Annabel Lorraine Shamlian

On Monday Cheryl started having some contractions and by 2 am, it got to the point where it was time to head to the hospital.  It was then that the reality of bringing a new life into this world hit me.  All I knew was that we were ready and I would do anything to help Cheryl through the next few hours.  At 11:24 am I was given the honor of announcing the birth of our little GIRL, Annabel Lorraine Shamlian. At 7 lbs 3oz and 20.5 in long, she was a perfect little bundle of joy.  Our prayers for her was that she would be healthy, and praise God, she scored nearly a perfect 10 on her Apgar Score.  

Almost immediately after cleaning her off, she was placed on mommy's chest.
Kaiser believes that this "skin to skin" contact during the first hour of birth is highly beneficial
for baby because her temperature, heart rate, and suckling instinct are all stabilized.  

Once Annabel had enough mommy time, they stamped her feet for the birth certificate.

Our first Family Portrait

Now that she was stabilized, it was time to clean her up.

Nurse Crystal was a Godsend and was the sweetest and
most supportive nurse we could've asked for.  

She even made this custom beanie with a bow.  How precious.

Taking a nap in mommy's arms after a dose of some antibiotics
 in the eyes to help stave off any potential infection.

Grandma Susie gets to spend some quality time with Annabel. 

A little while later, my family came to the hospital to see the new addition to the family.
My mom was just absolutely elated.  Grandma Rita loves her little granddaughter and was
praying for us the whole night.

Here is grandpa checking out her long fingers and toes.
She definitely got that from Cheryl's side of the family.

Auntie Tamara

Auntie Adrina

Matt and Megan came by as well to say congratulations.  Thanks guys - you have been so
wonderfully supportive and genuinely excited for us.  I just know there will be
plenty of days in the future where we will all spend time together as family.

All ready for our trip home.  Cheryl is doing much better and Annabel is all dressed for the car ride.