Dear Audrey

I am writing you this, the first of many love letters, as you lay across my chest, a little snore coming from your chest and your lips pulse together in a sucking sound. I realize that a few tears have fallen atop of your little head..tears of overwhelming joy...I am sure that your middle name fits you... for Joy is the best word to describe what I feel in my heart as I sit here and listen to you sleep.

You are nearly 3 weeks old. These last few weeks have been a harder adjustment than I have ever imagined. Before you, I always put myself first. Now, making sure you are happy and taken care of is more important than the laundry, lunch, answering the phone, or sleeping. You are the center and outsides of my heart...and everything in between.

The first two weeks of your life are almost a blur to me.It is amazing how much I didn't know about being a mother. Thank goodness for Gram and Nana. They taught me what your crys meant. This week, I finally feel like I have gained some confidence at being a mom. I know not to pick you up as soon as you cry; sometimes you are just dreaming and fall back to sleep in 10 seconds. I know how to lay you down to sleep without you waking up immediately...you have to put your whole body into it. I know when your hungry and when you are gassy.

I haven't quite gotten the "sleep when she sleeps" advice down yet, but I am getting adequate sleep for now. I haven't used half of the stuff I thought that I had to have on hand for you. I especially didn't NEED the Diaper Genie. I have decided which diapers and wipes I like best. I am amazed at how fast all of the diapers we got as gifts have become to evaporate.

I think your dad has become attuned to your needs very quickly. Sometimes, he has a better idea of what you are crying for than I do. I make sure that I tell him when I realize that. He needs confidence too. He is a good daddy. Although, sometimes I think he would feed you everytime you cry. I told him today that I didnt want you to become one of those obese kids that can't stop eating, like on Maury Povich. ;)

I just want what is best for you, more than I have ever wanted anything for myself.

I love you and I promise to do my best to show you that everyday.

MOm