I know for a while Kari and I will be celebrating Rivers weekly birthdays, then monthly, and then the more accepted yearly ones. River has been with us for two weeks today. 14 Days have passed so quickly, but to be honest, the last two weeks have seemed like an eternity.
This is definitely the hardest job I've ever signed up for. Before River was born I was worried about things like "what kind of disciplinarian am I going to be?" or "How will I react when my child does this or that". Now I realize those things are very far away. Mine and Kari's focus is entirely on keeping this guy as happy as possible right now. And when Kari is working with River, I am trying to keep Kari as happy as possible.
We've hit a few bumps in the road. Sometimes it seems like we've hit every bump in the road that you can in two weeks, but I know that's not nearly the case. Every new parent must think "Oh my gosh, what have I gotten myself into!" River has had a hard time feeding because of Kari's abundant milk supply. He feeds; it just takes a long time for him to get around to it. He usually spends the first 10-30 minutes or more choking and coughing on milk. That has made for some long nights when you are feeding the guy every 2-3 hours.
After some trial and error and a visit from a lactation consultant here at our house, we have figured out some things to help the feedings go a bit easier. Some are good, some are long, but the important thing is that as of yesterday he has gotten back up to his birth weight and then some.
He spends most of the day sleeping, which is normal for a baby...(he's not lazy or anything), and the rest of the day eating, pooping, crying, or staring at different things. Kari and I take turns doing house chores and taking showers. Usually we will all crash for a nap at some point during the day. I've done some grocery shopping, which is not something I am used to doing a lot of, but I'm pretty good at it if I do say so myself. I do find it weird to be out in the hustle and bustle of the world and to momentarily forget this special thing you have at home. Then, for example, I will pick up my phone, which has a picture of River on it. I immediately want to get done shopping and get home! I can't imagine what it will be like to go back to work on Thursday this week. I'm not looking forward to that feeling.
So for all the hard work, and poopy diapers, and sleepless nights, this is an amazing adventure! River is such a beautiful child. My capacity to love grows every day he is around. My love for Kari even astounds me in these moments. She is working her tail off and is doing it in a graceful fashion. I couldn't have asked for a cuter kid or a more wonderful wife.
And, with him squirming in my arms right now, I wish you a happy 2 week birthday River Morgan.
Feet
River's Poopy Face.
A comparison of Father to Son hand size ratio
Sleep
His eyes aren't usually red like this. He was just hungry here...
River's drunk off of milk face
Our little monkey
Getting ready for the pediatrician again. Notice the puckered lips.
6 comments:
as awkward as it is to say...the "poop face" picture makes River have an astonishing resemblance to his mother, who has definitely made that same face before in my presence...but not while pooping. Love you, Kari! Stay afloat on the joyous love--he looks wonderful!
Oh, what a handsome young man. We cannot wait to get our hands on him next week. You can anticipate some rest because "River's grandparents" will be there along with Uncle Derek. Love, Mom and Dad
I know it's so much work, and you guys must be exhausted...but look how perfect he is. Happy Birthday River!
What cute pictures!!! River is a handsome young man and you guys are doing a great job. Thanks for keeping us up to date on what's going on. I know the Teal family is anxious to get there and see how much they can spoil him in a week's time!!!!
Love the dad perspective! You guys made a cute kiddo! Happy 2 weeks!
What a gorgeous little fellow you have.
Congrats,
Sharyn Teal Burt (your second cuz once removed)
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