Maternity leave

I can't believe my maternity leave is almost over. Stella will be 10 weeks on Thursday and I go back to work next Monday. I don't have nearly the feeling of "dread" that I had with Silas, probably because I know two of Stella's teachers at the daycare center and she's going to be in the same building as Silas. 

I remember in a way being somewhat excited to go back to being "normal" after Silas and looking forward to adult interaction and being back doing what I love, despite the tears and feelings of dread. With Stella though, I have no desire what-so-ever to go back. Maybe because I've gotten together with friends every week...or that Jake keeps telling me this is our last baby. Or maybe because she is just such a great baby and snuggler...whatever it is, I don't want to go. 

Stella is so interactive right now, especially with me. She coos, sometimes almost squeals, and is full of smiles. She is generally happy when awake (except when we're trying to keep her awake before bedtime), and loves, loves, LOVES to snuggle on my shoulder or chest. This girl could sleep for hours in my arms...and sometimes she does. :) She loves her baths and enjoys her bouncy seat. Sometimes when she's fussy, I just lay her down and she'll calm down, almost as if she just needed to stretch out. 

Mom, Kellee and I went Black Friday shopping yesterday and took Stella, who was a trooper! Such a good little shopper. We were there for 8 hours and I stopped to feed her twice. She spent most of her time in the Baby Bjorn against me and was perfectly content there. 

I'll leave you with some pictures:

And here's my little tool man, all set to go to Papa's house for 5 days and "do work with my work boots".