Things I am learning (or re-learning)

1.  That typing one handed with a nursing baby is not too hard (it just takes a little bit longer).

2.  There is nothing better than sitting around that 1st week to watch the facial expressions while she sleeps. 

3.  Witnessing her 3 siblings fall in love with her is so amazing.  They boys especially have just fallen head over heels in love with their new baby sister.  It is so sweet!

4.  I now have “girls”.  Feels so weird saying that. 

5.  Caleb, Nate, and Emma Lee are now giants compared to Joy Lynn.  I knew this was going to happen and yet it still amazes me.  I tucked them all in as my little babies on Sunday evening and when I saw them again on Monday afternoon they had all “magically changed”.  Now every time I cuddle up next to them, comb their hair, or just look into their eyes, I cannot believe how much older they are.  If I did not have Joy Lynn for a comparison, I do not think I would be able to see and appreciate the way they are changing. 

6.  I finished sorting through all the newborn clothes yesterday and girl clothes really are more fun than the boy versions. 

7.  I miss my Mom when she leaves.  Nana has been here for that 1st week after the births of all of our babies.  Just having her here, hanging out,  and having here take care of us is something I am so thankful for.  She left yesterday and it is always so hard to say goodbye.  Love you Mama and thanks for all your help this week.

8.  Wireless internet and our laptop are something I am thankful for.  Some of you were surprised to see updates and photos so soon after Joy Lynn’s birth, most were done via my cell phone at the hospital but the rest have been here while sitting on our comfy couch and nursing this hungry, hungry caterpillar – almost a 24 hour job. 

9.  Speaking of nursing…  I am always amazed at what a huge blessing and overwhelming task this can be.  From dealing with soreness to counting diapers to making sure I drink enough water and the list goes on and on.  I learned the 1st time around that actually “having” the baby can seem like a day in the park compared to those 1st weeks/months of nursing around the clock.  Don’t get me wrong…  This is a love/hate relationship that I adore and would not trade for anything.  These precious moments between the 2 of us are priceless and I have to give Joy Lynn credit for being making this 1st week a fairly easy one. 

10.  That every day is so special.  I have literally watched her eyelashes grow this week.  How magical is that?  It is so easy to get caught up in my own expectations of how the day should go.  I have to sometimes remind myself to let go of my own personal expectations.