The Story Behind Baby Jethro and What Was Really in the box

Photo Credit: Brennan Schloss My 7-Year-Old Son

You wouldn't believe the number of text and facebook messages I received today after introducing baby Jethro. Many people asked if I was adopting him and the answer is no not officially. Although I cannot legally adopt little Jethro he will be living with us indefinitely and is now part of the family! The best part is his twin sister will not be far away, just 3 minutes down the street! Now that you know the truth behind baby Jethro would you like to know what was in the box? Some of you already guessed it and were right. Baby Jethro and Zoe arrived one afternoon on my doorstep in a box. I promise you this is the truth. They were snuggled together and sleeping much like they are now. Well, exactly like they are now. In fact they haven't moved a single muscle since they arrived. Jethro is so easy to take care of. He never cries. I mean NEVER! He's been sleeping straight through the night since the day he was born!

For anyone that may still be confused, these babies are not real. They are dolls. They are known as Rebirth Babies. Everything I've told you was true, I just left out one little piece of information. Their "birth mother" my childhood neighbor is the talented artist who created these babies. Andrea makes them for collectors and movies. These babies were supposed to go to another home, but circumstances changed and Andrea gave them to me any my niece. She would not take any money for them and I was completely touched by her kindness. I haven't seen Andrea since we moved away so many years ago and couldn't believe that she would do this for us, but she did and I am beyond grateful!

Baby Jethro, named by my 4-year-old son Grady after is favorite band Jethro Tull, now lives in my studio. He feels just like a real baby and even arrived smelling like baby powder! He is perfect for practicing my wrapping techniques (because it truly is an art). He also comes in handy during parent and newborn posing. I often ask parents to hold their babies in an unnatural position and it can feel very awkward. Holding Jethro first allows them to practice and feel more comfortable with their actual baby.