Welcome to the World, Baby Liam!

William Joseph Morrill (Liam for short) joined our family Thursday, April 7th at 12:02 pm. He was 7 lbs. 9 oz. and 19.5 inches long.  He is a calm, cuddly little guy with a voracious appetite. We are all happy he is here and are adjusting well. Robbie is a sweet big brother who likes to give Liam an occasional hello and pat on the head before getting back to the business of playing, while Ari is a little "mommy" and likes to help take care of the baby (and is also experiencing some of the inevitable jealousy and sadness at having to give up her spot as the youngest in the family).  Mom and Dad are starting to recover from the initial exhaustion a new baby brings.

Here's the story of Liam's birth, if you're interested. After the doctor stripped my membranes at my 39-week appointment Tuesday morning and hours of regular contractions, we were sure I was in labor Tuesday evening and went to the hospital. Turned out to be a disappointing false alarm.  Real labor finally began very early Thursday morning, so at about 8 a.m. we dropped off the kids at Grandma and Grandpa's (again) and headed to the hospital. I wanted to be SURE it was really time, so we walked around the neighborhood near the hospital for a while before we even went inside. Luckily by the time we checked in at about 9 a.m. I was dilated to 5 cm and definitely in labor; we were relieved to find out they wouldn't be sending us home again. The doctor broke my water at about 11 a.m. and after a very intense hour (I went without an epidural again, this time by choice) Liam came into the world at 12:02 p.m. He was beautiful and perfectly healthy!

We feel so blessed to have this new little one in our family and are grateful for all the help and support we've received from family and friends.

 Liam just minutes after birth.

 Robbie's first time holding Liam, with Grandma Morrill helping.

 The whole family together on the day of Liam's birth.

 Proud Dad Nathan just a little while after Liam's birth.

 Grandpa William Rondall Morrill, who Liam is named after.

 Liam with Uncle Skyler, Aunt Ember, Grandma Capel, and Aunt Keli.

Ari's first time holding Liam, with Grandma Morrill.