Welcome Baby Huggins

Some of you may already know that our friends Alexa and Brian have welcomed a new addition to their family--a beautiful baby girl. Born near the end of October, she was introduced to the world on November 1 in the Huggins's lovely home. We were celebrating her Simchat Bat, a Jewish ceremony for the celebration of a new daughter and her naming. Brian and Alexa managed to keep her name secret from most of the world for almost two weeks, until their friends, family, and Rabbi joined them at their home on this rainy Monday afternoon.
Hardworking new mommy Alexa snuggles her precious bundle close.

Such genuine joy at seeing Alton and having him meet baby for the first time!

During the luncheon after the ceremony, Alton partied it up with his Lego barnyard animals.

Best friends, welcoming the new girlfriend to the mix.

Grandparents get in on the action: Alexa's mother holds her granddaughter...

...then Brian's father gets his turn.

Alton cozies up on the couch to his buddy (and clothing twin!) Brian.

During the Simchat Bat, Alexa and Brian told the gathered loved ones how they chose her name. She was given the feminine version of Alexa's Czechoslovakian grandfather's name, which was Izidor, as her first name, and she also has a Hebrew name: Meira. Alton and I were very honored to be part of this special day in our friends' lives, and to welcome a new little one into our group.