Two Weeks with Annalise
Two weeks ago, I went for a walk and thought that I would probably go into labor today, June 10th. Little did I know that sweet little Annalise would make her arrival the next day. We were definitely surprised and had many things left to do before her arrival, but I can’t imagine not having her around these past two weeks. She is such a sweet little baby.

Being a sweet little baby, she sleeps a lot, nurses a lot and always poops right after she’s fallen asleep. She has had quite a few visitors, and we have been so blessed by all of the meals and girl clothes we’ve been given and loaned.
And I must say that I have the absolute sweetest bunch of friends I could ever have! I missed my baby shower by one day, which I lamented about during labor. Our little playgroup moms have gotten together and done a small shower for each of the new moms. They surprised me today with a double stroller as a big gift. Can you believe it? I cried I was so touched. Long story, but I had made a “baby wishlist” page here on the site and had listed a double stroller in case anyone in our family was feeling generous and wanted to give us a big gift. I totally didn’t expect those sweet gals to give us one – ladies, thank you so much! Okay, back to Annalise stuff…
She looks a lot like Josiah did as a newborn, but his hair was darker. A comparison shot of Josiah, but about 3 weeks old:


Speaking of Josiah, he sure loves his sister and tells everyone, “Our baby came out!” He is adjusting to our new normal, and detoxing from all the added attention he received the past two weeks.

He also loves the birthing pool, almost as much as I did when I was in labor. It’s been a big treat for him almost every afternoon.

Lastly, I feel great! I can’t believe how quickly I recovered this time. The day after she was born, I felt better than I did before I gave birth. No tears, no soreness, nothing. The postpartum care I’ve received from my midwife is also one of the best parts of homebirthing.
I looked through the pictures before reading what you had written and I actually said out loud “Wow, she looks like Josiah!” She is so precious…I am awaiting the day we try for more and I am really wanting a girl! I am so glad you are feeling so good. I also felt so much better the day after I had the boys…something about being able to take a deep breath again makes everything seem great. Thank you for sharing the new pictures.
I’m so glad you like the stroller, Rachel. Wish I could have been there to help deliver it. Enjoy!
I hate that I missed out on all the fun yesterday! I’m so glad you feel great – I’ve been thinking about you – wondering how you are doing! Annalise is beautiful!
I am so so happy that you’re feeling so great! You guys seem to be making an awesome adjustment too. I loved your birth story, it was very inspiring! Annalise is a BEAUTY and you (and Thomas) did a great job bringing her into the world. And we’re so glad that the stroller was just what you wanted and needed. I can’t wait to see you rolling your hot wheels around when you’re ready! :) You guys are always welcome here at our place if you ever need a change in scenery or someone to be hormonal with! :)
Hey Rachel! I found your page through someone else from College Station, I am not sure if you remember me from living hope and we were tennis partners, at A&M hehe. I still remember the day you helped give me a ride after my car broke down. You said you weren’t feeling to well and I casually asked you if you were pregnant and not expecting this you said “Yes!”. I moved from College Station shortly after that summer to work and later marry and move again with my husband. I just want to say what a blessing to see your little boy and now little girl! Wow! I can’t believe he is that big! Congratulations to you both!-Melissa Tomblin (Zulinski)
They look so much alike!! I’m glad you liked the stroller.