Winter of Lily

It's been a little over a week since Lil Lily burst on the scene and changed our lives forever, and it's been a whirlwind week filled with naps, poopy diapers, 2am feedings, heartbreaking smiles (even if they are gas induced), bright eyes, chubby cheeks and oversized onesies.

Our sleep patterns have been irregular at best, horrifying at worst, but for the most part, she's been fairly considerate when it comes to letting Mom and Dad get some sleep at night. She's a big fan of sleeping in her 'boppy', whether it's in her bassinet or in our bed...not a big fan of laying flat. She also likes sleeping in her swing and essentially demands to be held vertically as opposed to cradle-style, which she has already deemed 'overrated'. Her neck is exceptionally strong not nearly as floppy as most babies and she already has more muscly arms than either of her parents.

Lily Bryn is not shy to tell us when she's hungry and we've already gone through more diapers in one week than some third world countries do in a year (Right or wrong, I'm just assuming most babies in third world countries go nude). Grandma and Grandpa Petersen have been taking up residency a few blocks away at the Heart O' Chicago and have already been smitten by our little cupid, and rightfully so. Thus begins the parade of grandparents to The Hacienda over the next few weeks, bearing gifts of gold, frankincense, myrrh and blankies.

I'm getting used to this 'not-working, sleeping-til-eleven-on-account-of-the-baby' routine. Even though the days aren't filled with anything noteworthy in the traditional sense, I cherish every moment I get to spend at home with the little one. I never imagined that being a parent could be so gratifying, and I look forward to all of the challenges and rewards that lie ahead. Every 3am bout of fussiness, every stinky diaper, every ear splitting wail is offset tenfold by one wayward hiccup, a loving stare or a sleepy-eyed coo. Little Lily is here to stay and we're loving every minute of it.

*We just ordered a disc of photos from Lily's first photo shoot, taken at the hospital the morning after, taken by Bella Baby. These should be posted in the next week or so. They bring new meaning to the term 'adorable'.

Katy and Lily chillin' on the couch.

Grandpa Harry and Grandma Cindy with Baby L.

Proud Papa

Lily's 4th wall, revealed.