The day dawned dark and early... Dad (Ryken) called Justin around 5:30am to let us know Mom's water had broken and she was in labor. After dropping Justin off at work I headed over to my in-laws to help out and witness the birth. I don't think words could describe how beautiful giving birth is. Of course it's painful but the amazing thing is to watch as the pain washes away from the Mother's face as she holds her new born baby just seconds after he enters the world. That, my friends, is what true love looks like and I was blessed to see it firsthand. The labor is never easy but the joy of having a new little one in the house overrides it all.
Jadon Honor Ryken was born at 9:00am weighing in at 10 lbs. 6oz. and 21 inches long.
Isn't he just the cutest little guy ever? And not to mention a little chunk! lol I think we all fell in love with Jadon the moment he made his entrance into this world. *happy sigh*
Here's the proud new Dad holding his son. This is the man on God who will teach little Jadon all about how to be a man in the Lord. It's a pretty neat thought, right?
My first time getting to hold the gorgeous baby. Like I said, it's hard not to fall in love when he snuggles right up to you and those beautiful eyes stare up at you.
When Jadon got his first bath he cried for all of three seconds and promptly fell asleep! I think that's why Mom looks like she's laughing in this picture cause we all couldn't believe it. :)
Getting to hold him for the second time. After this picture was taken Mom and I just sat on the bed and talked for a bit. I got to hold him the whole time which totally made my day. Thanks, Mom!
It was so sweet to watch Justin hold his newborn baby brother once he got off work. In this picture he looks like he is making... well, I don't know what face he is making, but I think this picture was taken while Justin was shifting the baby. My husband is one of the most relaxed and comfortable looking guys I know when he holds a small child.
One of the things we learned really fast about Jadon is he doesn't like to be moved. As soon as he gets comfortable he wants to stay that way. lol SO cute. :) 
Sara kept asking if it was her turn to hold Jadon again. She would even try to hurry everyone up so that it could be her turn. Here she stole a couple more minutes before the next persons turn. She is going to be such a huge help to Mom because she is always ready and willing to help out with the baby.
All of the Ryken kids together at last. <3
I pray that Jadon is a huge blessing to my in-laws, that he will grow big and strong, and that he will trust in the Lord with all his heart for the rest of his long full life.
As you can probably tell, I am one blessed girl to be a part of the amazing family I have.
Until next time!
~Melinda 