*A Star is Born*

"Making the decision to have a baby is momentous -

it is to decide forever to have your heart go walking

around outside your body."
- Elizabeth Stone

Our plans for induction were thwarted when Owen decided that he preferred to check himself out of the Mommy Motel instead of being evicted. We were thankful that I didn't need to be induced and delighted that our son was eager to meet us. After 10 hours of labor, a failed epidural and subsequent natural birth, Owen Anders Isaac made his way into the world 2 minutes after midnight on October 12th. Weighing in at 7 pounds 5 ounces and measuring 20 1/2 inches in length, he let out a lusty cry then curiously looked around in wide-eyed wonder. Our mellow little guy instantly recognized his Daddy's voice, locking his bleary eyes on Roby's face.

Of course we are biased, but we think Owen is the most adorable creature we have ever met. The stars in our eyes could not be bigger. How amazing to be so hopelessly, ridiculously in love with someone you've just met! Needless to say our hearts have been stolen.

We brought Owen home Friday night with mixed emotions. Are they really entrusting us with this little being? How will we know what to do? We found ourselves emotional at the realization that our friends and family members are scattered and we are essentially alone. As we drove up to our house, a gigantic wooden stork placed in our yard trumpeting our son's arrival greeted us...courtesy of Dannielle and Andrew. They have no idea how much our spirits lifted.

These past few days have been both challenging and terrifying at times. I was forced to face many incredible fears I had (including a natural birth, tramautic needle experiences and nearly needing a blood transfusion), yet I learned so much about myself and where my strength emanates from. I believe the Lord was with us every step of the way and learned that He truly won't give us more than we can handle. The experience of bringing my son into the world has changed me in numerous positive ways. Roby was an amazing coach and his reassurance, encouragement and strength helped me immensely, and he is already a natural at this fatherhood thing!

Owen turned a week old yesterday and aced his first doctor's appointment. He is still a little jaundiced, but there is no longer need for concern. Thankfully he actually slept for an hour or so at a time throughout the night so Roby and I aren't quite the sleep deprived zombies today that we have been for awhile :) My mom and cousin are arriving tomorrow tonight. Reinforcements are coming! YAY! It will be wonderful to spend time with family. Shortly after their departure, Roby's parents, and possibly sister, are coming to visit. We are excited for Owen to meet his Nana and Ammachy and Appachan (the Malayalam words for grandmother and grandfather).

Thank you to all of our friends and family members who have been showering us with encouragement and support from the very beginning of this extraordinary journey. Your thoughts, prayers and well wishes have been felt and greatly appreciated. We can't wait for each one of you to meet our little star. Be prepared for an onslaught of Owen pictures from his proud parents.

So who do you think our little guy looks like? It is difficult to tell at this point. He obviously has Roby's dark hair and eyes and word out on the street is that he has my ears :)