Family!

For all of those who might question the reason why I want or have a big family. Look at the smiles of the 6 most beautiful kiddos on earth. This is why!

 

8 Years

Anabelle Eileen Martin Rodrigues blessed us on this cold November morning 8 years ago. Weighing in at 4lbs 6oz and 17 inches long. She was born during the snow falling at 6:19am.

Its been 8 years since our littlest bean was born. 8 years since I have kissed her sweet forehead and loved on her sweet toes. 8 years since my friends stood by me to comfort and hold hands in prayer. 8 years since i spoke to most of them about the joy and love as I shared my most precious gift. 8 years since I held her in my arms and heard the words come from the doctors mouth as they deliver the news of your diagnosis. 8 years since I have been able to joyfully bring you into the world and show you the wonders around us. 8 years since we put up the Christmas tree while you and your big sister Olivia huddle underneath it and whisper in each others ear. 8 years since my family was "complete" before you left us too soon. 8 years ago today I welcomed my second little girl into the family. 8 years ago today I would learn the heartache of having a child, while anticipating the heartache of loosing a child.
8 years...........

First Week Home!

The first few days have a breeze. Everly wakes up every 4 hours to eat and is nursing like a champ. She is the most laid back, easy going, content baby. She dropped her weight down to 5 lbs 5 oz. So we are closely watching her in the hopes she will catch up quickly. The kids are really adoring her. I spend so much of my pregnancy worrying about the what if's that I robbed myself of all the wonderful things to look forward too. So I am enjoying every moment I can. She has really molded herself well into our family and at only 3 days old. I couldn't ask for more!! Below is a picture of Emma holding Everly for the first time. The smile catches it all. She is 100% the mother hen.

 

First night sleep in the crib

 

Owen getting in a quick snuggle!

 

Happy Everly!

 

Loves her carseat!