Life As a Family of Five...

... totally rocks so far!! Everyone is adjusting as well as I could ask, although I realize it's still very early on, and things could get more difficult at any time. But so far, so good. The kids love their newest sister. Christa is so helpful and wants to hold baby Elizabeth, make sure she is warm and comfortable, and is so proud of her two sisters! Abby Kate is doing much better than I feared. She excitedly says, "Beth!" and is anxious to see the baby each morning. She's been a little fussy at times, but it's hard to tell if that's just from being off schedule for a few days with grandparents or if she is dealing with this big change in her life. Regardless, we are trying hard to give each big girl plenty of love and attention right now!
Baby Elizabeth is great and so sweet! The feeding and sleeping is going well, after a few days of working with my awesome lactation consultant! Elizabeth is letting me get the rest I need at night, as long as I'm willing to hold her in bed with me while I do it :) Cline asked me if I was sure I want to establish this pattern already. I told him that if I want to get any sleep at night, my choices are to let her sleep on her stomach or hold her. For now, I'm holding her, although we might try the vibrating bouncy seat tonight now that we got the battery replaced.
Anyway, here are some pictures of the fun we've been having for the last few days:

Coming home from the hospital!! The girls were so excited and waiting in the front yard for us.

I fear my days of getting that great family picture are over for a while. We tried many times, but were unable to get a perfect shot of everyone looking at the camera. I don't think I've even managed to get a great one of just the 3 girls yet!

Welcome home, Baby Elizabeth!

Loving the new sister!

The girls are so sweet and gentle with the baby so far! Hope it lasts :)

How she looks today at 4 days old.

All clean after our first bath at home.

Have a great day!