24

Unlike Jack Bauer, the twenty-four hours following Ian’s birth were the best Aileen and I have ever experienced. Most people (especially moms) told us to keep the baby in the nursery the first couple nights so that we could sleep. But we just couldn’t let him leave our sight. I felt like a little kid who just got the best Christmas present ever and not able to put it down for weeks! All I wanted to do was hold Ian, watch him sleep, look at his facial expressions and wonder what he must be thinking. One thing was for sure, he loved to sleep! We held him and looked at every body part to see what exactly mommy and daddy contributed to this beautiful, amazing creation of God.

With the abnormal ultrasound results early in the pregnancy, we were worried that he may have an ano-rectal malformation. But one of the first things we checked was whether he had a poop shoot. And we were so relieved to see that his was there! Now we just had to wait for something to come out…

The first thing that we noticed about Ian was of course his hair! He can thank Aileen for that. After his first bath by the nurses, his hair and skin felt so soft. And his smell was the most incredible thing ever. I could have just smelled him all day long!

With regards to his other body parts, Aileen definitely gave him her ears, nose and feet. I can take credit for his lips, hands, and butt. But his eyes and chin look like they came from both of us. His eyes are the most beautiful things. When he opens them, they have the appearance both of innocence and profound wisdom. People may think he looks older because of his hair, but I would have to disagree. There is something special about his eyes. Something I just can’t wait to find out. What are you going to teach us, little Ian?

The following day was filled with more holding, some attempts at feeding, and lots and lots of pictures! Family and friends came to visit bearing flowers, balloons and golf balls (thank you harabugee, harmunee and Uncle Justin!).

Thank you Lola, Lolo, Auntie Aimee and Uncle Benny for being there with us through it all! Ian was so blessed to have such a warm welcoming party waiting for him when he arrived.