Fishing?

It used to be that the only reason I would be up before 5 am was to go fishing. Well....I've been up before 5 am a couple of times today, but it's a far different type of fishing. It's helping Riley fish for mom's milk, it's helping mom fish for some more pillows, it's trying to fish my big butt out of bed to help out, and it's fishing for the camera to catch a picture of our little guy figuring out how to eat.
Riley is doing great adjusting to the outside world. The nurse said he's one of only a handful of babies she's met to not even wake up when being poked for blood tests. His bottom lip quivers and he lets out a nice little whimper when he is unwrapped, but if he is wrapped tight and warm, he sleeps like a baby. These first two days have been a learning experience for sure, and we are continually amazed by God's creation. So we are praising God this today for a new type of early morning fishing!!!

Update and some new pictures

Riley officially enjoys breast milk, being burped by dad, and being swaddled. We are getting better at doing all of these things, and Holly is a natural! It is amazing to watch the woman you love more than anyone in the world become a mother. It makes me cry everytime I see them together (I didn't know I was such a softy until I met him!!)

We had some friends visit this morning and more to come this evening. Again, thanks to everyone for all of the help, prayers, and support. We have great friends and family and appreciate you all so much.

Riley is here!

At 11:02 pm on June 23rd, Holly and I welcomed our son Riley Joshua into the world. I can speak for both of us when I say it was the most unbelievable experience of our lives. We cried, we laughed, and we sat in awe of God's creation. What an amazing gift life is! I am so thankful for my wife and all of the hard work she endured. We are thankful for our friends and family who showered us with prayer throughout the evening. At this moment, I have never been more thankful to God for his love, grace, and blessings.

Riley came about three weeks early, and for good reason. He tipped the scales at 8 pounds 2 ounces, and is 21 inches long. The nurses keep saying they have never seen a baby born 3 weeks early that is as big as him. (I think someone's math was off!) He has a full head of hair and is working hard at eating.

Holly and Riley are sleeping and we can't wait to be able to share Riley with our friends and family in the weeks to come.

May the Lord Jesus bless you wherever you are...we give Him glory and honor for the gift of life

Josh (Dad)

Pictures at the hospital

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Here are some pics from the hospital...Holly got an epidural and is feeling great. She is dilated to 5 centimeters and fully effaced. We are taking bets on whether he will be here on the 23rd or the 24th? Thanks for all of the prayers and phone calls and texts and help. We love you!!

Contractions are progressing a little bit...they are going to start petosin and possible epidural in a few minutes. The nurse says he should be here this evening!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Holly is doing well...listening to coldplay and eating a freeze pop!

Riley's coming!!!

Riley is on his way!!! Holly's water broke this morning and I ran home from teaching to get her. When we got to the hospital at about 11, she was 2 centimeters dilated and 80% effaced. They admitted her right away and we are hanging out in our room. The nurse says baby is doing great and so is mom...the contractions are getting stronger and we are getting excited. I'll keep you updated!!!