Gabi's First Shabbat

Jon and I started a new tradition a few years ago that we plan to continue with our family each Friday night as we welcome Shabbat.  Each individual gives a small amount of Tzedakah (charity) and announces something specific that happened that week for which he or she is grateful.  We didn't have to stretch our brains terribly far to come up with something this week!!!  

Besides the obvious - beautiful healthy girl, an INCREDIBLE birthmom, wonderful hospital staff and our private hospital room, amazingly helpful hosts in my parents, the easiest baby girl in the world - we are most grateful that after years of waiting and suffering for this dream to come true, at last we are a family!  And we are the happiest family you can imagine!

When Jon recited the traditional Jewish parents' blessing to Gabi that is offered each Shabbat - a blessing he's been waiting years to offer - beautiful tears of joy streamed down his face, and we all shared this precious moment together.

Gabi is dressed and ready thanks to Grandma and Grandpa's package!

Beautiful table with help from flowers sent by Grandma and Grandpa!

very special moment between Daddy and baby

Team Cohen's first Shabbat

Team Cohen with Nana and Zayde

Shabbat - a day of rest, a day of peace