Mommy-hood

Today my precious little son is 6 weeks old. It really is amazing how fast time goes by, and I am reminded daily to appreciate the time I have with my tiny baby, and to enjoy his life the way that he is now. It has been an incredible six weeks. I knew that I was going to enjoy being a mom...but I never knew how incredibly full and blessed I could feel. I am amazed at how God allows such a strong bond between mother and child and how instantly so attached Jason and I were to Ryan. These past few weeks haven't been necessarily easy, but the adjustment went a lot more smoother than I thought it would be. I also could not be more grateful for the amazing friends and family who have surrounded us with their love and support. My mother in law was a saving grace those first few weeks as I healed and adjusted to caring for my newborn. She was so encouraging, and made me rest even when I didn't want to. She was continually encouraging me and it was such a blessing just to have her here to help with the baby and care for us as well. She cleaned, cooked, and held little Ryan while I rested for a while. Jason and I even were sick for a day, and I don't know what we would've done if she wasn't here to help. We have also been so blessed with the many gifts from family and friends...it's a little overwhelming how many people came to visit and love on us and Ryan, but we were so thankful...and also the many meals we have been blessed with....and we are STILL receiving meals...it's the best thing ever!! I really feel that God has given us such an amazing community of people, and it's His way of showing His love toward us as well.

Ryan is precious. I am so in love, and I can't get enough of him. I still love the fact that he is ours, and I don't have to hand him off to someone else. There have been nights that have been really hard and days where all I want to do is sleep...but it's a happy exhaustion. And, I feel like things are becoming more normal as I am recovered and life is picking back up again. Ryan is on a 2.5-3 hour schedule, and has had sleep stretches at night from 4 to 6 hours! :) He is really a good baby...he fusses when he's tired, but he rarely cries and is pretty content to be with us, and loves to lay and stretch his little arms and legs. He has already gained so much weight. I weighed him today and he is 10lbs 7 oz! He has has gained 4 lbs since birth!! He is such a good eater, and I praise the Lord for that gift! I really prayed about nursing and wanting him to eat well, and God has allowed that to happen...and his double chin shows it! I am looking forward to seeing him grow and mature and for his little personality to show. Thank you to all of you who have been so encouraging and loving to us, we have been so thankful and excited about the family that God is giving to us.