7-31-07

We just had a wonderful time with Grancy (Susanne's mom) and were so blessed that she came. The kids had fun playing with her as Susanne and I got used to our revised roles and had a chance to work on our communication! Unlike before Brandt's arrival, we couldn't just trade off the kids if one of us needed to do something. Now, we've got to agree to which kids we have when we need to do something.

Anyway, Brandt has been great. He was born on a schedule, gets a good feeding when he wakes up, stays alert, and sleeps just about anywhere. He had a slight case of jaundice and went on the liver (bilirubin) light for a few days. That cleared up quickly and we would probably forget about it had I not mentioned it here.


The kids enjoy playing with Brandt even though he doesn't really respond. Maddie especially likes this form of play since it appears that he takes orders very well. This morning, Maddie and Judson were playing Spiderman with Brandt. Brandt was Spiderman and Maddie and Judson were the bad guys that got away...

Here's a few pictures:

Day 3

Today, Susanne was discharged from a wonderful stay at Thomas Hospital in Fairhope, AL. Their staff, nurses, and Dr. Shoemaker were all great.

The OAE test results came in and there's a 99.6% chance that Brandt does not have a hearing loss. He is very alert and responsive. Fortunately, there was much construction going on next door to the hospital, so Brandt will be able to quickly adjust to the the constant noise from Maddie and Judson. Maddie and Judson are very excited to have a new brother and are doing such a great job taking care of them.

David and Susan have been taking care of the kids while Susanne and I have been at the hospital. It has been such a blessing to have them and we are forever grateful for them. Tonight we will be having barbeque shrimp- Maddie and Judson's favorite.

It's a Boy! (11:47am, Thurs July 19, 2007)

Susanne went to Thomas Hospital bright an early at 5am for her induction and had steady contractions until Dr. Shoemaker delivered baby Brandt at 11:47 this morning. We are so thankful to have had a textbook delivery and a healthy baby.

Brandt weighed in at 7 lbs. 10 oz. and is 21" long. He was very alert and responsive from the get go. He has medium black hair and likes to chatter and coo like a baby raccoon. So far he hasn't begun to scream on the verge of having an aneurysm. I know, the time is coming.

Susanne is very healthy and in good spirits. She was just slightly nauseated from the epidural, but recovered by dinner-time and had a nice juicy cheesburger. I am so proud of my beautiful wife and so fortunate to have her as we encounter the privilege of raising a precious third child. Thank you all so dearly for your prayers and thoughts. Please enjoy the photos.

With Love,
Jud

Wednesday 7-18-07

Hello Everybody,

We are excited about the pending arrival of Brandt William Gardner. David and Susan are making the long trek from Dallas today to help Susanne and I out with the third addition. Please pray for us in this transition so that number three won't push us too far over the edge...

We will be posting pictures of Brandt and keeping you posted on other exciting changes going on.

With Love,

The Gardners