Back to Work

This past week marked a big change for the Pietrini family: Mama went back to work. New routine, new wake-up alarm, new pit stops at daycare/grandmas. 

I had been anticipating the first day back to work before Hannah was even born. I didn't know how I would feel about it. I'm not one of those moms that just knows I need to work to maintain sanity or would be an absolute mess if I couldn't stay home. I tend to be content in most situations. And I embrace change and new routines. 

The week went really well. Although I was hoping to slowly ease back into projects at work, this was not the case. There was plenty waiting for me and quickly I picked up where my temp had left off. What I really am having to adjust to is the extended day: feeding and getting Hannah ready and dropping off and picking her up. I get up 30-45 minutes earlier than I used to and I have an added half hour or so to my commute with a little less time the two days Seth drops off Hannah at Grandma P's.            

The question on many minds is if I'm going to stay. To that, I have no idea. Over the course of time I was home I had the opportunity to talk to several Godly and wise women about their thoughts and experiences on the topic. The overwhelming majority favored staying home, others suggested trying it out, but the consensus was to pray about it and give it to the Lord.

I didn't expect an answer before returning to work, but I did expect to lean one way or the other once I did. Well, I don't feel strong either way. I actually feel rather indifferent. Going back to work has been great. So was staying home. Both have their pros and cons and I'm truly having a difficult time being sure what to do. Of course, it has only been a week. So my decision for the time being is no decision. I'll stay in my present situation until I hear otherwise and pray the Lord will make it clear if He desires for me to stay home. 

So Thankful

Seth and I are especially thankful this year for our beautiful healthy baby girl. The Lord has truly blessed us, even when He owes us nothing. It is us who owes Him everything!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Two Months

In month two, Hannah has really grown into her nickname, going from being just a Little Peanut to a Chunky Monkey. Those chubby cheeks and that big round belly are my favorite; they get most of my kisses.

And her smiles! Hannah loves to smile when you talk to her. Her smiles are particularly abundant when she just wakes up, something few of us can boast.  I just wish I was better at having my camera ready.

We also passed through a bit of an awkward stage this month. Beginning with some baby ache and balding, Hannah's cheeks have just about cleared up and her hair is now starting to come back in. It's still brown. Eye color is TBD, but I'm thinking blue. I'll let you know for sure in another five to seven months (so experts say when we should be able to predict the final hue).

Hands down the best part of month two though: Hannah is sleeping through the night! Beginning week eight, Hannah began scheduled feedings and is put down at night. She picked up the "parent-directed" feeding schedule immediately, and after two nights of "crying it out," we hear just a bit of whimpering when she goes down followed by no less than seven hours of continuous sleep.

Other highlights:

• Hannah loves play gyms and music. She especially likes Grandma P's play gym because it includes her best friend, the musical light up black and white cat.
• Hannah took her first plane ride to Minnesota. There she met Great Grandma and Great Grandpa Polson for the first time.
• Hannah is now 11 lbs, 12 oz! My goodness someone must be feeding her well.

To close, I will leave you with this video. In trying to capture Hannah's expressions when waking her up, I got a little more than I bargained for. It gets particularly good at :30.

Hannah "Peas" First Halloween

Pumpkin Carving

How we want you to think Hannah felt naked in a pumpkin.

How Hannah actually felt.

Fall Party

Halloween

One Month

I can't believe Hannah is already one month! The time has gone fast, but I love getting to know this girl more as the days go by. Here is a little bit about Hannah:

• She was born with a full head of beautifully brown hair that is now beginning to shed and lighten.
• Her eyes are grey, and everyday I go back-and-forth as to whether they will be blue or brown.
• Born at 7lbs, 6oz, Hannah now weighs 9lbs, 9oz. We like to call her "Chunky" (while it's okay to do so).
• She loves bath time.

• She hates a wet diaper and is less likely to cry if it's poopy.
• When she cries, she's either hungry, wet, or needs to burp. She's that good of a baby.
• Evenings tend to be her time to eat and poop repeatedly.  Like a few times an hour.
• She doesn't like laying on her stomach. Tummy time doesn't last long.
• A smile usually means she's about to "push one out".  At least we get a smile!

Newborn Photo Session

At 15 days old, my sister was in town and took some newborn photos of Hannah. Here are some of my favorites.

Post Delivery (in Pictures)