The Lion Heart, Exceeding Expectations

Day 9:

You've had a big day today, Son. Mommy and me learned that you'd be meeting Chris Wallin, Virginia Hospital Center's Developmental Specialist, at 11:30 this morning and it was everything I could do to sit in my office chair past 9:00am. I couldn't wait to meet her and hear what she had to say about you, Conor. And I wasn't disappointed. When I arrived Mommy was already speaking with Mrs. Chris and she was pouring on about how impressed she was at your muscle development, your ability to take both bottle and breast, and even your social skills! In fact, just as I'd walked in and began looking over you, you cracked a smile! My heart skipped a beat, Buddy. The moment you heard my voice you began looking around and when you saw me, you smiled. And she saw that!

Anyhow, I cannot confirm nor deny that Mrs. Chris may or may not have said she needed to look in on you today because she was out on vacation next week and there's a good chance you wouldn't be here when she returned... 'Allegedly' there's a chance you could be coming home by the end of next week! A "32 weeker", as they refer to you. Ahead of the game. Mrs. Chris and the other nurses, including the Lactation Consultant, marvel at the fact that you're feeding from the breast twice a day, maintaining body temperature, self soothing (you do a lot with your hands up around your face to maintain your moods), and that you only fuss when you're being jostled about.

Mommy fed you this evening and then 'kangaroo'd' you for about an hour... Then it was my turn. You amazed me still, Conor. Conor An Chroí Lion... As you lay sleeping on my bare chest your little arms reached up and I felt a hand grab my scruffy old beard. You then pulled yourself up and turned your head from one side to the next - face down. I looked at Mommy and she was sitting there watching the whole thing, mouth agape...

I realize every parent is proud of every burp, blink, or fart their child produces, and to be sure it's difficult to be objective - I was warned of this 'proud parent syndrome', believe me... But my belief in your Lion-Hearted determination is justified each time I hear a NICU nurse, Doctor, or Specialist marvel at how far you've come in such a short amount of time; especially for a "white male 32 weeker"...

You keep working hard, Son... I know you can do it. I'm so proud of you already and I know you'll make me so very proud again and again and again.

I love you, Conor.
-Dad