Tomorrow MK is 3 weeks old. My...I feel like I have learned and experienced a lot in these three weeks. Something that stands out right now is how blessed I am with a family that has sacrificed so much to help.
My husband has been constant through everything. I have cried, snapped, over analyized, demanded, and handed over MK to him (along with her fussy time) when I needed a break. He has been patient, loving, and a quiet consistent shoulder for me to lean on. He has also become a wonderful daddy who is exceptionally good at rocking MK. I love my husband and know that God knew what he was doing when he allowed him to enter my life. I have fallen more in love with him as I have seen him in his new role.
My mom has sacrificed so much time, sleep, and has been a soundboard for me to talk to during these three weeks. I had no idea how much I would need my mother as I became a mother myself. There's no one else that could have filled in for what she has done for me. Anyone who knows her, knows how much she serves others and puts their needs above her own. She has shown this many times as a grandma to MK and a mother to me. Thank you mom for providing this example. And don't worry...I'm not through with you yet. And thank you dad for giving up your wife so many days and nights. She will return in gradual increments.
Both of my sisters have been there for me as well during these three weeks. Holly drove all the way from Houston to be there for MK's birth. It means a lot that she would drive 12 hours and made me feel like she really was happy to do it. She has been giving me some PT help and most importantly she has been praying for me during this time. I can always know that Holly is praying for me and is genuine in her concern.
I think I have called Kizzy almost everyday asking for her expert advice in parenting. I have always looked up to her as a mother. Her children always seem so content, loved, and healthy AND somehow she always appears so peaceful and relaxed. She is a great mother. If I can do anywhere close to her with MK, I will be doing good. Thanks for being patient with me Kiz in all my questions and concerns. Just know that I do it, because you've been such a great example for me.
Wrapping up... Thank you God for providing me with these people that have blessed me as I transition to a mother. I feel overwhelmed with thankfulness.
Mary Katherine went to the doctor on Friday for her 1 month appointment. She had a healthy report and weighed in at 10 lbs. 12 oz. and 22 inches. I had to get MK in this cute little onesie before she grew out of it. So what if it is fall--it was almost 90 degrees outside.
This top picture isn't the best quality but it captured a bit of her smile she makes as she is beginning to drift of to dreamland. It just goes to show you just how great sleep is. I love this smile even though I know she doesn't even realize she's doing it.
We took this picture one morning before we went to Woodward for some doctor visits. Early mornings are my favorite time with Mary Katherine. She's the most content and alert at this time. You can talk to her and sing to her and she will follow your movements and sometimes your voice. I've come to conclude that there is nothing sweeter than a happy baby. As most of you know MK has been somewhat of a mystery to try to figure out. Every night starting around 6 or 7 she begins to get uncomfortable. She flails her arms and legs and is very uptight. The uncomfortableness then turns to a very loud uncontrollable scream by around 8:00. At this point there is nothing we can do to pacify her. This becomes very frustrating for us (as well as for her I'm sure). By 9:00 or 10:00 it's time to nurse her again and this will usually allow her to sleep. During the day she will sometimes have these moments but not as extreme. We've come to conclude she has colic and are praying for her healing. Most say they grow out of this by 3 to 4 months. If anyone has any suggestions, we welcome them.
Three or four people have commented that they think Mary Katherine has an upturned nose like her mom. I've never loved my nose, so I'm not sure what to think about this. In the picture above you can somewhat see what they may be refering to?? It's fun to think about what traits she may have picked up from each parent. This saturday I was at my mom's and we got out my baby pictures. It was amazing the resemblance between us. I'd be curious to see Roger's baby photos. 
I thought that everyone should see a picture of what I see for many hours of the day/night. The pack-n-play has become MK's home. She does all of her sleeping here. Mommy and daddy have spent plenty of time looking over it at night praying that she will stay/fall asleep and allow us rest. Then during the day you just look at how precious she is there sleeping and a part of you wants to pick her up and cuddle with her. 
You may notice several empty picture frames I need to fill.
What do you think about that burnt orange carpet? One of the sellers when we got the house. :)
rned 1 week on Wednesday. She celebrated her week birthday by deciding to nurse consistently for the first time. Doesn't she look alert and content in this picture? I like to think it's because she's just had an excellent meal time. I had been pumping everytime up to that point after unsuccesfull attempts of nursing. I decided that morning that I was tired of washing bottles and all the pump parts 8 times a day--in addition to doubling the time it took to feed her. With my determination, the prodding (or should I say encouragement) of my mother, and MK's great sucking ability we went the whole day without the pump. I was so happy for MK and her accomplishment. I think anyone who has attempting this and got through this hurdle can relate. Way to go baby girl!
The proud daddy at the hospital
Little "Sweet Pea"
We've got A LOT of pink!
