Ben & Shae Cecka's family in Gilbert, AZ

Jaeson Benjamin Cecka
October 13, 2011 6:43am
9lbs 1oz | 21inches

You will have to forgive the delayed announcement, as little baby Jae tried on many names in his first few days before he finally found one that fit. After a short and intense labor, he was born at home into the arms of loving family and friends. I am forever thankful for, and incredibly fond of, the midwives at Freedom and the Seed. Everyone who gives birth deserves to do so in an environment without force, fear, or judgment. It was a beautiful experience and I could not have done it without the support of my husband and mother (currently living with us) who believed in the strength and intuition of a birthing mama.

The boys were blessed with the sight of their newly born brother, just seconds old. While this is common all over the world, not many American kids get to see their new baby sibling as they sing out their first cry into the world. The appearance of vernix and lanugo was surprising, since he was born at 41 weeks. As some of it floated into the water, Joshua offered, “I’ll help clean up the feathers!” It is sweet to think that our little guy arrived safely on angel’s wings. Maybe some of those “feathers” were left by big brother watching over him. Ben also pointed out that this assertion is cute and fitting given my childhood nickname “Shae Bird,” later changed to Shaebyrd after a grandparent’s name.

Our little Jaebyrd sings a nightly scream for about two hours before he settles down for a peaceful evening. The long stretches of sleep are a fair trade for the consoling-intensive hours that precede it! He is usually done with the hysterics by 10 or 11pm and wakes only briefly throughout the night until 6am. He is calm, sweet, and sleepy throughout the day, and seeing his deep, dark blue eyes are still a nice surprise. It will be interesting to see what shade they ultimately turn out to be. Jaeson was born with long, dark hair on his head, and toes so long he could play the piano with them. Maybe I should dictate this post to him while I nurse – I might get it done faster! Or, maybe I should wrap this up here. The boys are having their morning cereal, and I’d like to spend some time with big brothers Josh and John before they head out to school.

Thank you all for the greeting cards, prayers, gifts, meals, and kind words. Jaeson Benjamin has an army of support and love out there!

Joshua’s first class in Sanchin-Ryu’s Parent-tot program!