Analiese: 1 Week

One week ago today, in the very early morning hours, Analiese arrived into this world. She smelled wonderful. (Crazy, right? Who would’ve thunk? But, it’s true.) I’m debating whether the birth story will make it on here or not. Ross kept a record of the day, and as you can probably imagine, there are some pretty humorous notes. (Yes, I straightened my hair…and painted my nails in between contractions…)

Anyway, Analiese has been keeping us quite busy: nurse, sleep, stare at in awe, repeat. The nights have been rough, but she’s allowed us to get enough sleep to function the next day and do it all over again. The response from most people is to “get through” this part. And although I am definitely one who loves my sleep and a routine, this is the only time Analiese will ever be this small, this dependent. We just want to make sure she’s healthy, comfortable and happy.

I’m not sure if you can tell from the pictures, but she’s a little jaundiced, so we’ve been paying close attention to that. Ross has been “sun bathing” with her in her room each day. The jaundice could also be due to her eating habits, which have been a challenge. I do not want to supplement with formula, so making sure she’s getting the nutrients she needs from her mama is important. We’ve been recommended by Mary, our midwife (who I just love!), to a few different specialists (who fully support my decision to breast feed only) to help both of us through the learning process of breast feeding. It’s meant taking a lot of trips this past week, but I feel like we have so many great resources at our fingertips – from having our pediatricians cell phone number to sending messages back and forth over Facebook with Mary to, of course, the love and support of our families and friends.

Ross returns to work on Monday, so that will take some time to get used to. It’s been so great to have him home this first week of our new lives, but alas, we both can’t stay home forever…bummer. Thankfully, reinforcements are coming to visit.

And so, I leave you with photos from last night – dancing with Daddy – it got a little crazy. Yes, there’s one with a dip (a gentle dip with head fully supported)…and a slow dance…too precious.