Emma: 1 Month

This first month went by so fast and I've already teared up many times how big she has gotten already and how she will never be this small ever again. All those cliche sayings of "they grow up so fast" or "you blink and then they are x age" are so true and we are only one month in!

Emma has become so much more alert and observant this last week and likes playing on the floor with daddy when he gets home from work. We are already starting to pick up on things that we know will probably carry on with her over the years. Since she was born, the nurses, doctors, family and friends have all said how strong her neck is and how she holds it up on her own so well for being this small and is always looking around. What do we think this means? She is strong willed and doesn't want to be missing out on any of the action (my mom says I was the exact same way). Or the fact that she hates to be dirty. If this girl has a poopy diaper, she expects to be changed immediately or if milk is running down her face, you better wipe it off instantly.

She is such a good cuddle buddy and it is hard to not put her in her crib for naps. Starting her off in her crib on night one has been one of the best decisions we have made so far. She loves her crib and gets the best sleep in there (as do we). She takes at least one good long, two to three hours, nap in there during the day. At night, she sleeps for four to seven hours before waking up for her nightly feeding and then it is back to bed for another two to four hours. God willing and knock on wood, I hope this great sleep continues. She does though have occasional night feedings once or twice a week where it takes a good 30-45 minutes to get back to sleep. Those nights seem like she will never fall asleep. 

Two weeks old - This is after a rough 24 hours of cluster feeding and crying.

The witching hour has hit our house as of last week. It hits about 6:00 and lasts until about 9/9:30, give or take 30 minutes when she fights going to sleep. During this time she feeds off and on the entire three hours and in between is one angry elf as we call her. The swing, rock-n-play and bouncer all last for about five minutes. The only thing she wants is to be held or be outside. Unfortunately, it is so hot this week that walks are limited and stepping outside is only for a few minutes. We hear we are lucky that it is during this time as opposed to the middle of the night.

 

While the witching hour is taking its toll on Matt and I, those huge grins she gives us outweighs it all. It absolutely melts our hearts and we could just watch her smile all day.  

Emma: Your daddy and I can't believe we get to call you our daughter and are so in love with you. You are such a sweet, strong girl already and we love our cuddling time with you. While we can't wait to watch you grow into a beautiful little girl and learn more about you and your personality, don't grow up too fast. Love, Mommy