Big News!

This post is a few days tardy, my apologies, but the news is awesome! My brother-in-law (Kristen's brother for those of you that are family tree challenged) and his wife are expecting their first child!

We found out the great news last weekend during a family dinner. Celebrating Dave's 60th birthday, Ryan and his wife (Shannon) announced the news. Fantastic! Their due date is early June and the timing is perfect as they are renovating an old home on 5 acres of land outside of Ann Arbor testing Ryan's do-it-yourself homebuilding skills.

The whole family is incredibly excited. In less than a year, Dave and Kathy went from thinking there would be no grand kids to having two! And of course, Katie will be an aunt twice over. The question remains though, will she have a niece to go with the nephew!

The dinner was fantastic and took place at the restaurant of Tabor Hill - a notable Michigan winery. There was plenty of food to pass around, but Gilbert was the item of choice! Here are some pictures from birthday dinner.

Settling In. Maybe...

So, Thanksgiving has passed. Gil is a month old. A routine has begun to finally settle in at Casa de Johnson. Or has it?

What were once 3-4 hour feedings, have turned into a shark-like feeding frenzy. Gil seems to be hungry every 2-3 hours and often times needs a 'snack' to appease the hungry little man. And we thought this pattern was suppose to go in the opposite direction!

He's getting good feeds, but his appetite is voracious. Definitely taking after his father, but much to Kristen's chagrin. These changes translate to less sleep for her. Uh-oh.

And all that hair is starting to disappear. Hopefully it is not foreshadowing, but he's got some nice alleys developing in his hairline.

He seems to be changing daily. Facially more animated, clothes are no longer fitting, and his head is huge. Well, not Niepomnik huge (smiles!), but nonetheless!

So, life for Team Johnson has structure but is dynamic each and every day. Wouldn't want it any other way!

Check out Gil's reaction to the Bear's OT win.

Mr. Bright Eyes

That is the term Kristen has coined for Gil when he's perfectly content with just 'being'. What baby doesn't enjoy the cuddly warmth of parents, family, and friends. But sometimes, he enjoys his 'Gil time'. I know so because he told me. Well, it was more of a telepathic connection, but now we're just talking semantics!

Regardless, I find it near impossible not to be engaged with him during every waking moment - his or mine! I'm in charge of bathing the little guy - or at least when I'm home - and this is our best time together. After the good bath, I wrap him up naked (his request) and we just 'hang'.

Included in this post are some of those moments.


Awesome, I must say. Just awesome.

Fully Exposed

Gil has now met all of his grandparents. As I mentioned in prior posts, my parents were in town for Thanksgiving for their first exposure to Gil and his first dose of Grandparent love from them. Here's a picture of the three of them. Gil's asleep. Imagine that.

Eat, sleep, poop, rinse, repeat...

Thanksgiving...Recovering

Thanksgiving was fantastic! My parents arrived on Wednesday amidst the exodus of Chicagoans and arrival of well, shitty weather. The traffic was so severe, I couldn't get to the airport. So, I sent them on an adventure...taking the Orange Line from Midway in to the City. They survived, and Wednesday night was enjoying just the five of us hanging out and allowing them the opportunity to dote and get to know their grandson.

Thursday was all about me. Me cooking, me cleaning, me working hard. But I loved it. Kristen was able to relax, my Dad watched football, and my mom continued to hold Gil. Gil has been extremely loved! The weather continued to be questionable, with a good dusting of snow blanketing the city.

Friday, the skies cleared so we all ventured out for a walk to see the window decorations at Marshall Fields, er, Macy's on State Street. The wind was brisk so it was definitely an out-and-back kind of trip. The fresh air did everybody good, not to mention the walk began to burn the overload caloric intake from the night prior!

Preparing for the Invasion

The peace that is our home is about to be shattered. My parents are coming to town. This is their first opportunity to see Gil, so the poor guy needs to be prepared to be loved, held, talked to, and basically smothered for three days. The poor guy is going to be begging for some private time in his crib!

Now, mom and dad, you know I'm just kidding! But I may have to resort to extreme measures and slip Valium into their coffee.

This promises to be a great Thanksgiving and just another addition to our growing list of firsts. First Thanksgiving in the condo. Gil's first Thanksgiving. All good stuff.

As I write this post, Kristen and I are sitting in Gil's room eating a dinner of hodgepodge as we clear the fridge in preparation for the big turkey day leftovers. He's laying on his back just making noises, waving his arms, kicking his legs, making fists, and simply enjoying some Gil 'private time'.

He's still a bit stuffy, snorting occasionally and then chewing on whatever he sucked in. If only I could teach him how to hauck a luggie!

The Joys of Snot

Yep, Gil has his first cold. He can thank Dad for that gift! Every damn year I get a cold, flu, or some sort of 'crud' when the seasons finally shift from warm to cold. Well, for me it arrived earlier in the week.

My typical defense is to flush my system with TheraFlu. I'm addicted to it. Liquid gold, I say. Well, despite my best efforts to self-medicate and limit my exposure to Gil (good luck with that!), he caught my cold late in the week. Poor little guy!

You should see the snot fly out his nose when he sneezes. Holy cow, Batman! The aspirator has become my best friend. I get the duty since I gave him the cold, my wife says. He'll tolerate one pull from each nostril, but go in a second time and he lets you know his position on being violated.


Sidetrack...I know my posts have described all the daily challenges we are facing as new P's, but I must admit parenting has been easy...so far.

Gil sleeps like a champ between feedings, basically is on a schedule which makes life convenient for Kristen, and is a treat to play with when I get home from work. He's rarely fussy, loves bath time (especially when you pour warm water over his head), and makes the best little smiles as he begins to drift to sleep. I'm getting goosebumps as I write this now.


Back to the story...


After a trip to Walgreens for a vaporizer, he seems to be clearing up. Of course, I was excited to buy a 'vaporizer' thinking it was some sort of space aged weapon that was used by Wiley E. Coyote in his fruitless attempts to get the Road Runner. So you can imagine my disappoint when I opened the box to find what looks like a damn humidifier!

But the real disappoint was missing Turkey Bash. For the unwashed masses, Turkey Bash is an incredible tradition (13 years? running) where good friends get together and celebrate with a Thanksgiving dinner. The best part is the night before when the 'guys' get together drink beverages, go bowling, and make the midnight run to the grocery store for supplies. We prepare the turkey and then the ladies arrive (now with kids in tow) with a side dish and we spend the day enjoying each others company. It pained me to miss the Friday festivities. Literally, I felt pain. First time I've been absent or not woken up with a hangover on the Saturday before Thanksgiving in nine years.

Family Guy

The title is duplicative. I'm watching Family Guy while I'm being a family guy. Gil has just gone down for what should be another great night of sleep. He's been fantastic during the night. After a tough first night at home, mom and Gil have mastered their nocturnal feedings.

He's three weeks old in a few hours and Kristen and I were just talking how it feels as if he's been with us for so much longer. I reminded her he has been. For almost 10 months!

We're already in to that routine - feed, do chores, eat, watch tv, and mom goes to sleep (dad reads/surfs the net/etc.) - so to maintain our sanity we make sure Kristen gets out each day. Much like walking the dog! Just kidding. Hope she doesn't read this post!

Okay parents, remember that first time your newborn let out an adult-sized fart? Kristen thought it was me and I was passing blame on Gilbert! Such false accusations.

Now, I know Gil is advanced and he demonstrated it today by rolling over! Well, it wasn't a real rollover since he started on his belly and rolled on to his back. I think it surprised even him. His eyes went wide and he let out a little cooh. Good times. No. GREAT TIMES!

Oh yeah, I think Gil is tired of the camera. Attempting to catch a photo of him, apparently I interrupted his private time in the papa san.

Who Likes To Be Naked?

THIS GUY!

All is well with Team Johnson. Mom and Gilbert are enjoying each other's company immensely. At least that is what he told me! Mom might have a differing opinion now that Gil has taken up the art of projectile vomiting after feedings! I have yet to witness this art, nor have I been peed on yet, so part of me feels I'm missing out! Really?

Everyday is wondrous as he adds to his repertoire of facial expressions and body movements. His strength seems to increase daily as well, at times it seems in leaps and bounds. Tummy Time last night produced huge results as he held his head up what seems to be for minutes (granted it was probably only 10-15 seconds, but still!) and enjoyed it! I think parachuting might be in his future. As his head goes up he arches his back and his legs and pelvis leave the ground too simulating a parachutist's position. But seriously...He amazes us everyday.

However, our days are not without challenges. He does get fussy and I can only imagine - as a mother - how that must try your emotions and patience as you attempt to sooth your child, sometimes without results. Well, we do what we think is best and hope it produces results!

Week 2 - Lots of Visitors!

Gil is now a whopping two weeks. My how they grow old so fast! Week 2 was a busy one. We were lucky to have both friends and family visit.

Tim, Jen and their daughter, Kathryn, stopped by for a visit and some time with Gil.

As I mentioned in an earlier post, Kristen's mom (Taya) came in town for a few days to help Kristen settle in - and selfishly get time with her grandson!












Then, we were visited by Kristen's family and the battle for sharing Gil during their stunted time was fun to watch!

Looking to avoid cabin fever during Kristen's first week at home, we ventured out as well including a fun-infused birthday party for our friends - the Niepomnik's - daughter (1st birthday).

They rented out a gymnastic studio and let the kids run loose among the foam pit, trampolines, and other apparatus. I had to be reminded that the equipment was for the kids as I was enjoying jumping into the foam pit!

Hollow Man

That is how I feel today. For the first time, I'm tired. Gil is still sleeping great through the night, but the consistent evenings of scheduled interrupted sleep have finally caught up with me.

Nietzsche said "Even the strongest have their moments of fatigue. Well, I'm fatigued!

Sitting at my desk, find myself wishing to be at home...with family! Add that it is Friday. Who really wants to be at work on a Friday?

So, what's a guy to do? Power through it, right?

Grandma is in the House!

One day into caring for Gil by herself and Kristen is already signalling the bullpen! Just kidding. Kristen's mom, Taya, is in town this week for a few days to get some 'Gil time' and help Kristen transition to flying solo during the weekdays.

Did I mention Taya brought steaks? Yes, juicy, thick fillets! Now that is how you win over my heart. Red meat! But seriously, it is nice to have her in town. Allows Kristen to grab some much needed shut eye during the day and have someone around for conversation while Taya gets to spend time with her grandson. Seems like a good deal, yes!

Day three of 'back to work' and all is well. I do find myself stealing away a few times a day to look at pictures I have of the little guy on my computer. Makes the day go by quicker knowing he's waiting for me (granted he's complete oblivious at this point) to come home.

Those of you with kids probably noticed this too, but I'm acutely aware of the small, subtle changes taking place with Gil. His facial expressions are increasing as is his strength. Everyday he seems to be developing muscle strength to hold his head up and my current favorite grip my finger and hold on tightly. As for his legs, he's definitely a kicker! Loves to flail those things around. Cracked me a few times in the process.

Like Father, Like Son

Why wear clothes around the house, when you can be NAKED instead! Here's Gil enjoying a little 'be free' time.

Today I'm back to work. Doesn't feel as strange as I expected. More like I've returned from a long vacation. I feel rested and relaxed. Got back into my normal routine by going to the gym in the morning and then preparing for my day as if nothing had changed. But oh has it!

While at the gym, I kept looking at the clock budgeting time so I could snuggle with Gil before having to prepare for work. And was it great. Dark (thanks to the change in Daylight Savings Time), warm, and him sleeping, we just rocked in the chair for a good 15 minutes. Pure bliss!

As I write this post, Gil and I are hanging watching college football. I enjoyed watching my favorite team - Ohio State - dismantle my dad's alma mater - Wisconsin. The Michigan/Michigan State game just started and my wife - a MSU graduate - is showing her support by taking a nap.

So, it is just 'the guys' right now; bonding. We are in simpatico - a routine of sleeping, pooping, and changing of drawers (well, except me that is. I've evolved enough to find the 'john'.

I must admit since his arrival I've watched more college football in the last two weekends than I've seen all year! Definitely an unforeseen benefit!

Team Johnson continues to enjoy our week together. We've made an effort to get out each day, whether for a walk or a car trip to accomplish even the most menial of tasks. Gil, so far, has proven to be a great car rider. Either sleeping the entire trip or just sitting all cozy in his car seat waiting. For what, who knows!

The included photo is of his first use of the car seat. Not exactly a 'happy to be here' look on his face, but he was quite content on his first walk around the West Loop.

And for good measure, here's a picture of Mommy and son enjoying a little 'tummy time'.

What a Difference One Week Makes

This time last week we were in the final stages of preparing for Gilbert's arrival. Thursday was spent doing those things that most expectant couples do - last clean sweep of the house, confirm the bag is packed with all the necessities, track the contractions, etc. As I write this, exactly one week ago to the hour we were settling in to the Labor & Delivery room. What a difference a week makes!

And how the time goes by! Attempting to not think about it, but the arrival of Monday sits ominously in the back of my mind wondering how I'll be able to return to work, and actually work. But like a cold shower it comes to me, THE PAYCHECK! Duh.

On to better things...

Tonight was the first session of...TUMMY TIME! What fun. Gil bellied right up (sorry, couldn't resist the pun) to the task by curling his legs under himself and proceeding to fall asleep! After some cajoling, Gil warmed up, er, woke up and exceeded expectations. It only took a few minutes before he rattled off about 20 pushups! Then again, he has the support of his own personal trainer (see photo).

The joy he brings to our home is overwhelming. Kristen and I battle to hold him and just stare at the little guy, whether he's asleep or simply staring back with those deep, blue eyes. Truly amazing. But hey, as parents (whew, that is a scary word) you know what I'm talking about.

Gil's First Halloween

Mom just couldn't resist. Gil's not a week old and she's already dressing him in ridiculous clothes! Check out some of his wares for Halloween.












Today was a busy day with Gil's first doctor's appointment. Quite enjoyable seeing all the kids coming through dressed in their Halloween clothes. Another couple had their newborn (only a few days before us) in for the first time too. Their second child, they seemed like the steely veterans we hope to be.

The appointment went well. He's packing back on the weight typically lost after birth. And to top it all off he peed on the doctor.

Hey! That's what you get when you strip him down and start jostling around his sensitive junk! Dad was proud!

Day of Firsts

So, Day 3 in the Johnson homestead. Gilbert, Kristen and myself are adjusting nicely. We've had a few bumps along the way, but Team Johnson is persevering!

Gilbert has had a bit of reflux - mainly in the evening - but Kristen quickly adjusted his feeding and now Gilbert is doing better. The nights have been fun. We have a 'Moses Basket' - basically a little portable wicker basket designed for newbies. Our plan was to have him sleep in it and be in our room. He's slept between us on the bed both nights. We just can't get enough of him!

The beginning of many firsts - yesterday we took him out for his 'first' stroll around the block. He's a natural behind the wheel of the car! If he could only reach the turn signal, though... But seriously, testing out the stroller, it was great to be outside after days of being relegated to the hospital room.

He also had his first 'birdie bath' in preparation for seeing Grandma Taya. She came in for the day to visit Gil and he responded by sleeping the entire time!

Exclusive! Pictures of Gilbert!

Unfortunately, People Magazine wasn't buying the exclusive rights to the Baby J birthing or his first photos (like Kristen would let me sell them anyway!) so for the first time seen by the outside world, herrrrrreeee's Gilbert!

Introducing...

GILBERT MERRILL JOHNSON

Gil was born Friday morning, October 26th at 4:19am. Mom and son are feeling great after a long night and lots of amazing work done by my wife. She is definitely my hero!

Gil weighed 7lb. 9 oz. and was 20 inches long; fully equipped with a full head of hair, beautiful dark blue eyes, a great set of vocal chords, and overflows with life. Well, at least when he's not sleeping! Kristen and I are overwhelmed with joy!

I promise pictures will show up on Sunday once the family is back home!

Oh yeah, for those who followed the clues, you are probably wondering how you can get initials from G and J. Well, the nickname - at least my idea for one - is GM.

The way the little guy is going to run our lives, he's in essence our manager or for those sports fans out there...he's our little "GM" - General Manager!

Thursday's Clue

Here you go. Another clue!

New Clue

Another piece of the name is revealed. Oooh! Aaaah!

Good luck!

Kristen continues to be doing well. Had her latest doc appointment on Tuesday. Had to take a stress test b/c the little guy hasn't been moving as much, or at least seemed to be.

Heartbeat strong, but like his mom he's enjoying the warmth darkness and 24/7 access to food and is being stubborn about giving those things up!

Details...

Just getting this out of the way now as Baby J could arrive anyday!

As you've read in my prior blogs, Northwestern Memorial now has a new women's hospital. Included in this post is a map of the hospital's campus along with the location of Prentice and parking garages.



Here is the information you need:

Visiting
The New Prentice Women's Hospital at Northwestern Memorial Hospital
250 E. Superior

Hospital Operator - (312) 926-2000
Visiting Hours: 9am - 8:30pm

Parking*

Valet : $16 for seven hours or less
Self parking is available in the Huron/St.Clair parking garage, 222 East Huron St.

Discount rates are available for patients and visitors.
$9.00 for seven hours or less
$18.25 for eight to 24 hours


*Parking receipts must be validated at customer service desks located in Feinberg/Galter Pavilions

New Pics of My Niece

Just got these from my sister. Maddie is now 3 1/2 months old. She's mastered the art of 'tummy time'!

She's in full action mode!

Week 39

The countdown continues. Kristen is done working...lucky girl! We continued to take advantage of the beautiful weather and went for a walk along the lakeshore. Extremely windy, it was, but beautiful nonetheless.

For a quiet, no-crowd walk I recommend driving down to either the 31st or 39th Street exit. Parking is available (for free!) and you have instant access to walk along the shoreline with great views of the city skyline when walking north.

The nursery has been complete for some time now, but for what will hopefully be our last weekly update photo we took it together this time.

Excited parents-to-be, we are!

Coersion

With Kristen officially done working for 'the wo-man', it is time to get Baby J out and into the world, I say!

She'd prefer a few days to herself next week, but being the sneaky guy that I am we had a full day of errands planned - that required lots of walking! Sneaky? Yeah right! She saw right through my pathetic attempt to mask the pain of errands knowing my agreement was to attempt to coerce the little guy into starting labor. Then again, jumping up and down like a little kid who wants his way probably tipped her off as well that I want Baby J here. NOW!

I did the start the day right, though, by indulging Kristen in two of her favorite weekend activities...sleeping in followed by breakfast out! We went to Ina's, over on Randolph Street. An upscale eatery, their menu had the typical breakfast items but with flair. Kristen had whole wheat oatmeal pancakes with bananas. I had a four veggie frittata. FRI-TA-TA. I just like saying that. FRI-TA-TA. FRI-TA-TA. FRI-TA-TA.

Oh, sorry. Anyway, after breakfast it was off and out to do errands. Not a lot of fun, especially in city traffic (and with the Buckeyes playing!), but we made short order of our tasks. Kristen has been in an endless search for a floorlamp in the living room. Totally unnecessary, if you ask me. But then again, she never does! Today's venture produced no lamp. AGAIN! But hey, she scored an incredibly sexy nursing bra. Can't wait for her to slink into the bedroom with that on. Grrrrr!

The day was awesome...weather-wise, that is. A bit warm in the sun, the night was cool and windy so we went for a walk along the river and through the downtown. At a pace that might jumpstart delivery. At Kristen's request, THANK YOU VERY MUCH! Back on the couch to watch Michigan beat Illinois, contractions have started. OH YEAH! Sporadic, yes. But they must start somewhere, right?

Stay tuned...

Pre-Game Warmups

Yep, game time is close. Kristen's latest doctor appointment revealed Baby J is in position, lowering, and depending on his mood could come "anytime".

A little early, but quite welcomed!

The bags are packed, the birthing plan complete, food stores aplenty (well, is there ever 'enough food'?), and all that remains is one more cleaning of the house - Kristen's request.

Of course, we're holding out for the new hospital - which goes online 8:31am on Saturday. And who wants to be the first one, right? So, if all goes well, Baby J will emerge next week. Then again, he could get stubborn and hold out. If that appears so, tactics will have to be used to coerce the little guy out. You know...spicy food, a little exercise, or some other form of exertion!

Kristen is doing great. Not uncomfortable, but some contractions are occuring. The kid is so close to the surface, I think I saw him smile last night! On the flip side, I'm just waiting for him to pull an "Alien" and pop out through her chest!

Doc made the call Baby J will be 8 lbs. 1oz.

What is your guess?

Clue #3

The first letter is revealed!

Sitting, Waiting, Wishing

I'm reminded of that Jack Johnson song. Down to just weeks, if not days we're tiding up loose ends and preparing for Baby J's arrival. This weekend is prep weekend.

Bags are packed, food is being made ahead and frozen, and supplies stocked. I find myself reading and rereading sections of the baby books purchased (and given to us) in hopes of gleaming critical information not yet memorized. I'm sure all of you that have gone through this can remember those last days scrambling thinking you hadn't done enough or read enough or simply aren't prepared.

I don't necessarily feel that way, but knowing the Unexpected is waiting for you (and is doing so with a smile!) is slightly unnerving and incredibly humbling.

So I find myself not sitting watching the belly move, while waiting for the day to arrive wishing it would get here now!

Braxton-Hicks. He's no friend of mine!

Yep, you ladies have been there and you know what I'm talking about. The thrills of false labor in the form of contractions known as Braxton-Hicks.

Kristen has just begun to enjoy this experience. Take last night for example, I'm working on the computer and she's in the other room watching the tele. All of a sudden an "Ooh" breaks the silence. Being the attentive husband that I am, I jump up to find out what's going on.

Was something cool happening on television? Did she slip, fall, etc?

Nope just false labor in the form of a Braxton-Hicks contraction.

After this occurred a few times last night, I find myself already desensitized toward it, much like a car alarm. The false contractions continued this morning. I made the mistake of calling them false contractions and was quickly corrected by Kristen.

"Oh, they're real alright (explicative here)!" she said.

False contractions, false labor. It is all the same, right? Until it is "go time", it is all false to me.

I'm sure that comment will win me points tonight!

Clue #2

Here's clue #2. Parts of the name is revealed in the images.

Let's Play A Game. Guessing Baby J's Name!

I know the suspense is killing you. I've heard all kinds of names and theories of what Baby J's name will be. This would be easy for all of you if you could accept a Patrick Jr., but no the masses have spoken (not to mention Kristen vetoed it!).

Like all of you with kids, we wrangled, wrestled, and worried over the selection of his name. Will it stand up to the teasing of playground bullies (like P.E. will even be in existence by the time he's in school)?

Would it sound good on television as he sinks a putt to win the Masters, or on the evening news as he runs for the Senate?

Of course, with his last name, we had to make sure it would stand up to the tabloid test as well! Dustin, nope? Who wants a Dusty Johnson. Rusty, well, no need to explain that one. Maybe Harrison. Uh, nope there either!

But alas, a name has been chosen. A secret it is, but perhaps to some of you, it may be revealed in the clues that will follow in weeks to come.

To get the party started, included in this post is a picture of Baby J's crib, literally. Now complete, his name hangs above his future place of domicile.

So, let the games begin. Here's your first clue. He will have a nickname of two letters, just like his daddy.

The Hunt for October Pumpkin

This post is a week late. My bad. Last weekend, Kristen and I headed out to the old 'hood of West Chicago to hang with our friends Tim, Jen, and their daughter Kathryn. Across from their neighborhood is a working Farm called Sonny Acres.

Well, come Fall, they celebrate the annual harvest with rides and entertainment for kids as well as making available for sale an assortment from their harvest - gourds, pumpkins, corn, etc.

In the market for a pumpkin and a last opportunity to visit friends before going into 'baby jail', we planned a Sunday morning visit (had to get back to the house for the abysmal showing called Bears football).

The day was gorgeous and Kathryn had a blast playing in the corn maze with Mom, riding a pony, and doing a sack ride on a slide with Dad. Kristen and I found time for a little fun as well!

36 Weeks

Here's the latest photo of Kristen. This was from earlier in the week (the start of the 36th week). Kristen continues to do well, but she is definitely slowing down and her new center of gravity makes general mobility a challenge at times!