We’re overjoyed to announce the arrival of the newest member of our family: baby Teddy. On Wednesday, April 16th at 8:51 a.m., Theodore Freeman Petersik was born weighing exactly 8 pounds and measuring 19.5 inches long. Our hearts are full, and we’ve been soaking up every moment since he arrived.

Teddy’s name honors family on both sides. His first name comes from my grandfather Theodore, who was affectionately known as Teddy throughout his life. His middle name, Freeman, honors John’s maternal grandfather and also reflects John’s own middle name. Choosing a name that connects generations felt meaningful and right for our little boy.

We’re completely smitten with him. Clara has adjusted to being a big sister with an immediate and tender devotion: she can’t stop kissing him and hugging him close. Whenever he whimpers or coos, she treats it like a personal mission to soothe him. Watching that sibling bond develop already is one of the sweetest parts of this new chapter.

Teddy’s arrival was calm and steady. We had a planned c-section, which went smoothly, and both baby and I are doing well in recovery. I’m feeling good and grateful for how everything went—so different from the last time—and relieved that he is healthy and settling into our arms. We’re taking these first days slowly, focusing on rest, healing, and getting to know our son.

Our household is officially a family of five (Burger counts!), and we feel more blessed than we can say. Burger, our dog, is being pampered at home with the grandparents while we stay in the hospital through the weekend. He hasn’t met his newest best friend yet, but we can already imagine them becoming fast pals once we’re home and routines start to form.

Thank you to everyone who has sent love, kind words, good vibes, prayers, and well-wishes throughout this pregnancy and birth. Your messages have been so appreciated and have lifted our spirits during the late nights and long waits. We’ve felt supported every step of the way, and it means the world to our growing family.

We plan to return to blogging on Monday after we’re home, though on a much slower schedule as we settle into life with a newborn. Expect updates about our daily routines, how the kids are adjusting, and the small, ordinary moments that feel extraordinary when you’re bringing a new baby into the family. For now, we’re focused on rest, bonding with Teddy, and enjoying the tender moments that come with being together.

For anyone curious about the delivery details: the c-section was successful, and both baby Teddy and I are recovering well in the hospital. The medical staff took excellent care of us, which made a big difference in how smoothly everything went and how quickly we could start enjoying the new normal.

We’ll leave you with one more observation from this first week: look at all that hair! He came into the world with a full head of it, and it’s hard not to just stare. Thank you again for the warmth and support. We’re excited to share more as our family adjusts and as Teddy grows.