So This Is LOVE...July 23, 2008

On July 23, 2008 at 4:35 pm our little boy, Gavin Michael Wells, was born. Ariel, Gavin's birth mother, was in labor for 16 hours! She is definitely a tough girl and did a wonderful job. David and Ariel's sister and parents were a great support to Ariel through the whole labor process. While Jason and I were waiting for Gavin to be born we had the opportunity to talk with Ariel's parents. What wonderful people they are! Ariel's dad shared with us the spiritual confirmation he had received about Ariel placing her baby for adoption. It meant so much to both Jason and I that Ariel's father would share such a special experience with us. In turn we shared with him our journey towards adoption. It is amazing to see the hand of the Lord in every aspect of this experience.
Just before Gavin was born, Jason and I were brought to Ariel's door. It was open just a bit and the curtain was pulled back a small amount so that Ariel was covered but so that, when Gavin was brought to the incubator in the room, we could see him. Standing outside the door, our hearts lept as we heard his first cry and then saw him for the first time. Words can't describe the feelings of that day! He looked so perfect and tiny. Jason and I were able to hold him after Ariel and David. Ariel and David's family then took turns holding him. Gavin was awake and wide-eyed the entire time. As each person held him, Gavin seemed to be drinking in their faces, as if he knew he wouldn't see many of these faces for a long time. He stayed awake for more than 2 hours and never even cried. The first thing I noticed about Gavin was his beautiful, full lips just like Ariel. The feeling in the room was so peaceful. Ariel and David were so kind to let us share in that moment. When everyone had a chance to hold Gavin and before the nurses took Gavin to the nursery, Ariel's father spoke about how strong the Spirit had witnessed to everyone there that what was happening, meaning the adoption, was the Lord's will and the right thing to do.
Gavin was then taken to the nursery where we watched him get his first bath. He hated every minute of it especially when the nursery tech washed his head. He had quite the cone head and I'm sure that it was pretty sore.