Any fears that I had about the kids adjusting to Mary Alice have been wiped away. Of course we have the usual age appropriate melt downs, but overall, everyone is smitten with her and so glad she is here.

Her sweet little belly button healed, so we had her first bath. My mom gave Julia her first bath and it was amazing seeing Julia give Mary Alice her first bath. She loved it! She just stared at the water and cooed. Riley was very excited to help and hand the soap to Julia. And sweet Nate decided that she needed privacy since she is a girl.

These days go so slowly and so quickly all at once. She is now 25 days old. I can’t believe it.

We are feeling just fine. She is sleeping about 3 & 1/2 hours at a time at night, so that is working. Brian, as always, is a huge help.

I’ve almost completely healed from the c-section. I can go up and down stairs now – so mom has the guestroom back! About 2 &1/2 more weeks and I’ll be allowed to lift again. Nate has been my helper and lifts everything and everything I need him to. I love his gentleness with me as I heal.

We’ve been fighting our first cold and thankfully she is healing so quickly. We know what a huge blessing that is. I had my moment of panic, but I think this time around, I am more aware that it will pass. Watching Julia with her keeps reminding me that the time doesn’t stand still.

Instead time whispers to my heart. Time tells me to find joy in the moments. Time tells me to smile and love and give completely.

Time tells me that joy really does come at first light when I see those beautiful eyes lock on to mine when we’ve sat in the chair for the last few hours.

Time reminds me that dirty kitchens will be clean later. It reminds me that this moment is a gift to be etched in the sweet memories of my mind.