(Finally) announcing the birth of our precious baby girl! She was born February 7 at 9:59am weighing 6lbs 13oz. This time around Jessenia chose the names for Jadriel Abirahel Bain Arias. Jadriel (Jah-dree-el) means “God is my helper” in Hebrew, and Abirahel (Ah-beer-ah-el…don’t pronounce the h) means “God is my Mighty One”. The planned c-section went very smoothly, as did Jessenia’s recovery.
My parents were able to come and be here to welcome our newest treasure into the world. They bless us in so many ways, and it was absolutely wonderful to have them here with us for 3 weeks. The time flew by, and we were all sad when it came time for their departure. Adapting to a second child is certainly different than the first. Overall, Jessenia and I are much calmer than we were with Jeruahel. The newborn baby “nerves” of worrying about every sound and gesture she makes (and whether she’s breathing or not) were almost non-existent this time around, which is a blessing for sure. But we’re also 8 years older than we were with Jeruahel, which does indeeed take a toll at 40+ years old.
Jeruahel is beyond the moon excited to have a baby sister. She has been energized by Jadriel’s arrival, and loves giving her baby sister kisses and holding her whenever she can. Jeruahel even got to stay home from school one day to be here for Jadriel’s first full day in our house. I took a week and a half off from school to be home with Jadriel and Jessenia (as well as my parents). It was really good to be able to be home for that time. Returning to school was rough, and I was especially grateful that my parents were here a full week after I returned to school. This weekend is literally the first time since I went back to school that I don’t feel overwhelmed by all I need to do to get caught up.
As we continue to adapt to being a family of four, I must offer my apologies for taking so long to make this birth announcement. Things have been very busy and I finally feel like I have my feet underneath me again. It’s been a whirlwind, but I’m hopeful that calm is approaching. Starting next weekend we will be on Spring break, and our family is looking forward to that rest and spending time together. I have much to update you on with the rest of ministry and life here, so expect another post before Easter.
We thank the LORD for you. Thank you for your prayers. Thank you for caring about our family and what is going on in our lives. Thank you for reading this post and holding the ministry before the LORD in prayer. He sustains us, and we thank you for your role in Him. God bless you.
