joy.

The moment came, and the moment passed. It was a moment filled with pain, anxiety, expectation, relief. And when the moment ended, all that remained was joy -- a moment filled with immense joy. Caleb Allan Mitchell Kok came into this world in the middle of a Monday afternoon with a strong, healthy cry of freedom. Music to our ears.

It is difficult to imagine, before the birth of your child, what life will be like when he's born. All of the planning, purchasing, and parenting tips can only prepare you to an extent, beyond which, everything--everything is new. You can't simply research, compare prices, and then put an order in. It's not like buying a new computer. There is no manual to bring home, no extended warranty, no 24/7 customer service support line. It's you, and a newborn. And to this point in my life, I can imagine no greater joy. There is nothing like lying back, with your child sleeping on your chest, his little body rising and falling with each breath.

Immense joy.

Heart-filling joy.

We know that we are blessed to have a healthy, whole, and (occasionally) happy child. Truly blessed.