Happy Halloween, Infant Wolf, and the Return of the Mad Cow

George has an unusual amount of "baby fur" all over his body and his ears.  The full moon is soon approaching, which may explain why he "wolfs" down his mother's milk.  Much to the consternation of meat-eaters everywhere, especially in the UK, it looks like mad cow has returned (see pic).  However, we do not anticipate an extensive outbreak as in 2001.  Also, it seems this mad cow can be soothed by the gentle swinging of a bassinet.  Happy Hollerween!

Cat Sniffs George; George Remains Calm Throughout Day

These two pieces of news are completely unrelated.  Fionn, self-proclaimed ambassador on behalf of all animals in the building, took the important first step to initiate dialogue with newborn George.  Fionn his sniffed his head.  The response from George was non-commital, as he largely ignored the grey feline.   Analysts from both sides of the aisle have interpreted along their respective party guidelines.  When George was pressed to comment further, he simply stared.

George slept much more today, which prompted the opposite response one would expect.  Rather than relief, the parents wondered why he wasn't fussing more.  Isn't it ironic that his quieting fussiness  is succeeded by his parents' discontent?  In case you were wondering if it was quiet all day, George shows his discontent with his father's morning snoring .....

Umbilical Cord StumpTown

The little bit of umbilical cord, a slightly icky looking thing, fell off today, revealing George's little belly button.  Kirsten persuaded me to not share any images with you.  But, fear not, once his belly button looks "normal" I will snap a few for your delight.


In other news, our friend, Rich, wants to start Friday night baby boxing bouts.  Given our cultural bent towards organized violence and all things cute, this mash-up will make babies lovers and fighters.  Rich guarantees he can make George a contender in 6 months.  This may be a case of something sounding too good to be true .... but some of these pics show a natural ....such as the one directly below showcases his baby "guns" ....

Suggestions for Sleep Deprived New Born Parents #1

Cutting your own hair really isn't a good idea.  George vocalizes his disapproval.

First Poo, First Doctor's Appt

George had his first real baby poo yesterday, which surprised him and us greatly.  We didn't expect such bowel movements for a couple of days.  He decided to repeat his new-found powers several times far into the night.  At our doctor's appointment this morning, our new pediatrician commented that he is developing quickly and is very strong.  His response to her comment: he peed all over her examination table. 


When I asked the best way to calm him when he's fussy, she suggested to ensure that he's been fed, been changed, and that I could sing to him softly.  So, I did.  Apparently somebody's baby doesn't like his papa's singing.

The Kiddy That Never Sleeps

One of George's supporters informed him that he was born in the city that never sleeps.  Unfortunately for us, he decided last night to witness for himself if this city sleeps or not.  In order to do so, he would have to stay awake the entire night himself.  His bravado, his pluck, and his sheer determination nearly saw him through, but Kirsten's persistent feedings eventually let us all fall blissfully asleep around 4 or 5.  You must admit his grit is praiseworthy.  We predict more all-nighters soon, so keep alert you night owls.

Picture for today (yesterday's photo showing George's warmup for the upcoming night performance):

First Day At Home

George is adjusting nicely to his new home. His sleep schedule is starting to form and we noticed he eats heavier first in the morning and late at night. Thankfully, he only required one feeding in the middle of the night and both of us were able to get some pretty decent sleep. We hope he will follow our sleeping pattern.

Thankfully, our friends upstairs - literally - wanted George to realize he arrived home and put up a lovely welcome sign and balloons for his arrival.

They also made cupcakes and spelled out his name, which confused George, as he cannot eat one and, at this time, doesn't even know what constitutes a cupcake. Plus, George hasn't yet learned to read despite our hiring of the brightest tutors from Europe. (Babies know rather little of worldly affairs, I'm afraid, but we in our eternal optimism hope for an exception in this regard.)

Finally, here is the picture of the day!

George Allen now at home!

George and Kirsten arrived home early this evening. Happy baby, happy mother, happy father. Cats are somewhat curious, and both of the furbags have decided they do not like the little man's crying. Oh well, they will have plenty of time to get used to it! Here's a sneak peak of the little one napping.

George smiled for the first time earlier today. The nurse informed us a smile indicates he just passed gas. Kirsten and I admire his appreciation for the simple things. A lesson for us all. And for those keeping score at home: 8 feedings today, 4 dirty diapers, including 2 with poo. In my opinion, that's a good ratio.

George Allen has arrived!

At 5:32 am this morning, George Allen finally arrived after a rather long and exhausting delivery. He weighed in at 7 lbs and 15 oz and measured at 20 1/8".  A manageable size.  Kirsten looks great, but is very tired, and I hope she's getting some overdue sleep! I think I'm about to crawl into bed myself and count the minutes until I get to hold the little one again. He is healthy, he is beautiful, he is loud. And he has a full head of curly, brown hair. Already, he has one up on me....

Becky joined us early yesterday morning and stayed with us until George's birth. She was simply outstanding, providing Kirsten with support, me with support, and little George with love. I don't think we could have done it without her. Even more amazingly, she went to work this morning. If you see her, buy her a coffee, or offer to carry her home, or some small token that represents the Herculean task of staying with Kirsten and me through the night at the hospital.

Finally, I hope to get my haircut (finally) this afternoon. Yeah, pretty anticlimatic end to this blog posting. One last look at the wild man show above (and my poor boy will probably flinch the first - or eighth - time he recognizes his old man holding him as an infant.) Much love to everyone.

5 pm Update

Sadly, no baby yet. And Kirsten is still in early labor and the midwife sent us home about an hour ago. Our plan now is for Kirsten to shower, eat a little, and nap. Hopefully we will make our second trip to the hospital later this evening. Will update as time and opportunities permit.

Off for the first pass

It looks like we're heading to the doctor's and maybe then the hospital! Will update.

Belly on Due Date (Belly Overdue)

Kirsten shows off her slight bulge of belly on her due date! George wants to take after his mom and arrive fashionably late. John's guessing George will be born over this weekend, so those of you with wagers over the next few days can start dreaming how they'll spend their lucky moolah. If you can't remember your day, check the calendar here.






In other fine baby news, all his laundry has been washed, folded, and stored away. The cats have been assigned to test all baby gear and ensure it is comfortable, reliable, and safe. Here, the boys perform an exhaustive study on George's new bed. Good work, Fionn and Ernie, keep it up!