Elise's Journal

June 29, 2011
What a strange summer we've had so far! After several months of commuting several days a week to Upton, Wyoming (for a plant start-up), Daddy got word that they needed him there full time for 6-7 weeks. Then they put him on six day a week night shift! We decided to bring the whole family to Wyoming so that we'd be able to see him sometimes. So we are renting a little house in Newcastle.

In the mornings I try to keep you all very quiet; we eat breakfast then go for a walk so Daddy can sleep. Then we get to spend 9:30-12:30 in the morning with him. We've been having fun trying out new playgrounds, bike paths, and library. You have done so well with all of the disruption – sleeping equally well in Newcastle or Rapid City with nary a fuss on the drive between the two (which we've done many times already). I am so thankful that God gave you to us for this season! It has been difficult for Mama, yet you are just a source of pure joy!

Last week we really mixed it up and spent two days near Valentine, Nebraska. My high school friend was visiting her childhood home (a ranch!) so Natalie and the cousins caravaned with us to see my friend Joye and her four children. Between all of us (plus Joye's brother) we had thirteen children seven and under! It rained much of the time, but you just snuggled into the wrap, oblivious to all the craziness. The night we slept there was spent with Natalie, me and all seven cousins in one bedroom! Memories for sure.

I kept waiting for you to wake up enough to get colicky or crabby or difficult, but it hasn't happened. I keep pinching myself to make sure it's real. You truly are EASY and I am so grateful. I felt kind of bad asking God for an easy baby but He truly knew what we needed and you have been his minister of blessing to me!

You are such a good nurser – about three and a half hours between feedings now and still once at night. You are only crabby if you are hungry or tired, but since you nurse so predictably, I always know which one it is. If you're tired, I lay you in your bed (with your beloved paci) and you fall asleep. You even “drowse” in your bouncy seat or stroller many times. It amazes me you can fall asleep with so much going on around you.

You are starting to discover your voice. Your little coos and smiles charm me to tears. I feel like I could spend all day just looking at you! I love being your mama, little Elise.