1 month

Penny wearing the tutu that Nie Nie made for her

I can hardly believe that Penny is one month old already. She continues to be a sweet baby with a great disposition. When she is awake she is really content to be held or in the swing. She rarely fusses except when she wants to eat or when her tummy is hurting her. She has been diagnosed with the milk protein allergy like her brothers had. That completely explains the slight increase in fussiness and other symptoms that she has been experiencing. So, I am now on a dairy free diet again which is a challenge but oh so worth it!

She eats like a champ and nursing has come so naturally to us both, which has not been my experience in the past. So far there have been no issues other then the dairy allergy and for that I am so thankful!

She is still sleeping in 2-3 hour stretches, but has recently surprised me with a few 4 hour stints. She continues to sleep in her bassinet next to our bed and will for some time I am sure. I wouldn't be surprised if Penny starts to sleep longer stretches after her tummy heals.

Penny continues to be the delight of her brothers. We have seen very little if any jealous issues toward Penny. We are reminding them more often to keep their hands to themselves etc, but all normal adjustment stuff.

Charlie loves to hold her, lay in bed next to her, tell her how cute she is, help me by getting diapers or her blanket, soothing her in the car if she is crying, and looking into her eyes. He loves her so much and it is so sweet to watch him interact with her. He is so tender and gentle with her. Thomas loves her just as much and loves to tickle her, pat her on the head, cover her in kisses, steal her binki :), throw out dirty diapers for me, hold her and sing her songs. The boy does NOT realize his own strength though and kisses her with such intensity that he often leaves red kiss marks on her check or forehead. But he is so kind to her and gets so excited to see her. And Miss Penny adores her brothers. She turns to look at them when they come close to talk to her. She is comforted by their voices, especially by Charlie. She is so tolerant of all the hugs and kisses, tickles and even a few rough touches that come her way.

The last month has gone very well. We are sleep deprived, but I think both Trent and I are doing pretty good. Penny is definitely a very laid back little girl, but I also think that both Trent and I are more relaxed this time around. I know that I am really trying to take care of myself and get a nap in during the day if I really need one, not stress out about housework or if I don't get everything accomplished in a day that I had hoped to do. Trent has also been wonderful at picking up the slack and doing things that I normally might do around the house. And he does so without complaining or expecting me to do more.

I am also trying to enjoy every moment of our days because I know how precious this time is with all of our children. I am even grateful for the middle of night feedings because it is a time that Penny and I get to snuggle together. I feel so blessed to be the mother of these three wonderful kiddos and I am truly trying to appreciate each moment, even the trying or difficult times.

Trent and I have transitioned very well to having a third baby and continue to figure out new routines and schedules. We even ventured to church this past weekend and it could not of gone better!

We are so in love with this little lady and feel so blessed to be given the opportunity to have our family grow. I am so excited for our future and all that it has to offer.