I'm A Mom!!!

If you would have asked me a couple weeks ago what my plans were for June 30, 2008, being a mom would not have been my answer. I probably would have said something like going to work, walking home and relaxing, but if I have learned one thing over the past week it is that life is unpredictable. I think that deep down I always knew life is this way, but I don't think I realized the extent until this past week. As many of you know, I have always been a planner, but the events over the course of the past 7 days have taught me to relax a little bit more and go with the flow. Positive thinking and a good attitude will help you get through anything, along with the love and support of friends and family.

Because of all of this, I also have a new found love for my husband. I never thought I could love him more than I did before coming to the hospital and the birth of Ethan, but I do. He has been more than wonderful throughout my hospital stay and truly an amazing partner. Matt has been by my side ensuring that I am comfortable, holding my hand when I needed it most and loving me unconditionally through so many emotions and stages of pregnancy. I know that this was not easy for him, but he continued to be strong and positive. His enduring love for our son and for me makes me proud to be his wife. I love him more than he will ever know.

I have heard it many times, but it is the truth....I can't believe the amount of love you can have for your child that is just minutes old. We can't imagine our lives without Ethan and are so thankful to have him with us. He has proven to be one strong little guy and just couldn't wait to join this crazy world. I know it would have been good for Ethan to incubate for a few more weeks, but we are so happy to see him and know that he is as healthy as he can be and that he is in great hands.

Ethan had his cannula removed this morning, which is great news. (The cannula is the nose tube that helps regulate the oxygen flow.) This morning, the nurse told us that the cannula would most likely come out in the next few days, and that they would put the feeding tube through the nose. This will allow him to continue to develop his sucking skills as he won't have any tubes impeding the area. He is still definitely tanning under the lights, and will be for a few more days. The highlight of this morning is when we took him out of the incubator and he laid on my chest for about 20 minutes. It was awesome! He was so snuggly and fell right to sleep.

We will visit him throughout the afternoon before I go home this evening. It will be tough leaving tonight, but I know that he is in the best place for him at this moment.

I will write more later...