Happy Birthday, Nathanael!

Nathanael John De Jong arrived into this world at 10:23 p.m. on November 11, 2012. I started having contractions the evening prior and endured close to 30 hours of labor before needing to have a caesarean section. I was exhausted! Nathanael was 9 pounds, 15 ounces and 22 inches long. Moments after he was born, I heard him cry. I remember kissing his warm cheek as he was pressed up against my face by the medical staff. It was the most unforgettable moment of my life.

 

My first moment with Nathanael.

Our first family picture!

9 pounds + 15 ounces + 22 inches long = Big Boy!

The family had waited MANY hours in anticipation.

My mom and sister were in the labor and delivery room with me for most of the time until Philip and I went in for my caesarean.

I had such a great support team!

Here Nathanael and I are being pushed down the hall into the maternity ward after the operation and bonding time.

Getting acquainted and being moved to our room.

Showing the family our son’s footprints. Yes, they are big.

Here we all are. VERY tired, but so.so.so. happy.

Philip got to press the “special” button that played music for all of the hospital to hear…announcing the birth of our son.

 

Nathanael had many visitors at the hospital.

So many people love him already. We are truly blessed.

He also had some very small visitors come to see him. Hooray for cousins!

Grandma and Grandpa De Jong

Grandma and Grandpa Huckabone

Getting ready to leave the hospital.

We’re a family!

Philip took such great care of Nathanael and I.

Getting ready for his first car ride and being safely strapped in by Daddy.

All ready to go!

 

Happy Birthday, Nathanael John!

We are so happy you are here.