3 Weeks

This last week has been super busy, between getting the old house ready for closing and keeping up with the demands of my family.  When I say demands - I should clarify that baby Elliana is THE most demanding little girl in the family.  Even the dog is more patient than she is.  :)  I'm convinced that her temper is from husband's side of the family ;)

The good news is that my mom is still here, helping to keep up with all of the things that I don't make a priority - which is AWESOME!!!  I am so blessed to have all the help with cooking and keeping up with the house messes.  Husband has also been great, learning how to cope with Elli's demands for attention, and the small noises that she makes through the night.

Elli has gained at least a pound since she was born 3 weeks ago.  There are several outfits that don't fit her anymore!  We are frantically changing outfits several times a day just so we can say that she has worn them all!  The picture below is of an adorable snow suit that has bear ears and feet.  It's still a little too big, and she wasn't too happy when we put her in it!

While working on the old house - baby Elliana was being entertained by big Sista "T"!

Newest Moments - 15 Days Old

It seems like a century ago that I was laboring through Elliana's arrival.  I remember screaming, "WHY would anyone do THIS (labor) more than once?"  Well, it's only been 15 days, and I can tell you that I've almost forgotten about the pain of labor, it's been replaced by a precious little girl that makes me tear up when I think about how much I love her.

Here's one of those sweet moments:


In the past week, we've been at home learning all the basics; how often to change her diaper, how often she thinks she should be eating vs how often I think she should be eating, what is comfortable for sleeping, how to get rid of air bubbles, etc...  It's an adventure caring for a little one, I'm so thankful for all of the friends and family AND Google searches that have helped us with tips and tricks.  I mean, how did we have children before Google? 

Here are some more pictures to share, play time with Dad:

We're still growing!  We weighed in yesterday at 7lbs 10 oz!  Almost a pound heavier in 2 weeks :)

Elliana Noanne is HERE!

Our lovely daughter, Elliana Noanne (El-ee-ah-nu  Noh-an), arrived Monday morning, January 9th at 12:48AM.  She was an itty bitty 6 lbs 12 oz at 19 inches long.  Thank God! 

Her arrival happened faster than anyone had expected, labor didn't last more than 5 hours from the very first contraction!  Everything went so quickly, we didn't make it to Anchorage as planned AND I wasn't able to get any assistance from an epidural.  I think I'm glad for no pain interventions, although it wasn't really my choice ;) 

 

What's really important is that I'm recovering quickly and Elliana is amazing, and perfectly healthy.  J  Elliana means “the Lord has answered” -  which is truly what this pregnancy and delivery has been all about – answered prayers.     

Here are some pictures from Elliana's first bath today!

 

Almost 39 Weeks

Husband and I have been VERY busy with Christmas, New Years, family time, baby preparations, and house selling!  I cannot believe that 2012 is already here!!! Really!  2012!

My pregnancy has been moving along faster than I would have ever dreamed.  It has been such a blessing to have limited complications and very little discomfort.  That being said, I was sent home for bed rest last week due to high blood pressure.  Luckily, the rest and ability to nap frequently has brought my blood pressure back into acceptable ranges! 

My last visit with my doctor was on Tuesday (2 days ago).  Let's just say, things are opening like they should be, and the baby is in a good position for delivery!  As a woman, I'm always sceptical when it comes to how "normal" my body actually is, and I always wonder if it'll perform how everyone else's does.  It's so reassuring to see progress in the baby's growth, stability in my hormones, and everything within working in some sort of harmony as designed by God to do; week after week.  :) 

Chances are, if you're reading this, you're a family member or a close friend.  Thank you everyone for all the support and wonderful gifts that have filled our home!  We've received some adorable gifts; itty-bitty clothes, bassinets, swings, bedding, bottles, books, and so much more - husband and I are gushing with all the love sent from our friends & family.  THANK YOU!

SO - that being said - ONLY because of the multiple requests, and the abundant support from our friends & family, I will share one last belly picture that will shame me for the rest of my life!  At least I can say that my current dunlop is pregnancy related ;)  

We had a great feast at the house last night with good friends, followed by belly paint and guitar picking!  Enjoy God's creation adorned with the beautiful artwork by Kristine.

Little One, aka: Izzy or Little Puke should be here within the next week!  My doctor doesn't want me to go over 40 weeks due to my blood pressure issues.  Husband and I will be sure to let everyone know when the unnamed little girl makes her appearance in the world.  Stay tuned, we'll post baby pictures on this blog when we get home from the hospital!