A few of our Favorite things

So, its been nearly a month since Annabel was born and life has changed in so many ways.  Cheryl and I seem to have taken this parenthood thing in good stride and have found ourselves enjoying family time a whole lot more.  We had a great start thanks to Cheryl's mom hanging around for a few weeks after Annabel's birth and the support from family and friends in Fresno has been great.  I find myself reflecting more often on the blessings in my life and the miracle that is our little girl.  Cheryl and I are trying our best to cherish the precious moments with our daughter every opportunity we get.  Although we have our trials with her, they are insignificant compared to how much she has added to our lives and we thank God for her everyday.  As each day passes, we our amazed at how much she has changed since birth and just how beautiful she has become.  Each day we look forward to some of our favorite events of the day with her..  I'll start the countdown from 5.

5.  Feeding Time

Annabel is feeling a bit groggy after her afternoon snack.

This one came in last place only because I'm simply a spectator.  Although when I do hang out in the room or sit in the office and eavesdrop on the conversation, I can tell that this time is especially important for Cheryl and Annabel.  The connection that is made in those special moments between mommy and baby are so important.

4. Changing/Swaddling Time

Look at those beautiful eyes!  Good morning sweet pea.

Sunday Night Football with Annabel dressed as a baby burrito.
Look at that face!

This is where I excel.  I decided early on that I wanted a time when I would have Annabel all to myself where I could do something for her to show her that I love her.  What better service to perform on a baby with a full diaper than to clean her up, get her into some cute clothes, and bundle her back up.

3.  Bath Time

Ready for the plunge.

Thanks to the little seat in her bath whale, she is able to sit up and just relax

I like this event more so because Cheryl and I can both participate.  We run a bath every night and have a little fun getting our girl nice and clean.  She seems to really like the water, except when daddy dumps an entire cup over her head and face causing her to gasp and scream. It works as a great way to start her evening routine for bedtime.

2.  Hanging Out Time

This was a close second, but I'm sure as Annabel gets older and spends more of the day awake, Cheryl and I will really start racking up the fun memories with her.  As it stands now, we have Tummy Time with Mr. Monkey on the Jungle Mat, Chair Time with calming vibrations while mommy and daddy eat dinner or watch TV, and cuddling with family or friends when they come to visit.

1.  Nap Time

Look at those long pretty fingers.

Mommy and baby all bundled up together.

Fallen asleep in my hands.  One of my favorite photos yet.

We have been told that before long she'll be wiggling and moving, not wanting to be held - as it is she is already kicking and moving her head around to follow objects.  Cheryl and I are trying to enjoy every chance we get to hold her and have her fall asleep in our arms.  We don't want to spoil her with all the attention and affection, but can you blame us?  Cheryl and I seem to agree that the time she spends in our arms completely content and at peace is a special time which is quickly coming to an end.  So, as often as she lets me, I will hold her close and rock her to sleep while I tell her how much she means to me.