Dear Arianna

Dear Arianna,

Today you are 1 month old. It has been a crazy, wonderful, busy month. The conclusion after all this: you are very loved. You came in to this world two and a half weeks early, but your timing couldn't have been better. It worked out perfectly to be able to spend a wonderful Christmas with you, for your birthmom to be able to get back to school, and even for your dad to take some much time off of work.
You were part of a miracle when you were only 5 days old, not many people can say that. You had two birth parents who loved you enough to decide that they could not provide the best home for you, and you have two parents who were prompted by the spirit to work to take care of you.
You came to a home full of love, less than an hour after you arrived home you where showered with love from friends and family. During your first week of life you were held by 5 aunts, 4 uncles, and 2 sets of grandparents. You were also loved and welcomed by your birth parent's families. I pray that you will know and feel this love throughout your life.
The first week home you slept through the night for 3 nights! That has not been repeated since, but would be greatly appreciated ;) Your dad and I have started to figure out your routine and have been able to share the responsibilities of caring for you. Your dad, being the night owl that he is, lets me go to bed early and is up with you until about midnight or one. Then I get up with you usually 2 more times before you are awake for the day. You usually have about 2 periods of "wakefulness". You like to be awake when the sun comes up in the morning, and then in the evening usually after dinner.
You hated sponge baths, but love real baths. You especially love your hair washed and combed. It is starting to get curly when it is wet. You sometimes like your pacifier and other times won't take it. You like your swing and the white noise machine, as long as it is playing a water sound. You don't like your clothes or your diaper changed, which has made it harder to get some cute pictures...but as your mom I have forced you into some outfits :)
Your eyesight has really improved and you are starting to follow us when we walk across the room. People say it isn't possible yet, but I believe you smiled at me yesterday :) You are strong and growing, 9 lbs and 22 inches long! The doctor has been really impressed with how healthy you are. You are still figuring out how your legs and arms work, but don't worry, you will stop hitting yourself soon.
You continue to sing yourself to sleep and will grunt if anyone moves you. You make your own soundtrack to the delight of everyone. Anytime the family gets together you are the main attraction, and you never fail to impress.
Arianna, I love you. I will always love you. I hope you know how blessed and special you are.
Love,
Mom