Just because she is cute.

And we all love her  so.

 It's a girl!

Mathilda Rose Van Wagenen

7 lbs 7 oz

19.5 in

6:44 pm

How I loved meeting that little face for the first time. And after much yelling and screaming while pushing her out, it was a much welcome moment to have her on my chest and in my arms. Once again, I feel so blessed she arrived safe and sound...and just perfect. I could (and do) stare at her petite, girly features all day. She was almost a whole pound bigger than my other kids; and yet, she still looks so small. 

Hugh and I were both grateful that Mathilda decided to come during the day...it made for a much less exhausting labor and delivery. Look how bright eyed Hugh is! I hardly recognized him without the hoodie he wore while I birthed our other three children :). I'm so grateful for Hugh and the team we've become, four kids later. 

Mathilda made a certain big sister very happy. I will never forget how sweet Ruby looked as she walked into the hospital room to meet her long awaited for sister. Ruby looked so grown-up in her red dress and little purse...the purse she filled with her own hair bows to give to Mathilda. Ruby proudly pushed Mathilda with Hugh as we moved rooms to the postpartum floor. It warmed my heart. 

Mathilda's doting grandmas.

The joyful chaos that ensued once we were all reunited in my hospital room. Hank did acknowledge his new sister, but he was far more interested in the buttons on my bed. 

 I'm scared about going home too, Tildy. Let's hope we all survive :). 

The little babe...

...is safe and sound. Growing just as he/she should. After our 20 week ultrasound yesterday, I can breathe a little easier and feel grateful that all is well with our sweet babe #4. It never gets old seeing your babies on that ultrasound screen. Life is a miracle. This little one was in such a funny position with  his/her hands and feet all up by the face...in the very spot I feel its tiny kicks and jabs all day. The babe even open and closed its little mouth for us. I am looking forward to meeting this little one in September. We all are.

Kicks.

As much as Hugh has enjoyed watching Hank kick the soccer ball around these days...I have enjoyed feeling the first tiny kicks from this little babe growing in my belly. The best part of being pregnant is feeling the baby move around. Last week I made an appointment for our 20 week ultrasound...such a pregnancy milestone. And since having Hughie, one I meet with some nervous energy and worry. But in the end, I find comfort in knowing that this little one is meant to be in our family. I am already getting a bit antsy to meet this 4th addition to our family. We love you little babe! Keep the kicks coming.

 The little ones.

These pictures were taken around 7pm last Saturday night...and yes, that would be Hank eating his dinner in various parts of the house (we all had cereal that night, Hugh was gone at soccer practice). After enjoying some of the show with Ruby, Hank decided to rest his cute self in the play tent to fully enjoy his Kix. Could he be any cuter and funnier? Don't even get me started on his feet! I love them...especially the way he curls his chubby little toes on the ground to keep his balance. I love these little ones, and feel blessed to be adding two more little feet to our family in September! On this particular night, I did feel a bit overwhelmed about being in charge of these children of mine. Would they survive some nights of show watching and wandering dinner eating because mom couldn't quite pull it all together?

Hugh and I found out about our newest little one on Christmas Eve...such a great Christmas gift for both of us. I will always remember that night...getting Christmas ready for Ruby and Hank while thinking of this new little babe. It was very special. Ruby is also quite excited and keeping her fingers crossed for a sister. And Hank, well, he just runs around the house oblivious that he will no longer be the baby come September. I was thinking it was a good sign watching Hank hold Ruby's baby dolls and give them loves. Needless to say, those hopes were shattered as he proceeded to throw them across the room!

There is nothing like having these little ones rule my world. Welcome to our family, babe #4.