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On Monday evening, our little boy, Gideon, was born. He came out with a bruised face as you can see in the picture, but I've confirmed with several of the nurses at Primary Children's Medical Center that he is among the top 5 cutest babies they have ever seen. Being health care professionals, I'm sure they wouldn't lie to me. :)

If you follow this blog with any regularity, you probably knew this boy was coming and that he has some extra medical challenges. Our family has fasted for him and sent a lot of prayers heavenward in his behalf. At least one of the petitioners must be on the good side of heaven. His birth and subsequent surgery have all gone very well. He is recovering well from the surgery that closed up his open spine. He has a nasty gash on his back, but the nurses tell me they've seen a lot worse.

Lots of tests are still pending, but early indications show that he can move his legs and may have some control over bowel and urinary functions. We feel so tremendously blessed to have this precious soul in our family. Whatever his physical abilities or disabilities, he has moved from the vague womb-baby-with-spina-bifida to a living, breathing, precious baby boy. Our baby boy.

The nurses, doctors, and staff at both the University of Utah Hospital and the Primary Children's Medical Center have been beyond wonderful to us. Keryn was treated like a queen in the room where she recovered from the childbirth. (She's doing great!) The nurses over here in the infant unit of PCMC have been terrific too. We've met more doctors than I can reliably count, but each comes in with a bit of information and gives us the opportunity to ask questions.

Thanks to all of you who have inquired about our little boy and have offered up prayers in his behalf. We are truly blessed.