Introducing Case Kellen!

At 39 weeks I was induced with Case.  It was a hot summer, a VERY HOT summer.  In fact, the weather man told me just the other day that we had DOUBLE the days over 90 this year.  There were several days that I would try to go play outside with the big boys, but I would get sick from the heat.  I LOVED going swimming, it really seemed to have lowered my core body temperature and rejuvenate me, at least for a little while.  I usually LOVE being pregnant, feeling the baby's kicks, knowing that he is safe tucked inside of me out of harms way, enjoying the last few moments with the big boys before baby joins things.  HOWEVER, this year was different.  I was HOT, and I am never HOT.  My hips hurt worse than ever before.    I was miserable!  It was time for this baby to come out.
We went to the hospital at 6:30 am on the 19th.  It takes a little while once admitted to get everything set-up, and somehow my body just knew that it was go time.  The contractions started coming 10 minutes apart.  In the past, I have been blessed with quick deliveries, and this was no different.  Case was born at 1:07pm.  He weighed 8 lbs 6 oz and was 20.75" long.  He was beautiful and healthy and had the most BEAUTIFUL long blond hair.  All the doctors and nursing staff commented on the length of his blond hair!

After 3 days and 2 nights at the hospital, we were released, but of course we had to continue watching Case's bilirubin levels.  We've ridden this roller coaster a time or two (two to be exact).  We did have to go to the doctor a few times right after getting home, and do one blood draw, BUT, we escaped the glow blanket!  Wahooo!  The freedom of not having to have your newborn baby 5 feet away from an electrical outlet.  Amazing!!!!  :)

Case has been what some call, "a GOOD baby!".  He sleeps.  We've never had a sleeper before.  I honestly questioned whether it was healthy he slept SO MUCH!  He can sleep with noise too!  Little Boy Noise at that!  He's really been a true blessing to have around and makes all of our hearts so happy.  Both big brothers have taken to him, with very minimal adjusting (side note, could just be Carsten being a typical 2 year old).  He's already had so many firsts.  Both of his older brothers were born in the winter, Midwest winters.  I don't take babies out in Midwest winters.  It's been nice weather and we have gone for walks, gone to the zoo, watched Caden's soccer games, etc.  Wherever we need to go, he just goes.  I hope that this sleeping, laid back baby keeps these ways because I am getting pretty used to them!

Here are my favorite before and after pics that I have ever taken... and a couple from the hospital.