How have we survived so far? For those of you who are wondering... I've had LOTS of help, and so far, it has made the transition "doable." First of all, my mom became the live-in maid and child-care provider the first week. She not only did all of our laundry and cooking and cleaning, she also spoiled Brooklyn with lots of love and attention. Then, as if that wasn't enough, my mom took Brooklyn back with her (on my mom's birthday - "Happy birthday, Mom. Here, babysit my kid for a few days!") to spend a few days until Stephen and I could return to her house on Thanksgiving. Besides that, I've had lots of friends bring us dinner and even more of them have volunteered to watch Brooklyn or help out with anything and everything! 
Brooklyn has been quite the "helpful" big sister. She very proudly introduces her brother to the doctor, church friends, Stephen's co-workers, and anyone else who shows a moment's interest in him. 
This is Stephen with 3 of his favorite things! (Okay, so one thing, and two people.) His kids and probably an episode of The Office, Chuck, or My Own Worst Enemy, or any number of football games. It's so crazy to think we have TWO of our own children now! If we keep this up, they're going to outnumber us way too quickly - yikes! I feel like I've already lost control.
Thanks for making us all look bad, Evelyn! You've got to know that you've at least set a precidence that NONE of us will probably attempt to follow due to our inadequate patience, tolerance, and overall ability to deal with all of the stress of having children or the energy to keep up with all of them. I'm sure when Stephen comes home from work sometimes and sees how little I've accomplished during the day, he probably thinks, "My mom did this for years, and she never seemed to have a problem with it!" Enough already. Evelyn, we praise and adore you!
Here is Ian wearing the bili-light that helped his jaundice. What a good sport. I hated that thing! You can't see it very well, but there was this thick black tube that connected a wide blue light belt to a metal box! The belt with blue lights was supposed to stay wrapped around his waist with this totally useless tape. It was definitely made holding, cuddling, and nursing feel a little unnatural. He also looked like an alien because he was glowing neon blue beneath his clothes.
13 comments:
I will admit...I have been a little pathetic in checking your blog every day or so for more updates on the little one. :) Can't wait to see you guys!
bili-light makes no difference- still such a cutie!! Brooklyn is such a sweet big sister- I can't wait till Ian is playing along with her!
He is SO cute! I hated that jaundice machine, too. Kelsi hated it even more. Ian looks so content!
That's nice that you've had such great help. It will be sad when it's gone. Looks like everyone is doing just fine!
Moms are so great! That Ian has such a sweet face, and he makes Brooklyn look like a giant! It is easy to forget how tiny newborns are.
yeah for updates. one day Cindy and I are gonna blow you all out of the water with septuplets :-)
ps. Cindy, if you are reading this, don't worry honey, we can handle it:-)
....ahhhhh! who am I kidding!?
OH wow! My newphew's so handsome! =)
He really is adorable and I can't wait to hold him!
Oh he is adorable Desirae! Where are YOU? Way to sneak out of pictures! Brooklyn looks very well taken care of and happy about her brother. What a great mom you have!
Desirae, do you seriously think that my household was under control in the midst of all those children? I think I have forgotten how I ever did it. I do know that I had an enforced nap time or quiet time every afternoon for at least an hour. I also remember that eventually I could get up three times at night and function the next day as if nothing had happened. Mostly, I know that some days I was so wiped out that I barely got dressed and then Ted would have the nerve to come home and ask me what I did all day and why wasn't the house clean! He must have been inspecting the hospital. I had a friend say to tell him, "Your kids are alive; I've done my job!"
On another note, I want to say that Ian is adorable and I can't wait to hold him, too. I loved it that my mother would come for a week (she always made sure to cook at least on meal that was Ted's favorite) and then Ted would also take off a week from work so I would get two weeks. I remember T.J. starting out the week after Mark was born saying, "I tell, Mommy." and ending that week with, "I tell, Daddy." I appreciated my helpful husband and we definitely raised this family together!
Just read your blog - Congrats! What a beautiful baby boy!
Yeah for help from friends and family. We're not meant to do it alone :) cutie cute cute
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