Introducing...

Kate Elizabeth Shank

June 26, 2008

7:18pm

20 inches

8 lbs., 3 oz.

Well, it's "Tante Em" and "Gigi" posting here.  we just got home and are happy to report that little Kate graced us with her presence this evening after a smooth and fairly quick delivery.  Nora, Mom, and I woke up this morning with no suspicions of her coming today--in fact, we decided to go shopping in Scottsdale.  Ironically, we left all the bags for the hospital at home, not thinking anything was going to happen.  However, on the way to the mall, Nora noticed that her contractions were 3-5 min. apart and a bit stronger than before.  After meandering through a few stores, Nora's face revealed that these contractions were a bit different than the previous week's worth.  She then suggested that we quickly get lunch at Nordstrom Cafe 'to go,' and have Travis come pick her up straight from work.  So, Mom and I sent the two of them off to the hospital, while we ran home to retrieve the bags!  We arrived at the hospital around 1pm, to find out that Nora was 6cm and 90% effaced.  By that point, she and Travis decided to go with the epideral, and that soon put her at ease.  Over the next few hours, she steadily progressed.  Nora, Mom, and Travis were in the room, while the Shank family and I waited patiently outside.  At 7:20, Mom rushed out to announce, "It's a girl!"  Joyous laughter and smiles and screams quickly gushed forth, and lots of phone-calls and text-messages were sent. Opa Jansen arrives tomorrow afternoon, and we are simply thrilled that he will get to see Kate, as Grandpa Steve got to be here today before he leaves tomorrow for Denver.  So, on behalf of Travis, Nora, and Kate, thanks for all your prayers and support.  God's grace truly is amazing, and looking at little Kate makes us worship the Lord for His provision and grace through this whole process.  More pictures to come tomorrow...