Happy New Year!

Baby Sarah turned 2 wks old today! Things have been going along well so far. Mom and Dad are a bit tired (and kinda cranky) but we can't complain about Sarah...she's been great. We found out the day we came home from the hospital, that Sarah was born with both her hips dislocated (hip dysplasia). The treatment consists of her wearing a harness for 12-16 weeks to keep her hips in place as the joint forms. It's sad to see her in the harness but there has already been improvement in just one week, so the prognosis looks good. Unfortunately, she has to wear it 24/7 which means sponge baths only. It's also somewhat more difficult to diaper her and she can't wear normal baby clothes, as her legs are held out and at a 90 degree angle with the harness straps. Sarah seems to be tolerating everything just fine, with the exception of some skin abrasions from the rough material the harness is made from. You can see a picture of the harness Here if you are curious.

Ellie adores her new baby sister and asks to hold her and help bathe her every night. When Sarah cries or complains, Ellie is quick to comfort her, saying "Sorry" and "It's OK" as she strokes Sarah's cheek. It's really cute to watch. She also loves to stick her fingers in Sarah's mouth to feel Sarah suck on them. She says it tickles.

Grandma and Grandpa L were here for Sarah's first few days and were a big help feeding us and helping us keep up with the housework. Thanks again! We will get more help tomorrow with the arrival of Grandma and Grandpa D. (Just in time, we need groceries! Ha!)

We hope that the New Year finds you all well.
See a few more recent pics in the Slideshow