Sweet Nephew Isaiah

While we were in Michigan for Matt's parents' retirement celebration, we got word that Chelsea and Jon were having their baby . Little Isaiah Jonathan was born on March 10. When our plane landed late the next night, we drove directly to the hospital. There's no way that we could wait any longer to meet our new nephew! Matt and I took turns going into the hospital to meet and cuddle sweet Isaiah while our three boys slept in the car. We thought he was just adorable!

The next morning, we headed over to their house as soon as we heard that Isaiah was coming home. Ian and Ryan were thrilled to meet their new cousin.

They proudly hung up the "Welcome Home, Isaiah" sign that they had carefully and diligently decorated with stickers, markers, and crayons.

The new parents, Jon and Chelsea, seemed to be doing very well. But, since it was spring break when Isaiah was born, we took full advantage of going over to hold him and offer help to his parents each of the rest of the days of break. Our main goals were to cuddle Isaiah as much as possible and to try to help Chelsea get some extra sleep, but we were also able to help with some meals, cleaning, Isaiah's first at-home bath, and providing entertainment (because our family of five is often synonymous with "three-ringed circus." Ha!). What a privilege to live so close to Jon, Chelsea, and Isaiah ... and to get to know Isaiah from day 1 (or at least day 2). :)

Chelsea's mom came in to help after spring break -- right as Jon had to head back to school. Perfect timing!

A few weeks later, lots of other family members came into town to celebrate Isaiah's baptism. I don't think Isaiah was put down very much during that stretch. :) The family members gave our three little ones plenty of love and cuddles, too.

Matt's Aunt Mary (holding Nathan) and Mary's granddaughter (holding Isaiah)

Grandpa and Grandma (Matt's parents)

We were honored to be asked to be some of Isaiah's godparents.

all six of Isaiah's godparents -- Chelsea's sister and husband; some church friends from Lincoln, NE; and us!

We love you, sweet Isaiah, and promise to keep you in our prayers -- that you would love Jesus with your whole heart and seek to serve Him each day until He calls you home!