One Month

Tess baby is one month old.

It's crazy how time on the "baby out of the womb" side goes so quickly in contrast to "baby inside of the womb" time. The last month of pregnancy is like a minute counting, aching, waddling mess. And this past month has been one of joy. Pure joy and enjoyment of this little peach. Granted, the bags under my eyes are the size of a small state...and there's nothing glamorous about a post-partum body or mind (I've been riding the hormone roller coaster). But it is a special time, one not to be taken for granted. But sadly one that passes too quickly and because of the lack of sleep and sanity, maybe one that we don't remember like we should. I have sincerely tried to take it all in. Enjoy just staring at her and marveling at the miracle her little fingers, toes and lips are. She is a beautiful girl. She is lovingly called "Tessie", "Tess baby", "Tessie Tess", "Tangled Tess" and "Tiny"...She is especially loved by her big sister Avery. The video monitor has been put to good use as it is my right hand man after finding Avery IN Tess's crib. (We've also found her with her fingers down her throat...and she's moved her across the house more than once). Needless to say, I'm on my toes. Tess is sleeping in her crib and has been since week 2. I just can't deal with the baby noises :) She is doing pretty well the last few nights, giving me 4 or 5 hours at a time. She has the dreaded newborn rash but hoping that clears up pretty soon. She is holding on to her dark hair, she has long, dark lashes and the biggest poutiest lips. I love those lips. She also (don't hold your breath) has blue eyes. Our friend Margarita said with surprise "She has eyes blue"...so that's our favorite saying. Whether or not she stays eyes blue, it's not likely. But they are big and beautiful. She is a good baby, pleasantly sleeps and eats and bats those big eyes in between. She likes her swing, tolerates the bath, and loves going on walks in her stroller. She has attended more baseball games than any one month old and she is loved by all. Payton and Sydney beg to wash their hands and hold her. They really are great with her. Sydney is a good little mother hen. She thinks it's pretty special to be big and able to help. I have to say 4 hasn't been too huge of a transition for me. Not like 3 was. I am feeling great and loving being a mom to these kids. So my house isn't the picture of perfection and I don't cook as much as I should...I am draggin my feet big time getting back into my church calling, taking it one step at a time, but I am enjoying myself. I am certainly too hard on myself, hate to look in the mirror, etc. But I am trying to remember that I am doing the most important work I could possibly do now. It's our Heavenly Father's work and as daunting a task that seems...He helps me do it the best I can. I am thankful for this month of joy. This addition of joy to our home. Love you baby Tess.