Dear Dale,
Today you are one month old. Woohoo!
It's been quite a month. In some ways it seems like it's been years already, with you growing up so fast. Yet, in some ways, it still feels like yesterday when you were jabbing me in the stomach with your pointy knees (or was it your elbows?).
I'll never forget the day you were born. All the excitement and the nervousness of not knowing what to expect when i went in the ER that morning was overwhelming. I was so anxious but I did a good job at faking it and acting cool. I had to keep it together you know or else I'll panic. You should have seen your dad too. He was pacing back and forth the entrance way to the parking lot at the ER waiting for me and your sister to arrive. Yes, my dear, I drove us to the hospital. Ain't that something to tell your friends about when asked about your birth?
That day went by so fast, and you were here before we knew it.
The joy of being home was tempered by days and nights of no sleep, of you crying your lungs out and of your sister crowding you like a mob.
It was crazy at first but then somehow we got to know each other real well. How it takes you a good 15 minutes or so to wake up for feedings the first few days we were at the hospital. How you easily latched on while we were there, and how you would now struggle a little to find your milk, or play with it for a while or stare at it for a few minutes before finally taking it in. How you really hate it 99% of the time when we have to change your diapers or your clothes. How you enjoy a hair wash, but hate a fully body wash. How you love being rocked to sleep (either in our arms or in the swing).
You had many firsts this month. Your first pedia check-up and several appointments after that. The doctor was mighty pleased that you've been gaining and growing as you should. You also made your first trip to church and the succeeding sundays after that.
We were nervous about how you would handle it that we chose to sit at the back, just in case we had to sneak out when you would start crying. But no, it wasn't even necessary since you managed to sleep right through the end of the service. Not even a grunt, or a whimper. So proud of you, my son.
We are learning more things about you every day. How you're starting to recognize our voices, even your sister's (who's so crazy about you). How you've started to lose that swollen newborn look and start to fill out into your own. How you sometimes even surprise us with a smile (or a laugh when sleeping. this happened quite a few times in the night, how i wished i'd capture it in video). We'd like to think they are real smiles, but perhaps you are just content ... or just gassy. (Both highly possible. =)) How you would shake your head like a crazy person and fuss when you are really hungry, and finally fall asleep in our arms, with your little stomach moving up and down with each tiny baby breath.
Even though it's only been 4 weeks, we already couldn't imagine life without you. Our family is whole. And we are so grateful you chose us. We hope and pray that you continue to grow strong and healthy.
The adventure that is your life is just beginning, Dale. And we can't wait to watch it unfold.
We love you, Baby. Happy 1st month!
Love,
Mommy, Daddy and Nikki
