Lilyana Joy Keller

         

(Holding Mom's hand)

          Here is a quick update. On August 21^st, 2013 at 2:31a.m., we welcomed our precious baby girl into this world. A healthy Lilyana Joy Keller came into this world with a loud cry and big appetite. She weighed 7 pounds 13.8 ounces and was roughly 20 inches long. Being a mother has been a surreal experience. I find myself just staring at her in awe that she is mine. I am slowly adjusting to the new schedule and trying to sleep when the baby sleeps. This can be difficult at times since my body is not used to this yet.

(Newborn Lilyana)

(Peaceful baby)

  















         

          After we were discharged from the hospital my midwife told me no cardio. She said I am allowed to walk but blocks not miles. I guess they know me too well! But in all honesty there is no way I would feel up for a run at this point. I think the body is pretty smart when it comes to having a baby and knowing when you need to rest. After two weeks I am allowed to start light cardio. They do not want me doing any weight lifting or abdominal work until they see me at my 6 week appointment so they can assess how well my abdominal muscles are healing.
          Lilyana had her first Doctor’s appointment on Monday at 5 days old. Newborns will lose up to 10% of their body weight after birth and should gain it back by 10-14 days. Lilyana had already passed her birth weight at her appointment and the Doctor had to verify with the nurse that was her correct weight at birth. He was surprised but it is a good thing. I guess the nurses at the hospital were right when they said she was a breast feeding professional!

(Mom and baby)

          Levi is a natural father and it melts my heart seeing him care for his little girl. He is a big help around the house and tells me my job is to rest and feed the baby and he will take care of everything else. We have been very blessed by the support of friends and family as well who have been coming by with dinners for us to eat. I feel spoiled!

(Loving Father)

          It has been 8 days since she was born and I amazed at how fast she is growing already. She is still a tiny infant but looking at her I can see the changes. I have always heard that kids grow up fast and it looks like she will be no different in my eyes. I am excited to see what the future has in store for our new little family!