Chillin' in Chicago

I didn't go there for the views from the apartment,
although they were spectacular.

I went there for little Rella May
who was more spectacular, by a mile.

... and for her mommy & daddy.
(Here, with a bouquet of baby clothing,
rolled to imitate roses.
A darling gift from Duane's company.)

Sometimes this little dumpling is completely SERENE.
(She's sucking her finger, NOT her toe.)

Sometimes, she's Rella the Rodeo Queen.
The photo above was taken on her 4th day of life.

This little gal flips over and does all sorts of athletic feats.

She can even do these yoga poses:

Downward Facing Dog
& Cobra Pose

If you don't believe me, go to Chicago.

For seven nights,
I witnessed THIS million dollar view
right from my pillow.
(The above shot was taken while laying in bed.)

Then, I'd wake up to a new vista,
infusing me with inspiration for a new day.
Different angle, standing on the bed. 6:15 a.m.

I guess you could say,
my kids live in a bubble.

Baby Rella is happy there.

And, for eight days,
I was happy there too.

FOR THOSE WHO WOULD LIKE TO READ MORE: Gotta say, these new parents are 200% delighted with their daughter, taking pleasure in her every coo and facial expression. I don't know who is cuter - Rella or her parents in their ecstasy.

I marvel at Kelty's intuitive way with her baby. She has adapted to motherhood with amazing grace. Even the long nights. They don't seem to bother her. (Yet.)

AND, she's regained her strength in record time. Of course, it helps to have a grandma there to cook and clean and care for the baby when Mommy needs a nap. My other daughter, Leah, arrived today so Kelty gets a little more family support before flying solo.

On Monday, our mamacita managed four hours at school, entrusting her baby to Daddy and Grandma Ginger. That was just five days after the birth. In case you haven't followed her life, Kelty is attending graduate school (part time) at Adler University. Duane will be Rella's primary caregiver every Monday afternoon while Mommy's schoolin it.

Let me just say, I'm NOT worried about whether or not Daddy can Handle It. Actually, he is gifted with babies. My other children (who are parents) have learned that Duane can "fix" a fussing child like magic. He simply has a WAY.

Undoubtedly, Rella will flourish.

This grandma feels blessed.