Bergen Wilder Torres

My sister, Katie, and her husband, Chris, just welcomed their second child into their home.  We are quite smitten with him, already, and love his name - Bergen.  I was with Katie during her labor & delivery and it was an honor to witness the incredible experience of seeing a child come into this world.

Here are a few pictures of the day he was born and then also some from tonight when my family met him for the first time.

Bergen Wilder Torres born 07.21.12, 8 lb 10 oz

We've started a neat tradition with of all the aunts and uncles doing their best to be present for our baby's births.  A lot of times the spouses can't make it or need to keep children but the siblings are always there.  I must say I wish we had enjoyed this tradition when mine were born but I am all for doing it now.  I LOVE sitting in the waiting room with my siblings, supporting one another as we grow our families.  It is such a neat sign of commitment and love for one another.  

For Bergen's birth all eight of us were able to be together.  Jason manned the fort, keeping our three and Rosemary.  The others shared the responsibility of the other three cousins and were able to be in and out and Charlie & Ben were both there when Bergen was born.  So so neat.  

Mother and I stayed the day with Katie & Chris and enjoyed supporting them as their family grew.

Katie and I have shared the birthing experience for five children now - - 

we're getting good at the process!

I love sharing the experience with Mother as we watch Katie bring her children into the world.  

Both times have been priceless and life changing for me.  I get a little giddy.  :)

Since Jason was our resident man-on-deck with the kids he didn't get to meet Bergen until this evening.  I think he liked him just a bit.  :)

I love this one....Jason is such a good Uncle.  :)

...and I can't get enough! :)

I think I see my Mommy over there.

The kids came in, one at a time, to meet Bergen.  

I loved seeing each of their reactions to him and 

how sweet they were when they touched, or held, him for the first time.  

Caroline is so sweet with the babies and loves to hold them.  She really does a great job keeping them close and being gentle with them.  She is going to be a good babysitter someday.  :)

Doster is our resident caretaker.  He is constantly trying to help the "girls" (Mary Anna, Rosemary and Ella) by getting them snacks or helping them get comfortable.  He loves playing with Gavin and giving him some big boy attention.  It is neat to see these special traits come out when he is with his cousins.

Mary Anna was in awe and loved seeing Bergen but was quickly out the door and off to play with Rosemary.  Before she darted away there were a few sweet gentle touches to see if he was real.  :)

While we kept Rosemary, Jason and I were able to bond with her in a way we haven't before.  Something about the two days gave us the opportunity to see her connect with us in such a precious way.  It might have been that early morning snuggle, tickle, cartoon hour before everyone else woke up.  ;)  Either way - we are loving it and are enjoying her affection towards us.  

Hopefully it will only grow in strength as she allows us to love on her little heart.