One week old!

Can you believe it? I can't! An entire week has gone by since Madeline's birth. I am already mourning the time that has passed! Here are some things I've wanted to share with you about our first week, but have been too busy adjusting to life to do so:

• My labor lasted a lot longer than I expected- 17 hours, but only 6 hours of real intense labor. I am forever thankful for epidurals! The nursing staff at the hospital was amazing! The induction went great. I was given Cervadel (sp?) and that was all: my body responded well to it and put me into labor.
• I would already do it all over again!
• Someone should have warned me about the hormones I would experience (or drop in them) after birth. That- mixed with no sleep for 24 hours- made me an emotional wreck! Mention the word hormones, and I was hysterical!
• everything I've ever heard about being a mom- it's all true. I never thought I'd feel this way, but boy does everything change when she arrives!
• I am more in love with Aaron now than before we had Madeline. Seeing him change into a dad has been the neatest thing ever! He is an awesome dad! His eyes glowed the minute he saw her and haven't stopped yet- except when he's a little emotional- which makes me love him even more! (see picture below). He is such a huge help! Huge help! I love it when he makes up silly songs and sings them to her, makes a game out of changing her, and most of all when he prays over her as she sleeps in his arms! Isn't he an amazing dad?

• We have learned to adapt and overcome very quickly. The first few nights were rough, but now things are great! She sleeps most of the night- with me having to wake her up to eat. (Of course- she is sleeping in my arms all night... whatever it takes to get sleep right now...)
• I can not imagine a happier time in my life than right now! How did I ever live without her?
• Bath time- not her favorite! Hopefully that will change soon.
• I love everything about this time, except maybe the constant feedings, I even think it's hilarious when she dirties her diaper- which always seems to be right after I've changed her.
• She can already recognize my voice! Wow!
• If it weren't for the amazing support I had at the hospital, I wouldn't be breastfeeding today. We had a rough start and are still learning, but she is growing and getting food! I never thought I could do this! Now, I can't imagine NOT doing it!
• Madeline cluster feeds which means she sleeps for long periods of time (3-4 hours) then wakes and eats for 1-2 even 3 hours at a time. While it's great to get those long periods of rest, the hours of feedings can be tiring- especially when your dinner is waiting for you.
• I already miss feeling her inside me, but don't miss the heartburn!
• She is the most precious gift from God and I don't know if I will ever be able to show her all the love I have for her.

Okay, I am crying again.. so I'll stop for now. I am loving being a mom! LOVING IT! So blessed!