overdue updates

First of all, apologies for the long silence. Life with a newborn doesn't leave a whole lot of free time anyway, and then we got discouraging news with which to cope on top of it. I've not really felt like posting much here, to be honest.

I did post a cathartic entry on Facebook, and those who are on my friends list there have responded with an overwhelming amount of love, support, and understanding. I always knew I was very blessed to have the family and friends I have. I am reminded once again of just HOW blessed I truly am.

For those not on Facebook: Nelson is one of the many facing unemployment right now. He is actively applying for jobs, as well as "putting out his shingle" for free lance work. We have been down this road before, so we know the drill. It's just a bit disheartening to be facing it again. Still, God is providing for us already, and we are hanging in there.

Natalie is healthy and growing. She sleeps a slightly longer stretch at night now, which is nice. :) She is alert and appears to study things intently. Sometimes I think I'll never be able to fill her up. She eats often and eagerly. She's quite impatient when she's hungry!

Sarah is adjusting to big sisterhood well for the most part. She loves Natalie and is eager to find ways to help out. She's proud to be a big sister. Still, it IS an adjustment. I hear her crying in her sleep sometimes, and she is generally easier to upset than she used to be. She has fears that she didn't have before. But she is coping as best as she can to all the changes that have come her way recently. And she has never tried to hurt Natalie or anything like that.

I have had a bit harder time recovering from this birth. I have been slow in healing, and I am exhausted--physically, mentally, emotionally. I have been slightly depressed as well. At first it was standard baby blues, related to hormones. Now it more because of circumstances. But God is faithful, and I am starting to hope again.

Okay, enough heavy stuff! Let's have pictures!


Natalie isn't the happiest camper in this photo, is she? But hey, it's a unposed, true-to-life picture!




On Saturday, my parents took us to Olive Garden. When the waitress asked Sarah what she wanted to drink. Sarah responded, "Coffee!" The waitress was surprised but obligingly brought Sarah a cup of decaf. Sarah had a fabulous time adding cream and sugar. She even ended up asking for a refill!




See? The girl loves coffee!




Natalie isn't ready for coffee yet. She's happier with milk.




That's it for now!