It's a . . .

BOY!  Three of you got it right.  For all you who guessed girl, don't worry, I was right there with you.  On Monday, we had our anatomical ultrasound, and got to meet our new little man.  I always enjoy this ultrasound, not just because we get to discover the gender, but because we get to see his hands, toes, heart, eyes, and so much more.  It really is amazing to be able to get a small glimpse into what goes on in the womb, and we are blessed to report that everything looked wonderful.  Even though this is my third pregnancy, I am constantly awed by how intricate and awesome pregnancy is and it is a great reminder of how great our God is!  

So, here are some pictures of the newest member of our family - Eli James Dilley.  We can't wait until we get to meet him! 

We think he looks just like his big brother Ethan

 Thumbs up Mom and Dad!

 

Can You Guess?

It is already that time!  On Monday, Chris and I will have an ultrasound to check the baby's health and to hopefully discover the gender.  Since we already have a girl and a boy, I considered not finding out and letting it be a surprise, but then quickly realized I am too curious not to find out!  So, here is your chance to guess - boy or girl?  Take a second to vote and then give us your name suggestions.  We are not necessarily keeping with the 'E' theme (it was coincidental with Emma and Ethan), but would like this name to go with the others (Emma, Ethan, and Madge just wouldn't work).  We will keep you posted and let you know Monday the verdict.

Will it be a boy or girl?

Five!

It is hard to believe, but today we celebrate our Emma Lynne's fifth birthday!  It seems like not so long ago we welcomed this tiny, pink, little baby into the world.  She has changed and grown so much since then - she is now in Kindergarten, she ties her own shoes, she dresses herself, and is starting to read!  Even as I write this post, she is busy helping her Nani measure flour for some chocolate chip cookies.  There are so many wonderful things about Miss Emma that we love, but here is a little peek into what makes her so special to us:

• She loves to learn!  Emma absolutely loves school and really enjoys the challenge of learning new things.  She taught herself how to tie her shoes from reading a book I bought her, and even is learning Spanish this year!


• She loves to dress up.  This may not seem out of the ordinary for a little girl, but Emma really enjoys to wear dresses, get her hair done, and do her (and her Nani's) fingernails.  While I would have been just as grateful for a tomboy, it has been a lot of fun to play "princess" with my princess.


• She is an awesome big sister.  I could not have asked for a better first child.  Since she became a big sister to Ethan, she has constantly helped me care for her little brother without being asked.  She get wipes, diapers, and cups when I need a hand and is always the first to give her little brother a hug when he falls.  I cannot wait to see her with the new baby!
 

• She is a singer!   Emma loves to sing.  It has been one of my greatest joys to share this love with her and, as a result, our house is constantly filled with music (her brother also shares this love).  There are not many sounds sweeter than hearing her voice echo through our house!


• She is a creator.  Before all you theologians and seminarians get uptight, what I mean is that she enjoys creating artwork, towers, jewelry, and lots of other projects.  Papa takes her once a month to the Home Depot for their kid's program and it is something she really looks forward to!

I really could go on and on - I am sure you parents know the feeling!  Even at five, her personality is so multifaceted and evolving every day.  Not that I am in any rush, but I am excited to see where the Lord takes her interests, hobbies, and heart as an adult.  For now, it is our prayer that one day, at the top of the list, we can add She loves the Lord.  While we love her dearly as our first-born child, it is our greatest desire that she (and our other children) would one day become a child of God.  Until that day, we will continue to parent her in a way that points her to Christ and enjoy the blessing that arrived five years ago today.  We love you, Emma Lynne!

Emma, the Day She Came Home From the Hospital

Emma's First Birthday

 

2-Year-Old Emma Helping Nani Cook for Thanksgiving

 

3-Year-Old Emma with Nani and Papa

 

4-Year-Old Emma Striking a Pose  

Our (Almost) 5-Year-Old and Her Brother on Halloween