Bath Time

Lily loves bath time - just like her big sister.  During her first bath she was a bit unsure, but now finds it soothing and relaxing.  Emily loves to watch me bathe her.  She can now be found throughout the day giving her monkey a pretend bath in Lily's bath chair.

I find it so amazing to watch Emily mimic the things I do with Lily and her each day - bathe, play, talk, swaddle, feed, dress, and sing.  As I see her pretending to be me it makes me evaluate what she sees.  I want her to know how much I love her in my actions and hope that shows.

Lily's Birth Annoucement

All in the Family

It has been fun to look back at pictures of Emily since Lily was born to see how the two are similar.  They definitely share features - both physically and emotionally.  There is no doubt in my mind these two girls were best friends in heaven.  They seem to share a kindred connection that cannot be explained with words.  I love watching Lily gaze at Emily in amazement.  Emily in turn is a great protector and lover of Lily.  She loves to touch (sometimes more than she should) and give her hugs.  When Lily is crying, Emily is quick to go to her aid saying, "It's okay!  Mommy coming!"  I am so blessed to have these beautiful daughters and spirits in my home.

This pictures collage shows Emily and Lily as newborns and myself around 6 months.  It is so fun to see resemblances.

Nana and Grandma

Nana was here for a few days before Lily's arrival.   Emily and I loved spending time with her.  We enjoyed the splash park, river walk, and crafting together a quiet book.  She was a great help with Emily while I was in the hospital.  I know Emily enjoyed her one-on-one time with her because she was spoiled with hugs, kisses, and jellybeans.  It was a special experience to have my mom there for Lily's delivery.  Whenever my mom describes the birth of a baby - whether it be a grandchild or her own child - she emphasizes the spiritual feelings that are present.  As she said, "When a baby is born, heaven and earth meet."  I was glad that she was there for that special moment and hope she felt her daddy there because I know he was.  He is never far.

Grandma Yates came the weekend after Lily was born.  With my dad in the hospital, my mom had to leave early.  JoLynn was so sweet to come so quickly - the next day.  I appreciate the time she took away from work on such short notice.  Emily too loved spending time with Grandma Yates.  She loved dancing and singing nursery songs.  Emily now loves to dance and sing while I am nursing.  It was special to have JoLynn there to meet Lily and get to know her so quickly after she had joined our family.  I know both girls loved spending some time with her.

We are looking forward to blessing Lily at home in Salt Lake in September so that we can introduce her to so many people that love her.  There is no doubt we are richly blessed with love from family and dear loved ones.  I hope both my daughters know how much they are loved.

Lily

This is a collection of pictures of Lily we have taken so far.

Fulfilling the Big Sister Role

Emily has jumped into the "Big Sister" role so well.  She loves her baby sister!  Emily loves to touch her, sit by her, read her stories, go for walks, and talk with her.  There is no doubt she loves Lily!  I know they are going to be best friends as the years go by.  It is neat to see Emily so protective of Lily.  I love the way she tries to console Lily when she is crying, saying, "It's okay!  Mommy help you!  Shh, Shh. . ."  There are moments where Emily is figuring out the attention  Lily needs from me, but overall she is doing well.  I am grateful for the love they share.

Sunglasses and Shoes

Emily loves to wear shoes!  She loves to try on different pairs, even those of others.  I am not sure where her fashion sense comes from because it sure isn't me.  The other day I caught her putting shoes on Emily.  So cute!

When Grandma Yates was here, Emily loved to wear her sunglasses.  She thought it was so funny to have them on her head.  I think she was exploring the way they made everything look dim.  Fashion diva!