The new backyard

The mud pit that was our backyard is now a nice and livable area that we have used whenever the weather has allowed this winter... this was our first day out since the work was completed, and Finn loves it!

Jumping

We break the rules in this house.  And then I grab my camera to capture the rule breaking.  This is what I'm going to remember when she's grown.  

Scoot

Santa brought little one a bike for Christmas!  At first, she'd have nothing to do with it, since it had everything to do with Santa.  Finn does not like Santa.  It sat, unused, in our front hall for weeks, and Ahren would constantly try and talk her into it giving the bike a try.  Then out of the blue, she decided that she might just like it afterall. After choosing the correct outfit and accessories, she was ready to hit the road!

Grandparents and Aunts

About a week after Charlotte was born, Ahren's mom and dad and sisters all flew down from Boston to spend some time with us and meet the new grandchild / niece.  The weather was nice enough for us to spend some time outside, and Finn loved all the extra attention she got while they were here.  And Finn was sporting her Ravens gear because they were playing the Pats, and the Boston crew was nice enough to indulge me.  And Finn was nice enough to indulge us by holding her sister.  

A few pics from our first days at home

A blur of babies is what we are talking about here... but I pulled out the camera here and there!

Cutie...

Just because it's a day about love... 

She's here!

On January 7th, in just a few short hours, Charlotte Todd Rittershaus made her appearance, and we became a family of four!  Charlotte (Charlie?  Lottie?- nickname TBD) is a really good baby, and although Miss Finn wasn't exactly sure about her new little sister (don't let the photos below fool you...), she is now finally adjusting, and I am hopeful that one day she may even like the new addition. We have been overwhelmed by the support we have received.  Our Raleigh community has been wonderful-  everyone was checking on me constantly during my last months of pregnancy and offering to help whenever they could, and we have had meals delivered consistently by an amazing group of women.  We feel so fortunate to call Raleigh home because of this outpouring of support.  Our long distance family and friends are also incredible- everyone has been visiting and helping as we make the adjustment to life with a toddler and an infant.  Thank you!

There are many photos to follow- things are a bit busy, but I'm posting when I can- especially for family and friends who are not local- Love to all!