8 Weeks

It appears that Max and I produce clones: Elise has come out with GERD (reflux), a birth mark over her left eye and a blocked tear duct....all exactly like Ryan. However, none of it is as bad as it was with Ryan. Other people can actually hold her without her crying the entire time. In fact, sometimes she is calmer in Staci or Mindy's arms than mine since she wants to nurse constantly to reduce the symptoms of the reflux. The blocked tear duct is hardly an issue any more so it's certain to be something she can outgrow.

I used to ADORE my sleep. Now if I get 5.5 hours a night I feel refreshed and ready to go. I am not sure if this is due to a built up stamina with #2 or just the excitement that she is here. Regardless, all is well and I feel like I am finally figuring out this two kid family thing.

Max has started the school year while Ryan officially did today by entering "pre-kindergarten." He's super excited to be leaving pre-school behind since so many of his friends are in this class. Both Ryan and Max have had great starts! Max's team has won its last three game and is hoping for similar results this weekend.

I had one month left of maternity leave and am already lamenting it. Not that I don't love ddm! I could not work at a better company and with more amazing, talented and supportive people. But it feels like I am just getting the stay-at-home aspect of my life in my control and it's almost time the change everything again. Coupled with that, I've set a super-human to-do list in my mind of how I should be spending this time. And everyday the tasks are overlooked as I prioritize cuddling with Elise or reading with Ryan over the next organizational feat for our house. I am happy to re-prioritize for these reasons though. Mainly, I think I'll just miss being around my kids this much and so I already feel my heart breaking a little as I prep to go back.

Other than that, we're just living the football life and cocooning as we shelter Elise as she grows past this fragile newborn stage...and of course, taking Ryan on as many "adventures" as we can muster in between. He is just like me in this way...always wanted to do something or go someplace new. I'll try and foster the balance I wish I had while he's still impressionable.

That's it for now. Enjoy the cuteness below.
Courtney, Max, Ryan + Elise

 Snuggle time!

 Enjoying the splash pad at the Thornapple.

 Ryan and Colin hanging out during a baby visit.

 Ryan made Daddy a first day of school surprise...chocolate peanut butter brownies. Someone licked the spoon.

 Sleeping beauty.

Ryan riding the much anticipated Funicular at the zoo. It was the highlight of the summer for him.

 Daddy and Ryan after our second week win.

 Ryan is such a great helper, especially with baths. 

 

Speaking of baths...here's big bro post a rub-a-dub-dub.

 Passing out the Saturday after a big NV win. Week 7.

Abby and Ryan watching Northview beat Holland. Abby is attending Hope so she was able to surprise Ryan, even though she's a big college girl now.

8 Weeks Today!