Introducing...Ella Grace!!

Just as I thought, baby Ella Grace came into this world as few days early. Poor Court was up all night on Tuesday night with contractions, but toughed it out until the morning and finally went in to the hospital. It has been said that my family "travels in packs" so it was no surprise that her delivery room was full with all of us hanging out. I think it helped to take her mind off of the pain and help the time pass...at least, I think. Well, she is too nice to kick us all out.

Court is giving me the stink eye -- can you tell this was before her epidural? ;)

And here she is after her epidural...all smiles :)

But we took the hint and let her rest as Ella came closer and closer to entering this world.

She held out as long as she could, but ended up having to have a c-section. It was just in time too since Dr. Rao said the cord was wrapped around her tiny neck twice.

Welcome Ella Grace Wilkison, 6lbs 11 oz, 20 inches long, born at 4:14 p.m. at Delnor in Geneva, IL.

She has her mom's smooshy face and squinty eyes and her dad's dark hair and little forehead (or 'two'-head, if you will).

She was so alert and kept looking at all of our faces pressed up against the glass while she was getting cleaned off and checked out.

Brynn was ready to play with her new cousin. She wanted to go "in there" in the worst way to see her. She didn't miss much and had lots of questions. "Mimi" was all smiles.

Auntie Lisa and Grandpa Earl were checking out the action too.

Adam could not be prouder. He couldn't take his eyes off of her.

Congratulations Courtney and Adam on your amazing miracle gift from God. You both will be great parents. Court, you have always loved babies - even since you were a baby - and now you have your very own. You were born to be a mom and you have finally found your calling. Enjoy every minute with Ella, they grow up fast. I love you guys and promise to spoil my little niece and love her to pieces.