Chris and Rachel not long after she was born

Our little girl finally arrived! We are very excited to have her here. With the help of some amazing mid-wives and the staff at the Portneuf Regional Hospital, Rachel was born Friday morning (2/26/2010). It greatly deepened my appreciation for women and especially my wife Julie.  I love you Sweetheart!

The kids were so excited about the baby, even Sam, who prior to the birth was not happy about a baby sister (he wanted a brother). After one look at her he fell in love and has been going around protecting her ever since. He just couldn’t get over how little she is and how soft she is. Sarah just wants to dress her up in every outfit she has, like some play doll.

When we got home our Labrador was very interested, but careful around the baby. She wanted to sniff everything thoroughly. It was neat to watch; she innately seemed to know to be careful and gentle around the baby, but was super curious.

Introducing a dog to a new member of the family usually goes pretty easy, dogs have several hundred thousand years of doing this in their genes. During the introduction take it easy, keep the situation calm, watch behavior and body language closely and let them know how this babe automatically fits above the dog in the family rank. Do this by firmly telling the dog to back off or go lay down when she gets too close to the baby or starts licking her. This firm direction provides what the dog needs to understand the social order of the home.

Allie, our lab has been curious about the baby, especially her scent, but very cautious around her.