Celebrating Grandma Nouche's Birthday

Although I was just a few days too early to share my Grandma Nouche's Birthday, this way I didn't miss out on any of the fun or chocolate cake!  After a while, though, I fell asleep and ended up being a bit of a party pooper...literally!

First Family Photos

As we were pouring over our photos, we realized that these are the first family photos with our new baby sister!  Again, notice who can't seem to stop smiling (that would be all of us!)

Joseph keeps volunteering reminders that we are now a family of five, and that we need to use five seats in the car, and set the table for five and etc etc.

We feel quite a bond together already.  Last evening Joseph, Emalie, and I had to return to Pennsylvania while leaving Janette and Makenna in Maryland until the adoption papers are processed.  That night, I thought that I was the only one aching to be together, but after the lights were out, I heard Emalie crying under the covers in her bed.  I went in and held her asking what was the matter and she said, "I miss mom and Makenna...everytime I close my eyes I can see Makenna and hear her cute little squawk".   It wasn't until after midnight before she was able to drift off to sleep.

Introduction to her new eager siblings

Makenna's birthmother arranged for the placement to occur at her home, which made it possible for Joseph and Emaile to see her and be with us at the time of placement.

What a precious memory to see their faces as they looked on their little sister for the first time. They both have commented that their favorite experience throughout Makenna's birth and placement was being able to see her for the first time.




Emalie could not wipe the smile off of her face! Joseph was a proud big brother!

What an amazing experience, having Makenna enter all of our lives!!

Announcing the beautiful Makenna! She was born at 4:30 pm on Saturday, January 16th to a courageous and loving birthmother. Weighing in at 8 pounds and 2 ounces, she continued with the Harris tradition of doubling the birthweight of the next oldest sibling. She was 21 inches long as well!

Words cannot tell what we have felt. There was a powerful sense of peace with us when we heard that her birthmother was in active labor, and we agree with Joey when he said, "I think that is because Heavenly Father is helping us know that everything will be ok." She is a bright-eyed little thing who came with her own amazing love. What a blessing in our lives!

We have had a wonderful experience with Makenna's adoption...and are still trying to soak it all in while being filled with great love and gratitude for a strong and loving birthmother.