Last Man Standing

Baby G came for a visit yesterday. Jason and I hosted a "little" party to kick off the start of summer and I was delighted that A&T were able to join us. Many of our friends and family were anxious to meet the big guy so it was great to show him off and of course to get in some cuddles too.

He's doing well, still has a bit of that newborn look but getting more and more alert and he's quite strong for only 5 weeks. This past week he was seen by the pediatrician for his one month check up. I don't recall the exact percentiles IM gave me but I believe it was something like the 95th for height and 90th for weight. His stats were 11 lbs. 1 oz. and 23 inches ... healthy and happy and big.

They arrived at our home in the late afternoon and spent hours visiting and mingling. It was wonderful for so many of our friends and family to have the opportunity to meet this very special little family we are always talking about. The day passed by rather quickly, before long it was night fall and as we talked we lost track of time. The night then turned into the early morning hours and it was 2 AM before our visit came to end. Baby G was "the last man standing" since by this point everyone had either headed out or gone off to bed. We said our goodbyes but we know it won't be for long ...

As time passes it's hard to even remember that I carried him. Of course I remember the pregnancy but what I mean is, now that he has been in the loving arms of his mommy and daddy for over a month it almost feels like he was always with them. Life continues to return to normal around our household. My maternity leave is coming to an end Tuesday so it is back to work and I'll be hitting the gym again after getting the all clear at my postpartum visit next week. Time for life to resume as normal. Now that the girls have finished up school for the year we are looking forward to a busy yet fun summer.

Yesterday was a perfect day for many reasons but of course these special visitors were one of the highlights for me. My heart is full.

Precious Baby Boy

I had a great visit with my lil surroman today. I got in some cuddle time despite him being a bit fussy. Since IPs ran out of EBM a couple days ago they had to use some forumla and it doesn't entirely agree with his system, poor lil guy had to poop but couldn't. IM was comforting him, rocking and patting away for some time when I offered to take over to give her arms a rest. He fussed a bit more but did finally settle down in my arms and slept there for a awhile, it was sweet. He's just adorable and makes the cutest lil noises. IF said he sounds like a lil piggy hunting for truffles. LOL The girls got a chance to cuddle him for the first time today, they really enjoyed that ... well that is until Lauren got spit up on!!

IM and IF caught me up on the last two weeks. They are adjusting and learning the ropes of this new parenting gig. Besides a few long nights things seem to be going well. They both already seem more at ease caring for him, before long they'll be pros.

I sent them on their way with a good stash of EBM, 5 gallons worth! (642.5 oz) It all didn't fit into the large Coleman cooler had to use a second one to get it all home. Just call me the "Dairy Queen".

We are planning to see one another again soon and I'm already looking forward to it.

In Honor of Mother's Day

I wanted to wish my favorite new mom a Happy Mother's Day!! Celebrating this day has been a long time coming and I am just thrilled that I had a small part in making that happen for "A". I'm overjoyed that there is another wonderful woman enjoying this special day with her precious child close by.

Here's a favorite lil poem that my mother gave to me when I became a mommy for the first time nearly 16 years ago. It's has hung on the wall in the girls nursery throughout the years as a reminder of those early days.

To A First Time Mother

Relax my dear ... your
little elf is just an amateur
himself.

So if your hands so newly filled
with tasks seem somewhat less
than skilled ... Relax, I say,

This little pinkling
doesn't have the slightest inkling
that you are new to baby lore ...
He's never had a mom before.

author unknown

God bless all the moms out there and have a very
Happy Mother's Day!

Snuggle Time

Baby G came for a visit today (on what was our original due date). It was so nice to see A&T and the lil guy and hear how their first week has gone. Sounds like they are getting settled into their new life as a family and enjoying parenthood.

I got in some cuddles which was nice, he's such a cutie. Really what makes me smile most though is watching IM (and IF) hold and interact with Baby G. When I think about how long they waited for their child and reflect on our journey over the past two and a half years I am still amazed at what a lil miracle he is.

Besides snuggles the other purpose of their visit was to pick up the EBM (expressed breast milk) I had for them . I was pretty excited about the supply I had, I stashed over 350 oz. in the last 6 days . We're gonna see each other again in the next few weeks for another EBM pick up. I'm glad I can do this for them, gotta keep that big boy well feed ... and it also helps me continue to feel useful.

Today A&T gifted me a beautiful Pandora bracelet. The bracelet is sterling silver and included seven beads; the Journey charm, Teddy Bear, Baby Carriage, Block w/ letter G, Silver Heart, Baby Booty w/ blue diamond and my favorite the Kangaroo with baby which is a symbol of surrogacy. This is something I will cherish and appreciate forever.