I was present for a good 100% of Jacqueline’s pregnancy, and I don’t remember her doing many cartwheels, jumping jacqs (couldn’t resist) or riding any roller coasters. But that doesn’t change the fact that last night just about the only thing that would make little Ben settle down was the ‘bouncy-dad’ maneuver. You know the one I’m talking about. I hold him, and gently (but exaggeratedly) bounce/dance around the room. He loves it, and the squalls become coos and eventually snores.
It was fun, but quite a workout. If I even slowed down, much less attempted to sit down, I was accosted with a shrill baby lung-full of dissatisfaction. And his lungs held more than you’d think, for just having used them for 15 hours or so.
All in all, not counting the one emotional breakdown that I had at hour 21 with no sleep, it was a great first night. I enjoyed bouncing him back to sleep, or at least bouncing until he calmed and I got the ‘both eyes open’ look you see above. It was fantastic. Here’s hoping for a “two hours in a row” break tonight!
For those who have asked, mama Jacq is doing great. She walked to the nurses station today, which was a great feat. She’s already back to solid foods, and eager to get back on her feet. Now my job becomes encouraging patience (and changing diapers!) As a side note, I am such a crybaby that I got emotional changing his diaper for the first time last night. I can’t wait to read this again in 2 years and get a great kick out of that line. But it’s true. I cried changing a diaper. There, I said it.
Oh, and we added some more pics to the Baby Photo Page. Enjoy!