We’re thrilled to introduce the newest member of our family: baby Teddy.

On Wednesday, April 16th at 8:51 am, Theodore Freeman Petersik arrived weighing 8 pounds exactly and measuring 19.5 inches long. We are completely in love with him. Clara has already claimed the role of doting big sister — she can’t stop kissing and snuggling “her baby,” and whenever he whimpers or coos she immediately sets about comforting him as if it were her personal mission.

His name honors family: Teddy is named after my paternal grandfather, Theodore, who was called Teddy his whole life, and his middle name, Freeman, honors John’s maternal grandfather (Freeman is also John’s middle name). From the first moments, Teddy has shown a lively personality, a little spitfire much like his sister, though he made a much calmer entrance into the world. We are so grateful he arrived healthy and safe, and having him here in our arms feels like an answered prayer.

We want to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has sent love, kind words, good vibes, prayers, and well-wishes during this pregnancy. The scheduled c-section went smoothly, and I’m recovering well — a welcome contrast to my previous experience. Our household now officially feels complete: a family of five (yes, Burger counts!), and never have we felt more blessed.

Speaking of Burger, he hasn’t met Teddy yet. We’ll be in the hospital through the weekend, and Burger is at home being pampered by the grandparents. He’s getting spoiled and doted on, and we can’t wait for the moment they meet. We imagine they’ll become fast friends — Burger will no doubt be an enthusiastic crumb provider and companion.

Once we’re home, we plan to return to the blog, though on a slower schedule while we adjust to life as a family of five. We’ll share updates, photos, and little glimpses of our days as they feel right to us, and we appreciate your patience and continued support during this time of transition.

For now, we’ll simply bask in this new chapter. Thank you again for all the kindness and encouragement you’ve shown. It means more than words can express to feel so surrounded by care as we welcome Teddy into our lives. We are savoring these first quiet moments together, taking them in slowly, and feeling immense gratitude for a healthy baby and a smooth delivery.

Look at all that hair!