Reality Begins

Grandma and Grandpa leave today and everyone is going to miss them. Elliana LOVES listening to grandma talk to her (the pic captures it well). We were all spoiled this week -- whenever we would go to a different area, we would notice something else was cleaned from carpet stains to canisters to bathrooms...it is all clean thanks to mom and dad. We enjoyed a few outings, too. We will miss you!

Happy One Week, Elliana

What a fun week it has been with our new bundle. She has experienced her first bath and lots of grandparent time. She still is the best baby anyone could ask for. She is sleeping 4 1/2 hours at night and if she cries, we know there is something seriously wrong. She has the funnest disposition. I am still having lung issues and have been at a 3 different doctors this week. But, tonight I get to sleep with oxygen and have high hopes for a good nights rest! We still are in the phase of just staring at our precious little girl and cannot believe how God would bless us with this little one.

Elliana's "Firsts"

Yesterday and today Elliana had a lot of firsts: her first pediatric appt., her first walk, her first outing & the first time I nursed and grandma cleaned up an explosion in the car:) We cannot believe what a FUN baby she is!! She really sleeps, eats and smiles. We are having a blast! Every moment we look at her, we cannot believe how loved this little one is!

Introducing...Elliana Joy

We are so excited to finally meet our BIG Elliana! Yes, after 2 days of labor and a c-section, 9.1 lb. Elliana was born!! She is healthy and of course the most adorable girl we have ever seen. God is sooo good! Can you believe this amazing miracle? No one told me how much I would love all of this!! I love being being a mom to her and Paul described her as a "piece of heaven". My parents met us here when we got home and I think we have to take turns holding her. Early this morning, though, I became short of breath and ended up back in the hospital with fluid on my lungs and heart. I am home and doing so much better. Elliana loves to sleep sleep sleep and I am sure looks forward to meeting each one of you!

Elliana's Nursery

Just thought I would post some pics of our nursery. I had fun using items from other generations (including Paul's and mine) The pink framed pic is of our parents and us as babies to see "who she looks like". The pink blanket by the dresser was my mom's and the white blanket was a quilt my grandma made for me. The little chair by the crib was given to me by Joni--she bought it at our home church auction because our mom's used to sit in those chairs during Sunday school. My fav animal growing up was panda's so I had to include one of my panda's. The little firetruck was Paul's toy. I was bummed because the AAP recommends NO BUMPERS now, so no cute lil' bumper. Anyways, we would love to have a baby to use this nursery...someday!

Pumpkin vs. Baby

I think I am ready to deliver when by belly exceeds the size of our large pumpkin. Apparently baby doesn't think so. She's comfy cozy and has no plans on meeting the world. Last week my doc did give the 2 week eviction notice, so she is coming no matter how that happens. We are just so excited to meet her, it's hard to wait. Yesterday I waddled around our neighborhood on a long walk, while many asked me "if I was trying to stir things up". It's amazing how many people talk to you when you have a huge abdomen. We went to watch the baseball game at the local big screen restaurant last night and oh my did random people come up to talk about their kids and their labor and wish me luck. Paul was cracking up at the scene. Right now our life is: projects projects projects, nesting and sleeping in until our life completely changes....for the better.

Fun Gifts

We have received some fun gifts lately...everyone is extremely thoughtful! On wednesday Paul's work had a large shower for us which we couldn't believe how thoughtful everyone was! Pictured is a gift from my Auntie De and Uncle Le. It's an "antique" pull toy that rings a bell as it is pulled. We tried it out on Aran and he loved it! Another fun gift was flown here by cousin pilot Lance this weekend. It's a giraffe growth chart hanging. Only Joni could find something like that! Another great gift was sent here from England! Yes, thank you, Betsy for the fun frog bath pod! Paul has been walking around the house singing, "It's the most wonderful time of the year". haha!