Sunday, May 4, 2008

Jack's Back
We have finally caught our breath and wanted to apologize for not updating you on Jack's recent developments. Jack is adjusting very well to his new home, although I'm sure he misses his nursing crew from the NICU. Jack probably wonders why he sees the same two people staring at him every time he opens his eyes. It took Mom and Dad a few long days to finally take their eyes off Jack or to stop checking to see if he was breathing. Jack is still on his three hour feeding schedule which was started in the hospital. It seems we change him, feed him, burp him and then finally get him settled and it's time to start the process all over again. Mom has been wonderful tending to Jack's every need, and we're pretty excited we haven't had to call the doctor or emergency room yet.

It's been a wonderful period of time to be home with Jack, watching him grow and learning all of his mannerisms and sounds. Each day we see more of his personality develop, we are still trying to determine whether most of his characteristics are Houlihan or Smith. He sure likes to eat, and his Mom loves to dress him in all the new wonderful clothes he's received from all his family and friends.

Jack has had many visitors since his arrival home. He was visited last week by Great Uncle Joe all the way from Minnesota, Great Uncle Chuck and Grandma Houlihan were also on hand for the visit. Aunt "The Bridge" and Uncle Mike came by and brought Mom and Dad a wonderful dinner. Great Uncle Jimmy, Jack's new neighbor, stopped by yesterday to check in on Jack.

On Saturday Jack surprised Grandma Smith and Aunt Gert with his first visit to their compound. It will be great when Jack is big enough to enjoy the pool at Grandma's Smith's. Jack made his first trip to the Southside last week when he stopped in to see Aunt Susan, Joanie and Jamie. Jack really seems to enjoy his car rides, Mom is always near his side to make sure he is safe in the backseat.

On Sunday, Jack enjoyed his first of many breakfast trips to Blackies with Mom and Dad, it was his first ride in his Land Rover stroller. Jack went for a tour of the South Loop and had many compliments along the way. We look forward to many trips out in the coming weeks, give us a call and we'll meet you at one of our favorite restaurants or beverage outlets.

We promise to update the log a couple of times a week with new pictures and details of Jack's adventures. We look forward to this week in preparation for Jack's first Mother's Day celebration with his fantastic Mom.

Thanks for checking in, we look forward to seeing everyone soon.
JMJ