Week One - Part Two

9 days. That's how old my little guy is already. It's been a whirlwind of time and so much has happened and yet nothing much all at the same time!

Obviously, everything in Dylan's life is a first for him, but they're firsts for us too. We have had a lot of fun experiencing all of these family firsts!

For our first night home from the hospital, my parents were gracious enough to be "on call" since it was really our first solo night with Dylan. Mike and I were definitely a little nervous about how it would go and if we would be able to get through it. Surprisingly, it went awesome, we didn't have to call in for back up and we passed our first big parental test with flying colors....even managing to get about 6 hours of sleep! Go us! Since then, we've had "good" nights and ones that weren't quite as good. Thanks to Dylan's grandparents, though, we've had afternoon "breaks" where we've been allowed to catch some zzz's. They left for home this morning, so it will be interesting to see how much sleep we're able to get from here on out. Only time will tell!

It's funny, even though I babysat a ton during my younger years, I have found myself nervous about all of these firsts with this little guy. Is it just because it's been so long since I've really had up close and personal "care" experience with babies (as opposed to being the fun aunt who passes them back to the parents for diaper changes, feedings, and putting them to sleep) or because of the new mom nerves? Either way, I found myself pretty nervous about the first bath too.

Dylan's not generally a fan of being naked. Anytime he gets changed (clothes or diaper), he screams. So, I was expecting a melt down during bath time. There were moments that he screamed, but also some that he didn't, so I considered it a great success.

First Bath

He Enjoyed the Scalp Massage

All Clean!

Other firsts have been first trip in the car, first visit to the pediatrician (awesome check up), first family walk (just around the block), and first shopping trip. They've all felt somewhat adventurous to me and have all gone really smoothly.

In addition to all the "firsts," we've stayed busy this last week at home with lots of visitors, LOTS of diaper changes, lots of "wardrobe" changes, lots of naps and, most importantly, lots of smiles and laughter enjoying our new family.

Napping

It's Been Fun Dressing Him Up

In addition to getting to know this little guy, there is one other big important observation I've had. I have been amazed at Mike and my team work. I mean, I obviously knew we made a good team since I married him, but I'm in awe at how much the work of taking care of a baby has increased our team work bond. I think there was small level of anxiety on my part during the pregnancy that Mike might not be as into the whole parenthood thing as I would be.

As a mother, you don't really have an option to not take care of your child. I mean, from day one, I had to be concerned about his well being through taking care of myself. That created a strong bond that I knew would only grow stronger with my responsibility to take care of him out of the womb. However, the father doesn't get the same type of bonding during pregnancy so it can be a little concerning as to how strong the father\baby bond will be.

Now, I never questioned that Mike would be a great father. But, I have honestly been shocked at how incredibly wonderful he's been not only in his over the moon love for his son but in his role as a caretaker. I expect a lot from myself and, therefore, a lot from him. He has somehow managed to go above and beyond every expectation I could have had and been an incredible partner to me in taking care of Dylan. It's been awesome to work with him in taking care of our son. Our bond as husband and wife has grown stronger in the last 9 days and I'm very much looking forward to our growth in that relationship over the life of our child.