brings her blankets and toys, and responds with a concerned “Baby!” anytime he hears her fussing. (He also sometimes calls her DoDo… hehe) Jason and I are smitten, tired, happy and most definitely outnumbered. Full hands, full hearts.