Friday, May 6, 2011

Angelica Fielding Munk


Our sweet little daughter Angelica Fielding Munk was born on May 4 at 8:57 am. Despite a few tense moments during the night, labor and delivery went very well. We were blessed to have both sets of grandparents present, along with Laura and her own personal baby-sitter (thanks Julie). Angelica was 4 lbs 12 ozs and 17 inches long at birth.

After delivery, Angelica was placed directly on Candice's chest with minimal intervention from the hospital staff. The nurses and doctors were very sensitive to the fact that we might not have much time with the baby, and largely left us alone for the entire day. It was a special experience to spend the day with our new sweet baby. Candice said that it was the happiest day of her life. We didn't know if we would have minutes, hours, or days, so every moment was precious. We have since returned home, and are enjoying her here.

We have found out a few things about little Angelica (or as Laura calls her, Gicala): she is really cute; she looks like her big sister; someone is watching over her short little life; and she is quite the little fighter. To the last point, she has now been alive for over 48 hours, and is more alert and vigorous than any of the doctors expected. She drinks from a bottle, screams, makes messy diapers, and burps when she is done drinking. She is exceeding all expectations.

That being said, her grasp on life is tenuous. Yesterday before we left the hospital she turned dusky and stopped breathing for a few minutes. We thought that Angelica's time here was complete. However, Angelica surprised us all and revived herself. During her little episode, Angelica was peaceful, with no sign of struggle or pain.

Angelica has had two more episodes since we have been home, reminding us that every moment with her is special and shouldn't be taken for granted. The doctor said that she could go on like this for a week or more. Or it might not. We will enjoy every minute.

Thank you all for your concern and prayers. We are so grateful to our Heavenly Father for the many blessings we have enjoyed these last 48 hours. We will keep you all updated and provide more details as things develop.





For more pictures, see my friend Abbie Rufener's blog. She took some absolutely beautiful pictures for us. (abbierufener.com/blog)

12 comments:

Laura said...

She is so cute you guys and we are so excited that you are getting this time at home with her. Why are we surprised with Candice as her mom that she's spunky? Keep us posted! And I love how Laura says her name--I can just hear her saying it like that.

Leanna said...

I love all the pictures of your precious Angelica! I've been thinking about and praying for your family! So glad you have more moments together!

Chelsea said...

Great, now I'm crying....again. Thanks for the post Peter. Such beautiful words.

Cristi said...

Sending love to your family and Angelica :)

Angela and Enrique said...

What a sweet post. Good job Peter, i am impressed you knew how to post on the blog. What a precious little angel Angelica is! 48 hours and going strong! What a little determined little girl!

amber said...

Those pictures are breathtaking. So precious. I am so grateful that so many prayers are being answered and you guys are getting to spend so many precious moments with you sweetheart.

Alisa said...

Thank you for sharing these pictures. What a beautiful family you are. You continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.

--Alisa and Greg and Family

Natalie said...

I am so happy she was able to come home with you! How wonderful to have these memories and especially pictures for Laura to remember her baby sister. She is a beautiful little fighter.

Shelly said...

Congratulations! She is beautiful. You have been in my thoughts and prayers all week. You have always impressed me with your faith and your strength, and this only adds to my admiration for you. Besos!
Hna. Christensen

Candace said...

What sweet pictures. Thanks for sharing with us.

Krista said...

Our prayers are with your entire family. You are such a special couple for the Lord to entrust you with this precious little spirit. This reminds us of how fragile life is. Thank you for sharing this blog. You have darling girls.

kacie said...

She is adorable! looks alot like laura. I am so happy you were able to take her home and have time to spend with her and get to know her. Our Heavenly Father loves her and chose very special parents, which you guys are! The plan of salvation is a wonderful plan! My prayers are with you at this time.