Mazen Duke!
Born at 3:38am on September 7, 2012. 8 pounds on the nose and 20.5 inches long!
He is healthy and the sweetest baby I’ve ever met!
Smile!
Last night was INTENSE. We went in to the hospital on the early side at only 2cm and 70% effaced due to my strep B and water breaking, but luckily contractions picked up rapidly. At about 9pm I spent 2 hours in the Jacuzzi tub and that’s when things really started moving. I had 2 minute apart contractions from 9 to 3am that felt like a combination of every sickness, injury and surgery I have ever had, all in one big storm inside my core.
There was vomiting, uncontrollable pushing that caused a bit of difficulty and a billion growling animal sounds that escaped my mouth, but thankfully everything went well overall and I was able to have a drug-free birth. There is also absolutely no way I ever would have gotten through it without my amazing doula, Jen. No way on earth. I am undecided if I want to do it again, although I have to say the baby happiness is already making me forget the all-consuming pain!
Mazen (aka Maze, The Raisin, Amazin’ Mazen) is doing great with breastfeeding so far and has been happy for the nurses!
And he may be the only baby who has not cried in Matt’s arms. They are already a twosome! After I nursed for 45 minutes, Matt held him for a while, helped with his bath and played with him in the warmer for a while.
I’ve had 20 minutes of sleep in the past 24+ hours, so we’re all going to rest today as much as we can. I’ll pop in with more photos later!
natasha says
Beautiful!
Congrats!!
Kelly says
What a cutie! I am so glad to read that you are both doing well! Many congrats!
Kel says
I am sitting at my desk crying happy tears for all of you. He is simply gorgeous.
Congrats and I love the name!!
Ashley @ My Food 'N' Fitness Diaries says
Yayyy! He’s so handsome, Kath! Love the name too! Congratulations to you and Matt! You did it!
elizabeth @ chronic venture says
SO EXCITING!! he is adorable; congrats to you both!
Christina says
Congratulations! He’s so beautiful and I’m so happy for you and Matt! Good luck getting some rest! 🙂
Lisa says
Congratulations “Mama”
jacqui says
Congrats and just enjoy the day with your new family!
Kristen R. says
So happy for you and your cute little family. 🙂 Congratulations!
Marci says
Mazel tov! What a pretty boy! Our baby was 8 lbs, 20 inches too. And born at 346 am. Funny. Enjoy the special moments! Way to go mom!
Casey says
Congrats! He’s gorgeous!!!
Janet says
Absolutely precious! Blessings to you all.
marie says
CONGRATULATIONS and may you have many happy adventures together in the years to come!!!
Lyn says
Congratulations and welcome to the world, Mazen!
Allyson says
Congratulations!!!!! Mazen is such an adorable name. Kath, i’m amazed by your strength and perseverance… all that hard work paid off!Enjoy your new sweet baby boy 🙂
Julie H. of Spinach and Sprinkles says
Congrats a million times over! He is PRECIOUS!!! ……..Way to go! 🙂 So very happy for the three of you!
Lindsey says
Congrats!! He is beautiful!!
Shannon Bell says
congrats congrats!! he’s beautiful!!
Grace says
He is so precious Kath! I’m so happy for you and your new family!
Alison says
Welcome Baby Mazen! Way to go Mama! Congrats to you and Matt and the whole family!
Lauren says
Congratulations!! So so exciting!
val says
adorable and healthy!! congrats to you three!
gillian says
congratulations! just happened to check in on twitter to see a new post! i am so happy that it sounds like you got the labor and delivery you were hoping for. all that body pump and yoga p aid off! have a wonderful first day as a family of three. love from one of your readers in kansas city.
Shelly says
congratulations! He’s beautiful
Casey says
Oh my goodness Kath congratulations! I’ve been following your twitter updates and your entire pregnancy and I could not be happier for you and Matt!! Congratulations to you both, you’ll make amazing parents!
Cristen says
Congratulations!! I’m glad he arrived safely and that you got your drug free birth. That’s awesome. And can I just say that you looked AMAZING in that picture for just having a baby?
Enjoy your first hours with him and get all the rest you can!
Kim says
Adorable! Congrats Matt and Kath!
Kristi says
Congratulations!!!!!!!!! He’s gorgeous! Get some rest 🙂
Megan says
CONGRATULATIONS!!! He is precious!!!
Ashley @ Sweat for Sweets says
Absolutely adorable! I’m so happy for you two 🙂
Katrina says
Happy Birthday Mazen!
Thanks for keeping us so informed!
yasmara says
Congratulations!!! He is beautiful!
Kelly says
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MAZEN!!! Congrats Kath and Matt!! Thanks for taking the time to post and update. The blog world has been cheering for you!! Hope you’re feeling good.
Dynamics says
CONGRATS! He is sure beautiful!!! I love his birth date.
Katie @ Peace Love & Oats says
Congratulations!!!! That’s so amazing that you were able to do a natural birth, it sounds pretty intense but clearly worth it for such a beautiful little boy!
vICKY says
He’s gorgeous! Congrats!
Stephanie Hobbs says
Ahhhh!!! Congratulations!!! Mazen is a beautiful name, and he’s a BEAUTIFUL baby!! How exciting!! I can’t wait to hear even more about it and see more photos!! <3
Patricia says
Congratulations! What a beautiful baby!
Ashley L. says
He is beautiful. Congrats to you and Matt!!!
deva by definition says
Congratulations on your beautiful boy!
Jessie @ Graze With Me says
Congratulations!!!! Welcome to the mom club. It’s a wild ride but SO worth it!
Martha says
Congratulations! He is beautiful!
Lara @ Birchtwig-Yellow says
Many, many congrats to all three if you! I can’t imagine the euphoria you must be feeling right now.
Rebecca says
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Congrats!!!
PS i read this at exactly 10:26 🙂
Amber says
He is beautiful! Love his name too 🙂 Congratulations!!!!
Amanda H. says
Ah!! I’m so glad things went well! He’s so adorable! And Matt looks thrilled 😀 Thanks for the update. Now get some rest!
Monica says
Congratulations! Great pictures. Thanks for sharing. Have a great day resting with your new baby and your husband! All the best!
Katelyn says
He is BEAUTIFUL! So happy for you and glad to hear that you and Mazen are doing well. Such a cute name by the way! How did you find it? Congratulations!!! 😀
KathEats says
Matt made it up as a spin off of Mason! (Although it has been used as a name before)
Amy says
In Arabic, it means “Storm Clouds.”
KathEats says
Oh fun!
Jessica says
I know a lot of Arabic families are naming their sons Mazen after the president of Palestine, so it is a little political as well!
Josie says
And a fairly common name in the Arabic world! Congrats. He is sweet.
Kari says
It’s a very popular name in the Arabic world! Welcome little Mazen!
Katelyn says
Creative! Love it!! Are you pronouncing it with a ‘z’ sound or just like Mason? Sorry for another question, just curious! 😉 Hope you’re getting some rest 🙂
KathEats says
With a Z!
Katelyn says
I guess I should have figured that out since his nickname is Maze. Doh! 😉
Morgan says
Congrats to you and Matt! Maze is just perfect! 🙂 love the name!
Crystal says
Congrats on a beautiful baby boy! Mazen – what a creative name!
Laura says
Oh so many congrats! The first thing I did this morning is check twitter to see if he was here yet, and I don’t even have a Twitter! I’m so very happy for you.
Jules says
Congrats!! He’s lovely. All your readers are so happy for you guys. Looking forward to more pics, but you guys get some food and rest.
Becci L. says
Congratulations! He is adorable, and I LOVE the name!!!
Sheri says
Absolutely beautiful!!!! Congratulations, your life has changed in the most wonderful way forever!!!
Whitney says
Ah!! Congrats, Kath! Crazy how quickly life changes, huh?
Kat @ Kat's Health Corner says
CONGRATS!!! He is beautiful! So happy to hear that mom and baby were healthy and happy after the birth! You and Matt are going to be wonderful parents 🙂
Shannon says
Beautiful baby! Congrats!!
Rachel says
Congratulations! He’s precious 🙂
Carol B says
Congratulations Mom and Dad. He is beautiful!!
Mary H says
Congratulations and welcome to the world, Mazen!
Carmen says
Congratulations! Today is my birthday as well, so this is kinda fun;) Best wishes you you and your family!
KathEats says
Happy Bday!
Jen says
That is so sweet for you to comment Happy BDay to someone else! CONGRATS Kath! He seems like a happy baby.
Kelsey says
Congratulations! LOVE the name!!
Kelly says
Congrats!!! He is beautiful!!! 🙂
Christine says
Congratulations Mommy!! You did great and Mazen is completely adorable!
Molly @ RDexposed says
What a good unique name! He is adorable!!
He for sure wants a sibling! 🙂
Mary says
Many congratulations!
(Also well done – sounds intense!)
Love love love the bumblebees!
jessica says
beautiful! congratulations!
Christine says
Congrats Kath and Matt!!!! Welcome to the world Mazen!
Natasha says
Congratulations! He is perfect! Enjoy your rest, you definitely deserve it.
Dena says
Congratulations!!
Khushboo says
AH he’s gorgeous!! Congrats to you and Matt!!!
Katie says
Congratulations! He is perfect and adorable. I love his name, unique without being weird or impossible to pronounce or spell. Well done mama!
Natalie @ FreshLifeFindings says
So sweet! I teared up looking at these pictures. And i love his name!
Caitlin says
Congratulations to you and Matt! Mazen is perfect!
kamaile says
Congratulations! I love his name. Enjoy getting to know your little boy!
Taylor Cotu says
Congratulations on y’all’s beautiful baby Mazen!! He is the sweetest looking baby!
Krissy @ Shiawase Life says
Congrats, K+M+M!
Lauren says
Congratulations kath and matt!!!! Mazen is absolutely adorable!! enjoy all this time to snuggle together and love on him!!!
Stacey says
Wow – he’s beautiful! Congratulations!!!
And I love the name!!
jen_alluisi says
So so so so happy for you guys! And I love the name 🙂 I’m all weepy pregnant lady at work right now – he’s beautiful, Kath!
Heather says
Aw. My ovaries are aching today. Soooooo happy for you and your new family!
KatyBug says
SO happy for you all…can’t wait to hear more about the birth story!
Melissa says
Congrats!!! Happy Birthday Mazen! Love the name. Matt looks like a natural 🙂
Amy says
He is beautiful! Congratulations, Kath & Matt 🙂 Enjoy ever single moment in your 1st day as a family of 3!
Jen says
Congrats!
Tanja says
I am so excited and happy for you three! Welcome to this world little babyboy. You probably got the best parents on earth you can imagine. In any case, you will have a healthy life, I am sure of that.
All the best for you and your parents! Enjoy the first days of being a family of 3!
Regards from Germany,
Tanja
Rebecca @ Blueberry Smiles says
Congratulations!!! So happy for you guys!!!
Jamie says
Congrats! Its about time:)
Ashley says
Love the name! Congrats, guys!
Chelsea @ Dine & Dash Diaries says
So happy to hear he is a healthy, happy baby! Congrats, mama!
Ashton Bowles says
Welcome too the world Mazen!! Amazing job Kath!
Allie@LiveLaughEat says
Weeeeeee!!! What a cutie pie. Love the name…esp. the middle one 🙂
Allie@LiveLaughEat says
Oh and is name because he’s a-mazen? Hehe
DLAOKC says
Congratulation to your sweet family! You have been in my thoughts and prayers these past hours.
Joanna @ Midwestern Bite says
Happy birthday kiddo! I think most moms say they don’t want to do it again right after birth. In fact, I think most moms are still saying that 6 months later. Once you guys settle in to parenthood, I’d love to hear Matt’s reaction to the doula experience and how he felt about having Jen there.
Congratulations Mom!
Jessica says
congratulations kath (:
mazen is too sweet! and his name has got to be one of the most ingenious ones i have ever heard. i’ve been following your blog for a while now, and had been waiting just as excitedly for the birth of your baby boy! so happy for you and your family (:
carrie says
Welcome to the world Mazen! Glad all three of you are doing well. Congratulations!
Katie @ Talk Less, Say More says
Congratulations to you both! I LOVE the name and he is absolutely adorable. I’m happy to hear he’s healthy and it sounds like you and Matt are doing well as well. Get some WELL DESERVED rest and enjoy your time with baby. 🙂
Alyssa says
Many, many congratulations to the happy family! What a gorgeous baby boy you have! Enjoy every moment of your first day as a family of three.
Can’t wait to hear more about your birth story – awesome job, mama!
KarenB says
Congratulations!! Sounds like you had quite the birth experience! You will forget the pain! Very creative name for a very creative family. Enjoy!!
Brittnie (A Joy Renewed) says
CONGRATS!! WHat a little blessing!
JT @ The Faux Foodie Girl says
Happy Birthday Mazen! Congratulations to you and Matt!!!!
Coco says
Congratulations!!! Where did you come up with the name?
Emily says
Ahh! I was close with guessing Mason! Congrats Kath and Matt! He’s beautiful! So glad everything went well! Get some rest and enjoy your perfect baby boy!
Maggie says
Congratulations! He’s adorable!
Hope says
He is perfect!! HUGE congrats!! Welcome to the world Mazen!
Kiran says
Mazen is such a cutie! Congrats to you, Matt & the family for a beautiful blessing!!
Sara says
Yay! Happy Birthday, Mazen. And congrats Kath and Matt!
Bonnie says
He is perfect, Kath! Fabulous job! Rest up and enjoy every single minute as a family of three! Also, keep in mind second-time births are usually faster/easier! 🙂 You did great!
Laura says
Ahhhhhh, he is beautiful. what an adorable baby. congratulations.
Colleen says
Adorable! Congrats to you and Matt! Sleep well. You deserve it mamma.
Leslie H says
Congratulations to you! He’s an adorable baby and your life has forever changed for the better!
Margaret @ Have a Good Run says
congrats kath and matt!!!!
Megan says
Congratulations to you and your family of 3! Your baby boy is beautiful!
Nikki T says
COngrats!!! He looks just perfect 🙂
Sarah says
Welcome to a love like you never knew was possible! Congrats!
Bee says
Happy birthday Mazen!
And congratulations to you both. I’m so happy for you and your little family.
Penny Snyder says
what a blessing for you and Matt!! Mazen is totally adorable and looks very happy to meet his Momma and Popa!!
Cathy P says
Congratulations Kath! He is beautiful and his name is so unique and perfect! Enjoy every moment. Some moments will be really hard but all worth it- I promise, I have a 16 month old! Just get through the first few weeks and things will start getting easier! 😉
Dunja says
Congratulation to you and Happy Birthday to this cute little boy!
Kristine says
Congrats Kath and Matt! Mazen is adorable (and I love his middle name!) Glad to hear everyone is healthy and happy.
Kayla says
Congratulations!! He is so adorable!
Timmery says
Huge congrats!!! What a precious baby boy! Hold him tight, they grow up way to fast!
Kaci says
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! I ADORE his name! You are beautiful in your pictures, & I could never have guessed it was as intense as you described it based on how radiant you look!
Jen on the Edge says
Congratulations to you all!
Tonya says
So very sweet. 🙂 Congratulations. My baby boy is 15 but I remember how wonderful and special that whole experience is–from pregnancy to birth and then having a little baby nuzzlebutt to hold and smooch. 🙂
MaryZ says
So beautiful! Congrats!!
Kelly @ Runmarun says
Yay!!! So happy for you, Matt, and the wee one! Get some rest!!!!!
Larbs says
Happy birthday Mazen! He looks like a Kiehne! I think he wants cousins…
barefootgirl27 says
congrats, aunty 🙂
Amy says
Congratulations! He is just perfect 🙂
Wendy says
Congratulations – he’s beautiful and his Mom and Dad are glowing !
Elyse says
Congrats Kath and Matt! Mazen is such a gorgeous name! I love it because Mazen is pretty cloze to Maize(corn)!
Lara Gastinger says
Congratulations! Great work kath, you should feel so proud. Great name and super day for a birthday (it is my mom’s birthday today too). Rest and enjoy!
Amy in Canada says
Beautiful! Such hard work but what an incredible reward for it! So happy for all three of you!!
jcristg says
congrats on the baby boy!
Maria MG says
Gorgeous baby!! Congratulations to Mazen’s Mum & Dad!
Amy says
CONGRATS! I was up checking twitter every feeding last night (I am nursing a newborn also) looking for updates and thinking of you guys. Way to go drug-free (I can imagine that is intense!) and congrats again on your very handsome little man.
Christina says
Congratulations and Happy Birthday to Mazen! Enjoy this special time with your family!
Beverly Aragon says
Kath, I am so incredibly happy for you and Matt! Enjoy your precious baby boy. 🙂
P.S. LOVE his name <3 <3 <3
Lauren @ The Unlikely Runners says
Congratulations!! I love the name!!! So original and cute!
Kim Weigand says
Congrats to you and Matt on your beautiful baby boy!
Cara @ I Don't Believe in Diets says
Aww congratulations! Mazen is so beautiful!!
Lindsey says
A huge congrats! Love the name and he is adorable!
Sue says
Congratulations!!! I’ve been checking back regularly hoping for an update. Enjoy your sweet baby boy!!
Sue
Colleen says
Happy Birthday, Mazen! He’s just gorgeous. Congratulations to all of you. Get some rest while the nurses are there with you because you don’t get a break at home 🙂 xo
Jennifer says
Aww. He is absolutely perfect!! So happy for you getting to have a drug free birth experience. I had vomiting as well with my daughter (when I was transitioning from 9 to 10). Puking during labor is no fun! 🙁 Although I think we both know the outcome is well worth it! Great job mama. Much love to you, Matt and baby Mazen. 🙂
Pauline says
I kept checking Twitter and was thrilled to see the new post on KERF! Such a cute boy and what a cool name you have given him! Fits like a glove! Enjoy your little bundle and get some wellearned rest! So happy for you!
Tara says
Congrats Kath and Matt! Welcome Mazen! He is adorable
Blessing says
Just love that name! You both are going to make one fine parent! All the best 🙂
Chelsea says
Congratulations!!!!!
Beth J says
Hey, seriously, congratulations. I’m really glad your labor went well and that you were blessed with such a beautiful baby. The picture of you two with the baby is probably the best one I’ve seen of you guys; I’m glad you posted it.
Kinley @ Better Off Barefoot says
Congrats to you all! I bet you now will have a new appreciation for the #7 to go with your love of the #26 🙂 Have an awesome first day as a family of THREE!
Sof says
So excited for you and your family, Mazen is precious!!
Brie says
Aaacck he is adorable! Congratulations to all!
(Seriously, so excited right now.)
Sarah (shu) says
Ahhhh the same name you were considering at my shower!!! I was wondering whether you ended up staying with it. Looooove the nickname Maze!!
Cait's Plate says
Love the name! Congrats, congrats, congrats!! He’s just beautiful!
DianeKay says
Congratulations! Beautiful baby!
Bronwyn says
Congratulations! Love the name.
SueP says
Congratulations Mom & Dad! Welcome to the world, Mazen!
Karen says
Ahhhh…what a beautiful boy and a beautiful name!! Now, it’s time for you, the pooped mama and papa to get some rest and enjoy getting to know your bundle. Congrats again…wishing you all great joy and continued good health!
Aria says
Oh my goodness he is a cutie! 🙂 Congrats to both you & Matt! I was following every post on twitter last night & thinking of you guys! I’m so happy everything went well for you & can’t wait to hear all the details. Congrats & enjoy every moment!!
Dani says
Happy Birthday Baby Mazen! Congratulations to the whole family, he is beautiful and looks like you already!
Laurie says
Congratulations! I am not so sure about the name combination…..Maize and Blue is Michigan so it might be tough to be a Michigan fan and Duke fan at once!!! Enjoy every minute, get some rest…and be assured, the pain of childbirth is quickly forgotten…Its only a few hours of pain for a lifetime of love!
Kristy says
I was thinking the same thing Laurie! Being from Michigan, it was the first thing I thought of!
Congratulations Kath and Matt! He’s beautiful! I have three boys and I couldn’t imagine life without them. The first two were natural labor, the third I needed a little help…
Hannah says
Same! Mazen Duke totally sounds like Maize n Blue
Rebe says
Congrats! Glad to hear he is healthy! I live in Ann Arbor so the name (nickname especially) definitely reminds me of all the people walking around in Maize shouting “Go Blue”! 🙂
Rachel says
Congratulations Kath and Matt! Mazen is a beautiful baby 🙂
Stacey says
Happy birthday, Maze! Congratulations to mom and dad on a very beautiful baby boy! There is nothing, nothing, nothing like the high you’re experiencing now.
sharon says
Kath and Matt! Congratulations! Mazen is so, so precious! Soak in every moment, there is nothing like a new baby. Enjoy falling in love with your little miracle.
Jess says
Congratulations Matt and Kath!!! Mazen is one incredibly adorable baby boy! I’m so glad you were able to have a drug-free birth Kath. You rock!! Enjoy this time as a brand new mama and papa. Happy, Happy!!
Elisabeth says
Congratulations, Kath & Matt (and your families)! He is just precious (love the name). So glad the birth & the aftermath 😉 are going well. Get some rest!
Amanda says
Congratulations!!! I was thinking of you as I was huffing and puffing on my run last night, thinking that you were probably having a harder time than I was. So glad to hear that you are all well!!!
Molly says
Yeah! Congrats, Kath and Matt! Welcome, beautiful baby Mazen!
Christina says
Happy Birthday Baby Mazen! Great Job and Congrats!
Enjoy these sweet moments. 🙂
Judy says
Congratulations!!! So happy. Baby Mazen. Get some rest,can’t wait to follow the littLe guys life too.
Prayers and love Judy
Ahn Ei says
What a beautiful baby boy! Congratulations!!!! 🙂
Leah says
Oh how wonderful! A big congrats to both you and your family! I love your blog and have been following for the past few years, and you’ve really help inspire me to lead a healthier, more heartfelt life. I wish you only the best in the years to come with your new son. Warm wishes 🙂
Leslie says
Happy birthday! YAY! Congrats on your aMAZEing new addition!
Lori Z says
Congratulations! So very happy for all of you!
Sandi says
Congratulations & welcome to motherhood!
The look on Matt’s face is preciously priceless, what love!
Enjoyed a bowl of KERF oatmeal for breakfast in your honor 🙂
beth says
Congratulations! Beautiful baby. I was nursing my own & saw your Twitter smiley & knew he had come – how special. Enjoy soaking up all that newborn love & let every one pamper you. Welcome to motherhood!
Bridget says
Congratulations Kath!!!!!!!!!! He’s adorable!!!
Mel says
Happy B day to Mazen!!! Congrats Kath & Matt
Marie says
My sister-in-law had the same due date as you did – and she delivered my nephew this morning 25 minutes prior to Mazen’s arrival! Mazen Duke is really a beautiful baby!
Congratulations! Enjoy these sweet, sweet days. They are the happiest times of life.
Lindsay says
Congrats! Enjoy every moment, it’s the best 🙂
Sara says
Congratulations to you and Matt! I hope Mom, baby, and family are healthy and doing well!
Shelby says
Congrats and welcome to the world Mazen! Every wonderful wish for your little family and you’re a rockstar for getting this posted!!
Marleah says
Congratulations! So happy for you guys!!! 🙂
Lisa H. says
Congrats to you guys! He is an adorable baby 🙂
Beaty says
Congratulations to all of you! Such exciting times getting to meet your beautiful baby boy. Enjoy getting to know Mazen!
Anne P says
Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 🙂 Can’t wait to hear more!
Erika says
Congratulations on your absolutely adorable baby boy!!! Love the name! Rest up today, and enjoy your first day as a family of three!
amelia says
The biggest congratulations to you all!! So happy that everyone is happy and healthy! I hope YOU are feeling well and heal quickly.
Congrats again. Beautiful baby boy!!! 🙂 so precious.
Laura @ Sprint 2 the Table says
So happy for you both! Congratulations and a happy birthday to your healthy baby Mazen.
Katie says
Congratulations!!! So happy for all three of you, he is such a cute little one 🙂
Paige @ Healthy Hits the Spot says
Kath! He is beautiful!!!! Congratulations!!!
Linda says
Congratulations to a beautiful family!!! Enjoy every moment, it goes by in the blink of an eye!
Juliana says
I am so happy for you both!
I’ve been checking your blog constantly the past couple weeks, waiting for this post! 😀
katie says
o.m.g.
he is BEAUTIFUL! and mazen is such a cool name. love the nick name “maze.” can’t wait to hear more about him!!!!!!!!!!
Wendy says
Congratulations! What a precious little boy. Sending wishes for joy and happiness your way!!!!
Carol says
CONGRATULATIONS!!! I’ve been on pins and needles waiting for the news, I was up at 4am feeding my little one and stalking your Twitter account! Glad everything went well, congratulations and he is BEAUTIFUL!!
Annette @FitnessPerks says
Awwww CONGRATS!!!!
Dee says
Congratulations to you and Matt!!! He’s adorable!
Ellen says
Wow congrats to the newest edition!! He’s so cute! I’m very happy to hear mom and baby are well. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve checked twitter and the blog since yesterday! I was praying for you! 🙂
Kimmi says
Congrats! He’s beautiful!!!!!
Kelly says
Congratulations! I have a cat named Maizi and we call her “Maize” all the time…as well as “The Mazer”…
How appropriate that Mazen should arrive in the 3 o’clock hour!! He is INDEED the baby of baker parents!! Enjoy this time!
Jordan says
Congratulations! He is an absolutely beautiful little boy — that picture where he is on your chest with his tiny fist toward his mouth is incredibly adorable.
barefootgirl27 says
such a sweetie! congratulations! I’m glad that all went well & everyone is healthy! Enjoy every single minute of this amazing time in your life!!
barefootgirl27 says
and the name is cute… way better than pecan 😉
April says
Congratulations!!! I have been a reader for years, but I’ve never left a comment (shame on me), but couldn’t resist congratulating you guys. You are in for an amazing joyful journey. My daugher will be 2 on Oct. 14 and my unsolicited advice is…. savor every second. Wait until you hear someone outside of your family refer to you as Mazen’s mom. Serioulsy, best title ever…MOM!
Kathleen @ Fittitudefreedom says
Happy Birthday Mazen! What a great day 9/7 is. It’s my birthday too! Sometimes 9/7 falls on Labor Day which means a day off from work which will = an extra day to celebrate your birthday. Someday you will understand this. Congrats to your family! What a beautiful boy !
Helen says
Welcome to the world, Mazen! Congratulations to you and Matt, he is a handsome lad!
lorie says
Congrats Kath and Matt!!! What an amazing journey you are beginning. And Happy birthday Mazen!!!!
Sandy says
Congratulations. The absolute joy of mothering will make you forget all of the pain.
Averie @ Averie Cooks says
Congrats, Kath and Matt! He’s beautiful, and amazing job, Kath with the birth and glad to hear nursing is off to a good start and you three are all just gorgeous together. So happy for you!
Belinda says
Congratulations! Happy Birthday Mazen!
Catalina @ Cake with Love says
Congrats!! Love the name!
Reghan says
Congrats! He is just adorable and I love the name! Let the fun begin 🙂
Lauren @ Lettuce Eat Cake says
Welcome to the world, Mazen! He is absolutely adorable! That picture of Matt holding him kills me. It makes me tear up to think about my husband holding our newborn baby someday (hopefully!) I think I may have a renewed case of Baby Fever after reading this post…
Victoria B says
Congrats!! You guys are already the most amazing family and you look so beautiful, Kath! Motherhood definitely suits you.
My niece is named Maizen, so of course I love the name. My husbands cousin also named her son Mazen, which is so funny because I’ve never heard the name until my niece and now this name is everywhere!! So ironic!
Live the middle name too but I thought you guys went to Davidson??
Congrats again!! Enjoy these times!
KathEats says
We did – we love Duke for other reasons. Going to write a post on the name choices on BERF
Atsuko says
Congratulations! What a cute, interesting name! Hope all can rest as much as possible. You are amazing to have a labor with no drug.
Cassie says
Happy Birthday Mazen! Congrats to both of you. He is so adorable! Glad to hear things went well and that you are all off to such a good start as a family of 3!
Katie says
Congratulations!!! He’s beautiful! Hope you all get some rest and quiet time together.
Stephanie @ Legally Blinde says
Congratulations, Kath and Matt! He’s so precious! And I’m beyond impressed that you already got a post up 🙂 Supermom already! Can’t wait to see more pictures 🙂 Rest up!!
Nicole says
Congratulations to both of you! He is a beautiful baby!!
Helga says
Congratulations, great to see everything went so well and welcome to parenthood, crazy stuff happens here! Happy breastfeeding too and remember kellymom.com if you haven’t heard of them yet. Best breastfeeding advice online 🙂
Ginny says
Congratulations!
Brittany says
Congratulations Kath and Matt. Mazen is so adorable. May he bring joy into your house.
Jennifer says
Congratulations!!! He is just beautiful. Welcome to the world, Mazen.
Erin @ The Grass Skirt says
Congrats! He’s beautiful. 🙂
Dani says
Congratulations! He is beautiful!!!
Kelsey says
He is beautiful, Kath! What a precious family:)
Anna @ On Anna's Plate says
Yay!!!! Welcome to the world, Mazen! So glad things went well with the birth. Enjoy that sweet, sweet boy!
Tammy says
Happy Birthday little one! Great job Mom and Dad!! You have a beautiful family!
Erin says
Congratulations!!! He’s beautiful! So happy for all three of you!
Lindsay says
Congratulations Kath and Matt! He is beautiful!
Lisa says
God bless you, Kath! You did amazing!
Now soak in the wonder of your precious son and rest, rest, rest.
With love,
Lisa
Claire says
Congratulations!!!!! Mazen looks so sweet and cute in your photos. And what an ingenious name, named after your beloved Mason jars! Is Duke family name?
And wow, your labor sounded like it was SO quick and straightforward! Only 6 hours of active labor??? WOW you were lucky! (Although most labors seem quick in comparison to mine, which was almost 60 hours, ha ha!). We can’t wait to hear all about it! What labor like what you expected? How’s breastfeeding going? I hope your recovery is easy! Enjoy these first few sleepy newborn days, take advantage of that fact and SLEEP AS MUCH AS YOU CAN before Mazen “wakes up” and starts keeping you up all hours! 😉 Enjoy your sweet little boy!
Sarena (The Non-Dairy Queen) says
Congratulations to your beautiful family! Enjoy this time together and definitely try to get some rest! I am so incredibly happy for all three of you!
Char says
Mazen (Male with Arabic origins)
Meaning of the name Mazen: Rainy clouds, lit-up face, and Almazin: Egg of the ants
Janelle says
Congrats! The pic with Mazen and Matt got me a bit teary… can’t wait to hear more about your adventures as a family.
marie says
Beautiful baby boy. Best wishes to you all.
Jamie Sinquefield says
Ohhhh I love the name!!! He is simply beautiful!! and you both look so happy, tears of joy over here!!!
Melissa says
Congratulations! Beautiful baby, beautiful name!
Tiffany says
Congratulations. He is adorable!!
Diane says
Happy birthday Mazen!! Congratulations Kath and Matt! He is beautiful! I’m glad you were able to have the drug free birth you wanted. I had the uncontrollable pushing too, and there was no doctor in the room yet. Very scary and freaky how your body just does it…
THE BAKERY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! says
WE ARE BEAMING WITH PRIDE AND LOVE AND JOY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Can’t wait to meet the newest member of the GH family!!!!!
KathEats says
and he cant wait to meet you all!
emily says
Congratulations and good luck 🙂 being a mama is the best.
Ashley @ Coffee Cake and Cardio says
Absolutely amazing and adorable!!!
Steph says
Congrats Kath and Matt!!! What a cutie pie!! And way to go Kath!
Ann says
I started crying tears of joy! So happy for you!!! Congratulations!! Welcome to the new world of parenthood. And Happy Birthday Mazen!
Katherine says
Congratulations!!
Alison says
Kath and Matt, Congratulations on the new addition to your family! What a beautiful baby! Enjoy this time!
Sunya says
Congrats! So very happy for both you and Matt! And a wonderful, joy-filled happy birthday to Mazen!
Jodi says
Congrats Kath! He’s so cute!!
Immaeatthat says
One of the most precious things i’ve ever seen:) congratulations! I’m so glad everyone is healthy and doing great:) He’s beautiful:) I can’t even imagine how happy you two are right now:)
lexi says
Congratulations to you both! He is beautiful and I love his name. Way to go drug-free – sounds super difficult!
RR says
Congratulations Kath and Matt, and welcome to the world, little one! Wishing you all the best!
Kelsey says
Congggggggggggggrrrrrratulations!!!!!! He’s so handsome!!!!!!!!!!
Bonnie says
Congrats! He is absolutely adorable!!
Amy says
Way to go, momma! He’s beautiful. Happy birthday to you all!
Emily says
He is beautiful! CONGRATS!
Heidi says
I am so happy for you guys!!
Such a beautiful name and baby. Also, seriously awesome that you were able to deliver the way to wanted.
I know this sounds lame, but I am so proud of you. haha!! You are such a great example and role model for women. Thank you, and enjoy that little one. My baby is almost 5, and I miss those days. 🙂 Congratulations!!
Rachel says
wow wow wow! congratulations!!! how beautiful.
gloria says
Happy birthday Mazen!!! Congratulations to you and Matt!! 😀
Kristin K says
Congrats! Beautiful baby! What a great blessing.
Marcia Compton says
He is perfect, You will change your mind, give it about 2-3 years, and you will forget. And once he looks at you and says Love you, then hugs you forget it your gone.
Clizia says
Congratulations!! He looks so sweet 🙂
Carla C says
I am not the type of person who thinks all babies are cute, but Kath, that is an ADORABLE sweet baby! Congrats to you and Matt! 🙂 🙂
Michelle (Peachy Palate) says
Oh my god that’s my nephews name…the mazen! He’s 9 months now! Congratulations!!!! He’s absolutely gorgeous, and you’re looking fantastic!
KathEats says
fun!!
Meridith says
I’ve been waiting anxiously for this post! Congratulations, Kath and Matt and welcome to the world, Mazen! It’s been a treat to follow you through your journey 🙂
Lani says
Congratulations to both of you!
He’s beautiful! Enjoy! I love the nickname “raisin”, too.
Katherine says
Congratulations to the three of you! Welcome to Mazen!
Jennifer says
You did it! It’s the hardest and best thing ever. Congrats. He’s lovely.
Rebekah says
Congratulations, Kath and Matt!! Enjoy your first moments as a family of 3!
Ashley @ Hudson on the Potomac says
Congratulations Kath and Matt!!!! He is so beautiful and I’m so happy for the three of you!!! Love the name too!
emily says
He is gorgeous!
Eating 4 Balance says
CONGRATS! 🙂 I think the extra few days were definitely worth it! He is so cute!
Allison says
He is beautiful!!! God bless the 3 of you.
Shannon S says
Congrats Younger family! He is perfect! Happy to hear everyone is doing well! And thank you for your honesty with the labor experience! 🙂 My husband and I have been married 9 years and I keep putting off babies due to labor scaring the mess out of me! In 4 more pounds of weight loss I will have then run out of excuses to put it on hold. I will have lost 100 pounds then so I will be much healthier for a family. I can’t wait to read more about your experience with labor! And I may be pregnant real soon! And will then probably want the info. for your doula. Love to all! <3
Ingunn says
Congratulations to all three of you! What a beautiful boy.
Margo says
Congrats! Beautiful Baby. Love the name.
Logan says
So happy for you all that he is here, safe and sound. Can’t wait to read some grandparent reactions. I didn’t see any yet, but I know they are all over the moon! Congratulations!
Catherine says
Congratulations, Kath and Matt! What a beautiful baby!
Morag says
Many congratulations on the birth of your wonderful baby boy.
Best wishes to you all.
Evan Thomas says
Congrats, Kath and Matt!
Katie D. says
Congratulations Kath and Matt!! Kath, I completely understand your comment about how you aren’t sure if you would ever want to do “that” again (i.e. drug-free birth), I TOTALLY understand. I had an intense drug-free birth with my first (a boy) and I never really forgot the pain. (although don’t get me wrong, I’m glad that I did it). With my second baby (a girl), I still was undecided when I was in labor if I could do it again, but everything went so fast that I didn’t have time for an epidural! All in all, you are an amazing (a-Mazen) warrior mama and you have such a beautiful son! 🙂
Sonia the Mexigarian says
congratulations!!! what a lovely name for him! lots of warm fuzzies over here. cheers to you and your family! 🙂
Meredith says
Happy Birthday, Mazen!! Love, love, love that first family photo!!
Janna says
He truly is A-Mazen!
Congrats you three!
Did the bears make a trip to meet their brother yet?
vidya says
Yesss…Congratulations on the drug free birth Kath!! Maze is adorable..he’s very lucky to have a mama like you and a great family! You did it dear, congrats again!
Sara T. says
He is beautiful and I love his name! Congrats to you for making it through all natural! Get some rest and relish in the moment!
Jessica says
CONGRATULATIONS!!! Happy birthday Mazen!! (Love the name!)
Sandra says
I am a reader of your blog that has never commented before. I wanted to say Congratulations to you and Matt, also to your families. He is a beautiful baby!!
Angel7 says
CONGRATULATIONS, Matt & Kath!!!
Oh my goodness, Kath! Mazen is beautiful — maybe handsome is a better way of putting it for a boy 🙂
Mazen is “Lucky #7”, since he was born on 9/7/12 🙂 Seven is my favorite number!
I am sure that you are happy that it was a medication-free birth, because I felt like I was way too drugged with our first child, & am hoping that I do not have that with our second child.
I am sooo happy & elated that everyone is happy & healthy! Get some rest!
http://faithfulsolutions.blogspot.com/
Kathi says
Congratulations, he is precious!! Happy Birthday Mazen! Love the name.
Cosmos says
Congrats! Mazen is wonderful! I wish you and your family much happiness.
Melanie says
Yay congratulations!!! He’s beautiful!!! Glad you are both healthy and doing well!!
maria @ mim says
CONGRATS! 🙂 I love the name–unique, but not weird!
Karli says
Congratulations on your little one! He’s a doll and I love his name! Way to go Kath & Matt!
coco says
congratulations!!!! He’s such a cute baby and looks so peaceful!!!! So happy for you two!!!
Erin @ Big Girl Feats says
Congrats to you and Matt, Kath!! It must be so exciting to have Mazen in your arms!
Sue James says
Mazen (aka Maze, The Raisin, Amazin’ Mazen)
Love this! Congrats!
Yes, you do forget about the pain and will want to do it again.
Leslie says
What a joyful day this is for you and your family. He is beautiful! I’m sure the grandparents are over the moon with excitement.
Dan says
Happy Birthday Mazen.. I look forward to watching you grow through Mommy’s blog and her new partnership with Real Health and WellPoint Inc.
Emily says
AMAZING!!! SO excited for you!!!! He is beautiful. Congrats congrats congrats!
Karlee says
HE IS ADORABLE! Such a cute little bugger 😛 I LOVE the name too. Unique and a little different, but not awkwardly new/weird.. overall AMAZING name and baby! Good baby brewing 🙂
Amanda @ Once Upon a Recipe says
Congratulations Kath and Matt – he is beautiful!
PS. A drug-free birth? Kath, you’re my hero.
Kori says
CONGRATULATIONS, Kath & Matt!!!!!! He is such a cutie!! Happy birthday to Mazen Duke! Wonderful name.
Jenn says
So sweet. Can’t wait to meet Maze 🙂 no worries, I thought the same thing after Levi was born: when asked if I was willing to give birth again, I replied “hell no!” ha. Now I’m considering it 😉
Shannon says
Congratulations!!! Happy Birthday Mazen!
It’s my Dad’s 56th bday today also 🙂
jenna k says
Definitely teared up at this. It’s unreal how excited I was to learn BERF’s name! I chuckled when I saw Duke. Of course that’s his middle name :)))
I’m so glad everything was safe for you guys, and that he is so happy and healthy!! Congratulations to you, Matt, and your families!!
Shannon says
PERFECT!! Congratulations! So happy for you THREE!
Michele Sparrow says
Many congratulations to you and Matt! Such a beautiful blessing! Extremely happy for you all!!
Kathryn says
Congratulations and welcome to baby Mazen!
Mallory says
CONGRATS! 🙂
Jordan says
Congratulations on a lovely creation 🙂 Have you gotten to enjoy your pumpkin beer yet? My husband and I were in St. Louis over Labor Day and ate at the Schlafly Tap Room and had their pumpkin ale and I sent good thoughts your way 😉
KathEats says
We got a growler of Shalafly to have this week!
Fancy says
Congratulations! He is gorgeous 🙂
Lea Ann says
Congrats!!!! He’s adorable, and very a very lucky little boy to have such wonderful parents!!! Love the name.
Cassie D. says
Congratulations! He is beautiful!
Brett says
Good job mama!!!!! He is a cutie pie!
Amanda says
Congrats! Welcome to the world, Mazen, and welcome to motherhood, Kath! Today was supposed to be my baby boy’s bday (repeat csection), but instead he made his appearance early last Thursday! Baby boys are the best! Enjoy this special time;it goes fast!
Susan H. @ The Food Allergy Chronicles says
Congradulations! He is adorable! I wouldn’t rule out a second so soon…time heals everything! Enjoy your new family! Best wishes to you all! 🙂
Katie says
Congrats! He is so handsome and so perfect! So happy for you, Matt, and the whole family!!!
Audrey says
Congrats! So happy for you and your family!
Allison k says
Congratulations!! Love that picture of him on your chest with his fist near his mouth makes me think of the night my own sweet boy was born. And Duke must be the middle name of the month!
Stephanie says
He is beautiful, and Matt looks so proud! Congratulations!!!!!
Jennifer says
He is absolutely stunning! One of the best looking newborns I’ve seen. Congratulations, Kath!!!!
Robyn @ Blueberries and Oats says
Congratulations to all of you!! Mazen Duke..what an awesome name.
SaraG. says
Yay Kath + Matt!!! Happy BERFday Mazen!!! We are so happy for you!!! Miss you guys!
Laura says
I am so honored to share my birthday with baby Mazen!! I was hoping he would come today! I am so excited for you guys!
Tiffany says
Congratulations!!! 🙂
Ana says
Congratulations Kath and Mat, Mazen is precious!!
Ana
Colleen says
Happy Birthday Mazen! And congrats to you and Matt! Beautiful, beautiful boy!! Love the smiles!
Dia says
Happy Birthday. Congratulations!
Jordan K says
So happy for you guys! Congratulations on this very special time!
elocin says
Congratulations!
What a cute litty babyboy, you’ve chosen a wonderful name.
Today’s my first wedding anniversary. I’m following your Blog and Babykerf since last december.
Kelly @foodiefresh says
Congratulations Kath and Matt! I’m glad your labor went well and that your little Mazen is healthy. He’s a beautiful baby!
Leigh says
Congratulations! So excited for you and your new family!
Sarah @ Blonde Bostonian says
CONGRATSSSS!!!!!
Natalie - Will Jog For Food says
Congrats Kath! Mazen is beautiful 🙂
Monica says
Oh my goodness, crying like a crazy woman at my desk!
Kath and Matt, he is so gorgeous, congratulations you two!
And Kath, huge props on accomplishing your labor goals. It is so hard to go drug-free, but when you cross that finish line it is deeply rewarding. Sending lots of Mom hugs! Yay yay yay! So excited!
Happy to hear that breastfeeding is going wonderful as well – 10 months later, and I love breastfeeding just as much as I did from mine and Wrigley’s first 40-minute session post-delivery. 🙂
Natasha says
Bless your heart, I was guessing we’d get a snapshot but do love the narrative update! Such a happy ending–and beginning!
Ann says
CONGRATS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Beautiful beautiful boy and beaming mom. So happy for you!
Audrey @ Health Auds N' Ends says
CONGRATS! He is absolutely adorable. I’m interested in how you picked out his name! All the best 🙂
Sara says
Beautiful baby and love the name! Congratulations!! Can’t wait for the full birth story (but thanks so much for giving us this huge update right away)!
Erica says
Awww, CONGRATULATIONS MOM AND DAD!!! (and the rest of Mazen’s new family as well!) Very cool name! Welcome to the best runner’s high/endorphin feeling EVER right now:) Good job, Momma!
Laurie says
Welcome Baby Mazen!! Congratulations Matt & Kath — he is one beautiful baby boy! There is nothing quite like the feeling in your home when a new baby joins your family! Enjoy!!
Belle @ Rebelle Fitness says
Congratulations!!! What a handsome little boy!
Liz says
OMG! He is such an Angel!! Congrats Kath & Matt. Im very happy for you!
Julianna @ Julianna Bananna says
CONGRATS! I can’t wait to hear more about the little guy! 🙂
Denise says
Congrats to both you and Matt!! It’s been beautiful to share this experience with you…
beth grossman says
So happy for you all….wonderful news.
he is cute as a button.
beth g
Dr. Mel says
Hi Kath!
I couldn’t resist saying CONGRATULATIONS to you and Matt on the new little one!!! He is absolutely beautiful… Wish you all endless health, happiness and love 🙂
I’ve never posted on your site but I have been following you for a while… I just love your beautiful photos of all the amazing, healthy food you eat! I’m a Chiropractor by trade but I am a big-time health food and exercise junkie by nature so I really enjoy reading your philosophies on food, health and life.
I look forward to following you for a while to come!
Krissy @ Make it Naked says
9+7*2-0+1+2=26
See what I did there 😉
Congrats to you and Matt! He’s precious!
everhard says
congratulations and welcome to Mazen :p
Stef says
Happy Birthday Mazen! He is beautiful, great job mama (and dad!), and thank you so much for taking the time to share him with us <3 Enjoy your babymoon!
Chantal says
Congrats! He looks great. Today is my blog’s 1 year birthday!
Sashi says
Yayayayay!!! Congratulations to your newer, BIGGER family! 🙂
Lizzie says
CONGRATS CONGRATS CONGRATS!!!!
as a daily blog reader, this is so exciting to finally see 😉
Healthy, adorable, and finally HERE! yayayay what more could a person ask for?
Lauren @ Sassy Molassy says
Awesome! So happy for you guys. Love seeing the pic of all three of you together.
Laura says
Congratulations!!!!!!! Joyful news. 🙂
Diane says
Congratulations Kath & Matt! He is beautiful and so healthy! It must be all that good food! 😉 I’ve had three kids all drug-free and after my first, which took 6+ hours plus pitocin (and no pain medication), I absolutely did NOT want to do it again. My second’s contractions were only 6 minutes apart, which was much more manageable and he came in a little over an hour…so it was doable and I’m so glad I tried drug-free again. My third came in less than 15 minutes and I didn’t even have time to think about it! We’re expecting our fourth right now, and I’m hoping to get to the hospital early!!! 😉 I’m sure you can go drug-free again…the first one is the hardest! Thanks for sharing and enjoy these precious moments with Mazen! Congrats!!!
Alaa says
Congrats Koops! He’s so precious!
Mariska says
Congratulations! What a beautiful baby boy! And what a beautiful name!
Alicia says
Welcome to parenthood Kath and Matt, and welcome to the world Mazen! He is adorable! So happy you were able to hang in there for the drug free birth. Congratulations!!!
Kelly K says
Congratulations! You made it, you warrior! He’s beautiful – seriously, I’m not just saying that! Enjoy what I’m sure is the best rest of your life and getting to know your little guy. 🙂
Katharine says
I think it’s WONDERFUL that you chose an Arabic name for your son! It’s so nice to see people embracing another culture in such a meaningful way. And what a cutie he is too 🙂
Kelli H (Made in Sonoma) says
Congrats on your new family of 3! Soooo excited and happy for you! Also way to go on the natural birth! That’s awesome!
Amanda says
Congratulations! May you have many more reasons to celebrate with and because of Mazen!
Allegra says
Congratulations, Kath and Matt, on your gorgeous family and beautiful Mazen!
Maggie says
Absolutely beautiful baby! Love the name! Labor sounds like mine — back-to-back contractions for many hours on end — and no drugs to help with the pain. Right after my son was born, I announced, “I don’t think I can ever do that again.” Well, fast forward 16 months — I’m pregnant and due in Jan. Planning to do it all over again. So, you really do forget to some extent. But don’t think about any of that yet. Just enjoy your perfect baby boy! Hugs!!
Ellen @ Wannabe Health Nut says
What a cutie! He is precious! Serious props for a drug-free birth. 🙂
kris says
congratulations!!! mazen is absolutely beautiful.
sheryl says
Congratulations – health and happiness to you all! I love the bee blanket!
Nancy S says
CONGRATULATIONS – to you all. Your son is precious!!!
Emily says
So cute! Congrats Kath and Matt! I love the name! I can’t wait to see what nicknames kids at school come up for him!
Rachel S. Gerber says
Congratulations! I am so happy to hear that things went well. Many blessings as you being this journey as a family of 3!
Rebekah says
Congratulations! What a beautiful family…I love those first photos of a new family completely in love!
Anna W. says
Happy Birthday to your beautiful son. Great name, too. So happy you’re healthy and resting.
Jen says
Congrats to you and Matt!!! He is adorable! Sounds like you did amazing mama!! Enjoy your new precious little man! I love his name too!
Annie says
Congrats! He is adorable. You and your husband are certainly loyal to your alma mater! As a Carolina grad however….
KathEats says
Not our alma mater – we went to Davidson! But we’ve got lots of family and romantic connections to it and it’s sentimental to us
Annie says
Oh, Davidson! Even better. I grew up near Davidson & my parents live there now. I tried to get my daughter to consider going there, but it was too close to home for her taste- she’s in CH. 🙂
Enjoy your precious baby!
Jennifer says
Big congratulations to the both of you! He is one gorgeous little boy!!!
Tracy says
Congratulations, Kath & Matt and welcome, baby Mazen! He’s beautiful!
You should be proud of yourself, Kath! Well done.
Kristin says
Congratulations!!! He is adorable! Great name. 🙂
Sarah says
He is beautiful and I love the name! Big congrats to you and Matt 🙂
Becca says
Congratulations to the beautiful family of three and wishing you lots of health and joy!
Elizabeth says
He is the sweetest baby I have ever seen. I’m so happy for all three of you. Great job on a drug free birth!! The name its wonderful! 🙂
Corrie says
Congratulations from a longtime reader. Beautiful boy!
Lisa says
I have been following your blog for a little over a year now and have been checking a bit more frequently to hear of an update. Congratulations!!! So exciting. When you mentioned about making animal sounds, I can totally relate. I had a drug-free birth last time and wow, it was WAY intense. But it’s pretty neat to be able to look back and say you did it all without any meds! Enjoy your baby-moon!
Megan says
Congratulations – he is beautiful!
polly says
what a little muffin. he is gorgeous, Kath! You are all so sweet, and the name Mazen ROCKS. love you!!!!!! big hugs!!!! 🙂 🙂 🙂
Candice says
Yay, congrats to all!! Good job Kath!!!
Grace says
Congrats Kath and Matt!!!!! He is PERFECT and absolutely adorable! Love the name.
Bree says
Congratulations, he is just perfect!
Amanda says
So happy for you. 🙂 What a beautiful baby.
carol says
Congratulations to you Kath for your efforts! Congratulations to Daddy! AND A VERY HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MAZEN.
Liz says
Congrats!!! Love the unique name!
Lisa says
Happy Birthday Mazen! Congratulations to you and your wonderful family!
Courtney says
Congratulations!!! He is beautiful!!
Sarah says
Congratulations!!!!
Do you mean you don’t know if you want to give birth again or I’ve birth again without drugs???
KathEats says
without drugs
KAS says
Interesting! Looking forward to hearing your reflections once you’ve had some rest!
Brittany @ Itty Bits of Balance says
Congratulations! What a sweet face 🙂
Amilja says
Congratulations !!!
Elly says
CONGRATS!!!! He is absolutely adorable! Happy birthday to Mazen!
A Teenage Gourmet (Sami) says
Congratulations, Kath!!!!!!!!!
Cat @ Breakfast to Bed says
Beautiful. Simply beautiful.
Also, that being said, I had my first au naturel, and with #2, I had drugs before I even felt pain begin. It was glorious. BOTH outcomes were glorious, but MAN, I LAUGHED when I pushed with my daughter. LAUGHED!!
Angela says
Tears in my eyes!!!
Congrats guys – I’m so happy for you. He’s such a cutie!
Heather says
Congratulations Kath & Matt! Mazen is beautiful and being a Blue Devils fan (along with a family history, too) I love the name! Wishing you all the best in your new adventure of parenthood!
Katie@Real Food Katie's Way says
Congrats Kath and Matt! I’m SO happy for you both and excited to follow you as you take this next journey in your lives!
Stefanie says
Happy Birthday Mazen Duke! He is a cute little baby. Congratulations! 😀
Lauren @ Lawfully Wedded Wife says
What a beautiful boy! Congrats!!!!
Lia says
Happy birthday, baby Mazen! Now the real adventures begin. Congrats!!
Jen says
Congratulations! So exciting! Love the name. Just curious…..do you use yours and Matts last name?
KathEats says
we’re hyphenating…Younger-Monson
Alycia says
Congrats and best wishes! My heart is so happy for you!!
Jessica says
Congrats, Kath! I started reading your blog about seven months ago and it has been great reading about your pregnancy journey.
Becky White says
Happy tears for you!! He’s so precious 🙂
Rachel says
Congrats! He is beautiful!
Tara P. says
Yay, he’s here – was checking Twitter half the night like a crazed fan! ;D And I LOVE his name! Naturally, you guys have great taste. Congratulations and warmest wishes, Kath and Matt!! So excited for you both. And welcome to the world beautiful baby boy Mazen Duke!! 🙂
maria says
Congratulations! He is beautiful — may there be many joyful moments with Mazen.
kim@hungryhealthygirl says
So happy for you! He is absolutely precious!!
Katrina says
Congratulations! Glad it all went well!
Lillian says
OH MY GOODNESS CONGRATULATIONS!
Anna Portman says
CONGRATS Kath & Matt! He’s beautiful and I love his name. Such a good day to be born, too! Today is my husband’s birthday. And if I remember correctly, Matt shares a birthday with ME. (January 14th) I’m glad everything went well and baby boy is healthy!!
Melissa says
Mazel tov!!
Janet says
You must be so elated! Somehow you just manage to get through with so little sleep- it’s amazing, isn’t it? Congrats!
Melissa says
Congrats Kath and happy birthday, Mazen! What a great name!!
Cathy says
Kath and Matt thank you for sharing your good news with all of us. Mazen is adorable. 😉
Brit says
Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 😀
~Christy @ wonderofallthings says
I knew it would be SOON! 😉 Congratulations one and all. Sending you many blessings from Minnesota!!
Sarah says
Ahh, congrats! He’s beautiful!
Tammy says
Congrats, he is so precious!
Brittney says
Congratulations Kath and Matt! Can’t wait to see and hear more about it all!
jk says
What a beautiful little boy!!!
Congratulations to a fine young family…and all of the grandparents as well.
Kate says
Happy Baby Day! He is gorgeous. Congratulations!
Laura @ She Eats Well says
Congratulations a million times! He is precious. Hope you get lots of rest, as much as you can at least. And enjoy the time with your lovely family.
Paula says
Congratulations! He is beautiful!
j3nn says
Congrats, Kath and Matt!! He is absolutely beautiful. The very first instant I saw him I thought, “OMG, he looks like Karen!” That’s so awesome. I’m so, so, SO happy for you guys! Enjoy your sweet baby. 😀
j3nn says
PS. I love the name! That is absolutely awesome! Good choice. 🙂
Michelle W. says
Congratulations! Today is my birthday, too! And my own baby girl is 8 weeks old today! Happy day!
Elaine Glynn says
Congratulations on the birth of your beautiful baby son. Wishing you and your family a lifetime of happiness x
Kimberly says
So precious! Congrats to you & Matt!
Tina says
Congrats! He’s beautiful! I’m a little partial to his name…my grandfather (originally from Lebanon) was named Mazen! Haven’t ever heard it elsewhere.
Wendy says
My grandfather is also Lebanese and had a brother named Mazen! I’m very surprised to see it here though. Did you guys realize it was Arabic? Is Matt’s family Arabic?
KathEats says
We made it up, but it’s cool that it has an Arabic heritage too
Candice says
Kath, I love the name actually, but you shouldn’t say that you “made it up” if it already exists.
KathEats says
Well it’s the truth of the story. We did make it up. We googled it when we were considering it for the baby to find that it has Arabic roots, which is cool. We like it for many reasons.
Candice says
Okay, I see what you mean. I look forward to hearing more in your post on BERF. Congratulations, btw!
Mom says
Love the grandpas named Mazen!
Laura @ My Pink Thumb says
Congratulations!!! 🙂
Ashley says
Beautiful!!! Congrats!!
kristin says
Hope you get some rest and enjoy all of those brand new moments, new family of 3!! Congrats, Kath & Matt & Happy Birthday, Mazen Duke! Great name for your beautiful boy 🙂 Best wishes <3
Melissa says
Good job guys! So glad you are done! Doesn’t it feel good to be done! Love seeing your new family – it captures the amazingness of it all! Thanks for sharing! 🙂
Audrey says
Congratulations! He’s beautiful!
Amy says
Wow, you are amazing! Congratulations on your new beautiful family. I have loved following you on this journey:)
Katie says
Congratulations Kath and Matt, and Happy Birthday Mazen! I haven’t commented on any of your posts before, but I found you a few months ago when my husband and I decided to become heathlier. Following both KERF and BERF has been amazing. Thank you for sharing your story, and I can’t wait to watch this new chapter in your lives!
Amelia says
Welcome, little Maze!!!!! Way to go, Kath, Matt, and Jen!! Big hugs to you all from me and Lucy! xoxoxo
Rach says
He’s a cutie. Congratulations!
Sara says
What a special gift he is. So glad mom, dad, and of course, little baby are doing well! Congrats Kath!
Alice says
I am so happy for you! I’ve been reading your blog for a couple of years now.
And love it! You are a wonderful woman and are going to be an incredible mother
X x x x
Erica says
You’re absolutely astounding! Such a beautiful little family, I’m so happy for you!
There is no doubt in my mind that you will be an incredible mother and that Matt will be an amazing father. Maze is too precious for words! I’m smiling ear-to-ear for you right now!!! 😀
Suzanne says
Congratulations! He’s beautiful! I’m glad you were able to have the birth you wanted!
Meghann says
He is GORGEOUS!!! Congrats, Mama!!!
Angela @ Eat Spin Run Repeat says
Congratulations Kath!! I’m so glad everything went well – he is gorgeous! Mazen was a pretty common name when I lived in the Middle East amongst my Arab schoolmates but yours is the first North American Mazen I’ve ‘met’! Congrats to all of you!
Klemen Muhi? says
I’m visiting your blog daily and this has to be one of the most beautiful post up to date! Congratulations!
Priscilla McInnis says
Congratulations, what a beautiful baby. Thanks for sharing, it has been fun watching your family grow! Take care!
Jennifer says
Congratulations to you and Matt! Mazen is beautiful!!! I think he looks just like you in the very first picture.
I LOVE his name! So unique and masculine.
The last picture of Matt holding him looks just like the starting picture of when you were holding the loaf of bread to announce you were pregnant. 🙂
Enjoy this time right now with Mazen. I’m so happy that everything went well and he’s here. 🙂
Lauryn says
Congrats Kath!!!!! He is PRECIOUS!!!!!!!
Rebekah says
The sign that says INFANT DEATH above Mazen’s head in the first photo is kind of creeping me out! But regardless, he is super adorable. Blessings to you and your new babe!
KathEats says
It’s a SIDS warning
Meg says
Congrats!!
Luna665 says
Congratulations to you and Matt, Mazen is adorable!Great job Kath 😉
Kim says
Congrats! Love the name 🙂
Emily J says
How incredible! I’m so happy you’re all safe and well. I love his name!
Kate says
Congratulations! He is gorgeous. Love the name!
donna says
He is adorable! I am so thankful he arrived in good health. The two of you look so happy!
You’re not going to believe this, but I woke up at about 3:15 this morning and was wide awake. Then I remembered you were in labor, so I went into the bathroom, checked for a Twitter update on my iphone, and I knew he was almost here. I was so excited that I could not go back to sleep! I just had a feeling he was about to enter this world.
Happy birthday, little guy!
KathEats says
So cool! My dad woke up at that time too!
YLindsay R. says
CongratuLations!!!
Ashley says
On my goodness!! What a handsome child!
Congratulations Kath and Matt!! 🙂
Jen Ross says
Oh yay!!!! Congratulations, Mama, he’s beautiful!
Eileen says
Congratulations! Happy birthday, Mazen!
Fran@ Broken Cookies Don't Count says
How beautiful he is!!! Where did you come up with his name! Best of luck to you all!
Ulya says
Congratulations Kath and Matt! Such an adorable baby with an adorable name!!
Stefanie says
Congratulations!!
Lindsey says
Congrats! What a beautiful, healthy little boy! Love the name, so unique. Can’t wait to read the birth story!
Randy says
Congratulations Kath and Matt on your new addition; what a cutie!
Silvia @ skinny jeans food says
Congratulations! He is so sweet and looks just like you 🙂
elizabeth @ the kitchen counsel says
congratulations to you and Matt! Mazen is absolutely adorable! can’t wait to hear about all of y’all’s new adventures!
K says
I’m not the only one who started crying while reading this right? So, so happy!:) Congratulations Kath, Matt, all the Monsons, Youngers, and family! Happy Birthday Mazen!
Karen says
What a sweetheart you’ve brought into the world. Congratulations. I was up several times in the night checking Twitter, so I knew it was imminent…but that you were OK…so I could fall back asleep !
Ashley says
CONGRATS!!!! 🙂 He is beautiful!
Christine says
Amazing 🙂 Congratulations! September birthdays are the best.
Perfectly says
I’m happy as if I know you all! Congrats and thanks for sharing your journey.
clair says
Huge congratulations to the beautiful family 🙂
Mariah says
Congratulations to you both!! He is a beautiful baby and I love the name – very original! So happy he is finally here!
Ella says
Congrats Kath! Beautiful name, Beautiful baby 🙂
mollie says
the raisin- haha, love it!! especially for a wrinkly bebe 😉 congrats!! hope you guys have had your celebratory beer by now!
Alison says
CONGRATULATIONS! Mazen looks so healthy and adorable! God bless you all and can’t wait to see all your adventures with him! 🙂
Jessie says
Aww! Welcome to the world, little Mazen Y-M!
Jess @ JessieBear What Will You Wear says
so happy for you Kath!! congrats
TeenyLittleSuperChef says
Kath, you are a bad a**! Congratulations on your beautiful baby boy and on becoming a new mama! Welcome to the club! I wish you and your new family all the best and I can’t wait to see more pictures of your little guy 🙂
Stephanie @ LiveCookLove says
CONGRATS! He is absolutely precious! And how awesome you gave birth sans drugs!!!
Hayley @ Oat Couture says
Congratulations to the both of you! He is absolutely adorable!! You did good girl! 😉
Emma says
Your baby is crazy beautiful. Congratulations. I’m glad everyone came through in good health!
Karen says
The phrase “mazel tov” sprang to mind immediately when you shared the name – which as you might know in hebrew and in the Jewish religion is used most commonly when good fortune has occurred. Just wanted to offer another positive association with the beautiful name you have chosen.
Rest up, mom and pop! 🙂
erica says
congratulations! love the name! 🙂
Kim says
Congrats you guys! Or should I say “Mabrouk!” which is congrats in arabic! So wonderful to see that you guys chose an arabic name! He is a cutie! Which one of you went to Duke? That was always one of my top schools!
KathEats says
We met with Duke as a conversation starter and were married there
Kim says
That’s too sweet! 🙂
Ellie@Fit for the Soul says
eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeek!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! congratulations guys!! awww I can’t believe he’s here now! haha it’s so amazing and such a beautiful part of life~he is so cute, and I think he has your nose Kath! teeeheee.
And I give you kudos for even having strength to type! IT seems like such a traumatic experience in some ways, lol–but like you said, all the pain is masked by the joy 😀
robyn says
Congrats to you both! Love his name, and maze as a nickname is too cute!,
Greg says
Precious.
Ariel says
What a smile! Wishing you all the best in health
TeresaM says
Congrats! He’s adorable!!
Stephanie says
Soooo cute! Love those cheeks!!! Nice job momma!!!
Laura in Pittsburgh says
What a handsome baby! Great name too Kath! Congratulations!
Mel says
That is one seriously cute kid. Cheers to you both – now go have a pumpkin beer, stat.
Michaela says
Many congrats!!!!!
You must be over the moon 🙂
He looks so sweet and I LOVE the name!! Couldn´t wait for you to announce it 🙂
Megan says
Congrats! Glad you were able to have the birth you wanted!
susan says
Congratulations, Kath and Matt!!!
Jessica says
He’s perfect! So happy for you and your family. 🙂
Cait says
congrats. he is precious. hope mama is doing well 🙂
Lindsay says
Congratulations Kath+Matt+Mazen!
Nicole says
Congratulations! What a little sweetheart.
Lindsey H. says
Congratulations Kath and Matt! He is beautiful!
Katie @ A Full Plate says
He is absolutely precious. Congrats to you and Matt! It’s been wonderful following your journey. And good for you for being able to go through it drug-free. I am far from having children, but when I do I really don’t think I’d ever be able to do that with my lack of pain tolerance!
Alex says
So excited for you! Congrats 🙂
Ashley C. says
Wow Kath, huge congrats to you and your family! It brings a tear to my eye. The first time I stumbled across your blog was right after your wedding- so I have felt like I have been there to watch you guys progress along life. What a fun new chapter!
Katie says
I definitely appreciate this honest account of what the labor process can be like. Usually I can’t picture/comprehend what women are describing when they try to explain how labor feels – but I think this is the first time I’m actually getting it. Sounds PRETTAY, PRETTAAAAY bad! I’m due in about 9 weeks and am glad to be able to prepare for what I might have coming (halp).
But, congratulations on your baby, and the fact that the worst pains are over! Speedy recovery.
Carly says
Congratulations Kath and Matt! He is beautiful!
Shannon says
CONGRATS!! He is perfect! Mine are 6 &4 and I just want to tell you, you can never take enough pictures!! Record it all, ever perfect, wonderful moment of it! XoXo
Sarah says
Welcome to parenthood, friend! He’s just perfect. <3
Emily says
Oh my gosh!!! Congratulations – I’ve been thinking of you guys all day. Props to you lady, for a drug free birth – I didn’t even attempt to do it – I can’t imagine the pain. You are amazing!! I absolutely cannot wait to hear more about it all, isn’t it wonderful? Right now you are probably feeling all sorts of crazy emotions, but I thought it was all worth it 😉
Milo says
Oh so happy for y’all!! He was born on my birthday:) He is so beautiful! Wow! Congratulations to the both of you. Love it!
Lauren @ Educated Mind, Healthy Body says
Congratulations!!! Such a cutie pie and such a unique name!
Jessica T. says
Congratulations! I am so glad that the birth went well and everyone is healthy and happy. Mazen is an absolutely beautiful baby 🙂 I was surprised to see that you chose a traditionally Arabic name, but it is a beautiful name nonetheless. Also, I have to say, I recently had a drug-free birth with my first son and, like you, I’m not sure if I’ll ever do it again (drug-free)!! It was an amazing experience but extremely intense and one I’m a little bit scared to repeat. Best wishes for a speedy recovery, and keep the pictures coming!!
Kathy W. says
Gorgeous boy!!!
Just think about what you did–you should be so proud of yourself, you strong woman you!
Hope you get some sleep today, and congratulations to you and Matt on your sweet son!
Kathy W. says
p.s. I stayed up last night until Matt tweeted the smiley 🙂
Erin says
Congratulations!! What a blessing! What an adorable name! and what an amazing thing to go drug-free! you have inspired me that i can do the same in March!
Grace @ Grace Dishes says
Congratulations! He is beautiful!
Maryea @ Happy Healthy Mama says
Congratulations!! He is gorgeous.
Jamie says
So cute! Love his little face, and what a lovely Arabic name you’ve chosen. Love his middle name, too–my little sis is one of your fellow Duke grads! Enjoy your baby. 🙂
McLean says
CONGRATULATIONS! Also, LOVE the name 🙂
Alicia says
Congratulations!!
Julie says
Congrats to you Kath. Enjoy it all. Much happiness and health to your growing family.
Erin says
I don’t even know you in real life, but I’m so happy for you and wish you the best during this time of adjustment to”the new normal”. It’s not all puppies and rainbows (i have three myself) but it is worth it. Accept help, rest (LOTS) and just enjoy. There is something so special about the newness of a baby. You’ll do great 🙂 Congrats to both you and Matt
Charlotte says
Kath! So exciting!!!! Congratulations to you and Matt!
Anne says
Great work! You rock, Mom! Congratulations to the whole family…..:)
Cecile on the road says
Congratulations from Paris, France… You’re son is absolutely perfect 🙂
Cecile, french reader of your blog !
kathy says
So happy for you and your family 🙂 He is a beautiful baby! Did you ever know you had so much love in you?! Motherhood is incredible.
robin says
WOW, WOW ,WOW hes here, welcome to the best club in the world, best wishes with that sweet sweet boy of yours:)
Tara says
Congratulations!!! I’m so happy for you and your family, and I’m also happy that you got the birth you wanted. Although, now you have me second-guessing my ability to go natural… without a doula… hmm…
April says
Congratulations! He is precious!!
Katelyn says
Congratulations! I have been following you for some time now and am thrilled to finally see your baby boy! He is beautiful, it makes me so excited to start having babies of my own! Blessings on your family!
Katina says
Precious . . . just precious.
Kara says
HOORAY!! Congratulations!!! He’s gorgeous!!! Can’t wait to meet him!!
Laura says
Beautiful! Congratulations! 🙂 Did you do a double-take when you saw that Guiliana Rancic (if you saw that Guiliana Rancic!) from E! used Duke as a middle name for her son last week too?
Jaspreet says
Mabrook! Mazen is a beautiful name. One of my good friends in Abu Dhabi, where I was raised, is named Mazen. 🙂
Jessica says
Congrats! It’s so nice to see people open to other cultures. Arabic is such a beautiful language!
Anna says
So, so happy for you and Matt! Congratulations! He is precious and already very handsome! Best wishes in recovering and starting this new chapter. I look forward to the coming posts and pictures.
Cindy says
Congrats to all three of you 🙂 he is beautiful!! Enjoy every moment!
Jeanie says
Congratulations. He is a handsome fellow, and Matt looks like the cat that swallowed the canary — very proud papa. I’m glad everything went well.
PAM says
Congratulations on the baby.
Sara says
Oh, congratulations, Kath! Precious, precious child. Sending all the best thoughts.
Kelly says
Congratulations to both you and Matt!
You did it! Yay! Forward and onward to next chapter… 🙂
Kate says
Congrats! LOVE his name — amazing work on the drug-free birth!!! I must admit, I wanted the drugs (bigtime) but was unable to get them b/c I went too quickly. haha…so I totally feel your pain, but find it amazing that you did it on you own when you had the choice. I know I would have got the drugs if I could….so great work!!!
Danielle says
Congratulations!!! He is adorable. Love his name!
Maria says
Congratulations Kath & Matt: I wish you three the best 🙂
chris says
What a beautiful baby boy! And I love the name…and sleep when you can. Take advantage of grandmothers (and grandfathers too 🙂 Can’t wait to meet him!
Kelly says
PS. How funny that the middle name Duke, I was betting on Davidson! I thought that would be a cute middle name but I like Duke too! Sidenote: Julianna Rancic (from the E network) just middle named her little boy Duke, though probably not because of the college.
Gina G says
Congratulations Kath and Matt!!! SO happy for you two!! 🙂
Emily says
Congratulations to everyone, he’s adorbs and I hope you guys are getting some sleep. And weirdly, right before I clicked over to this blog for an update I was reading an article in Foreign Policy (I study international relations) by an Egyptian professor named Mazen! Internet magic.
Wendy says
So happy for you! Congrats, he is precious!
Jonathan Blank says
Mazen is adorable. I am so happy for you and Matt. Everyone on the Health. Join In. team is so happy for you both.
kyla says
Congrats!! What a happy, beautiful baby!
Leslie says
Congratulations, hes beautiful!!
Lousi says
Congratulations! All the best. He’s just beautiful.
Kim says
Happy Birthday Mazen! 🙂 CONGRATULATIONS Kath & Matt! (from a reader of your blog since 2010 in Minnesota)
Sarah (The Simple Dietitian) says
Oh, he is just so incredibly sweet! I am so happy for the both of you. Mazen is going to have a terrific, loving home, and this post just makes me so smiley. 😀
I hope you are able to get some much needed rest!!
Clare says
He is adorable Kath, biggest congrats to you both! And I LOVE the name 😉
Vicky says
Congrats!!!! Welcome Maze to the world!
Sara R. says
Congratulations! What a cute baby, and I love the picture of all three of you! I had my first without drugs and I remember thinking something similar afterwards…”There! I did it! Now I never need to do it that way again!” 🙂
So glad you got to birth the way you wanted and that he’s breastfeeding well! Enjoy your first crazy days as a new family!
Stacy @ Say It With Sprinkles says
Congratulations, Kath! And happy birthday to little Mazen!
Noga from San Francisco says
Congrats! I am so happy for you. Since I am also pregnant, I can’t wait to read more about your birth experience and if you are happy with your choices (particularly the no drugs one…).
Your name choice is so original! I think it’s a bit silly that people think you named your child after the Palestinian president… I am going to guess you had no intention to make a political statement with your child’s name.
Best of luck to you all!
Heather says
Congrats Kath!
Heather says
Congrats to you and Matt on the birth of Mazen! I had been waiting for days to see this post and was so happy to read it. All the best 🙂
Angie Neeley says
So happy for you all! You are blessed.
Simply Life says
CONGRATULATIONS!!! What a beautiful post and beautiful family!
Kee Kee says
Congrats Congrats Congrats!!! I am really happy for you and your family. Rest well. You did a good job. 🙂
Anna Resman says
CONGRATS!!! You are going to be a rockstar mom.
Christena says
I’m so happy for you & Matt. Mazen is so cute and has an awesome name! I love it – especially the nickname “Maze.” Between your Twitter feed & blog updates, it has been a happy day for me (vicariously) keeping up with you guys!!
M says
Mazel Tov!!!
Susan says
I’ve always thought it is such a powerful miracle that a woman can deliver a new life into this world. It is such an amazing feat. You did it Kath! Congratulations to you and Matt on your handsome little fellow.
Ky G says
Oh my so sweet! Congratulations!
Rosemary and Phyllis says
Congratulations to all three of you from Rosemary and Phyllis, your new blogging friends at Real Health. Boys rock – between us, we’ve got 3 sons, 9 grandsons and even one great-grandson. Today is the beginning of a wonderful – and fun – chapter in your family life so enjoy all the special moments. And get as much rest as you can – you’ll need it!
Chelsea @ One Healthy Munchkin says
Congrats you guys! He’s so adorable! 🙂
Liz @ Tip Top Shape says
He is absolutely beautiful!! Congratulations to both you and Matt 😀
Dee says
Congratulations to you and Matt!! Mazen is adorable!! It has been great following your pregnancy and I was so excited to see your new baby boy!! All the best to you guys 🙂
Tameeka says
Congratulations on his safe arrival! He is a cutie and I must admit that your twitter feed was my entertainment for the day (in Australia!) as i am sure it was for many others hehe! Enjoy your first shower and this special time and pray for a quick and smooth recovery for you Kath.
🙂
Priscilla says
YAY!!! So, so glad for you guys. Can’t stop smiling now 😀 Hope you get enough rest!!!
Suzanne C. says
Congrats! He shares my birthday, though I was actually born on labor day 😉 It is great to have your birthday near a 3 day weekend! Hope you can get some rest!
Angela G. says
Oh Kath, he is absolutely beautiful! Congrats to you and Matt and thanks for sharing your birth story, I enjoyed it. Happy Birthday Mazen! So very happy for you and your sweet little family! 🙂
amandarunsny says
congrats!
Julie says
What a handsome, healthy baby boy. Congrats to you and your new family of 3! I love Mazen’s name… it’s one I’ve never heard before! Its been fun to follow your pregnancy along on BERF (and KERF, too!). Congratulations, again!
Maria Carolina says
OMG!!!!!!!! That is so freaking exciting!!!!! He’s ADORABLE!! You and Matt are gonna be great parents! Good luck and congrats!
Robin Calitri says
Happy birthday, Mazen! And congratulations, Kath, on the hardest and most beautiful work ever. Your descriptn of birthing is so honest and real. I’m thankful for that. I’ve been checking your site like crazy, and got so busy at work today that I only just now saw the news! HE IS BEAUTIFUL, and so are you. I am so happy for you and Matt– and for your son as he is so blessed to have you as parents. Thank you for sharing a beautiful pregnancy blog as well. Enjoy your new family and be happy always. You are a special woman.
caronae says
Congratulations! What a beautiful, calm, sweet looking baby with a beautiful name. I am sure you are all bursting with joy!
Alison says
Congratulations! Get a lot of sleep and I’ll have a beer for you tonight!
Kirby says
CONGRATS! So happy for you and your family.
Fatima says
Happy Birthday Mazen! Congratulations to you and matt, he is a just adorable 🙂
Jenn says
How exciting for you & your family. Congratulations. Mazen is adorable and love his name!
Jane says
What an absolutely adorable baby — congratulations!!! The son of a celebrity blogger deserves an unusual, original celebrity-type name!
Maria @ Sinfully Nutritious says
Congrats on Mazen and your bravery! God Bless your family. I love the name, you are amazen! Congrats again!
NurseJulie says
Beautiful boy! Congrats!
Cally says
Congratulations Kath and Matt!
lauren @ the talking kitchen says
Awesome name! He is beautiful! Congrats to you and Matt!
Christine says
You will have a million comments and not sure if you will make it to mine, but I’ll add to the rest in saying my utmost congratulations! What a beautiful baby, and cool name. Get some rest (in the next 15 years!).
Yay!
Kate says
My daughter’s name is Maizey! Nickname…Maze! Great name….
Lynne says
Congratulations! What an awesome name 😉 So glad all are happy and well!!!
Ellie says
Congratulations! What a cute baby! Regarding the name – did you consider using a nickname for the blog? I have to say did wonder at first as I thought it sounded unusual, but I see it’s actually an existing name. The Duke connection is really nice too!
Kate says
The baby’s so cute…congrats and all, but I for one am dying to know what you ATE today and yesterday. Please keep us in the loop!!!!
Hope says
I don’t have a twitter account so I can’t comment there but I just need to say how beautiful you look! It does not look like you gave birth just hours ago! Matt certainly is a lucky dude. 🙂
Deborah says
Huge congrats to the whole big family! Enjoy all these precious moments. The store was in one piece today… kinda! No really, do the family thing and come on back eventually.
xo
Bridget Johnson says
Congratulations to a fellow Duke alum! He is a sweetie!
Peace says
He’s beautiful. I am a wall flower follower but wanted you to know I am so happy for you and your husband. Many blessings!!! Welcome home little one.
Anele @ Success Along the Weigh says
He is absolutely adorable! Congrats to you both and Happy Birthday Mazen!
Alina @ Keep Smiling and Love Life says
I am so happy for you Kath! I hope you are well and can’t wait to hear from you soon<3 God bless!
lynn @ the actor's diet says
Mazen – what a wonderful name! I’m so impressed you’re still blogging, but then again, I was blogging through my father’s funeral…life, death, keep it going and sharing! Congrats to you and Matt and the rest of your family. xoxox
Leila @ Spinach and Skittles says
Oh my Kath, congrats! I was anxiously checking twitter all night for updates! Love the name! 🙂
Karen H says
Congratulations! I’m so happy for you. Enjoy this special time!
Kerry says
Congratulations! I’m so happy for both of you! Mazen is absolutely beautiful, and I love his name too!
Sahira says
Congratulations!!! I have been peeping in on your blog daily to see if any updates and when I saw this post I got chills. He is beautiful and such a cute name!
Amanda Plyler says
OMG! So happy for you:)
Mom says
My first grandma official grandma report: Mazen is precious!
Janna says
Yay Grandma (or whatever nickname you’ve chosen)!!
Katherine says
Congratulations! Mazen is adorable. Thanks for letting me stop by today! Looking forward to snuggling that little man soon. 🙂
Marissa@ohhhsolovely says
he is a precious little boy! congrats to you and matt & i’m so happy you were able to have the drug free birth you hoped for! get some rest, if ya can!
Kristen @ The Balanced Bowl says
Congratulations!!!! What a perfect little boy with a beautiful name to match his beautiful face. Wishing you all the very best. Can’t wait to see more photos. 🙂
susan says
Awwwww – Congrats to all of you! Yes, nothing like holding your brand new baby to help get over the labor/delivery! Get lots of rest! You and Matt look tired. A new journey and happy for you!
Nancy says
He is just beautiful – congratulations mom and dad! You did it! Now starts the really fun rollercoaster 🙂 I woke up at 3:39 this morning and had to check twitter to see what progress you made overnight! I’m in awe of your accomplishment of creating the birth experience you wanted. Can’t wait to read more about it and follow you virtually as little Mazen grows up!
Karlee says
congrats!! love the unique name, enjoy!
Shana says
Congratulations to a beautiful family! Thank you for sharing your journey with us!
Rachel Farge-Mills says
Wow, so happy baby Mazen is here, healthy and adorable. I am so happy you made it safely through labor. I remember being so happy to finally have my baby out and in the world. Mazen is so adorable in the pictures. My son is 18 mo now, but reading your blog brings back memories. I am also glad nursing is going well so far for you, that can be tricky for some babies at first.
Take care of yourself and try to get some rest. You are an amazing person and mama now. Welcome to the new mom club, it is amazing. You are inspiring.
SkinnyRunner says
congratulations!! i love that name that you guys chose, adorable.
and i am in awe of any woman who goes through labor. omg.
Sarah B says
Congratulations 🙂
Alyssa says
Congratulations Kath and Matt! Mazen is absolutely precious! I am a long time KERF reader but have never commented and wanted to take this special day to say hello and CONGRATULATIONS! Best wishes as you begin your life as a family of three!
Kate says
Congrats! Welcome to the world Mazen Duke! You are one lucky boy!
Brittany says
I’m so happy your little guy is here.
Congrats to you and Matt. He’s perfect!
Mandi says
Congratulations!
Wendy Foo says
Congrats! Maze is so handsome and you’re going to be an inspiring mom. All the best wishes to you!
Marcia says
I just want to say congrats. I’ve been going back and reading your babyKERF updates, and I want to commend you on deciding to not circ your son. I personally feel it is inhumane.
Seriously most European men aren’t circumcised, leave the little boys alone!
I have two noncircd boys, including one 2 month old infant.
Jo Williams says
Congratulations beautiful family! Glad to meet Mazen!
Tammy says
Congratulations, Kath! It is such an exciting, beautiful time. He is precious.
Amy says
Just wanted to say, you still have that motherly glow even after the fact. You guys look so excited and so blissfully happy. He’s precious. Congratulations to your whole family!
jamie says
Hi Kath,
I just wanted to say congratulations! I am a long time reader of your blog (and fellow RD) but have never commented. Mazen is beautiful (love the name!)- so happy for your family and glad that everyone is doing well. Enjoy every minute!
Sarah says
Congratulations!! He is so beautiful! I’m so happy for you both!
sarah says
Wow. Wow. Wow. What a beautiful boy. And such a lucky guy to be born to two such amazing parents.
Jonna Green says
Congratulations to all of you!
Tammy says
Absolutely beautiful!! Congratulations for you and your whole family.
brandee says
congratulations! so excited for you guys. enjoy your time as a new family!
Tina says
Congratulations! I kept thinking of you, and hoping it went well.
KathyZS says
Congratulations!! Sleep, nurse, change pants, repeat and most of all, bask in the MIRACLE of a baby. I was always in such awe of the miracle of a baby!!!
Now your story truly begins!!!
karyn says
Genius name! Love it. Congrats.
Morgan says
Congratulations, Kath and Matt! Mazen is beautiful. I’m so happy for all three of you!
ClaireroseC says
Yay!!!! Congrats and God bless:-)
Katie Mc says
Congratulations !!!! He is beautiful. You have a beautiful family and I wish you all the best. You and Matt will be great parents!
Zijill says
Congratulations to you and your family! Welcome to this world little one!
Fran says
Congratulations to you and Matt! Mazen is adorable. I have been enjoying your blog for many months now, but have never commented before. I was so excited to find out that Mazen was born on September 7. That is my birthday, too. And if he would have been born on August 31 that would have been neat, too. August 31 was my parents’ anniversary. Anyway, congratulations again, and have fun with your husband and new son!
Laura (Blogging Over Thyme) says
Congrats Kath and Matt! I just got off from work about an hour ago, and the first thing I did was check your website on my iPhone and lo and behold, he had arrived! So impressed that you got this post up so quick 🙂 But glad, because now we can all see Mazen for ourselves. Yay!
Carly @ Snack Therapy says
He is SO beautiful. Congratulations to you both.
Julia says
CONGRATULATIONS, KATH! You make the most beautiful family. I’m so happy to be able to witness this wonderful event via your blog, all the best!
RR says
Mabrouk le teflick el jdeed!
Congrats on a gorgeous baby boy!
.
Jun says
Firstly, congratulations- such a delightful news! Secondly, what a unique name- what brings you to come up with Mazen? Thirdly, did he came to the world earlier than you expected?
barrett says
congrats kerf!!!
Zoe @ loseweightandgainhealth says
Yippee, he’s here 🙂 CONGRATULATIONS from England to you all. Welcome to the world Mazen and welcome to the wonderful and amazing world or parenthood Kath and Matt
Rachel says
What a beautiful boy, congratulations to you both!
Rosa says
Oh my gosh he looks so super cute!!!
Congrats to ur wonderful boy. And all my respect for giving drug-free birth.
I am so happy for the three of u!
Love from Germany!
Robin says
Congratulations! What a beautiful baby!
Serena says
Congratulations Kath & Matt; what a little smasher he is! 🙂 xxx
Lynda says
Congratulations!!! The pictures are beautiful and the love you share shines through. Welcome to the world Mazen. How lucky you are to have such wonderful parents:)
Amy says
Dear Kath, Matt, and Mazen,
I am a long time reader, but not commenter, and I have been following your wonderful pregnancy journey from the first announcement. Congratulations to you all, and welcome to the KERF family little Mazen.
This is just the start of a whole new chapter in your life as a family.
🙂 Amy
Karen says
Congratulations! He is absolutely beautiful. 🙂 And how cool that you chose an Arabic name for your son.
cathy@1970kikiproject says
what wonderful news! all the best to you all, now and in the future.
Dannii @ Hungry Healthy Happy says
Congratulations! I love the name too 🙂
Pam says
Congrats!!! What a beautiful little boy 🙂
You are incredible for having a drug free birth, I don’t know if I am capable of the same, but will certainly try when the time comes.
Thank you for sharing and hope you can get some rest now and head home soon.
So happy for you and your family!!
Robyn says
Best wishes on the new addition to your family! Peace, happiness and health!
Kayla says
SO incredibly happy for you guys!! i am in utter shock that you gave birth drug-free! huge, huge, huge props to you!! can’t wait to follow this little guys journey with you both! 🙂
Christina says
Oh, no! It looks like my congratulatory comment was deleted.
Congratulations! My husband and I just named our youngest Mazen. It’s a beautiful, traditional, popular name in the Middle East. Is Matt part Middle Eastern?
Kerry M. says
So happy for you Mama!
Amy says
Congratulations!!!! Children are one of the best blessing from God. One word of advice, they grow up fast, so enjoy ever little moment.
Danica @ It's Progression says
Congratulations!!! He’s so handsome. Happy Birthday, Mazen!
Ma Fea says
Much happiness to you all. Life will never be the same, in all the best ways.
Robin says
I looked over the photos again and again! So happy for all of you…babies are such a blessing! Enjoy every moment of this special time! Congratulations!
Kay says
Beautiful baby! And such a distinguished, substantial sounding name. Love the whole ring (you know what I mean) of it. Congratulations!
Katie says
He looks like your grandmother!!
Spice Chicken says
Welcome, baby! Reading about your pregnancy and preparation for childbirth has made me think more than once, “She’s getting ready for the Ironman.” It sounds like all that training paid off. Good for you!
Jenica says
Amazing! Congratulations! He is so so beautiful.
My mom had natural child births for all three of us. When I was little I asked her if it hurt and she said no, she was too happy to feel pain. When I reminded her of that as an adult, she said “Are you kidding? It hurt like hell.” Good for you for being able to go through it!
Rosie says
Just beautiful! So happy for you both!
Barb @ FL Mom's Blog says
Congrats, Kath and Matt! Happy birthday, Mazen!
Chelsea says
Congrats!!!! Good job mama!! Try to rest, I know it’s hard but you need it! 🙂
Anna says
Congrats on the safe arrival of your precious baby boy! Even though I’m not expecting or a mother (hopefully will be one day), I have enjoyed reading about your experiences from KERF and BERF. Thanks for being so open and honest! Blessings to you and your family! -Anna
Cacmuffin says
He is sooo adorable! Congrats so happy for you guys!
Sarah Louise says
So, so happy for you guys!!! Congratulations! I am 33 weeks pregnant and it seems like everyone is having babies right now, and I am having so much fun reading all the stories! I am hoping for a drug-free birth too, but I will be using self-hypnosis (Hypnobabies) to help me through all the rough stuff.
jessica kiehn says
HOORAY! I have been checking and checking to see when the little guy made his big debut. I don’t know you in real life, but I am SO PROUD of you for doing it all-natural. I just had our second 5 weeks ago at home, with obviously no drugs, and you are right…it is excruciatingly painful. But guess what? You really forget about it. For like a week, I felt like I had seen war and I was still in shock because of the pain. I had our first with pitocin and epidural, the whole works. We chose to do all natural with the second and let me tell you…doing it naturally makes the recovery A THOUSAND TIMES better! You will feel amazing in no time. Like – a few days. It’s so awesome. Be sure and take lots and lots of Arnica, I swear that’s what helped my recovery be so speedy.
He’s perfect! You did it!!!!
[email protected]
jessica kiehn says
oh, I guess I should clarify. Homeopathic arnica that you put under your tongue, not a topical cream. Or you could get Birth Heal, which is loaded with arnica. Either way, happy healing!
Alison says
Congratulations!!!
Stepha says
Congrats to you both. What a beautiful baby, I love the name as well 🙂
Grace (My Spare Oom) says
Congratulations, Kath and Matt!!!!!!! He is so beautiful!! Happy happy day. 🙂
Laura says
I didn’t know you were married at Duke (saw your response to a comment above). That’s so cool! I am an undergrad at Duke and would love to see some photos! Did you ever do a wedding recap?
Laura says
Also congratulations and best wishes 🙂
KathEats says
Yes, we had our reception at the Duke Gardens. Here’s a post with wedding recaps: https://www.katheats.com/love-over-food
Katie Garth says
Oh, fun! After following your progress, it turned out that our little guys arrived on the same day! Hello, sweet Mazen!! Our little buddy (Isaac) didn’t roll in until 11:57….just barely made it in before the end of the day (his due date, too!). I’m so excited to watch Mazen grow! He’s absolutely precious! Way to go, natural momma! I’m proud of you.
KathEats says
Aww how fun! Congrats to you! Hope you’re feeling well!
Stephanie says
Congratulations!! He is so precious! Great name too!
Marianne says
Congrats on the beautiful new bundle of joy! He is just precious! (Duh! Did we expect anything else!) All the best to you and your little family!
Brittany says
Congratulations! I am so glad you got to do you birth the way you wanted! I was in the same boat, totally unsure I would EVER want to do that again because wow, that was the toughest thing I’d ever done. But it honestly does change over time. No, I didn’t forget that it hurt at all but I know that it was the absolute best experience and so worth that brief period of discomfort. 🙂
Had you asked me if I would do it all again immediately after and up until about three months after the birth of my daughter I would have said heck no! But now, at almost 7 months postpartum I am honestly very excited for the next time around, drug free and all. 🙂 I am very interested, now that I know what to expect, to see how I handle things the second time through.
Again, congratulations mama! Enjoy your little guy and savor every moment! Being a mom is seriously the best thing ever!
luv what you do says
Congratulations on your newest addition!
What an exciting day for all of you. I love his name…I hope you’ll share how you guys decided on such a cute moniker!
Libby says
Congratulations! His is adorable and I LOVE his name!! 🙂
Amy @ changing the now says
Congratulations Kath and Matt!!! Your little boy is beautiful… I actually kept waking up during the night in the UK just to check twitter to see if he had arrived the night you were in labour! It made me relive having my little boy 11 months ago. Hope you are healing nicely… i remember the sitting down part after giving birth… ouch!!! Little tip, put a tiny bit of tea tree oil in your bath water, it helps with the healing.
Welcome to motherhood… you are going to love it! x
Susan says
Congratulations on the birth of Mazel! He is so sweet.
sherri says
congratulations on the borth of your beautiful son! best wishes to you all.
sherri says
*birth* i’m just so excited 🙂
Michelle says
He is a cute baby boy! I am so happy for you both! May your lifes be for ever blessed:)
Theodora says
Congrats!!! Glad you’re all doing well.
Sandra says
Congrats Kath and Matt, a beautiful baby boy.
Cherida Berangka says
Oh…that so cute baby boy. and cute name also
Christina @ The Beautiful Balance says
Congrats!!! He is beautiful!!
Patty says
Inappropriate tears at my desk while reading this post. Congrats!!
Can’t wait to hear about oatmeal breakfasts with your new little man!
Denise says
Welcome little Mazen. Congratulations to the new Mom and Dad. You are in for a wonderful adventure. Enjoy the ride! As the parent of 19- and 22-year-old daughters, your pregnancy and labor brings me back to the days when they were born. My second birth was drug free like yours and I remember much less of it than the birth of the first daughter –too much effort concentrating to keep it all together to be aware of anything else going on! xo
Denise says
*too much effort concentrating on keeping it all together to be aware of anything else!
zestycook says
Congratulations on a beautiful son! So Happy for you guys.
zest