Zane, and Us

Hello all!

Now that a few weeks have gone by, and I'm able to slow down a bit, I thought I'd update you on what's going on in our family.

Zane has been a wonderful, healthy baby who continues to grow, and is doing very well.  Grace has been continuing her recovery, which is generally going well.  She is suffering from postpartum depression, so that is having an impact on various things.  She is also struggling with fatigue at times.  Praise God, she's able to see a counselor for the depression.  Pray that this helps, and she recovers quickly.

I've begun a parental leave to be able to be home to support Grace, and spend time with the kids.  It has been a blessing to all so far.  (me included).  The plan is that I begin going back to work part time as I'm able, and end the paternity leave when I'm no longer necessary at home more than normal.

During this time, we're continuing to raise support to cover various expenses, with the surplus going towards savings for a minivan.  (In a previous letter, I mentioned that we were hoping to get one.)

Thanks for your continued prayer and support.You are a`real blessing.

Attached are a few more pictures Zane and the family.

Steve & Grace.

It's a Boy!

Grace and I are pleased to announce that we've had a baby boy!

Zane Tavish Van Bruwaene was born on July 1 at 6:49 am, weighing 8 pounds, 7 ounces.

The labour lasted for 7 hours (45 hours less than with Aris), with no major interventions.  Grace has been recovering well, although is still rather tired, and sore.

My parents say that Zane looks very much like his father did at that age, except that Zane has hair.

For those interested, here are meanings of his names:
Zane: God is gracious or God's gracious gift. A form of John. (Hebrew)
Tavish: A twin. A form of Thomas. (Scottish Gaelic)

God has truly been gracious to us, and this also seemed like a neat way to name him after his grandfathers (John is my dad, and Tom is Grace's dad).

Thanks for all your prayers.  Please continue to pray for Zane's continued health, Grace's recovery, and protection for Grace from postpartum depression.

Your Friends,
Steve & Grace.