baby jude is here

Here are a bunch of pictures of Jude Hadley Stratman. He was born Monday, November 2 at 1:18 a.m. at Willow Creek Hospital for Women in Johnson, Ar (just outside Fayetteville). It was a full moon. The pictures are not in chronological order, but we hope you enjoy a taste of more to come.

The official surgery date was set for the 10th. However, Jules starting having small contractions in church during Pastor Breck's sermons. She waited all day, but I finally made her call the doctor around 9:30. We were at the hospital around 11. Our friend Emily came to stay with Ben all night and really helped us out the next morning until Curt and Kathy arrived.

Ben has been a very helpful big-brother. He's very gentle with Jude; his first reaction was, "Mom, Jude is out."

Julia's surgery went very well; we were both impressed by the medical staff.

This was taken when Jude was less than 24 hours old. Thanks to Grandma Jackie for the hat.

This is Ben's first encounter with Jude. He was excited and nervous all at once. Actually, he was more intrigued by the medical machines, tubes, and wires.

Ben's trying to give Jude a high-five.

Curt and Kathy came down immediately. We're lucky to have them play with Ben and help / cook around the house. Here, Ben is trying to put on the hat our friend Trisha made for him.

Ben loves being a navigator in Grandma Jo's car. He wouldn't let go of that map.