the postpartum fog

It's amazing how quickly and thoroughly I forgot what the newborn stage was like.

In my defense, our previous newborns spent the first 4 weeks of their lives in the NICU. They were practically a month old when we finally had them home. But they were also not even "full-term" at that point, so it was sort of like having newborns for 2 months. And still I forgot.

The completely out-of-control hormones. The havoc wreaked upon the body. The early struggles with breastfeeding. The sleep deprivation. (Yes, friends, it absolutely IS easier waking up every 2-3 hours instead of every hour like I did with our big girls...but it's still waking up every 2-3 hours!) That feeling that sneaks upon me every now and then of, "Oh my goodness, what do I DO with this tiny one?"

The bliss. Milky cheeks and lips nuzzling into my neck. A warm bundle gathered up and pressed close. The funny smiles while she sleeps and the way she just melts into me. Falling in love with her daddy even more as I watch him care for her. Delighting in the way her big sisters watch her, touch her, sing to her.

We are making our way through the postpartum fog. So grateful for the healthy and safe arrival of our newest blessing, Lucy Rose. For her 10 fingers and 10 toes, round cheeks and double chin (this girl can eat!). I am trying to be kind to myself and to my children as we settle in a bit more each day.

We are grateful for the love, support, and prayers that you, our family and friends, have offered to and for us. Please continue to remember all FIVE of us as we work out this new version of day-to-day life.

Isn't she a little doll? (She looks just like her sisters did!)

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Some of Lucy's first visitors:

The grandparents (we missed you, Grandpa, and can't wait to see you next month!):

Great-Grandparents:

Lucy's godmother:

Uncle Bryson and Aunt Erica: