Baby's First Christmas

Madelyn's first Christmas wore her out! She was definitely the quietest of all the grandkids at the Winkels' house. Merry Christmas!

Santa!

Madelyn met Santa at the Alder Family Christmas Party. I wonder what she asked him for . . .

Cousins are fun!

Madelyn gets to meet some beautiful cousins! Here she is with Audrey Winkel (age 6 months) and Lauren Goodno (age 4)

Who's that beautiful girl?

Pretty baby poses for the camera

First Outing

Madelyn and Daddy during her first venture out and about--to the mall to visit Grandma Bonnie! (She was a superstar while Bonnie showed her off to her co-workers)

Daddy's Little Girl

After 9 months of Kristen being a "baby hog," Gary just can't put this little one down! He loves being a daddy!

Two Proud Grandmas

Grandma Winkel holds grandchild number TEN!

Grandma Bonnie has now earned "official" grandma status!

"Sisters" are the best friends

Kezia with one-day-old Madelyn--what an adorable pair! This girl is already part of the pack.

She's here!

We are pleased to share our exciting news that Madelyn is finally here! She was born in the comfort and safety of our home as planned, but by candlelight as the power was out during the winter storm! She must have an electrifying spirit, however, because the lights came on just as she was being born. It was truly amazing and very special.

The stats: Madelyn Bryce Winter (named after Kristen’s father) born Thursday, December 14^th, 2006 at 11:14pm in Forest Grove, Oregon. 7 lbs 1 oz, 19 inches tall, with some beautiful dark hair.

We feel pretty lucky to have had a relatively short labor (about 7 hours), but experiencing the power and intensity of natural childbirth was absolutely awe-inspiring. Our other “kids” (Loki and Kezia) were perfectly calm and unobtrusive throughout the birth process, and it brought us joy to have them present. They have become very curious about the new member of our family, responding inquisitively to her strange noises and giving her gentle kisses.

For Kristen’s parents, Madelyn is grandchild #10, so she is joining a lively and loving family. For Gary’s mother, this baby gives her “official” grandmother ranking, and we know she will be a great one.

Thank you all for the tremendous love and support we have felt in preparing for Madelyn’s arrival and welcoming her into our family.