Cleared for takeoff

The obstetrician, Dr. Mandolesi, and our spectacular pediatrician, Dr. Plescia, cleared Karen and Cullen to go home from the hospital today. Karen is really looking forward to sleeping in our own bed again, without constant interruptions, and after spending some one-on-one time with Hudson yesterday, Byron can attest to how much Hudson is missing his mommy and daddy. We thank God for our new baby Cullen, and we thank him also for caring parents/grandparents in Wayne and Cheryl (Karen's parents), without whom we would not have made it through this difficult time. As an added blessing, Byron's mom Nancy and step-dad Derek are coming in January to visit and help out as well. Thanks to everyone who visited us, prayed and/or posted caring comments on the blog.

Cullen's uniqueness

The more we look at Cullen, the more we notice his unique features. Hudson was born with a sparse covering of strawberry blonde hair, a round hairline and bright blue eyes, but Cullen has ample, dark brown hair with a distinct widow's peak, a wider nose, what look like brown eyes, and more of a square forehead where Hudson's was sloped. We're joking about how, since Hudson looks more like Karen but is closer to Byron, if Cullen will look more like Byron but be closer to Karen. He had a rough day with his circumcision, but he's gotten some good rest this afternoon and evening.

Cullen's first check-up

Cullen reacts to what must be a cold stethoscope!

Morning cuddles

We had a pretty good first night with Cullen, and he and Karen shared a cozy snooze after a morning snack. It's a sunny and beautiful day in Reston, and we're thankful for our precious new blessing.

Ready to roll

Here's the first video of Cullen after leaving the OR. I wanted to capture his cooing sounds.

More of Little Man

In the nursery, just looking around.

More photos of Cullen

Except for his bath and shots, Cullen just relaxed quietly while the nurses did their thing in the nursery. In the background of this first photo, you can see a doting Pops and Gigi.

He settled in and started to open his eyes and look around. He has a little dark hair on his head, what looks like Karen's chin, and the Denney ears.

It's a Boy!!

Cullen James Denney was born at 12:53 EST, weighing 7 lbs, 11 oz. and measuring 20 inches in height.

More to come ASAP!

The big day is here!

We're at the hospital getting all checked in and ready for the c-section, which will take place at around 12:30 EST. I'll post an update as soon as we have any news. We would appreciate your continued prayer as we welcome this new special blessing into our lives.