Eloïse's First Days

You arrived at 6:42 pm on April 19th,2009, and surprised us all with the speed at which you arrived, your dark hair, and that yes, the fact you were a girl. Around 10pm that night, we were tranferred to the post-partum department, and were lucky enough to get a large private room, with two beds, which was great, except for the fact the heating was still on and it was extremely hot. We were so excited that you were finally here, we had a hard time going to sleep that first night, despite the fact we were very tired. The next day, we had a lot of visitors- Mel, Christina, and Patrick came to meet you. Grand-Maman, who witnessed your birth, came back for several hours, too. Papa went back home for a couple of hours, and when he came back, he brought Grand-Mère & Grand-Père, and your big sister, Aurelia, along with him. This was a very special moment for Papa and I - our little family all together for the first time. Once everyone left, the rest of the day was pretty quiet, and the following morning, we were discharged. You were finally coming home! We arrived home mid-morning, and tried to get settled into some sort of routine. Because you were being breastfed, and we were still waiting for the milk to come in, the next few days were a little tough, as we tried to get into the groove of things with very little sleep. I must admit, there were a couple of nights in that first week where I did cry a little. You would sleep well and be so quiet during the day, but once 10-11 pm hit, you would be very cranky and unsettled, and cry a lot. Even though you are our second baby, I realize that sleep deprivation is still as hard the second time around, especially when there is another little person who needs to be taken care of. Nevertheless, we survived. And once you were eating enough, and we both got the hang of breastfeeding together, things, settled down. You slept for several hours at a time, and we were able to get the sleep we all needed. It is incredible how you just fit right into your spot in our family. We are so glad you are finally here. Welcome home, Our Sweet Eloïse.

Aurelia Turns Two

My Darling Aurelia, you’ve turned two! This year, we spent a quiet day as a family at home. You did get to go to the park, something you love to do. We had a birthday cake for you, and I’m pretty sure you loved the candles as much as eating it. We re-lit them for you three times, and you insisted on holding the candles once they were blown out and removed from the cake. It was great watching you eat your cake, and taking in the biggest mouthfuls you could. Afterwards, you were in much need of a bath, and then Granda’ came over to give you your gift. A lovely day!
I can’t believe that you are already two years old. In the two years since you were born, you have brightened our lives with your presence, and have made you Papa and I grow into better people. You are our greatest joy. We love you so much, Our Sweet Girl.

Moments Like These

Aurelia,

Since you have come into our lives, there are moments that, as a parent, make me wonder if we are giving you all you need. Moments in which I question if we are providing you the best possible environment in which to thrive, in which to become your personal best. Are you getting enough sunshine or exercise? Are we providing you with a diet that contains enough fibre and are you eating enough vegetables? Is your level of vocabulary normal? Do you feel secure and safe?Do we play enough with you or read you enough books? And, if so, are they the right games or the best books? Are we nurturing you to become a strong, independendant, and confident person? Are you happy?

And then there are moments like these, when, I just know, the answer is yes.

You at Two

Goldfish crackers are your favourite snack.You have just become a big sister. When we go get you in your room in the morning, the first thing you do is hand us your empty bottle.You have finally begun giving kisses. You are now eating meat.You have started using the potty. If Mama gets herself a milkshake and gives you a sip, you never give it back. You still love to watch movies- recent favourites are “Garfield’s Fun Fest” and “Happy Feet”. You love bubble baths. Tantrums are a regular occurrence, head-banging included. Your favorite thing to do at the playground is swing, but you haven’t figured out how to lean back.Your favourite expressions are “Oh, wow!” and “What’s this?”. You love the sandbox Grand-Mere & Grand-Pere got you - when you arrive at their house, you beeline for the back door to the yard. You like putting on Papa's slippers. Mega-Bloks, In the Night Garden figurines and Dr. Seuss Flash cards are among your favourite toys to play with, but you are just as happy with some Tupperware, a feather duster,or a pair of IPOD headphones. You are loved more than you know. Love, Mama

On Your Way

To My Baby in My Belly,

I am sitting here waiting for the hospital to call to let me know they are ready for my induction today. We were supposed to go in at 6am, but they had a busy night, so we have had to wait. I think this was a blessing because I feel more ready mentally for labor. It is how it is supposed to happen.

What I want you to know is that, although we have yet to look each other in the eyes, your Papa and I already love you beyond words. You are the greatest gift we could ask for, and we cannot wait to continue this life's journey, both yours and ours, with you. I can't wait to meet you.

All my love,

Mama