It has been so long since I've written anything. My life has definitely gotten much busier, and I have never been happier. It's amazing how much of your time and energy can be taken up by someone so small.
Coraline was born on July 17, 2014. It's been a little over a month, and already she has changed so much. Every day, she gets a little bit bigger. Her limbs get a little longer, her features get more defined, she spends more time awake, and she gets a little more interactive. I'm trying to savor every moment, but sometimes it feels like the days are flying by.
Brian and I are so fortunate. I am able to stay home, and Brian is able to do most of his work at home, only going into the school a few days a week. Cora eats well and (usually) sleeps pretty soundly. We are both able to spend a lot of time with her and give each other a break when we need one. We can go out and about just as much as we could before she was born; in fact, we probably go out more than we did before she was born. I have developed an immense respect for working moms and single parents. I feel tired and worn out, and I have the luxury of being able to nap whenever I want during the day and a wonderful, supportive husband. I cannot imagine being the sole parent or having to worry about job performance on top of taking care of a baby.
One of the most awesome things for me has been watching Brian be a father. He is so wonderful, caring, and involved. Coraline definitely loves falling asleep on his lap and cuddling with him on the couch. I have never been happier than when the three of us are just quietly being together as a family. We move much more slowly and things get done at a more relaxed pace, taking time to smell the roses. Life is pretty amazing right now.