7 weeks old

It's incredible the difference a month and a half makes. We (baby and parents) are getting a bit more used to each other and things seem to flow a little more easily now. People try to warn you about how different life will be with a baby but it didn't really sink in until we brought home our little bundle of joy. I think it can be summed up this way--my (this is Steph talking) life no longer revolves around my desires but our daughter's needs. Eating, showering, laundry, dishes, anything social or work related take the back seat. It's a wonderful thing but it's taken some getting used to. On the flip side, there's nothing like seeing Elena gaze at me and smile. Or feeling her little hand grasp onto me. Or listening to her play with her voice and make new sounds. It's worth the work.

Proud Grandparents

It's amazing the love you can have for a little person simply because they're related to you. It's not like a newborn has done anything special but she is loved dearly regardless. A lot of our immediate family have been down to visit since Elena was born six weeks ago and probably the proudest of the bunch are the grandparents. Both Ryan and I are blessed to have supportive and loving parents. So here is an entry dedicated to them. Besides, if it weren't for them, little Elena wouldn't exist!

Steph's dad just an hour after Elena was born. Mike came down the night Steph went into labor and was able to spend Elena's first few days with us.

Steph's mom on the front porch of the Castillo Elena's second day home. Becky was with us for nearly a month. Two weeks were spent patiently waiting Elena's arrival, then she was an invaluable help during labor & delivery, and spent a week with us after the birth. Experienced mom's are SO great to have around when you come home with a foreign little bundle and are completely responsible for caring for her.

Steph's parents just after we returned home from the hospital.

Ryan's parents spent this week with us. They got to be with Elena as she turned 6 weeks old and were able to enjoy her in a more interactive state (less sleeping and more smiling).

Lance and Elena at our friend's burrito stand

Lance and Lana enjoyed watching Elena which allowed us to get in a few chores, naps, and a walk in the neighborhood. Grandma loves time with the baby, we love the break, and Elena loves the attention...everyone wins!

Bath Time

So we're those new parents that boast about their naked baby during bath time. Elena really is a good natured kid and actually likes taking baths (as long as the water is warm enough). We figured that mostly it's grandparents that will get a kick out of this little video.