The Big Bathtub

We were pleased to discover that although Eli was not a fan of the sponge bath, he does seem to like bathing in the big tub! Maybe it is because he gets to sit in his stylin' bath chair.


Less picture taking, more bathing!


This warm towel is the best!

Memorial Union and Dad's Softball Game

With Grandma back in town this week for a few days, we were able to venture out and enjoy the nice weather. Elijah visited the Memorial Union to meet up with Tia Erin for some ice cream on the terrace (no ice cream for Eli quite yet!).


This sleepy face means I'm having fun!


Sitting with Mom in the big Union Terrace chair.


We also went to Dad's softball game to cheer on the guys. Elijah's cheering must have inspired the team, as they pulled off a win!


Hey Mom, turn me around so I can see Dad play!

First Concerts on the Square

Elijah experienced his first cultural outing this week - a trip to Concerts on the Square. This summertime staple features the Madison Orchestra performing on the capitol lawn, accompanied by picnic-ing and wine-drinking (or sparkling orange juice for nursing moms!). The theme this week was polka and waltz, so we were glad to introduce Eli to music that ties in with his Brasel heritage. Eli was so excited that he slept right through it (which made for a calm concert for mom and dad too!).

First Farmers' Market

Grandparent fun continued this past weekend with Grandma and Grandpa Brasel coming to stay with us! It was a pretty low-key weekend overall (seems to be a theme for adjusting to life with a newborn!), with lots of golf-watching and hanging out around the house. We did make it to the Farmers' Market downtown on Saturday, and it was fun to introduce Eli to one of our favorite Madison activities. We went to the market quite a bit earlier than usual to try to beat the heat and the crowds, and now I'm definitely a plan of the early morning trip (why not since we're all up and awake anyway?).


Yay - it is so fun to have grandparents visit!


Mom loves the farmers' market!


Dad, what is that beverage that is so often in your hand?


Family picture at the Farmers' Market

Bath Time

How many adults does it take to keep a newborn clean and dry? At least two judging from our first sponge bath at home (three if you count a grandma on hand to take pictures).


Not a fan of being naked


I'm clean and cute!

Hello World!

We haven't been able to blog recently, as Eli made a bit of an early appearance! We're very excited to be getting to know the newest member of our family. The past week has gone by in a blur of learning how to change diapers, monitoring eating and pooping schedules, and trying to get some sleep when we can. Luckily Grandma is here to help provide an extra set of hands, delicious meals, and lots of love (for Eli and his parents). Here are a few pictures of Eli's first week...


Our first family picture!



I'm 7lbs 6 oz.


Meeting my grandparents (and great-grandparents)


We're home...now what?

Twinkle Toes

Thanks to my thoughtful brothers and thoughtful sisters-in-law, I have pretty toes again! It is interesting the little things that you take for granted...like being able to reach and paint your own toes. After an appointment at the spa, I felt pampered, pretty, and positively refreshed.