Everett James!

On 12-20-2012 my brother and Ashley welcomed their new baby boy, Everett James!  He is pretty much as perfect as any nephew can be.  His parents were overjoyed with their Christmas present, and welcomed lots of family from the very beginning to come meet him.

Ashley was a total champ during more than 36 hours of labor, but I think she'd be quick to tell you that it was completely worth it.  Tres and I got the chance to go visit the newest addition to the Chambers family while I was in Oregon for the New Year and even though I was detoured with a little new year cleanse, I'm so glad that I got to cuddle with my nephew while he was still so brand new.

Babies at this age do one thing best- sleep.  And I was perfectly happy letting him sleep away in my arms.  We also got the chance to Face Time with Liz and Nora, and while it made me look forward to the day that we can all be in the same room together, it was nice to pretend while we can.  I'm working on my long-distance Aunt skills, and I can tell you that I already miss him terribly.  

One of the benefits of being the youngest is learning from your siblings as they navigate life ahead of you.  Parenting will be no different.  I have enjoyed watching Liz and Billy as they make decisions about how they want to raise Nora, and I know that Nate and Ashley are already well on their way to creating their own, equally successful parenting style.  Then, in about 38523 years if I'm lucky enough to have my own children, I can make my decisions based on whose kids turned out better!  Kidding, of course, since all of these kiddos are going to be the greatest.  I'll be able to see that there are many different equally successful ways to raise a family, and call on their expertise when I feel overwhelmed.

One of my favorite parts about visiting Nate, Ashley and Everett is the drive over to Bend.  The sun made an appearance and highlighted the beauty of the mountains of the Pacific Northwest.

Liz, Billy and Nora venture west to visit Everett and his parents next week, and will be joined by several extended family members eager to spend time with the next generation.  I'm a little disappointed that I won't be there to see everyone, but I'm also grateful that I got to spend some quality time with the newest Chambers on my own, without having to fight anyone else for cuddle time :)


Welcome to the world, Little Man- we love you!