Now that life with a family of four is a little more settled and predictable, I can begin documenting Isla's babyhood. I have already watched her grow and develop at the speed of light...I know if I blink for too long it will be a distant memory. Stay young sweet girl?
Eight weeks old and eight weeks young. It is the most incredible thing watching your leaps in development and then seeing them reflected in your cries and sleep, it totally intrigues me. Around three weeks ago we watched as your perception widened, you were no longer just looking at us...you were really seeing us. Now, your tiny face lights up when you see a familiar one. Your eyes widen, your mouth opens and your arms and legs kick and squirm. When you get get really excited a soft 'Gah' escapes your mouth.
Your personality has started to shine, your remind me so very much of your Daddy. You are extra sensitive to a change in temperature and aren't afraid to let us know how much you dislike getting un-dressed. Unlike your older sister, who loved to have her limbs free to wriggle about, you adore being swaddled tightly and held. Lately when I have been cradling you to settle, you have been burying your face into my chest. You rub your little face backwards and forwards until you find a comfy spot with your nose and eyes tucked in safely. It is your most adorable habit by far.
A routine is still not something you are overly excited about. I can't predict your daytime naps (If you are to have any at all), which isn't always a bad thing, I love indulging in your snuggles. Sometimes when I hear your Dads car come home from work, I rush to put you down in the bassinet as you've dozed off mid feed and rather than put you down I soak up your sleepy goodness while I can. He worries that we may develop bad settling habits if I let you linger in my arms too long, but what's a mother-daughter relationship without a few secrets hey?
I daydream of the day you are big enough to play with your sister and giggle alongside her. She is so excited by your presence and loves to 'share' all her toys with you. She showers you with kisses and cuddles. Last week in a brief moment of inattention, I returned my gaze to find her putting bracelets on your arms and pegs on your sleeves!
The last eight weeks have been challenging but beautiful. I look forward to us getting to know each other more and more and figuring out 'our ways'. Figuring out your favourite ways to lay, settle, play and sleep are all part of the fun of navigating these newborn days. There isn't a doubt in my mind that my heart has doubled in size since your arrival, there is a special space in there...just for you my little Isla Willow.
There's nothing more enjoyable than freezing memories with words and pictures. What special ways did you document your children's lives?
Plenty of love,
P.S. These photographs are by the talented Tanya from TK's photography, taken at just 12 days old.
