Week One - We made it through

We made it through Week One with no major incidents, phew!  We had a mixture of good and bad nights but obviously that is to be expected.  We tried to get to know Maelin more but all she wants to do is eat, sleep and poop.  I will admit, there was A LOT of googling done on a daily basis to make sure that everything she was doing or we were doing was normal :)

In addition to changing numerous diapers, feedings and rocking we managed to get out and about. We made about four trips to the Home Depot in order to pick out carpet, paint, a kitchen sink and faucet for the house which is nearing completion in a few weeks.  We also enjoyed some time on Michigan Avenue, picking out a new wardrobe for Brett (I am sure this is not surprising).  Maelin also met a lot of our friends and family throughout the week.

The week was filled with "firsts".  There were a lot of good firsts that we enjoyed like our stroller walk, Baby Bjorn walk and lullabye time.  There were also a few bad firsts including the sponge bath (which she absolutely hated) and the first poop spray.  You hear about "the spray" but until you experience it you don't really understand the reality of it.  I was the one that got sprayed and was very happy Brett was home to take over the rest of the diaper change so I could wash off (SO GROSS).

Overall, the first week was fun, especially having Brett around.  Week Two will be a bit different since he has to go back to work, something I am very sad about.  We are looking forward to all the new "firsts" we have yet to experience in the weeks to come.

Tired after the long day of updating Dad's wardrobe

Finally calm after first sponge bath

Some bonding time

Begley has taken a liking to Maelin

Poop face!

Lovin' the Baby Bjourn

Coming Home

We finally arrived home on Saturday.  There were a few complications and Maelin Olivia had to stay in the NICU, but she is all better now!

Maelin did surprise us all with her size.  Throughout my pregnancy the doctors kept telling me I was measuring small and most likely would have a small baby.  I was even told at one appointment to buy preemie clothes for her first few days.  Well as it turns out, her ten day late arrival really paid off and she gained lots of extra weight.  Never did I imagine we would have an 8 lb 5 oz baby, she even shocked the docs with her size.  Needless to say we were not prepared with a going home outfit but jammed her into something for the quick drive home.  Time to now go shopping :)

It was great to bring her home and start to get to know her better.  So far Begley doesn't understand who or what she is and just looks at her and then walks away, which is fine for now.

Below are some pictures from the hospital and also from her first days home.  We love her so much and cannot wait to see how she grows and changes!

Maelin Olivia

Going home, all wedged in an outfit that is WAY TO SMALL

Ready for the car!

At home

Just relaxing

Relaxing some more

And more :) 

The Hood Experiment - PART II (Baby) - Announcing the arrival of Maelin Olivia

We proudly announce the arrival of Maelin Olivia, born March 10th, weighing 8 lbs 5 oz.

Family is doing good, stay tuned for pictures!