I'm the BIG Sister

I'm the BIG Sister

(Ruthie in her Big Sister Class) 

 (Checking out all the cool BABY toys)

(at her Big Sister Prep Class)

Ruthie and I spent a lot of time together in the time leading up to baby Brayden's birth. I wanted to prepare her the best I could for the new life change. We talked about the baby inside my belly often, worked in the nursery, listened to the baby's heart beat (every moment we could) and so on. We had a lot of fun together. However, all the prep could not prepare my sweet girl for the welcoming of her new baby brother. 

BUT... on February 10th at 7:02 pm like it or not, Brayden Timothy was born and Ruthie's life (along with her parents) changed forever.

Ruthie took the first week at home pretty hard. She was mad at both me and this sweet little guy we called her brother. Nothing a trip of the park couldn't cure. :) By the end of our first week at home, we had a beautiful day and even though I was still very tired and very sore, I had to take advantage of it. I gathered the kiddos and we took a walk down to the park. Ruthie LOVED getting out of the house, and even though I wanted to be at home resting, it was nice to get out and breathe some fresh air. 

 Ruthie and Brayden 

at the park

 Ruthie and Brayden 

Out in the Sunshine

With each passing day, life continues to get easier for our family of four. Ruthie is adjusting to sharing her mommy and daddy. We still have our moments, but she's enjoying helping out when she can. One of her favorite duties is getting a diaper and a alcohol wipe (used to clean Brayden's belly button) 

Ruthie is also slowly opening up to holding Brayden. Notice I said... SLOWLY. Basically at the moment, I have to bribe my sweet girl to hold her brother... but one mention of having a Dora Fruit Snack and she's quick to open up  her arms. :) Don't worry, I don't plan on bribing her often! :) hehe! I just wanted some cute photoshoots!

 Ruthie and Brayden

Photoshoot with Gaga Stube

 Ruthie & Brayden

St. Patricks Day Photoshoot

And TODAY... we had a HUGE breakthrough!! 

Because I've been so sore on the left side I decided that today I was going to pump on the left side and bottle feed my little man. Well, Ruthie got very excited to help mommy with the pump. When I told I was going to feed Brayden a bottle she asked if she could help mommy. Help mommy? SURE!! So, this morning, the three of us sat in my bed a Ruthie and I fed Brayden his bottle.

Ruthie Mackenzie- you are such a great big sister. I'm so excited to watch you grow more and more in love with your little brother. I love you so much sweetheart!