What a day!

Well, it's getting late, and I'm ready to get some sleep. But, I thought I should take a few minutes and update. As Linda posted, Madison Hope arrived early this morning after a whirlwind delivery. She is 7lb 8oz (exactly the same weight as Ethan was) and I don't know how long yet, but she looks short and round to me. Like a little bear, ready for a fight. :) She is pretty bruised and swollen in the face from her quick delivery, but she is doing great.

She had her surgery this afternoon, and the surgeon was very optimistic about it. The skin was healthy over the defect, and the closure went well. She is recovering nicely and was able to take breast milk from a bottle twice this evening. I was able to give her the last one she had. It was so sweet. We can't hold her yet, but can get close to cuddle and talk to her. She has a ton of dark hair. I'll try and get some pictures up soon.

Functionally, she seems to be doing great. She kicks both legs and squirms around like any baby. We'll have more evaluations in the next week or so on orthopedics (bone development) and urology (bladder and kidney function). She will have another ultrasound on her brain on Monday, but so far, no fluid retention there either.

Thank you all so much for your prayers and support. This has been an amazing journey so far, and we've a long way to go. I certainly know that God is in control. I'm thankful that I ended up delivering naturally so I could recover quickly and spend more time with her. The doctors here and the staff have been amazing as well. So supportive and friendly. I couldn't ask for a better experience or for better care.

I'll be posting again soon, or will have Linda update if I can't. She's been a great help in getting this blog going.