Our first week with Mary Ellen

It's kind of hard for me to write about Mary Ellen without tearing up. I still can't believe that she's here and that she's so perfect. The first week has gone so fast, and we've learned so much about her already. She's pretty easy to please. She is content to be in her crib by herself, but she also loves a good snuggle. She's a ferocious eater (most of the time). And she knows how to fill a diaper.

My day today started with a little darling who woke at 1:00 a.m., then 4:00 a.m., and finally at 7:00. Seriously, she's spoiling us. The feeding is going really well, but there is no way I could be doing this without the support of Brian and my mom. They've been great about staying up with me for those overnight feedings, where my biggest fear is dozing off with Mary Ellen in my arms. But we're getting better at this and if she continues to develop such a reasonable schedule, I will be able to adjust in no time.

My goal is to leave the house today. I've been in a car once since we came home from the hospital, and that was to take Mary Ellen to her first doctor's appointment. I'm fine with being at home, because really, what else would I rather be doing than hanging out with our little family? But then I want to feel like a normal human, too, so Mom and I are going to venture out into the world at some point today. My destination (here comes a shocker): Kohls. I've been Mom to a beautiful little GIRL for a week now and have been unable to buy anything girly for her. I think she really needs a sundress. :)

And now for what you really want from me: pics. Enjoy!

Relaxing with Daddy. Brian was able to stay home with us for this first week. I have loved watching the two of them get to know each other. As expected, he's a great dad.

First doctor's visit. Mary Ellen weighed in at 6 lbs 7.5 oz, so she's back up from 6 lbs 6 oz when we left the hospital. She was really calm throughout the whole exam, and she got a clean bill of health. She also announced her arrival at the doctor's office by taking a giant poo as soon as she got into the waiting room. Thankfully, her diaper managed to contain the mess.

Happiest Grandma in the world. I don't know how we would have made it through this first week without her (and I don't think she would have lasted the week without being here). I hope I can be as good a mom as she is.

A few pics from one of our daily fashion shows. There really aren't too many fashions involved because she's too little for most of her clothes. But look out world - she's been blessed with lots of beautiful girl clothes already, so look for many more photos to come.