Elsie turns 1 week old

On Monday we got all bundled up to go to Babies R Us to get a few items we failed to purchase in advance. Turns out that the 100% waterproof burp cloths are also non-absorbent. So much for modern technology.

This trip allowed us the opportunity to purchase a couple girl outfits for Elsie. Of course, we made the rookie mistake of selecting them in Newborn size, meaning they will each be worn once. Hopefully this is not a precursor to my reaction when, in 16 years, Elsie asks me to purchase a $500 prom dress that will also be worn only once. Here is the 1-week old photo of Elsie wearing one of these adorable outfits.

The Elsie Tree

On Saturday, Elsie received a beautiful Norfolk Island Pine from her Barry Callebaut Family. We are so grateful for this gift, and are looking forward to watching it grow with our daughter. How long before Elsie is taller than the tree? Thanks to Grandma Jan (our family Master Gardener), we also learned that this house plant is extremely easy to care for. Thank you so much Barry Callebaut!

Elsie's first visitors

On Saturday, Grandma Jan and Grandpa John came for a short visit. Elsie was very excited to meet her Grandparents (and we were very excited to show her off). Here is a picture with Grandma Jan. Somehow, Grandpa John got away without posing for the obligatory picture. We'll get him next time!

This outfit is just so cute - I had to show it off. Check out those socks! (They stayed on for about 20 seconds before being kicked off.)

Friday the 13th

Friday the 13th was a great one for Elsie - she finally figured out how to sleep! We went into labor on the night of a full moon, and now Friday the 13th was a wonderful day. I think I need to start being more superstitious. Every time we hold her, I just can't stop thinking how cute she is (yes, even when she is crying). I am surprised by how strong Elsie is, especially when we are doing something that she doesn't like - bath time, tummy time, and feeding when she is sleepy time. We visited the pediatrician today, and Elsie has gained 2 oz since leaving the hospital - a huge relief that we must be doing something right...

Bundled up for the trip to the pediatrician.

Photos from Day 2

Here are a few photos from Day 2. We are now at home, and had a relatively successful first night with Elsie without the assistance of the hospital staff. We were each able to get a few hours of sleep, and we are geared up for Day 4.

Elsie has arrived!

We are very happy to share the news that we have a new daughter!  Elizabeth Dorothy Phipps (we are going to call her Elsie) was born at 3:50 pm on Tuesday the 10th.  She checked in at a svelte 9 lbs 15 oz and was 21.5 inches long.  We are all doing well, and having alot of fun getting to know each other.

Overtime

We are now at 40 weeks and 2 days - the overtime period has begun. Apparently, the baby did not receive the memo about the Feb 6 due date.

For those who are interested, here is what I look like at 40+ weeks pregnant. Sweatpants are now part of my standard attire for weekends. Unfortunately, they don't fit into the Barry Callebaut dress code.