Four weeks have gone by?

Squirt is four weeks old!? Where has the time gone? It has been an intense time. The day after she was born, we assembled for a family photo. Can you believe I was posing for a photo the day after I gave birth? It was my mother's dream so I tried to be patient and cooperative although I felt really fat. And tired. (Beeg and pregnant somehow seems more acceptable than big and postpartum even though I did have that cute baby in my arms.)

That next week, my grandpa's health headed downhill. We all knew he had terminal cancer, but we thought we had another 4-6 months with him. He passed away just a week later. It was difficult for me to see him so ill and watch him weaken (he has enjoyed robust health through his 88 years). My sister-in-law's words helped so much: "He has been without his sweetheart for 16 years. That is a long time." He left this life surrounded by loved ones, something made possible by my dad. I am so grateful for that. I am so grateful for my dad's fine example of being a kind and good son. I can only hope that I will raise my kids to be that type of person.

The week after that, D left for Pennsylvania for another audition rotation. Did I say Black January was a hard time to have a newborn? How about during audition rotations? We've got to work on this timing thing! Maybe we'll be smarter with the next one and have him/her during D's first year of residency!!

Yesterday Squirt was four weeks old. I celebrated by going for a run. I felt fabulous! It was a beautiful autumn day and the air was crisp. My mom took care of the kids. It was wonderful!

Three kids, three and under, and no husband around. I'm still sane! I have been well taken care of. Some sweet ladies from church have come over to hold Squirt during naptime so I could nap. Friends have called and offered their help over and over. My family has dropped in to do me favors. Life is good. And my baby is so beautiful!