Bristol Palin Gives Birth to a Baby Boy

Sarah Palin is offically a grandmother. Bristol Palin gave birth to a baby boy on Sunday, December 28th 2008. Bristol and fiancé Levi Johnston named him Tripp Easton Mitchell Johnston. PEOPLE magazine is reporting

that Tripp Easton Mitchell Johnston weighed in at 7 lb., 4 oz. The family is no doubt thrilled at the news of baby Tripp.

"We think it's wonderful," said Colleen Jones, the sister of Bristol's grandmother Sally Heath, who confirmed the news. "The baby is fine and Bristol is doing well. Everyone is excited."

Bristol and Levi plan to marry in summer of 2009.

The Palin and Johnston family have recently been in the news when Levi's Mother was arrested on drug charges on December 18th 2008. Sherry Johnston was charged with 6 felony counts of misconduct involving a controlled substance. Initial rumors were that the drug counts involved meth. New reports surfacing say it may be for dealing the prescription drug OxyContin. Sherry was apparently busted by sending text messages. Sherry was released on bail almost immediately.

You can read more about Bristol Palin's soon to be mother in law, Sherry Johnston, drug charges here

Teen pregnancy rates are up for the first time since 1991. The world learned in September of 2008 that Sarah Palin's 17 year old daughter was pregnant. The news stunned some conservative Republicans at the time. Actually, it surprised more than just conservative Republicans. I think most people were shocked that a vice presidential candidate would have a 17 year old daughter that was pregnant. Apparently teaching abstinence does not always work even if your mom is the governor of Alaska. I bet many parents woke up to the fact that teen pregnancy can happen in any family. Bristol's pregnancy and now birth are a great discussion starter for families.

I wish Bristol and Levi luck raising baby Tripp. With great family support they will be fine.