Monday, December 31, 2007

Day 71: Ringin' in the New Year

Sadie -

Today is New Year's Eve, meaning that tomorrow will be the first day of a new year! To celebrate, your mom dressed you up in a funny hat and took pictures of you. I told her I am afraid you'll hate us when you are older for being so silly with you while you were a baby, but I actually hope you have a good sense of humor and can appreciate the sentiment. If you don't, life may be hard on you because your mom and I are awfully silly an awful lot!

Since we are about to embark on a new year together, I have been thinking about all of the big things that are going to happen in the next year. You will learn to crawl, start learning to walk, turn one year old, start making lots of sounds and maybe say your first words. I am looking forward to all of it, but doing my best to enjoy every moment with you right now, too.

I love you so much!

- Dad

Sunday, December 30, 2007

Day 70 : Grumpy Pants Fit So Well

Sades -

You have been SOO out-of-sorts today! It started early this morning when you decided you didn't want to sleep. I spent several hours in the middle of the night awake and trying to help you relax and snooze. I had to play bass guitar at church this morning, so your mom stayed home with you and tried to help you sleep some more.

I get so frustrated when I can't help you calm down. Just always know that your mom and I love you more than you can imagine and just because we won't let you stay up and out of your crib all day doesn't mean we don't love you and know what is best for you.

I remember when I was a boy I could never understand what my parents meant when they said that what was happening was "for my own good." So just trust me when I say that when your mom and I want you to nap, "it is for your own good!" I love you all the time.

- Dad

Saturday, December 29, 2007

Day 69 : The Weight of You

Sadie -

Today was a really fun day for us as a family. We ran errands and went to stores this afternoon and your grandpa even cooked chicken on his big backyard grill for dinner (even though it was pretty cold outside!)

Your mom and I look at you often when you are resting or just hanging out with us and wonder aloud how the two of us could be responsible for something as precious as you. The gift of life is amazing and the family you are born into is one of the only choices you can't make for yourself.
Is it weird that I am already super-nervous about the weight of this responsibility? I want so badly to make sure you turn out to be the best woman you can possibly become and I am so afraid that I'll do something to screw that up. People in our culture often blame their parents for the failures they face later in life. I hope that I never give you a reason to do that.

- Dad

Friday, December 28, 2007

Day 68 : Oink Oink

Sadie -

So I've been holding off on pushing pictures of you onto my friends and making them insist on how cute you are - until today. I finally broke down and started showing off a snapshot of you after your bath this week, wrapped up in your pig towel. Everyone IS insisting that you are beautiful! My friend Dana from Arkansas even wrote an in email that you "might be the cutest little girl I've ever seen." That is a pretty big claim!

Mom said you were still grumpy from your shots today and didn't want to sleep much, but you've been pretty good since I got home. We went and ate burgers and you slept. Then you got up and ate and took a bath and just sat with mom and I on the couch for an hour or two. I love hanging out with you and am so glad it is the weekend again!

More fun tomorrow!

- Dad

Thursday, December 27, 2007

Day 67 : Ouchie!

Sadie -

You had to get booster shots from the doctor today and you did not like it! Mom said she has never seen your face turn as red as it did after you felt the pain of the needle prick.
The top of your legs are swollen tonight and you are a little grumpy, but mom and I are both glad you don't have a fever. You are just really sleepy! Sleep as much as you need, baby girl! We hate seeing you in pain. But I know that you've already beaten off bigger things than a couple of shots!!

Love,

- Dad

Wednesday, December 26, 2007

Day 66 : Me and You Time

Sadie -

You were making me laugh so hard this morning while I was feeding you at 5 AM. You were so hungry, but I was worried that you would eat too fast and throw up (which you have been making a habit of lately), so I was making you take it slow. You were getting so perturbed with me for taking the bottle away periodically, that you finally started making some really funny frustrated faces! I am so excited to watch your communication skills develop.

This afternoon you would not fall asleep for your mom. I came home a little early from work and told your mom that you and I were going to hang out for awhile. I put you down in your crib, rocked you a little and put my face against yours. You fell asleep almost instantly.

I'm glad we get along so well!

- Dad

Tuesday, December 25, 2007

Day 65 : Your First Christmas

Sadie -

Merry Christmas!

Every year on this day we will give each other some surprise gifts as a way to remember the birthday of Jesus. Your Grandparents and aunts and uncles spoiled you today. You have several cute new outfits to wear soon and lots of diapers and formula.

I think you caught on to the festiveness of today, because you had a little trouble calming down and napping as the day wore on. I can't really blame you - there is always a lot of fun happening at a Christmas get-together, and you (much like me!) already hate missing parties.

Today your mom and I passed you back and forth and told each other that you were our "big Christmas present" to each other this year! You are THAT special!

I am looking forward to spending hundreds of more holidays with you!

- Dad

Monday, December 24, 2007

Day 64 : Stocking Stuffer

Sadie -

Today is not only Christmas Eve, it is also your Uncle Joel's birthday. When he was born nineteen years ago, the nurses at the hospital put him in a blanket that looked like a big stocking to celebrate Christmas. Today, your mom and I attempted to celebrate both his birthday and Christmas by putting you in an over sized stocking! The stocking was SO big, though, that we didn't leave you in it for long!

Tonight we also celebrated Christmas Eve by going to a special church service at the church where your Grandpa works. Before and after the service you met many new people who had never seen you before, but have been thinking about you and praying for you ever since you were born. They all thought you were beautiful and many of them thought you looked like me! Those are some contradictions, huh?!?

Tomorrow is Christmas!! YEAH!!

- Dad

Sunday, December 23, 2007

Day 63 : Video and the (former) Radio Star

Sadie -

You made your recorded media debut today! Last week, our friend Michael from church came over to our house and recorded you and I talking about the story of the shepherds that went and saw Jesus at the first Christmas. He then edited it up and made it part of a series of video segments that have been showing right as the church service starts each week in December. It was really neat to see you on the big screen at church, cuddling with me and chewing vigorously on your pacifier.

This Christmastime your mom and I are reminded about how great God is every time we look at you. We are so thankful that He took such good care of you while you were in the hospital, and now we are celebrating His Son's birth as a happy and healthy family.

Learn this now: God is GOOD!

- Dad

Saturday, December 22, 2007

Day 62 : Family Day

Sadie -

Today we had a family day. Your mom and I woke up and lazily got the three of us around. We all ran some errands together and then spent most of the day just hanging out together at the house, watching movies and enjoying each other's company.

You are really starting to smile a lot more. Your mom has told me that you smile at her sometimes, but usually when I get home from work, you are so tired, I don't get a lot of grins. Today you had plenty of smiles to give me, especially when I poked at your nose and made funny noises!

Everyday is so fun with you!

- Dad

Friday, December 21, 2007

Day 61 : All You Can Eat

Sadie -

You went with your mom and I to a little mom-and-pop diner on the east side of town tonight for all-you-can-eat shrimp and fish. Of course, you snoozed while your mom and I stuffed our faces, but just because you were asleep doesn't mean you didn't attract attention. Several strangers in the crowded restaurant stopped by your seat to comment on how cute you are and ask questions about your age and size.

Your mom and I both admit to each other that we really like being able to show you off in public.

Be good tonight because your mom and I both have severe stomach aches after eating way too much seafood!

Love ya!

- Dad

Thursday, December 20, 2007

Day 60 : Party All The Time (Again!)

Sadie -

We went to a Christmas party tonight and you were quite the popular guest, dressed appropriately in your "I've Been Very, Very Good" shirt with candy canes on it. When we arrived, I fed you, but after you were done eating, I didn't see much of you. Our friend Michael asked to hold you for awhile and then his wife and some other friends took turns cradling and entertaining you. You seemed to enjoy all of the cuddling and attention, but you must have gotten worn out. After a few hours, you ended up with our friend Margo. She was singing you lullabies and Christmas carols when you suddenly spit up all over her!

She wasn't upset at all, but your mom and I took it as a cue that you were ready to head for home!

I have one day of work left this week and then we'll have a long holiday weekend together! I can't wait!

- Dad

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

Day 59 : Missing the Party

Sadie -

I am flattered that you like spending time with me, but it is starting to get in the way of your sleep!

When I get home in the evening, you get determined to stay out of your room until bedtime, regardless of how badly you might need to take a nap. Your mom says you don't have trouble sleeping in your room the rest of the day, but once I am home and you can hear that there is something going on in the living room or kitchen that you are not a part of, you let everyone know that you are not happy!

We did more dancing after your bath tonight. Your mom and I gently boogied with you while we listened to Lionel Richie. If you thought "Easy" was a fun song to dance to, just wait until you hear "Dancing on the Ceiling."

- Dad

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Day 58 : L.O.V.E.

Sadie -

All I can say is that you will never understand how much I love you until you have a child of your own. Holding you after a long day at work is just overwhelming. You've been in a great mood tonight. After your bath, your mom and I held you and kissed you. Then your mom got in the shower and so now you and I are just sitting on the couch together.

You are really focusing your eyes now and I love it when I can tell you are looking at me. Not only that, mom caught you doing a pretty good job of holding your head up on your own earlier today. I love watching you make progress, but don't grow up on me too fast!

You are such a treasure.

- Dad

Monday, December 17, 2007

Day 57 : Dance, Dance Re(gurgitation)

Sadie -

I got you stripped down to your diaper before your bath tonight while your mom prepared the tub. I wrapped you into my shirt and we danced out from your bedroom and into the kitchen. You seemed not to mind the funny little jig we were doing while I sang to you and tried to keep you warm. But I forgot one important thing - right before we danced, I fed you five ounces of formula rather quickly. Yup! A minute and a half into our dance steps, your dinner came back up all over my shirt. I got to laughing so hard I thought I would need to sit down. You never got upset, you just stayed calm and made your deposit.

As a certain credit card company likes to say: One stylized, Old Navy button-up: 7 bucks on clearance.
Your daughter ralphing on you after a living room dance session: PRICELESS!

Love ya!

- Dad

Sunday, December 16, 2007

Day 56 : Kisses

Sadie -

Everyone has been trying to give you kisses today. We went to Grandma's house for a casual family dinner tonight, and you got passed around and showered with love. Your cousin wanted to hold you. Your Aunt Amy held you and said she could hold you "forever" if we let her. Even your Uncle Joel couldn't quite get his fill. He held your for quite some time and even let you play in his lap.

There are a lot of people who would like to smother you with kisses and can't because they live far-away. You wouldn't believe how many people who haven't met you ask me about you on a daily basis. Always remember how treasured, precious, and loved you are!

- Dad

Saturday, December 15, 2007

Day 55 : Silver Screen

Sadie -

It is no secret that your mom and I love movies. This afternoon, you got your first experience in a movie theater. We took you and your grandparents to see "August Rush." You sat next to me and slept soundly the entire movie (though you did find enough energy to kick your socks and mittens off!)

When you are older, we can have Saturday afternoon dates, just me and you, when we go see funny cartoons and movies about friendly talking animals. I might even get us some popcorn to share!

I can't wait!

- Dad

Friday, December 14, 2007

Day 54 : Cranky Pants

Sadie -



Your mom told me you were feeling a little cantankerous today. She said you were fussy and wanting to be cuddled and especially looked after. You exhausted her and she needed a break when I got home. But once I walked in, you took a look at me, fell asleep, and stayed quietly at rest for several hours.

I hope I can always be a comfort to you!

You woke up a later this evening and showed your cranky side again. Your mom and I think you might have a sore throat. You are fussy until you get to eat, and then you guzzle.

I hate it when I have a sore throat, but I'd have one for weeks if I could keep you from having one for a day. I will do my best to help you feel better.

I love you and I am so sorry you don't feel good.

- Dad

Thursday, December 13, 2007

Day 53 : Your Song

Sades -

Tonight we went to see the Christmas music program your grandma annually directs at the elementary school where she works. You slept until the music started and then woke up and looked around peacefully. Your Uncle Joel and I played in the accompanying band and after the show I picked you up and took you to the piano. You looked really cute when you bounced your hands on the keys like you knew how to play. I do hope that when you grow older you take an interest in learning to play an instrument. I'll even teach you a few notes on the bass whenever you are ready!

- Dad

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

Day 52 : Remembering

Sadie -

You had to go back and see the special doctor you visited when you were first born today, just so you could be checked over and it could be made sure that everything was okay.

You received a glowing report - you are in fine health and are somewhere between the 75th and 90th percentile in all major categories of growth. (This just means that you are right on track!)

Being in the halls again of the special hospital where you started your life made me remember how happy I am that you have recovered so well. This afternoon, I got lost looking for the office where you and your mom were at and I ran into one of the paramedics that transported you from the hospital where you were born to the special one where you had to stay. I could tell she didn't recognize me. I wanted to run up to her and hug her and tell her how great she is and how much I appreciated the work she did for us a mere seven weeks ago. But I didn't. Instead I smiled and waved.

I thanked God for her again today, though.

I am so glad you are SO well!

- Dad

Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Day 51 : Sleeping Beauty

Sadie!

Mom and I are so proud of you because once again you slept through the night last night. The last thing you did before you went to sleep and the first thing you did before you woke up was hang out with me while you took your bottle. I have to say that I really love getting to be the bookend on your days since I have to be gone for most of the middle of them.

People have said since before you were born that your mom and I would face so many sleepless nights in your first few months of life, but that really has not been the case. I am trying to not take for granted how well-behaved you are and cut you some slack when you have bad days, but you have set the bar pretty high for yourself. Keep up the good sleep because good sleep means good eats which means good growth. Just don't grow up too fast...

Love forever...

- Dad

Monday, December 10, 2007

Day 50 : Splish Splat

Sadie -

I am so sorry I scared you tonight. You were taking a bath and I didn't have it secured as well as needed. We shifted you forward and the tub slipped in the sink. It scared all of us - you started screaming and couldn't calm down. I felt so terrible for the rest of your bath. Afterwards, mom put you in a new cute, green sleeper and I cuddled with you on the couch until you couldn't keep your eyes open.

Today wasn't all a wash, though. At work, some of us are playing "Secret Santa" where we give each other gifts without telling anyone who they are from. My "Secret Santa" left a bag of goodies for you in my office mailbox that included a reindeer bath towel, two Christmas shirts, and some Christmas socks. I did extra laundry tonight so you could wear them sooner.

I love you and will always try my hardest to keep you safe!

- Dad

Sunday, December 9, 2007

Day 49 : Christmas Shoes

Sadie -

Your mom wasn't feeling good this morning, so you and I left her at home and went to church on our own. After the service, a friend said asked if you were my first child because I seemed like a pro at doing the daddy duties you required while we were there.

I love having both of my girls around (you and your mom), but it is nice to have the occasional outing where it is just me and you!

Tonight, you, your mom and I celebrated an early Christmas with your Great Grandma Gee and Great Aunt Janie with a home-cooked meal of pork chops, mashed potatoes, stuffing and more. Of course, you slept through most of the dinner, but woke up in time to get a nice Christmas present from Aunt Janie - an adorable pair of red satin shoe/booties. Mom said she wished she had more red outfits to dress you in just so you can wear the shoes!

It has been a great weekend together!

Love ya!

- Dad

Saturday, December 8, 2007

Day 48 : Snowsuit Up!

Sadie -

Tonight was really fun! You and your mom and I and your "Aunt" Danielle and "Uncle" Ben went to our favorite Mediterranean deli downtown and then took pictures at the pretty Christmas light display in the middle of the city.

It was cold and dreary so we snuggled you up in a big fluffy snowsuit that is supposedly for someone your size, but this particular piece of clothing is still WAY too big for you. You got a little swallowed up by it, but it was keeping you warm and making you look ADORABLE! I held you close to me and sang you Christmas songs as we walked through the lights.

Your "Aunt" Danielle even snapped a picture of me holding you up and kissing you in front of the pretty lights in your big snowsuit.

I look forward to making a million more memories like this!

- Dad

Friday, December 7, 2007

Day 47 : Party All The Time

Sadie -

Your mom and I went to my company Christmas party tonight, which meant you got to spend some quality time with your grandma. She sang you songs on the piano and let you look at her Christmas lights. You liked her Christmas lights so much that she took a picture of you making a funny face at them.

When we got home I had to hold you and finish feeding you for awhile since I hadn't seen you much today. It was fun eating food and talking to grown-ups tonight at the party, but we still missed being around you.

We are so glad that you were so well-behaved and had so much fun with Grandma. Tomorrow I don't have to go to work at all, so we'll have lots of fun together!

Can't wait! Love,

- Dad

Thursday, December 6, 2007

Day 46 : The Final Countdown

Sades -

While you were eating tonight, I put an episode of "Arrested Development" on TV. This, due to a reoccurring joke on the program, caused me to get an awful '80s metal song by a band called Europe stuck in my head. So when it came time for your bath, I had you, in your diaper, waving your arms as if conducting a big-haired orchestra while I hummed "The Final Countdown." This got your mom and I so tickled that we could barely stand up straight. And just when I thought you were about to get annoyed, your mouth curved into a big grin.

Your mom's comment was this:
"Doesn't that just make your entire day?"
It did.

You may have just coincidentally had gas at the exact moment we had our fit of laughter. But I like to tell myself you already have an ironic appreciation for awful rock from two decades ago.

Love ya!

- Dad

Wednesday, December 5, 2007

Day 45 : Pictures of You

Sadie -

A co-worker of mine walked by my desk today and scolded me for not having any pictures of you hung up next to the ones of your mom and some of your "aunts" and "uncles." She is right; I do need some photos of you by my desk; but, as I quickly showed my co-worker, I do have plenty of snapshots of you on my phone.

I tried to take some more pictures of you tonight as you were falling asleep, but none of them came out very well and I didn't want to make you mad by continuing to flash a bright light in your face.

I haven't seen you much today because you've been so sleepy. Your mom said you stayed up a lot of the day with her, and you were pooped by the time I got to see you. That's okay! I am glad you are getting good rest and properly understand "day" and "night."

We'll spend more time together tomorrow!

- Dad

Tuesday, December 4, 2007

Day 44 : Card Sharks

Sadie -

Tonight you and your mom and I played cards. You were on my team and we lost the first game by a long shot. I told your mom that we lost because you were distracting me! We made up for it in the second hand we played, though, whipping up on your mom quickly. After that game, I said your expert advice helped us win.

You've really seemed more like your normal self the last few days with less fussing and more fun! Your mom showed me a trick to help keep you warm when I change your diaper and you seem to like me a lot more now!

You were waiting in nothing but a diaper for your mom to run the bathwater tonight, so I zipped you up inside my big hooded sweatshirt while we waited. It was really fun to see just your tiny little head sticking out of the top of my jacket!

I love you more all the time!

- Dad

Monday, December 3, 2007

Day 43 : U Love the '80s?

Sadie -

You've been fussy since I've been home tonight, so while your mom took a shower this evening, I propped you up on the couch with me for a few minutes. At first you had some noise to make to show your disapproval of the situation, but when I turned on Grant Lee Phillips "nineteen eighties" album, you suddenly quited down and got very relaxed.

That's funny, because it is the exact same effect the music had on me. It was a good thing your mom got out of the shower before we both fell asleep and told us to turn off the depressing music!

I hope you like music like I do as you grow older. Like I told you tonight, anytime you want to hang out and listen to CDs, just let me know. I'd love to do it again sometime!


- Dad

Sunday, December 2, 2007

Day 42 : Under the Weather

Sadie Rose -

It has come to light that you and I have something in common:

Neither of us take well to yucky, cloudy days.

In fact, if it wasn't for your mom today, I don't know how either of us would have coped. You've been uncharacteristically fussy and constantly fighting sleep. I have been sleepy and a little bit of a grouch. But, per usual, your mom has been holding us together. We went to church today, Wal-Mart this afternoon, and we spent a few hours with your grandma tonight, and the whole time, your mom has been making me smile, hugging you tenderly while keeping you on a schedule, and remaining positive about everything.

But this positivity has now taken a toll on mom. She fell asleep on the couch at 9:30. It is now almost 11 and I am grumpy and you are loudly fighting sleep from your crib.

Take a moment to thank God for mom. She's the best and we'd be in trouble without her!

I love you more than ever - even when you are loudly fighting sleep!!

- Dad

Saturday, December 1, 2007

Day 41 : Day By Day

Sadie -

Your mom and I have been discussing recently how alert and active your expressions are becoming. Just in the past few days, you've seemed to take a giant leap in development, becoming more engaged when your mom and I talk and play with you and spending more time awake.

Tonight, my old friends Ben and Katrena came by for awhile, and while everyone else used the couches and chairs, I spent some serious time sharing your special pillow with you as we hung together on the carpet.

Your mom and I are loving watching you grow up a little tiny bit everyday. We don't want to miss a minute and we definitely don't want to rush you. But your mom did mention today how exciting it will be when you start to laugh on your own. I agree; I love making people laugh, and I can't imagine how great it will be to share my humor with you.

Every day with you is a treasure.

- Dad

Friday, November 30, 2007

Day 40 : Don't Look Back in Anger

Sadie -

While I was feeding you tonight, you scared me.

I was burping you, and after a big belch, you started to get angry. (This is normal; it is your current way of telling me you want more to eat.) Usually when you get mad, the cries are loud and sharp, but in this particular instance, you must have been out of breath, and you made a really weird pre-cry sound for a long time. Your mom and I looked at each other in terror, worried that you might be choking or in pain. But once you got the cry out and I got the bottle back to you, everything went back to normal.

"You must have made her really mad!" your mom said.

We call this recent development in your expression "finding your voice." It is an exciting development to watch, but, as this story illustrates, it can also be scary. It is most scary for me to think about how you will continue throughout your life, as you grow older, to "find your voice" and make decisions that I might not always agree with or be able to save you from.

There are sure to be multiple times as you grow into adulthood, when you will get so mad at me over something, that you'll want to scream and yell and scare me like you did tonight. Please just know right now that I am not perfect, but I'll always want only the best for you, even if we might not agree on what that is.

I love you more than you'll be able to imagine - now or then.

- Dad

Thursday, November 29, 2007

Day 39 : Wakey, Wakey

S.R. -

The favorite part of my day recently has been the early morning moment when I get to rescue you from your crib and get you dressed for the day. As much I as I know I love you, seeing you squirming, waiting to welcome the day makes me feel like I could never love you enough.

Your body wakes up before your eyes open, so you usually still look asleep when I get you up, but you have been crying for some time. And though you look a little put off at being pulled out of the warmth of your blanket, there is always a moment when your cries soften and I get to hold you close and say "Good Morning!"

It is great to start each day knowing that no matter what I have to deal with when I leave the house, you will be waiting for me when I get home. I love you and your mom SOOO much!

- Dad

Wednesday, November 28, 2007

Day 38 : Turning Japanese

Sadie -

You got to go on your first visit to a Japanese restaurant with your mom and I this evening. We met our friends Michael and Maren at an oriental eatery so we could consume sushi together. (Well, you actually had your milk, but the rest of us had sushi!)

You were very well-behaved at the dinner table, eating your food, then politely sitting quietly while the rest of us ate. Of course, after we'd had dinner, your mom and I and Maren wanted to take turns playing with you. The owner of the restaurant and several waitresses came by the table to look at how cute you are. I was so proud to be able to hold you up and call you mine.

The restaurant owner said that her daughter learned to use chopsticks before she learned to walk. Hey, there is something to strive for!

I love having meals with you!

- Dad

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Day 37 : Growing

Sadie -

I was late getting home tonight because I went to a funeral visitation after work. An old childhood friend of mine lost his dad last week, and I went by to see him and his family in this hard time.

As sad as the atmosphere was, people couldn't help but smile when they asked about you. I, of course, had a picture to flash in front of everyone who wanted to see it (and even some who didn't!)

It was a weird experience because I hadn't seen many of these people since I was a kid myself, and here I was showing off a picture of my child.

My friend's mother had this to say: "Just wait until your kid and all the kids she grew up with become adults and start having children...THAT'S weird!"

Don't grow up too fast, babydoll.

- Dad

Monday, November 26, 2007

Day 36 : Dancing Queen

Sadie –

It was hard for me to be away from you and go back to work today after the long weekend we all had together. I called your mom late this morning to check on you two, and near the end of our conversation I could hear you making noise from your crib. I had to wonder if you missed me like I missed you. Your mom said that though she sometimes gets lonely after a full week with me at work, she was excited about having a lot of one-on-one time with you today. She played with you lots and told me that she even got you to dance when she played a silly tune on your playtime mat. I am jealous that I missed that!

- Dad

Sunday, November 25, 2007

Day 35 : Oh, Sleeper!

Sadie –

You’ve literally slept the day away. You slept through most of church, our trip to Wal-Mart, and a pizza party at Grandma’s. No matter how hard your mom and I have tried to keep you awake, you keep dozing off. And now, it’s almost midnight and I’ve just returned from going to see a band play with your Uncle Joel, and when I poke my head in to check on you, you are quiet and peaceful, but your eyes are wide open!

Later in your life, I’ll expect you to want to stay up late with us grown-ups, but tonight, we all need to sleep. Keep quiet and close your eyes, baby girl!
I love you!

- Dad

Saturday, November 24, 2007

Day 34 : Christmas Cheer

Sadie -

You now live in a very festive residence. Your mom has spent a lot of today pulling boxes out of storage, assembling Christmas trees, and hanging (VERY) over sized stockings.

Christmas is a favorite holiday of ours and we are excited to share it with you. The time will come when we'll tell you the whole story of why we celebrate and we'll induct you into all of our traditions. But for right now, just know that the next month will be filled with lots of lights and love (and most likely, some pretty cheesy movies)!

You are wearing your "Kiss Me, I'm Cute" outfit and you just fell asleep on my shoulder.

I love you more every second!

- Dad

Friday, November 23, 2007

Day 33 : Shop, Drop, & Roll

Sadie -

You, your mom, your Aunt Amy and I braved Black Friday crowds this morning (well, later this morning... we weren't among the crazies who went to Kohls at 4 AM) to help your mom do some post-pregnancy, non-maternity clothes shopping. I put you in a "baby backpack" of sorts (called a "Snuglie"), and you slept soundly for a few hours pressed up against me, listening to my heartbeat. It was really fun to watch people try to sneak a peek at your beautiful, snoozing face! I even talked to a few strangers who were curious about you and wanted to tell me how small and cute you were.

As if that was not enough fun for one day, you had a pediatricians visit this afternoon. You got a shot in the leg and I snuggled with you intensely as you cried out the shock and pain of getting stuck by a needle without warning.

Then, you and I tricked your mom by telling her we were going to Grandma's house for dinner. In actuality, you went to Grandma's house and your mom and I went on our first date since you have been home with us. It was a lot of fun, but your mom missed you so much, that she had to call and check on you after an hour of being away.

Now, after your huge day, you are very tired. Sleep soundly, baby doll. Tomorrow is another fun day in our long weekend!

- Dad

Thursday, November 22, 2007

Day 32 : Happy Bird Day

Sadie -

I find it quite appropriate that today is both Thanksgiving and your one month birthday, because when thinking of things I was thankful for today, you and the fact that you are happy and healthy was at the top of the list.

We spent your first major holiday at Grandma and Grandpa's doing what most people do on Thanksgiving - eating! You were even-tempered and well-behaved and even let your cousin Jasmine help feed you a bottle.

Oh... and your mom and I may have had a little festive fun with you when you woke up this morning... Your mom made an Indian headdress out of construction paper and we took a picture of you wearing it. Yeah, I know it was kind of ridiculous, but all of your relatives thought it was pretty funny and incredibly cute when we passed the photo around!

I promise we'll be less irritating as you get older. I hope...

Happy Thanksgiving!

- Dad

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Day 31 : Say Cheese

Hey Sadie -

I got to leave work early today because of the holiday tomorrow, so you and your mom and I spent this afternoon running errands together. As usual, you slept for most of our drive time.

Tonight we went to your Grandma E.'s house for dinner. Both of your Great Grandmas were there, too, and everyone wanted a turn to swoon over you. You stayed awake and pleasant for quite sometime, and you even posed while Grandpa took some pictures.

After dinner, Grandma went to her closet upstairs and pulled out a few books full of pictures from when I was a baby. It was funny to look at the physical similarities that you and I had when I was your age. I am sorry you don't look more like your mom!

I am so excited to have a long weekend to spend with you!

- Dad

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Day 30 : Sing

Sades -

I broke out my guitar tonight and sang some tunes for you. You'll find out soon enough that this is something I like to do quite often. Of course, I sang you a Keith Urban song and a song of my own I am working on, but you didn't seem satisfied until I started in to a medley version of "Oh Girl," an old Chi-Lites song that I've found myself humming to you quite a bit when I am changing your diaper. The lyrics go,

"Oh, girl/ I'd be in trouble if you left me now/ 'Cause I don't know where to look for love/ I just don't know how"

Right now you are snoozing at my feet and I can't believe how much I love you.

- Dad

Monday, November 19, 2007

Day 29 : Story Time

Sadie -

Your "Uncle" Trevor and "Aunt" Laura sent you a present in the mail today. They heard that I couldn't remember the end of the story of Goldilocks and the 3 Bears, so they sent you the book. I'll admit that I have already turned to the last few pages to see what exactly I had forgotten about the story, and now I think I could properly relay it to you by memory. But, of course, I won't need to since we now have the book!

I cuddled with you a lot this evening and teased you quite a bit, too. I'll warn you now that I do like to make a lot of jokes - just ask your mom! The upside of this is that by the time you start school you should have a pretty sharp wit and a reasonably thick skin!

You are getting prettier and better at expressing yourself every day.
Loving you is such a fun adventure.

- Dad

Sunday, November 18, 2007

Day 28 : Weekend Warrior

Sadie-

You have had such a big weekend. Yesterday was your first big road trip and today was your first trip to church, your first shopping extravaganza at the commercial blackhole we call "Wal-Mart," and it was the first time your "Uncle" Ben and "Aunt" Danielle got to see you since you came home from the hospital.

You are one tired little lady now!

I love you so much. I was so proud walking through Wal-Mart today, pushing the cart with your seat inside. I was just waiting for people to ask about you, to try to sneak a peek at your little head in your little hat. And when they did, I smiled back and I am sure they could see how happy you make me.

Get some rest. It has been a crazy few days, and the next week will probably be just as intense. I only have to work two and a half days this week, and I am so excited that I can spend the rest of them with you celebrating a special day called "Thanksgiving"!

- Dad

Saturday, November 17, 2007

Day 27 : Road Trip

Sadie Rose -

Congrats on completing your first family road trip with us!

Today, you, your mom and I all went to Cincinnati, Ohio (just 90 minutes up the road) to see your "Uncles" Tim and Jeff, and to stop by your Great Grandma E.'s house to meet her and my cousin Sarah.

You were well-behaved and relaxed for most of the day as we ate at a restaurant called "The Pub" and drove all over the city. You seem to really like car rides and new places. That is good, because your mom and I like car rides and new places, as well and are excited to take you to many.

And guess what! Your "Uncle" Jeff held you today and revealed that your were the first baby he has ever had in his arms! He is 28-years-old and has never held a infant until you! He seemed to really think you were neat.

It was fun to take you out in public. Your mom keeps talking about how much she likes it when people who don't know us see you. A complete stranger leaned over at The Pub this afternoon and told us how beautiful she thought you were. No one can hide how cute they think you are!

You ARE the cutest!

- Dad

Friday, November 16, 2007

Day 26 : Shopping

Sadie -

You went on your first shopping adventure today, albeit brief. You, your mom and I ran into Target to grab some more sleep ware for you. You snoozed through most of it, as your carrier rocked to the rhythm of the cart, but it was so fun to have you out of the house for a few minutes.

We also celebrated your Grandpa E.'s birthday this evening with a big family dinner at his house. Everyone thought you looked especially adorable in your special hat and skirt outfit you got from your Great Aunt Janie. When it came time for Gramps to open presents, I held you up and said that you were his present from us and that the Dylan CD we gave him was from you. I am sure he was impressed by your musical tastes.

Tomorrow you get to meet more of your relatives and maybe even your cool "Uncle" Jeff!
It will be fun!

- Dad

Thursday, November 15, 2007

Day 25 : BodyTalk

Hey Sadie -

I read something a few months before you were born that said that once you entered this world I would suddenly start talking about your poop, pee, and snot. I thought this wouldn't happen - but I was wrong!

You are still fighting this cold and it is becoming a bit of an obsession for me to monitor your progress. I carefully calculate how much snot I pull out of your nose before feeding times and I cringe every time I see the crust around your eyelids after a long sleep.

I never thought I'd be one of those dads who says his daughter's diapering and drool doesn't gross him out, but that is just what I've become. Maybe I am okay with it just because I am so thankful to have you home...

I promise that when the time comes I'll back off your bowel movements and nasal drips and give you the privacy you need!

I love you more than you can comprehend.

- Dad

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

Day 24 : Super Sadie

Sadie -

You look a little like a superhero when we put your hooded bath towel on you. You still don't like the whole bathing process much yet, but I am sure that will come in time. As you whimpered during your nighttime routine this evening, your mom turned to me and wistfully asked, "Can you believe that someday fairly soon we are probably going to have trouble getting her OUT of the bathtub, instead of into it?"

I am excited about those days - not just for the fact that the whole bathing process might be easier, but that after you take a bath, I'll be able to read your stories before you nod off to sleep.

Much love!

- Dad

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

Day 23 : 1000 Words

Sadie -

There is a saying that implies that photos are worth more than verbal communication. Thus, I took a picture of you on my phone a few days ago and have been using it to answer the question, "How is the baby?" It saves me from having to say "beautiful," "wonderful," and "gorgeous" over and over. I just shove my phone at people.

You are still fighting a battle with a nasty cold today, and the rest of the world seemed to be affected by it. It was nasty and rainy from dawn to dark, making my drive to work irritatingly slow and nerve-wracking. I hope tomorrow is better for everybody - but especially you!

And by the way - I've noticed something odd when I feed you. Formula smells a lot like the inside of a McDonalds restaurant. This has led me to form a hypothesis that McDonalds purposely perpetuates this odor to lure children into their eateries at an extremely young age. How else do you explain the fact that ALL American children LOVE that place? You can't help it...

Your my baby girl!

- Dad

Monday, November 12, 2007

Day 22 : Country Tis of Thee

Sadie –

You sure are getting initiated in to the less-than-pleasant aspects of life early! Your first two weeks were spent at the hospital; this past weekend you struggled with annoying gas pains; and now you have a cold.
This is frustrating because your mom and I spent all weekend trying to keep you from getting a cold. We kept you in the house, made sure things were sanitized – but (as more experienced parents know) we can’t protect you from everything. So you’ve spent the last 24 hours sneezing and getting frustrated at your own sniffle-y nose.

When I got home from work, your mom ran out to the store and I fed you a bottle on the couch as I sang along to a Keith Urban concert special on TV. Your mom really doesn’t like Keith Urban, so I am trying to make sure I expose you to him at an early age so we can make it two-against-one. You didn’t seem too impressed with him either - but I am going to blame that on the cold!

Get well soon! We hate seeing our little girl not feeling good…

- Dad

Sunday, November 11, 2007

Day 21 : (un)Natural Gas

Sadie -

It seems you don't like Chinese food.

This is a shame - partly because your mom and I LOVE Chinese food - but also, because you have spent the last 24 hours with some seemingly awful gas. You started getting quite fussy and hard to calm Saturday morning and the struggle continued through the early part of today. Your mom and I sat down and tried to think what might be causing you all of this irritation, when we realized that we'd been eating Chinese leftovers ever since Friday night. We've since stopped and have only fed you formula for your last two feedings and you've been sleeping like an angel.

The upside to all of your irritation? We got some tremendous snuggling in today! You were so upset because of your gassy stomach this morning, that after trying everything else, I resorted to wrapping you up in your sleep sack, laying you on my chest, and wrapping the both of us in covers.

You fell asleep within moments and I did, too. Your mom was a little jealous.

Sleep soundly and we'll lay off the ethnic food for awhile!

Love ya!

- Dad

Saturday, November 10, 2007

Day 20 : Chin Up

Sadie -

You got to meet your Great Grandma Gee tonight. She was at the hospital briefly on the day you were born, but since then, she hasn't gotten a chance to truly see you. So this afternoon. your mom and I took you over to her house for awhile.

Your Great Grandma was quick to say that you look like me - and she had evidence to back it up. In the middle of our visit, she left the room for a moment, only to return clutching an old photograph. She handed it to me and asked me to look it over.

I glanced at a picture of a chubby-cheeked baby who had an unmistakable resemblance to you (especially in the cheeks and chin). I studied the picture for a moment and realized that the lady holding the chubby-cheeked baby in the photo was a much younger version of your Great Grandma. That chubby-cheeked baby was ME!

"Now do you see why I say she looks like you?" your Great Grandma asked.

Yes, now I do.

- Dad

Friday, November 9, 2007

Day 19 : Rewards

Sadie -

You'll learn quickly that I am not much on negativity.

One of my biggest pet peeves since my mom and I decided to have you as been how people who are already parents like to try to "warn" us or give us really generic, stereo-typical, and un-helpful advice.

A manager at my office has said to me (no less than three times in the past few weeks), "You'll never sleep soundly or see a movie again."

This says four things to me: 1) This lady is either very forgetful or must think she is really funny (because she KEEPS repeating herself); 2) This lady has no idea how soundly I sleep; 3) This lady has no idea how many movies I watch and how seriously I take that habit; 4) This lady obviously does not know how intense the Eichenberger decision making process is.

It is not like your mom and I are unwed, teenage parents. You aren't a product of a one night stand. Before you were even conceived, your mom read (and this is NOT an exaggeration!) at least ten large books on the process of pregnancy and the initial challenges of parenthood. We have partaken in several formal classes and been active observers in multiple case studies on early parenthood (Thanks Ms. Ivy and Mr. Ethan!). In short - we knew (and continue to know) what we were/are getting into.

I am on this soapbox for two reasons:

1) To let you know how desired you were, are, and continue to be. You were not a mistake. You were not a surprise. You are a prayer answered and a dream realized.

2) To make you understand how refreshing my encounter with Mr. Murphy was tonight.

Mr. Murphy works in my company. I don't know him well, but I've never thought much of him. He is kind of quiet and always seems a little distracted. We don't seem to have much in common, but we both found ourselves waiting on the same elevator at quitting time today. We made small talk about the fact that the weekend was finally here and he asked if I had big plans.

"I'll be hanging out with my daughter," I beamed. I said this in spite of the fact that I was sure his response would contain some comment about how soon I won't want to be around you, or I'll wish I could just sleep more soundly. But he surprised me.

"You have so much to look forward to," he said. "It is great now, and it just keeps getting greater. Think," he continued,"in a year from now, you'll be excited because she'll be having a birthday, and the holidays will be coming..." He seemed to almost be getting misty-eyed himself. "Nothing beats going home at night, looking in your kids face, and realizing all of the crap you've been worried about all day doesn't seem to matter." With this comment, Mr. Murphy said goodnight, and walked across the street to his car.

I'd like to thank Mr. Murphy for being the first current parent (with the exception of your "Uncle" Shack and "Aunt" Holly) to pay me the courtesy of realizing I understand the challenge I have undertaken, and instead of dwelling on what I have "given up, spelling out the reward I am about to receive.

And Sadie, you are SUCH a reward.

- Dad

Thursday, November 8, 2007

Day 18 : Security

Sadie -

You have been causing me to think a lot recently about the concept of security.

As you get older, you'll hear much fuss made about the idea of "freedom":
"Freedom of speech"; "Freedom of expression"; "Freedom to gather and protest";
When you are a teenager, you are liable to want to talk about the "freedom to date" and the "freedom of curfews."

As Americans and as humans, we are very much concerned about our personal ability to control ourselves and the things around us - that is really what freedom is. But right now, you are much more concerned about security.

You were crying earlier and seemed upset. I picked you up and wrapped my hands and forearms around your arms and legs, restricting your movement. To an adult, such treatment would warrant a physical fight, but to you it was comforting.

I held you tightly as your body relaxed in my grip and I thought about how proud I am to be able to offer you such security and comfort now - and how scared I am that I won't always be able to do so.

Sleep tight in my arms, baby girl.

- Dad

Wednesday, November 7, 2007

Day 17 : Picture Perfect

S.R. -

While you were struggling with me over your sponge bath last night, I made sure your mom snapped a few pictures on my phone. Sure, it might sound a little cruel, but how else was I going to be able to show a bunch of relative strangers at work today how cute you are. The security guard in my office building says that she can already tell you are going to look like me. Don't worry - that is just something people say when they have random baby photos shoved in their face without warning.

You spent some of this afternoon over at your Aunt Amy's house with mom, Amy and cousin Jasmine. Your mom says she has never seen your cousin be so concerned and behaved on someone else's behalf. In fact, while you were sleeping, she kept telling your Uncle Steve to "shhhh!" so he wouldn't wake you. I think you and Jasmine will be good friends!

Our friend Merrin came by before dinner and held you for the first time. She couldn't quit talking about how cute you are, and she brought you a bag full of goodies - socks, books and a much-needed extra crib sheet.

I just fed you a bottle and put you down for the night. Sleep well, and I'll come cuddle with you before I leave for work in the morning. I can't wait for the weekend to get here so I can spend all day with you!

Love for always.

- Dad

Tuesday, November 6, 2007

Day 16 : Naked

Sadie -

So there is one thing I've learned in the last 24 hours. You hate being cold.

I changed your diaper at 3 AM last night and you waited until I had it off and then peed right through your sleeper and your blanket.

I changed your diaper tonight and you waited until I had it all the way off and then you pooed all over the changing table.

Just a few minutes ago, your mom and I gave you a sponge bath and you quite loudly made it known that you were not a fan of the process.

But none of that makes me angry. I don't like being cold either, and left to my own devices, my first reaction might be to use the bathroom all over whoever was making me cold, too.

When I got home from work, your mom ran to Target to get you a special sleeping sack to keep you warm tonight. The nurses in the hospital swaddled you so much, you have trouble knowing what to do with your arms when you are not wrapped up, which makes sleeping a little difficult. So this garment should help with all that. You are wrapped in it and laying on my lap right now, in fact.

And you just passed a very loud amount of gas...

I don't think the party is over yet...

- Dad

Monday, November 5, 2007

Day 15 : House and Home

Sadie -

Welcome home! We celebrated your two-week birthday today by packing up your things at the hospital nursery, loading you into the back of the Vue, and bringing you to the apartment in the suburbs of Louisville, Kentucky where you now lay fast asleep just a few dozen feet from where I am typing this.

Today has been a great day - and a big day - for all of us.

Your mom and I have barely been able to contain our excitement about your arrival home. I dropped you and your mom off at the apartment at 1:30 this afternoon, and within five minutes, I'd text messaged five or six of your "Aunts" and "Uncles" all around the country to start spreading the good news. Your mom sent out an email about your change of location, too, and people all over the place celebrated by sending congratulations, exultation and prayers out.

Of course, this evening was filled by visits from your Eichenberger Grandparents and your Aunt Amy, Uncle Steve, and Cousin Jasmine. Jasmine was so concerned (in her own 3-year-old way)every time you cried, that she would try to give you a stuffed animal or show you her new puppet to try to calm you down.

After everyone else left, you and your mom and I lounged on the couch and watched some TV. You dozed off asleep in my arms and I soon put you in your crib, where you are currently snoozing. While I held you tonight, your mom kept asking me if I needed pillows to prop you on. I told her "no." I am sure that later I will have tired arms and will want support, but right now I am too busy treasuring the joy of holding you close to worry about sore body.

Sleep soundly and peacefully, and - once again -

WELCOME HOME!

-Dad

Sunday, November 4, 2007

Day 14 : Almost Home

Sadie -

Today was your original due date!

Your mom and I took you to a private room at the nursery today and spent some quality time with you while you were wide awake. You ate and then I held you close for awhile and told you about the cool room and good times that await you once you finally get to come home with us.

The nurses say that you are doing well enough to probably leave the hospital tomorrow. Your mom said that news made her day and completely changed her mood. When we got back to our house, we spent a lot of time cleaning in anticipation for you to arrive. Your mom organized some of the new things you've been given in your nursery and I vacuumed. Your Uncle Joel and I also went to get some maintenance done on our cars. We have to make sure everything is ready for you - even our autos.

Grandma and Grandpa E. came to visit you as well today. They said you were sleepy while they were there, but that didn't keep them from taking lots of pictures.

Is it silly that I want to throw a party to celebrate your arrival at home? I won't - it would not be productive or beneficial to your health on many levels. But at least know that the thought and want is there. I am pretty sure your mom, your Grandma and your Aunt Amy feel the same way.

It is funny to think that these last few weeks will one day only be an interesting footnote in your biography. The stories about your first few weeks in the hospital will be like battle scars you can wear to differentiate yourself. But right now, these first few weeks have BEEN your life. I can't wait for you to find out how good life away from the hospital will be!

Tomorrow, tomorrow - you come home tomorrow!

- Dad

Saturday, November 3, 2007

Day 13 : Weight Watchers

Sadie -

Your "Uncle" Tim came to see you today. The first thing he said when he saw you wrapped up in a blanket, lying in your crib at the hospital:

"Whoa... There's an Eichenberger!" (This means you look kind of like me - Sorry!)

The doctors say you'll have to wait another few days to come home. You aren't losing weight, but you aren't gaining it either, and the doctors want to make sure you are 100% before you leave the hospital. Your mom and I understand and agree with their professional reasoning, but that doesn't keep us from being really disappointed that you won't be home with us tomorrow.

Your "Uncle" Tim, "Uncle" Ben, and I went to a concert tonight to see a guy named Josh Ritter play music. It was really fun. I wonder sometimes what kind of music you will like when you are older. I hope my musical tastes will rub off on you at least a little. Is that silly or just selfish?

Eat good tonight and tomorrow and hopefully we can all be together on Monday!

I love you soooo much!

- Dad

Friday, November 2, 2007

Day 12 : Baby Pictures

Sadie -

Today at work, my office mates and I took part in a company lunch where we played a game involving baby pictures. Everyone brought a picture of themselves from when they were just a kid, and all the photos were put on a board and numbered. Then, everyone got a slip of paper and tried to match each baby picture with the co-worker to whom it belonged.

When I first heard we were playing this game, I thought it would be very easy. I still look very much the same as the picture that was taken on my first day of kindergarten. And there were plenty of pictures that obviously belonged to certain people. This guy I work with named Jordan still has the exact same poofy hair cut that he had when he was in elementary school. But there were also some photos that showed a child who looked nothing like the person who brought the picture does today.

This whole silly charade got me thinking about you. I am so excited to see what you look like as the days progress. Your mom mentioned tonight that she thinks you already look quite a bit different from how you looked when you first entered the world.

You were sleeping when I visited you today. So I picked you up, held you close, and studied the intricacies of your face. Will you always have chubby cheeks? Will your hair and eyes change color? Will you always yawn in such an over-dramatic and adorable way?

I am excited about living to find out all the answers to all of those questions.

The nurses say you are continuing to improve. You even ate directly from mom today! Good job! The prediction from the doctor is that you will be home with us no later than Tuesday - and maybe even by Sunday!

I can't wait!

- Dad

Thursday, November 1, 2007

Day 11 : Magic Hands

Sadie -

I told you that yesterday was a holiday called Halloween that lots of people celebrate. Today is a holiday that only me and your mom take part in. It was five years ago today that your mom and I first went out on a date. We got burgers at a little dive called Hugo's. Neither of us knew if the other person liked them. I was really nervous. But later in the evening, we saw one of your mom's friends who let it slip that your mom thought I was pretty cool. The rest, as they say, is sweet history! Two-and-a-half years after that first date, mom and I got married. And two-and-a-half years after that - you were born! We evidently like to divide our life into two-and-a-half year segments. I asked your mom today if she thought you'd have a brother or sister in another two-and-a-half years. We both decided we can only think about you right now!

I came to see you in the middle of the afternoon today. While your mom talked to a nurse, I changed your diaper and your clothes, and then fed you a bottle. You ate the whole thing really fast. Your mom and the nurses were really impressed and surprised. You hadn't eaten that cooperatively with anyone before. I have been bragging ever since about how I have the magic touch. Your mom is afraid you might already be a "daddy's girl." I secretly hope she is right.

If you keep eating like you did today, you might get to come home this weekend. Your mom and I are so excited about that prospect, we can hardly think about anything else. We did find time this evening, though, to celebrate our dating anniversary and go see a special sneak preview of a new movie called "August Rush." Your mom and I both loved it, but she said she might have liked it more than usual because it was about the bond between a mother and a child.

It is amazing how much you are already affecting our lives - even our taste in movies!

I love you so much!

- Dad

Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Day 10 : Happy Halloween

Sadie!

Today is Halloween. It is a silly excuse for a holiday that happens once a year when boys and girls dress up in costumes and eat a lot of candy. Your mom loves it! She is already talking about how great it is going to be when we can take you "trick or treat"-ing next year.

This year, though, we are celebrating more than Halloween. Your doctors are impressed with how well you are learning to eat and say you could come home within a few days. Your mom and I are so excited!

Today when we came to see you in the new nursery, you were asleep on your belly with your behind sticking up in the air. This is particularly hilarious because you used to sleep like that when you were inside your mom. She would often grab my hand and show me a hard spot near her ribs which she was convinced was your little rump. "Sadie is gonna stick her bum up in the air when she comes out," she used to say. Turns out she was right!

Your Grandpa E. came to see you today, too. He hadn't seen you in awhile because he has been a little sick. But today he spent lots of time playing with you.

I am sorry that when we come to visit, we keep waking you up when you are trying to sleep. We won't do that when you are at home. It is just that we are so excited to see you better. We can't bear not to touch you now that we are finally allowed.

After we visited you and I finished work at my job for the day, your mom and I went to watch your Uncle Joel play drums with one of his bands at an Amphitheater. It was a fun time, but your mom and I both felt a little old among all of the young teenage emo kids in gory costumes. (Don't worry about what an "emo kid" is. By the time you are old enough to care, they will be extinct!)

Keep snacking and in a few days we'll all be back together for good!

Can't wait until then!

Happy Halloween.

- Dad

Tuesday, October 30, 2007

Day 9 : Time Flies

S.R. -

Your mom and Grandma E. and I all came to see you today. You have been recovering so well that now you are staying in a different nursery for healthier kids, so that your old bed can be used for someone who has gotten as sick as you used to be.

Mom and I showed up just in time to get to feed you a bottle. The nurse sat you up, I cradled your head, and your mom tilted the bottle back for you. You ate quite a bit, but still seem a little confused by how the whole eating process works. Don't worry; that is to be expected. Because of all the tubes and monitors that have been in and around your mouth for the last week, it is only to be expected that you wouldn't want to put anything else in there for awhile. There are plenty of great nurses who will spend the next several days helping you to get past this.

Not only did I get to help feed you this afternoon, I also got to really hold you. Yesterday, I cuddled you while you were asleep and let you rest on a pillow. But today marked the first time you've been fully awake in front of me. I put your head in my right hand and held your body out before me with my left. I spent alot of time just enjoying you, eye to eye.

I thought I'd been at your bedside for 40 minutes or so when I looked at the clock and realized I'd been there almost twice that long! People that have been parents for a long time say that is pretty much what the whole experience of having kids is like. One minute the child is an infant, sick in the hospital; next, they are healthy and walking down the aisle.

But don't you plan on doing that any time in the next 30 or 40 years, all right?

I love you so!

- Dad

Monday, October 29, 2007

Day 8 : Human Touch

Sadie -

Happy One Week Birthday!

I went back to work today for the first time since you were born. Everyone at my office has been very nice and understanding about my absence, and several of them really wanted to see pictures of you upon my return today.

Even though the place I work is good to me and I have friends there, going back today amidst all that is happening with you was really hard. During my lunch break, I met your mom and Aunt Amy at your hospital bed. We got to watch the nurses take you off of more of your medicines and monitors. Mom even stuck around for awhile so she could hold you for the first time since last week.

I went back to work for awhile, but before I drove home, I stopped back by to see you at the hospital so I could hold you in my arms for the first time as well. While I was waiting for the nurses to hand you over, I met the dad of the girl who is recovering next to you. He was there holding his daughter for the first time, too. His little girl was born a week before you and the valves on her heart were in the wrong places. She has already had open heart surgery in her short two-week life.

Hearing that story made me thankful and hopeful at the same time. Thankful because you didn't have to go through open heart surgery, and hopeful because if the staff at the hospital has gotten a little girl with a major heart problem close to recovery, I know the rest of your stay should be a breeze.

The next step before you come home involves learning to eat. Let me go ahead and tell you that even though learning to eat might be tough now, one day you will love it. That day may very well be the day several years from now when I let you try a sip of my Mountain Dew and a bite of a Snickers when your mom's not around!

Sadie, everyday without you at home with us is hard, but I know it will make everyday after you get here that much sweeter.

Sleep soundly tonight.

- Dad

Sunday, October 28, 2007

Day 7 : Children of Me(n)

Hey Sadie -

I saw a movie this weekend called "Children of Men." It is about a future world where people are no longer able to have babies. The lead character, Theo, is commissioned to take a young girl who has miraculously had the first child to be born in over twenty years, through war-torn Britain and on towards safety.

There is a scene near the end of the film where Theo, the girl and the baby are trying to get through a bombed-out building during a violent battle. While they are rushing through the crumbling building, there is suddenly a moment of quiet after non-stop bursts of machine gun fire. And as all of the noise stops, the baby lets out a loud cry. Upon hearing the innocent cry of a baby in distress, soldiers, fighters and refugees all stop what they are doing and turn all of their attention towards the young child, doing whatever each person can to assure that the baby gets out of the war zone safely.

I have been struck by that moving image this weekend because I feel like, that in a way, it is a version of that moment that we have been living through for the last week. Despite all of the other things that our friends, family, and acquaintances have going on in their lives right now, once your cry was heard in the world, they have stopped to pray, visit, call, make food, and run errands to help ensure that you will be safe and well-cared for.

Your Great Grandma Gee made a wonderful roast last night so your mom and I could eat. Our new friends Todd and Lisa brought a crock pot full of soup for us today. Your Uncle Joel has been doing his part to make sure our car is maintained so we can get back and forth to see you. And there are folks all over the United States that are thinking of you and praying for you - and it truly shows.

You are doing so well, the nurses plan on taking you off the ventilator tonight. You have already been weaned off the sedatives and you are no longer on blood pressure medicine. The nurse practitioner who has been working with you all week couldn't contain her own excitement at how well you are doing. Now it is up to you. You must learn to breathe completely on your own and eat, and then you get to come home with us!

Your mom and I are so excited and so thankful for all of the people who are standing in the war zone, casting their own concerns aside and focusing on your return to safety.

Hang in there, girl. We are almost on the homestretch!

Love forever.

- Dad

Saturday, October 27, 2007

Day 6 : The Three Bears

S.R. -

Today was another good day!

The nurses have been able to lower your ventilator and your oxygen. They cut your second sedative dosage in half, and you are slowly starting to move your feet and arch your body. Your mom and I also convinced the nurse to let us take your Star Trek mask off for awhile so we could see your eyes. You never opened them, but it was still good to be able to see your face without obstruction. The nurses warned that it is still very likely that you might take a step backwards before you get completely better, but there may be a chance we could get to hold you on Monday. You can't imagine how excited this makes us!

Your "Uncle" Ben and "Aunt" Danielle came to the hospital to see you today, too. "Uncle" Ben is one of my oldest friends; we've known each other since elementary school. You should know that he has never been an emotional or touchy guy, but when he saw you today, he was overcome by how beautiful you are. He'll probably get mad that I am telling you this, but he cried a little! Later, when we were eating at a downtown deli, he called seeing you "one of the biggest highlights" of his year. Your mom and I have never seen this side of him before. It is really encouraging. You are so amazing that even the less-than-sensitive are overcome by your awesomeness!!

When I got some "alone time" with you this afternoon, I tried telling you the story "The Three Bears." The problem, though, was that half-way through, I realized I don't quite remember the story of the three bears. You'll find out soon that whenever I don't know the details of a story, I take a cue from your cousin Jasmine and just incorporate references to a shopping mall. It seemed to work. I don't think you noticed!

So many people are thinking about and praying for you! Keep working hard (but not TOO hard) to get better. Before you know it, you'll be in my arms!

- Dad

Friday, October 26, 2007

Day 5 : Comfort Food

Sadie -

I knew today would be a good day when I stepped outside and saw the sun for the first time since you entered the walking world on Monday.

You are still at the special kids hospital, but you made a good turn today. You finally stopped fighting the machines you are on, and your breathing has regulated. The nurses are starting to slowly turn down the ventilator.

Both today and yesterday after we visited you, I went down to the McDonalds in the lobby of the hospital and ate a Big Mac. I know that the food at McDonalds is disgusting and not good for me, but there is something about that greasy grub that is soothing when I am forced to be apart from you. We call it "comfort food." I am sure that when you are older, everytime you convince me to take you to McDonalds to run in the Playland and eat chicken nuggets, I'll think of these first few days of your life.

The other great thing that happened today is that your mom got to leave the hospital she has been in. The nurses there took great care of her, but it is nice to have her home. She has been napping and continuing to recuperate in between the times she makes food for you. She has already built up quite a supply of yumminess for you when you are finally able to eat.

Keep behaving and allowing your body to be adjusted. Soon enough this will all be over. One day we'll tell this story about your days in the hospital and we'll think about how long ago it all seems and how strong you have gotten since. Right now, though, let's take it one day at a time: hour by hour, minute by minute, breath by breath!

I love you more than ever.

- Dad

Thursday, October 25, 2007

Day 4 : Dimples

Hey Baby Girl -

Your mom and I came to see you today and still couldn't touch you. You are still wrapped in wires and tubes and have the Star Trek mask in place, but you are starting to calm down and let the machine you were put on yesterday do some breathing for you.

The doctors were still worried this morning that something might be wrong with your heart, so they took another picture of it today and studied it. They still can't find anything wrong, which is great news. The nurses and doctors now just need you to keep calm, learn the right way to breathe, and then, start eating.

Since we can't touch you, your mom and I spend a lot of our visits just studying your beautiful body. Your mom pointed out today that you and I have the same lip and chin dimples. It might sound silly to you, but realizing this was one of the most comforting moments of the last few days. In some strange way, that mark makes you mine. "I don't need ID or a hospital bracelet," I am tempted to shout. "Just look at her dimples!"

Keep relaxed, baby. Sometimes to win the fight you first have to surrender. It seems like a paradox, but you'll learn soon enough how true it is. Sometimes when you stop trying, you'll start winning. That is what your mom and I are doing. We are stopping the urge to stay in control, and letting someone much more wise than us have the reigns.

We miss you every moment we aren't in the same room!

- Dad

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Day 3 : Machines

Sadie R. -

Early this morning, the doctors called your mom and I to let us know they were putting you on a ventilator. This is a machine that will breathe for you so you don't have to try so hard. The problem is, you are such a fighter, you keep trying to breathe on your own anyway!

Your mom and I went to see you this afternoon. The doctors don't want you to be over-stimulated while you try to fight off this sickness, so you have ear muffs and a little pink mask over your eyes that I like to refer to as your "Star Trek Mask." You are so cute that you look adorable even when you are dressed like LeVar Burton! And you still look elegant - your long little fingers are so dainty and lady-like!

Your Aunt Amy got to see you today, too. She asked the nurse lots of questions and cried a little when she left. She thinks you are too cute to have to be strapped to so many machines.

Your mom and I know you are going to be fine. You are in such good hands. We are just bummed that being in those hands means you have to wait awhile to be in ours. But it will all be worth it! Be good and stop trying to breathe all by yourself. Those doctors are trying to help you!

We'll see you tomorrow and miss you too much until then.

- Dad

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

Day 2 : Real Fear

Baby Girl -

I knew being your dad would be scary at times - but I didn't know it would be SO scary SO fast.

The nursery at the hospital called me and your mom this morning to tell us that you were cold and having a little trouble breathing. They acted like it was not that big of a deal. But as the day progressed, the more serious the situation seemed to become. By this afternoon, the baby doctor here came to see us and told us that you were going to be transferred to a special hospital for kids like you.

The official term for what is ailing you is called "pulmonary hypertension," which your Aunt Amy (who happens to be a nurse by day) simply explains as "high blood pressure of the lungs." Basically, you aren't used to being outside of mom - she used to breathe for you, and now you are having trouble doing it on your own. The nurses and doctors are saying they are doing all they can to help you learn to breathe, but it really depends on you keeping up the fight.

I know you are a fighter. While in your mom, you used to kick when doctors even had equipment near you. Even as much as you are hurting now, you keep swinging away whenever the nurses have to move you around. I keep imagining all of the wire and tape around your hands as little minature boxing gloves. You already seem like your mom, and I am pretty sure your mom was born with boxing gloves on. Punch away, baby. Punch away. Tonight is important to your future - and we can't wait for your future.

Already - no matter what - I love you more than you'll ever know.

- Dad

Monday, October 22, 2007

Day 1 : Hello World!

Sadie Rose -

It seems you paid attention to all of our cries and belly-aching regarding the fact that you weren't here yet! Your mom went in for a regularly-scheduled doctor's appointment this morning, and was informed that we were going to get to meet you today instead of Friday!

Your mom called me at work and I was a little taken by surprise. I thought it would take awhile for the doctors to actually get your mom back and ready for your arrival, but it didn't! Within less than an hour of my arrival at the hospital, I was looking at you in the flesh.

People told me that I might not find you to be beautiful right when you were born, but they were VERY wrong! I was struck by your preciousness from the moment the doctor showed you to me. You have your mom's face shape, nose and lips, but you share the trait of long fingers and toes with me. After the nurses cleaned you, got your footprint, and made sure you were safe and healthy, they handed you to me and I got to take you to mom. We just stared at you with tears in our eyes and marveled at how amazing you are. I know this part of the story might sound silly now, but one day when you have a baby of your own, you'll understand how breathtaking and unexplainable the whole process is.

The rest of the day has just been a whirlwind. Of course your Grandma and Grandpa E were here along with Aunt Amy, Uncle Steve, Cousin Jasmine and Uncle Joel. After you got a bath, we all took turns holding you. While your mom has been trying to recover from this big day, I've been on the phone calling all of your "Aunts" and "Uncles" all over the country. They are too many to list right now, but know that there are a lot of people all over the United States who are very excited about you - and they haven't even met you yet!

The nurses took you back to the nursery a few minutes ago to check on you and make sure you are still well and healthy. Is it weird that you are just down the hall and I already miss you?

I am so glad your mine. I need some sleep... It has been a HUGE, AWESOME day!

You are my baby!

- Dad

Sunday, October 21, 2007

Day -5 : Video Games

Sadie -

I know that in a few years this may seem hard to believe, but your mom and I really enjoy playing the occasional videogame. This weekend we've been playing a game on the Nintendo Wii called "Brain Academy." Your mom is getting quite good. In fact, the game just said she now has the brain of a "historian" (whatever that means?!?)

I just got home from spending a half hour at my favorite store in the whole city, Half-Price Books and Music. You'll know about it soon enough because it is hard for me to go an entire week without spending a little time there. I got an old Radiohead CD. It is really funny for me to think that when you get older, you are probably going to think Radiohead is really lame and "old." That's okay. I still think the Rolling Stones are a bit overrated. And they are DEFINITELY old!

As for the rest of today, your mom and I spent most of it sleeping, eating, and fielding questions about when you are going to show up! (I am sure you are getting tired of hearing about that, but it should make you realize HOW MANY people are excited about YOU!)

Your "Uncle" Brad and "Aunt" Cassie from Little Rock have been in France for the last two weeks and just got back home yesterday. They called this afternoon convinced that you must already be born. Your "Uncle" Tim called today, too, to find out when you might arrive.

We are all eagerly awaiting the day you are going to show up, but don't be scared. We'll love you no matter what, just because you are YOU! That is cool, huh?

I am now going to join your mom at "Brain Academy." Since she is now "historian," I should probably try to rank higher than "garbage man"!

I love you! Be good.

- Dad

Saturday, October 20, 2007

Day -6 : Birthdays

Sadie Rose -

You know that cool middle name you have? You are named after your Grandma E. (aka "DeeDee"). Her name is Rosalie. Your mom and I just got back from celebrating her birthday. Yeah, you guys are not only going to share part of a name, you will also share the same birthday week. She turns 54 on Wednesday and you have your initial birthday on Friday.

For Grandma's birthday we all got together at your Aunt Amy's house and ate lasagna. Mom made some cupcakes and a jello salad. All of the food was SO good. Then we went to the zoo for a big Halloween celebration. Your cousin Jasmine was dressed as a Care Bear. There were lots of people at the zoo and while we were waiting to get in, a lady we don't know asked us about you. She wondered if you might try making your entrance into the world while we were inside the zoo. As good as a story as that might have been later in your life, I am glad you decided to wait so you didn't have to be born around a bunch of zebras and elephants!

So your mom and I and even your Aunt Amy are wondering if you already have a lot of hair. I know it sounds silly, but we are all so eager to meet you that we find it fun to imagine what you might look like. From the pictures we've seen of you already, I think you might just have a long nose like mine. Sorry about that!

I love you so much already! Be good!

- Dad

Friday, October 19, 2007

DAY -7 : An Introduction

Hey Sades (Yeah... I've already given you a nickname!) -

Let me explain what you are about to read. I've decided to write you a note everyday for the next year. Of course, I'll see you and talk to you lots on most of those days, but you probably won't remember what I say. So since I like to write anyway, I've decided this diary-of-sorts will serve as a record of how you have impacted my life in the first 365 days of yours. Those 365 days are set to start a week from now, but even though you haven't officially met me and your mom, you're already a big part of our lives. So I'll give you a glimpse into what the week before you officially became part of the "world outside the womb" was like, too.

Tonight your mom and I washed the car, inside and out, as one more of the final steps to get it ready to escort you around. Yesterday, Big Uncle Steve put your special seat in the car and got it nice and secure so you will be safe when we drive around. While I vaccumed the car tonight, your mom put up special sunshades on the windows so you'll be extra-comfortable when in your special seat.

Right now, your mom is taking a special bath because she itches really badly. The doctor says that the itching will stop once you get here, so your mom is extra-impatient now for you to arrive. She has been researching on the internet (which, you will find out soon, she does A LOT!) about how to make you show up sooner. But nothing she has tried yet has worked. We saw the doctor just yesterday, and she insisted that you were not yet on your way into "our" world.

Your mom and I aren't the only ones eagerly awaiting your arrival. "Uncle" Lafe (who lives in Arkansas where me and your mom used to live - we'll get into that story later) called a few hours ago to see if you were here yet. And another person who REALLY wants to meet you - Grandma E. (or, as your cousin Jasmine calls her, "DeeDee"). She teaches music at a school and she has already told all of the people she works with that as soon as you show up, she won't be coming to work for awhile. She already likes you enough to blow off her job!!!

Well, it is my last Friday night without you so I think I am going to drink a Cherry 7-Up in bed, watch some TV and wait for your mom to get out of the tub.

I love you so much already! I'll tell you more about ME - your DAD - tomorrow!

Until then - be good!

Your my girl -

Dad