Let me just start by saying parenthood is the most wonderful thing I have experienced. The love that I feel for Eli is like no other. It's a different kind of love that I can not put into words. How can this little person evoke such a large feeling that I have never experienced before. It has given me a new perspective into how our Father in Heaven loves His children and the tremendous sacrifice through Jesus Christ. It's amazing, thank you Lord.

Eli's first week of life has been very eventful. Here is a brief run down:

Wednesday - July 22nd - Birthday!
My family surprised us by making t-shirts that say "Team Eli". They overtook the waiting room and it was like the paparazzi when he was in the nursery with the fast and furious flashes of lights from cameras. On Eli's first birthday we are all wearing the shirts again and Eli will wear a shirt with "Captain" on the front.

Our stay at the hospital was great. The nursing staff was all very nice and we had a big enough room to accommodate all the visitors who were anxious to meet Eli. He is such a mellow baby and was quietly passed around to family members and friends. We were afraid to leave the hospital thinking that as soon as we left that's when Eli's temperament would change. It was all a facade and that he was in a traumatized state by the birth experience and every time he left the room something was poked, prodded, etc.

Nevertheless, with some slight confusion on the carseat -- it was our first time to put a baby in one -- we were on our way.

It was so nice to be home and in our own bed. The first night "alone" went smoothly. We did sleep with the lamp on :). I tried to turn the light off, but every time he wiggled or made a noise I ended up turning in on. I will say one week later, we are sleeping with the lamp off, but it took us a few days to reach that level -- baby steps.

The next few days we had family members over that were not able to make it to the hospital. Eli doesn't stand a chance. We are surrounded by so many people that love and care for us . . . I had to horsie it out!

Our initial visit to the pediatrician's office went great as well. It was our first adventure out as a family and didn't realize how much preparation it takes! We will figure it out, but don't expect us to be on time for anything in the near future!

Here are his stats:
Height: 22 inches - 94%

Weight: 8.3 - 51%

Head Circumference - 35.5 - 33%

He is built just like mom and dad -- long and lean with a head that no baseball cap will fit.

To end, Eli has started smiling. It's not really directed at anything or anyone but I love it!