The Bates family is rejoicing after the second new grandbaby in as many weeks. Seven days after Zach and Whitney Bates celebrated the arrival of their son Jadon Carl, Kelton and Josie Balka gave birth to their second girl, Hazel Sloane. Born Monday, June 14 at 8:25 PM ET, she measured 18 inches and weighed 6 pounds and 3 ounces. Tori Bates Smith could make it a June Bates grandbaby trifecta as she is expecting her third child yet this month.
PHOTO CREDIT: Summer Simmons photography
After suffering a miscarriage last year, Josie considers the birth of her newborn child to be a special blessing.
“After so many months of dreaming about what it would be like as a family of four and anticipating our baby’s arrival, Kelton and I are absolutely thrilled to welcome our little baby girl, Hazel Sloane Balka, into the world. This pregnancy was much more complex than our first, due to complications we had from a previous miscarriage in August 2020, so we were a little nervous, but delivery went so smoothly thanks to Dr. Brabson’s incredible birthing team, our midwife Laura, and the kind nurses at Tenova North Birthing Center. We are so thankful and relieved to have our precious baby girl healthy and here in our arms. God has answered so many of our prayers throughout this journey, and it was such a tender and emotional experience to finally meet her and hold her. We are enjoying every second of cuddling and bonding with her, but we also can not wait to introduce Hazel to her big sister Willow! Willow has been calling her name and kissing on my tummy for months now, so were anxious to see her response. It has been a huge blessing to have family and friends here supporting us and checking on us, sending meals, flowers, and so many prayers! We have felt so much love and our hearts are so full!”
“Bringing Up Bates” Season 10 is currently airing with new episodes Thursdays at 9 PM ET. You can also watch “Bringing Up Bates” episodes from past seasons anytime, anywhere — as well as exclusive content with the Bates family — with your UP Faith & Family streaming service subscription. Get your free trial and start streaming today! You can also watch select full episodes for free on UPtv.com.
PHOTO CREDIT: Summer Simmons photography
PHOTO CREDIT: Summer Simmons photography
PHOTO CREDIT: Summer Simmons photography
PHOTO CREDIT: Summer Simmons photography
PHOTO CREDIT: Summer Simmons photography
To get the latest Bates family updates, exclusive videos and early access to “Bringing Up Bates” full episodes, subscribe to our newsletter by entering your e-mail address below and clicking “Sign UP”.