Welcome Home, Sweet Baby Elena

The day finally arrived. Elena was discharged from the hospital in the afternoon of Sunday, April 26th. It was a beautiful day. Overcast, with rays of sun peering through the clouds and highlighting the green vegetation among the golden hills.

Our first family picture. Cooper was a little unsure of Elena at first. Then he went through a little bit of the jealous sibling syndrome. But he has come around and loves being under Elena's crib and kissing her toes.

Donna, Carl's mom, flew in Thursday, April 23rd to help us with Elena. Since she was not discharged yet, Donna prepared the nursery. I know some of you might think we were procrastinating...and although that may be a little true, I still had a baby shower to attend. After the shower, I was going to do baby laundry and settle up the nursery. Needless to say I missed the shower and the nursery was not ready yet.

We were exhausted and emotionally drained from the NICU roller coaster. It was so nice to have Donna at the house helping us and looking after us. We really appreciate her visit.

Chris, Carl's dad, and Lorraine stopped by to admire Elena, check out her big feet and her many facial expressions.

Elena was born with long skinny feet. At this time it is hard to tell if she has my feet or Carl's. We were both born with long skinny feet.

Toward the end of Donna's visit, Pat drove over from Arizona to join her and meet Elena. We had a nice weekend with many admiring looks.

I have to admit, Elena is pretty cute. It seems she has a good mix of both her parents.