She's here, as I'm sure her parents can confirm. It might be the sleepless nights heard round the world that provides the proof that a six-pounder can cause all kinds of havoc to normal human beings. What a disruptive little cuss she is, this Caitlin cutie. And just so you know, at a week-and-a-half, mama and daddy still don't get the concept of 'step away from the baby' or 'put the baby down' even though she's just too cute. Mari was cute once, as I'm sure Phelim was. I didn't learn until my third child that what my mama told me was the gospel. Never rock, never walk, never tote a baby - no matter if it kills you not to cuddle and snuggle with that mystical lump of joy. But as Mari will tell you, sleep is overrated and cute wins out every time. Let's see if she feels that way in, say, a month!

You see that adorable pink blanket? That's been soaked with kisses by her grandparents, grandma judy and papa len, so technically [in my mind] we've touched. That's the only consolation at the moment for the thousands of miles separating us. It was her Christmas present before we even knew of those ruby red lips or those big feet [yes, I said big feet]. I will give Phelim the credit for those [or her uncle Ty, not sure which one gets the most credit].

Still rockin' that pink blanket, I see. that, my dear Caitlin, will be the object that brings you the most comfort (even if mama and daddy tell you differently, always reach for grandma and papa's blanket - It's where dreams are born).

She's only a few minutes old. I recognize that look on daddy's face. The one that says 'you are wrapped around my finger' and 'you can't date until you're 25' and 'sure, just one more popsicle' and 'I'll love you until the twelfth of never'. I have that same look, only it's going to take you a little longer for our peepers to connect. Until then, papa and grannie are leaving you in good hands. See you soon.

Original Post | April 2, 2014