Blessed

A message from Mom:

Hello Everyone!

Just wanted to take a moment to thank you all for the prayers, well wishes, cards, gifts, e-mails and phone calls during this time. It is much appreciated, and makes me feel less alone.

Special thanks goes to my sister who has been invaluable during this time. I am not sure what I would have done without her help. Ask someone else less able/likely to assist, I suppose.

My sister has been my transportation, my helper around the house, and has been watching my daughter Racheal for me as well. Not to mention giving me a small break or two while she is here so I can post this message to you.

For the first ten days after delivery, I was told by my doctors not to drive, go up and down stairs, lift much, or do any regular exercise. Part of that is because I am still on blood thinner for my blood clots, but also I am still recovering from having Preston, which normally takes six weeks minimum.

Thanks also goes out to my parents who have helped out doing handyman work around my house, brought gifts, and celebrated Christmas with us. Even though they couldn't come by and see Preston due to recovering from illness, you all have been super.

These fine folks had come all the way from Virginia (6.5 hours) to help!

Since Christmas Eve when I came to stay 24/7 in the progressive unit at the hospital with Preston, I've experienced quite a different world than just going to visit. During this time I have especially appreciated the help with my daughter since I haven't been able to be with her.

Although being here has been kind of like being a shut-in, it has been a joy getting to know my new baby. Preston is a little sweetie, even though as a newborn he pretty much eats, sleeps, and needs his diaper changed, I have been able to bond with him and get to know his schedule and how he communicates.

He likes to look at me, at my striped shirt especially, and colored toys. He makes all kinds of faces, and is very vocal with the grunts and cooing noises he makes. After I feed him, he usually either stares at me or falls asleep. When he has his eyes closed, often he'll smile several wide, cute baby grins. Precious!