Our little Lily is finally here!

Almost two weeks ago, on May 4th, our daughter Lily Charlotte Helene was born. We are so happy to have her with us! She is so cute! Lily has been a really good baby so far, sleeping lots and - unlike her brother - not troubled by colic. Which does not mean that she won't fuss or cry, but it seems she usually cries when she is lonely. Often just picking her up will make her stop.

Giving birth to her was quite the experience and not easy. Finns birth was a stroll in the park in comparison! I thought I knew what pain in childbirth was, but it turned out the pain could still get MUCH MUCH worse. Labor was long and hefty, and when I thought (and was told) Lily would make her appearance really soon she got stuck in my pelvis facing the wrong way - nose up instead of down. While things were being set up for an emergency epidural my midwife and Neil tried to get Lily "lose" again during contractions, hoping she would still turn. Contractions were only a minute or so apart, and I honestly thought I would not survive if it lasted much longer. But Lily did turn - just as they were ready to stop contractions for the epidural. I was able to push Lily out with the next few contractions, and when it was all over I was just happy to be alive. The contractions felt unbelievably powerful and during one of them I could hear and feel my tailbone go "crack" as Lily was moving through my pelvis. I didn't have time to think about it then, but I remembered after the birth when trying to sit up was really painful. But I am thankful I was spared the epidural and a possible forceps delivery or even an emergency c-section.

Two weeks later I have recovered from the birth quite well, except for my tailbone. I have been told it will take about 4-6 more weeks until I will be pain free. I can't wait for the day I will be able to cuddle up with Lily SITTING in my nursing chair!

My parents were here the past two weeks and have just left. They were a tremendous help, taking care of Finn and various household chores. It was nice to not have to shop, cook or do laundry. And Finn will miss his M-ma and M-pa lots, too! They took him on little outings to the zoo or the pool and played with him in our yard every day. Now it is up to us to take care of an energetic 1.5 year old and a new baby. I am so thankful that Neil can be home with us.