Dear Olivia: ...and Life as a Mom Begins

Dear Olivia,

I am not going to lie, as this post will be more about me than anything. Adjusting to parent-hood is something that is hard to prepare for, but you adapt and overcome as necessary. Lucky for your Dad and I, you loved to be swaddled tightly which helped you sleep almost through the night from Day 1. This gave us much needed rest as new parents, and helped you grow as well. You slept next to our bed in a bassinet for the first two months, while the dogs always kept a watchful eye on you from either our bed or on the floor nearby. Sandy and Jinx love you.

Once your Oma, Papa, and Aunt Kelsey left Germany (and your Daddy returned to work), you and I began to settle into life at home during the day- just the two of us. We napped together, cried together, smiled together, and played together. You were (and still are) my little buddy. Your first month of life was filled with firsts. You are still a skinny-little thing, but healthy as can be and likely to take after your Oma and Grandma Sheila who are both petite ladies!

I am not going to lie, I struggled with this new identity of being a "stay-at-home" mom, as I have always worked and been very busy. You, as a newborn, slept a lot and ate a lot, so there was not much activity and we were inside quite often (except when we took the dogs for walks). We tried to get out and drive or visit your dad at work sometimes, but usually we spend the better part of the day hanging out at home.

On your 1 month birthday it was also your Papa's birthday! He should always be able to remember that date :) By now you have become much more alert, you keep your eyes open longer, and you are starting to notice things around you. You immediately know when Daddy is home as you can hear his deep voice which was even comforting to you when you were in the womb.

I am an exhausted mom, but I wouldn't change this gig for the world. You are so fun to watch grow and develop each day. Your first month FLEW by, but I think your dad and I are finally starting to get the hang of things.

Oh, your friend Paisley was born a little early too- she came on August 6 and her parents are so excited to begin parenthood too!