Today was an important day in Brittain’s life. It was her first day going to church and staying in the nursery.
It’s only been a month, but in this one month of being a mother I have a new respect for anyone with babies or small children. Getting out of the house is a major accomplishment. It’s an event that leaves me exhausted each and every time I do it. My daily routine is no longer what it used to be. I can remember my pre-baby mornings getting ready and it was all about me – a long shower; applying lotion from head to toe; drying, straightening and curling my hair; and taking the time to make sure my makeup was exactly how I wanted it. Now I feel lucky if I walk out the door without my hair soaking wet.
I felt completely comfortable leaving Brittain in the nursery, but I still couldn’t help but think about her throughout the entire service. I kept wondering if they were keeping a close enough eye on her. Were the other kids bothering her? Was she crying and they couldn’t calm her? Did they put her in a crib and forget that she was there? I almost jumped up out of my seat several times to make sure my thoughts weren’t true, but, I didn’t. I was impressed with my self-control.
I couldn’t wait to go and pick up Brittain after the service. Not only was I excited about seeing her, but I wanted everyone to see my beautiful child and see that she belonged to me. As I walked into the nursery, the first comment I heard was, “She had a blow-out in her bloomers”. I won’t go into detail because I’m sure everyone can figure out what that meant. After making sure the blow-out was taken care of, I walked back over to the choir room, beaming with pride. Everyone stopped us to tell me how beautiful she was.
Each day I wake up and know how blessed I am that I’ve been chosen to be her mother. Although the responsibility is scary at times, I will never take it for granted.
This is what life is all about!
I’m getting better at this whole blogging thing, but I’m still not great at it. The most difficult part is just trying to find the time!
Some cute shots from this month:
Papa brought a souvenir back for his favorite granddaughter! She had a much deeper appreciation for it after she woke up!
Brittain received a special surprise from her grandfather. Duke brought her a Cabbage Patch Kid straight from Babyland General Hospital in Cleveland, Georgia. This Cabbage Patch Kid is even more unique than most because the adoption papers read: This certifies that Brittain Olivia was born in the Cabbage Patch on July 13th. Her very own doll named after her!
This gift had more meaning for me than for Brittain. Cabbage Patch Kids became “the doll” to have when Cecilia and I were little. They were impossible to find, and as soon as a store would get some in, they would be gone in minutes. Daddy traveled on the job when we were growing up, so he was able to go to different states and find them. It’s funny how you remember certain things about childhood. This is one of those things. I can vividly remember Daddy coming home from a trip and having Cabbage Patch Kids for us. I can remember how excited we were. Perhaps the funniest part is now, as an adult and a new mother, I realize that he was just as excited as we were. I know my parents felt the same excitement that I feel now when I give a toy to Brittain…and she’s only a little over a month old! It’s a gift that both Brittain and I will treasure forever.
Brittain sported a “pre-baby” gift that Aunt CC gave to me before we knew that Brittain would be a girl. (Notice the yellow embroidery. :-)) Brittain promised to be the Ritz Carlton official mascot if she was needed.
The whole family:
Naptime…when it happens, we ALL like to participate!
It took a little while, but I finally became comfortable giving Brittain a bath. It has become a special time for both of us. She loves her bath! And I can’t help but think it’s because it reminds her of when she was still in my tummy.
For some reason, Brittain wasn’t too happy after this bath! (But, doesn’t she look cute in her bunny towel? Thanks to Bradley and Alison for this gift!)
Brittain LOVES her family, so anytime someone comes to visit her, she is thrilled. I also welcome the visits as I usually get some much needed sleep while they’re here!
Spending time with Aunt Susan and Kristen Labor Day weekend:
As you can see, Brittain LOVES her Great Aunt Susan.
Even though her Aunt CC lives and works in Greensboro (and is also busy planning her upcoming wedding), she still makes time to come and see her neice almost every weekend.
And we can’t forget Mimi! While I have been on maternity leave (and struggling with my new role as mommy), Mimi has made frequent visits during her lunch breaks from work. It’s given me something to look forward to everyday.
Brittain’s Grand-Pappy. What a sweet look!
A visit from Great Uncle Terry and Aunt Janice. This is Brittain’s first time meeting her Great Uncle Terry!