A Warm Day in January

Day 49:

Day One of Operation Conor Nursery saw mixed results. You slept better in 2 hour spurts, but also woke up ready to raise Cain! Mommy and I worked like a tag team to get you settled throughout the night, and quite frankly we're both pretty tired now. It's been great having this time off, Conor. Given me the opportunity to get into every aspect of your young life and really understand what a day in the life of the Lion Heart is all about. Though I'm headed back to work next Wednesday and so I'm really hoping Mommy and me can get your sleep habits wired. In all I've read I'm beginning to wonder if you don't have a bit of colic, Son. It seems infants with colic display this behavior around a specific time of day, and yours seems to be the witching hour... Never the less, I'm sure it'll dissapate soon enough... I hope so anyway!

Today while you and Mommy went to see Aunt Jen, I fired up Willamena and went for a ride. Met a friend for lunch in Reston and then headed to points West. Namely Sterling and Leesburg... Unfortunately however, the bike broke down mid ride and saw me doing some quick work on the side of the road... And who better to break down DIRECTLY in front of than a Loudon County Sherriff? He actually saw the bike's power die when my tail lights blinked out... And all due to a terminal cable coming loose on my new battery. Definitely user error, Son. If you recall, it was me who dropped the new battery into the bike only yesterday! Guess I should have cranked that negative cable over a few more times...

To have such warm and comfortable weather as today's in late January is certainly a treat. I just had to go for a ride! My mind is never more focussed than when I'm riding my Harley, Boy'O. Registering the traffic around me and moving evasively while looking for a patch of open road... The sense of self awareness while registering consequential, actionable thoughts is aerobics for the mind... And then, when I find that stretch of open road as I did today, it all falls away. And as I rode into Virginia's wide open country side, Neil Young's "Old Man" blared into my headphones, and I thought about you... I wondered when you would one day have a similar experience. And I hoped to myself that I'd be right there with you when you do...

The World is yours, Conor an Chroí Lion. I want you to see as much of it as possible. But more than that I want to show you. And I'm looking forward to all you'll show me.

Love you, Boy.
-Dad

Big Boys Dream Big

Day 48:

Well Conor, your pediatrician couldn't be happier with your growth. 18 1/4 inches and 5 lbs, 13 oz. In essence you're gaining an ounce a day! That's pretty significant considering your humble little beginnings...

So with that, the rules are changing, Son. Time to get better use out of your nursery... As it stands you've been spending your nights in Mommy and Daddy's room in your cradle at the foot of the bed. Though now that you're pushing weight and have finally reached your full gestational age (Thursday, 02/02/12), we're taking the bold step to move you to sleeping in your crib at night per the recommendation of Dr. Banta. Following the appointment I finally set up the ever impressive baby monitor. (I'm pretty sure the design and optics for this thing came out of Lockheed-Martin. WiFi, Night vision, high resolution camera with super sensitive noise sensors. The thing even tells you the temperature of the room AND it'll play lullabies! Our men and women in theater should be so lucky to have such advanced gear- but I digress...) With such fabulous, easy to use technology, we got you covered from just about anywhere!

After mounting the Super-Duper-Nanny-Cam I was off to work through some other pressing matters - namely replacing the battery in my Harley-Davidson. Or should I say YOUR Harley-Davidson? The fact is she'll one day be yours, Son. Not to get off topic again, but once you've logged at least 15,000 miles on a bike with 10,000 of those miles off my wing, Willamena (that's her name) will be yours. And if you want to, we will ride, ride, ride, Son... Anyhow, back to swapping out Willamena's battery- So I got the new battery, popped it in, checked all the fuses, looked at the tire pressures, and fired the machine to insure a smooth start. For tomorrow it will be 65 degrees and sunny, and Daddy has a date with the wind... Gotta take advantage of a day in late January with that kind of weather, Conor... It's the little things in this life. You'll see.

What's that? Do I hear you fussing? Ready for a bottle? Coming right up! The Lion Heart got some more growing to do and it's my job to make it happen... I got you covered, Son.

Love you, Boy.
-Dad

Rough Start to an Easy Day

Day 47:

Given how the day began today was as easy a day as one could ask for. After getting you to sleep around 2:30am my head hit the pillow and away I went. When I awoke Mommy had you in the nursery and Mom-Mom was already getting set to leave. It was around 8:00am... A bit foggy from the mere 5 hours of sleep, I awoke because I heard you crying; And it was everything anybody could do to help you to stop crying! You were clearly uncomfortable, undoubtedly because your belly was aching, so we all took turns trying to console, feed, and burp you. Soon after you began to calm a bit and I thought we might be out of the woods, Mommy went to lunch with some friends - and for a great cause, I might add. Mommy belongs to a group called "The Giving Circle" who meets now and again to discuss how to raise awareness to things like Pediatric Cancer and Premature Birth Awareness, but that's another story. Anyway, right after your Mother left, so did Mom-Mom to head home back to New Jersey. It was just me and you now! And what do you suppose happened then??

You fussed and cried so hard for so long that I began to run out of solutions and so was forced to get creative! I began dancing around and singing you songs I would make up on the fly, of which if anybody'd seen me or heard me they may well have thought I'd gone mad! I gave you a bath, changed you, dressed you, sang to you, danced with you, and fed you again... Still, the Lion Heart ROARED!! In a last ditch effort to help make you more comfortable, I took to trying to burp you again... Somewhere on the edge of concern for hurting you and helping to make you more comfortable, I began to give you some pretty good thumps on your back. THUMP THUMP THUMP THUMP THUMP!!! And finally you let out a massive belch! It was exactly what needed to happen. In literally seconds you were sound asleep in my arms. No doubt exhausted from the whole ordeal. It was now 12:30pm and you wouldn't so much as blink again until 4:30pm; some four hours later.

After that, the day was just fine. An easy, relaxing day resting on the couch and watching a bit of television while you snoozed the day away. And tomorrow morning, a visit to the Pediatrician. Mommy and me have a bet as to how much you'll weigh. I said 6 lb. 2 oz. Mommy thinks 5 lb. 11 oz. I'll of course let you know how it turns out! As for the night my Conor an Chroí Lion, get your rest, Son. You've got some growing to do.

I love you, Boy'O.
-Dad

Calling in Reinforcements...

Day 46:

As mentioned in the previous post, your Mom-Mom is in town, Conor. It's been both big fun and a big help. Your Mom-Mom said she'd take care of you for the day while Mommy and me ran around to get some things done. Basic errands that you would otherwise be apart of, but because of your being born prematurly and the risks involved in having you around a bunch of people in a place like say, Costco for example, erring on the side of caution it was helpful to leave you with your Grandmother. So off we went.

Got some things done, ran around all over NoVA, then back to the house to cook a big dinner for your Uncle Justin and Aunt Marti, me and Mommy, and of course, Mom-Mom. See Boy'O, your Mom-Mom has known your Uncle Justin for 23 years! She's basically adopted him as one her own kids, just like his parents have adopted me! It's said that close friends are the family you choose. And that's certainly true in your case, Boy'O. You have such a great support system. Both here in the DC area and throughout the country. Conor the Lion Heart is love by those near and far. People who love you in New Jersey, South Carolina, Arkansas, Kentucky, Illinois, and Pennsylvania... And that's just a start! Close friends in Hawaii, California, Delaware... We got you covered, Son! It's a blessing to be sure.

We had an easy day, nice dinner, and now it's time to (attempt to) put you down for the night... I'll let you know how it goes tomorrow.

I love you, Conor an Chroí Lion...
-Dad

Conor the Lion Heart and the Big Picture Show...

Day 45:

Just another day in paradise with you, Conor... You spent the day in my lap while I worked away on, well, whatever it was I was working on! The morning started out with a roar. At around 5:00am you were awake because it was just simply time to eat, but moments after I walked you into the nursery we saw torrential downpours... The kind of storms you would see in May and June. High winds, thunder, lightning, driving rain... The works. We stood in the window watching the sky lighten from dark and fierce to a faint morning blue while the rain poured down and the thunder cracked. In my mind, I playfully thought it was the Gods beckoning the Lion Heart, and the only thing between you and them, was me. And I felt both empowered and blessed...
Corny? Maybe... But I thought it none the less... And I thought it justified considering it's the only place you could've come from... At least for me.

Your Mom-Mom, my Mom, is here for the weekend. She's a typical Grandmother, Son. Typical in the sense that she, like me, thinks you're as beautiful as anything she's ever seen. Doting on you and loving you and just so, so proud... As we all are, Son. Conor an Chroí Lion... Conor the Lion Heart.

Rather than go on and on about how everybody feels about you, how about I just post some pictures... Starting with the picture from your visit with Dr. Lashgari and Dr. Elliott yesterday.

Love you, Boy'O.
-Dad

Back to See the Doctors

Day 44:

Well Conor, today we had the wonderful opportunity to head back to the Virginia Hospital Center NICU and say hello to a few of your favorite nurses. Of course they were so impressed. It's such a joy for them to see the little child they helped get home. And so of course it was our pleasure to bring you down and show you off...

As well, Mommy's long time OBGYN who, quite frankly I feel has become a friend to this family, Dr. Sue Lashgari, wanted to see you also. We snapped a picture with her and her colleague, Dr. Elliot but I haven't gotten a chance to load it... I'll be sure to use that picture in the blog-post tomorrow. And what's more, Mommy got a clean bill of health from her Doctor and so right now, everyone seems to be in the clear!

Anyhow, short post tonight... The Lion Heart is busy testing the strength of his lungs to express his hunger - i.e. YOU. Going to get a bottle for you, Son... But to be sure I'll have more to say tomorrow...

Love you, Buddy.
-Dad

Here, There, Everywhere, and You're Always On My Mind

Day 43:

I had much to do today, Conor, and unfortunately much of it wasn't with you... Today was a day filled with meetings and running around from place to place. Driving through Northwest Washington DC I passed right by the hospital I was born and of course, I thought of you...

In many respects having gotten to know you these last six weeks feels a bit like you've been here all along... It's comfortable and it feels right. You're no doubt a part of me just as you're no doubt a part of your Mother. And realizing there have been, literally, hundreds of millions of parents ahead of me who've found they're way, it feels as though this experience is totally unique, all my own, and only I could ever know what it's like to have such a beautiful little boy - one who'd I'd prefer to spend all my time with always...

Then there are times when the realization sets in you've only just arrived. That this journey is just getting started. Real life. Truth... The World keeps spinning and people go on about their business. Careers move forward, life's experiences shape us all, and parenting becomes a part of the norm. How new this all is and how absolutely comfortable you are to me. The concepts are diametrically opposing. In any other of life's scenarios, nothing as new and as life altering should be so easy to adjust to, and yet the birth of a child, the birth of my Son, feels as though I know just what to do no matter the situation. I also realize that won't always be the case. That there'll be times when I just don't know what to do. But I know I'll figure it out. I believe it'll all work out because it has to. I believe that in the end, it'll all be okay. If it's not okay, it's not the end...

Yes Conor, from time to time life feels as though it can get away from us. You get overwhelmed. Think about all the stresses of anything from a list of chores to how to approach your career and how to provide for your family. In those times, I call my Dad - your Pops. A man who's been there. A man who I trust implicitly. In this life he's the only one who gives it to me straight, come what may. No sugar. Whatever comes out of his mouth is what he thinks. There was a time in my life when this approach felt abrasive and inconsiderate. As if he could never understand what I was going through or how to manage it. Though what I've come to realize is, a strong dose of truth followed by a bit of criticism and topped with some Fatherly advice is exactly what a Father is supposed to do. And for that I respect him and I love him and I take every opportunity to let him know... My Dad, your Pops, is both my Father and my Friend. And if that's all I ever am in this life for you, I will have lived a good life.

Conor an Chroí Lion. Conor an múinteoir. Is breá liom tú i gcónaí.
Translated from Irish -
Conor the Lion Heart. Conor the teacher. I love you always.

Goodnight Son.
-Dad

Getting Stuff Done - Despite so Little Sleep...

Day 42:

Conor, we're going to have to work on this whole "wide awake at night" kick you're on. I don't mean to complain, I mean after all, you're the one doing all the heavy lifting... Eating, growing, eating, growing, eating, growing- The Lion Heart is taking no prisoners! Especially when it comes to the witching hour... But Son, how about a break? Think you can manage to stay awake a few hours during the day and maybe catch up on that sleep at night?

See, the problem is there's no way to stimulate you during the day. You're either eating or sleeping. There's no in-between. It's not as though I can read to you or talk to you or play music or vacuum or WHATEVER... You sleep through EVERYTHING! Though when 1:00am comes around, BOOM! Ready to party!!! I suppose you'll grow out of it eventually... At least, I HOPE you'll grow out of it eventually!

In the other happenings of the day, your Uncle Doug came to the house to help us in better heating and cooling the house as well as assisting us to fix our malfunctioning refrigerator. I have to say Conor, it's so great to have such a good friend who's as talented and well practiced as your Uncle Doug. He made short work of our broken ice-box, fixing it directly while making both adjustments and suggestions as to how to deal with our 25 year old HVAC system. I'm a pretty handy guy to be sure, and you will be too no doubt - it runs in the family - but when it comes to mechanical? No thank you. I leave it to the experts. General carpentry and electricity is right in my wheel house though... I learned from my Dad and you'll learn from me... And the best part about working with wood is, if you screw up a piece, you chuck it and get a new piece. Can't do that with a furnace!

Aside from that, a promising an impassioned State of the Union speech by your President, Conor. And I say promising and impassioned in so far as the speech writers are concerned, though I don't know President Barak Obama actually believes what he's saying. I think this President will be one you learn about in Social Studies class, but for reasons beyond his failed promises of "Hope and Change". It's a mad, mad world, Conor An Chroí Lion. Trust no one in politics, Son. No one.

I love you, Boy'O. Keep your sense common and practice your craft- whatever that may be, and life will be very, very good for you.

Always,
-Dad

Special Post - A Thank You to the Virginia Hospital Center NICU

Day 41:

The following is the letter I'm sending to the Virginia Hospital Center NICU for the great work they did with you, Conor. The Lion Heart's sanctuary of peace, health, and well being. Conor An Chroí Lion's working Angels...


January 23, 2012
Virginia Hospital Center Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
1701 N. George Mason Drive
Arlington, VA
22205

To the wonderful Doctors, Nurses, and Staff of the VHC NICU,

On behalf of the Yerkes family I would like to offer a sincere “Thank You” for the exceptional care provided to our Son, Conor Daniel Yerkes, born December 14th, 2011, 7:45am. His stay in the NICU was not quite three weeks and I’m pleased to report Conor is eating, growing, and doing beautifully at his home in Fairfax, VA.

The professionalism of all who we encountered in our time within your facility was truly excellent. In fact, and I stated as much as we were leaving on January 2nd, 2012, the staff at the Virginia Hospital Center NICU are perhaps the finest group of professionals I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with. Your outward kindness and understanding of how difficult this life’s experience can be was only matched by your every effort to make it as pleasant an experience as one could have under the circumstances.

My wife and I understood there would be a high probability our child would see time in the NICU through risks and complications spotted early in her pregnancy by her OBGYN, Dr. Susanne Lashgari; an exceptional Doctor in her own right. Still, we’d no idea what to expect upon beginning this journey and when we came out the other side we were no doubt better prepared to be the parents our Son deserves... Not only were the staff helpful and hardworking, but they were willing to provide us with any level of detail and information simply for the asking. I believe this is a testament to people who truly love what they do, and in the case of the VHC NICU, we didn’t run into a single exception.

There were many Nurses who worked with Conor and assisted us in understanding the stages of his stay in your facility, and all were excellent. Though in specific we would like to mention a few for going above and beyond anything we could have ever expected...

Nurse Cheryl - You were there the moment he was born and you were there pushing the “EXIT NICU” button the moment we left. Thank you.

Nurse “Jersey” Jen - It really is the little things. The note you left on Conor’s isolette touched us so deeply. Noting his bilirubin level, details regarding residuals at his 3:30am and 6:30am feedings, and finally a note in his hand saying, “I’m trying to get better so I can come home as soon as I can! I can’t wait! Love- Conor” Truly exceptional. We can’t thank you enough. Sincerely.

Nurse Jim - Your quiet enthusiasm, calming presence, and attention to detail were so well received in those early days. The entire prospect of your child in Intensive Care is a daunting one. Though your matter of fact delivery and complete understanding of the medicine took us from ‘worry‘ to ‘inquisitive‘. In that moment, it was exactly what was needed. Thank you. And thank you for your service to our country.

Nurse Sarah D - You truly made the nights more bearable. Your excellent skills and professionalism were only matched by your conversational and caring spirit. Thank you so much for being such a wonderful Nurse as well as a “friend” during our stay in the NICU.

Nurse Suhir - There are not enough praises to be sung for the kindness, dedication, and professionalism you displayed in our time at the VHC NICU. For all the time I was unable to be at the facility due to other obligations, Sara spent many of her days in the NICU with you. What she truly appreciated about working with you was your empowering her to be a “Mother”, and not a bystander. Your words of encouragement and willingness to push her toward “knowing what her baby needs” as opposed to simply following the rule of law per the prescribed medicine is something every parent in the NICU should experience. Thank you so very much for helping my Son, and for helping Sara. You have our deepest gratitude.

Nurse Practitioner Terri - My experiences with Nurse Practitioners have been excellent and were only further exceeded by your high level of enthusiasm, thoroughness, and attentiveness given to my Son. Our General Practitioner is Dr. Jay Tyroller at Fair Oaks Hospital. I wouldn’t know who he was if I bumped into him in the grocery store and I’ve been a patient at his practice for eleven years. However Nurse Practitioner Beverly Bayer I’ve seen almost exclusively for all that time and she’s like a warm blanket whenever I’m in need of medical help. Pardon my digression, but you, and she, are testament to your professions. The perfect medium between medical science and enthusiastic care. You were excellent to work with, thank you so much.

To Dr Kumar, Dr Yoon, Dr Runkle, Dr Archer, and Dr Holdson... As gifted as you all are, so to is the staff around you. Truly a gift in enabling you to practice medicine at such an exceptional level. The work you all perform is nothing short of miraculous despite the science, and your chosen discipline is to be commended. Thank you all so very much for the excellent care and attention to detail you showed my Son, Conor. We are all forever grateful for your efforts. Sincerely.

And finally to the entire staff within the Virginia Hospital Center NICU, thank you. Thank you so very much for being the wonderful people you are in your chosen profession.

Very Sincerely-
Shane, Sara, and Conor Yerkes

Conor the Lion Heart does the NFL Divisional Championships

Day 40:

Well Conor, once again you weren't much for sleeping last night. I spent the better part of 5 hours with you wide awake and fussy as ever... You were a PILL last night, Son. Your Mother finally gave me some relief around 4:00am, and by that point I was more exhausted than you could have ever been... And here I was trying to do Mommy a favor in letting her sleep off her ailments! But no sir... You were wide awake and going strong!! ALL NIGHT LONG...

Really, it's not so bad. I mean, it's hard not getting any sleep, but at least we're hanging out... Spending some quality "guy" time. Speaking of quality guy time, we watched some epic football today, Boy'O! The AFC Championship game was a good one... The Baltimore Ravens took on the New England Patriots. I watched the entire game with you sitting on my chest... It was fantastic! I'm not a fan of either team but if I had to pick one, I'd hold my nose and pick the Patriots because I can't STAND the Ravens. Fortunately the Patriots won! Tom Brady and the New England Patriots are going back to the Super Bowl for the 5th time in his career... And as careers go for Quarterbacks in the NFL, that's as high a mark as one could have! In fact, The Patriots win today matched Tom Brady's number of Super Bowl appearances with one of my all time favorite players, John Elway of the Denver Broncos... Though still, Elway went to five Super Bowls but only won two. Tom Brady is already 3 and 1 in the Super Bowl; his only loss coming to the Giants... Which bring me to my next point...

Mommy decided to give me the night off so I went and joined the boys for a few beers to watch the NFC Championship game. The New York Giants took on the San Francisco 49ers... This game was better than the the AFC Championship game!! Both games were only decided by three points, but this one was decided in overtime! Quite a way to wrap up the NFL season. And what's more, Tom Brady is going to get a shot at redemption for his one Super Bowl loss because the Giants won! A rematch to the 2008 Super Bowl. Giants vs. Patriots... Gonna be a great one!

The year I was born, 1973, the Super Bowl for the 1972 NFL Season was between the undefeated Miami Dolphins, and my beloved Washington Redskins. The Super Bowl itself was played in January, and I was born in February, so I didn't get to watch it with my Dad, but none the less, I still claim the year because my Washington Redskins were there. Unfortunately the Miami Dolphins were just a bit too much and the game ended Miami 14, Washington 7. Still, that was one of 5 Redskins appearances in the Super Bowl and we would get sweet revenge in the 1982 season Super Bowl 10 years later. In fact, the Redskins scored 17 unanswered points in the second half of that rematch and gained a Super Bowl record 276 yards on the ground! Hail to the Redskins... Hail Victory!

But I digress... We'll have plenty of football to watch, Conor. I promise you that. I seldom miss a game and have every intention of teaching you all the history and the nuances of the NFL. You're gonna make one heck-of-a football fan, Boy'O... But you're going to be an even bigger Redskins fan!

Anyhow, it was a fun day. Watched a game with you, a game with friends, and now it's off to see if we can get you to sleep... To be honest, I think I'd rather take my chances against the Giants defense!

I love you, Conor An Chroí Lion.
-Dad

Conor Helps Daddy Kick the Cold...

Day 39:

Today was the coldest day of the Winter thus far, Conor. With temperatures in the high 20's all day the only thing to do was stay inside... After I scraped off an inch of ice and snow from the cars and the driveway I came back in for a good huddle with you on the couch.

Unfortunately for me I somehow pulled a muscle in my back and was all but crippled throughout the remainder of the day. Though fortunately for me I have you, so all I could do was break out the heating pad, apply it to my back, and lay down on the couch with you across my chest for the better part of 90 minutes. A fair exchange to be sure. A pain in my back for 90 minutes of snuggle time with my boy? I'll take that every day of the week and twice on Sunday.

Otherwise it was a relatively quiet and mundane day. Later in the afternoon we packed up and headed over to Aunt Jennifer and Uncle Paul's house. Big Nate was so excited to see you, he even tried to help feed you! We all think you guys are going to be great friends. As will you be with the soon-to-join-the-world Landers 2.0; Uncle Paul and Aunt Jennifer's second baby... Your little cousin is only a few months away! You should never be short of playmates, Conor.

Everyone is so pleased with how you're growing, Son. It's so evident by the pictures I post every day. It's even helpful to me to see you in this format! It's a reminder of just how far you've come in your 5 weeks on this Earth... And we're just getting started, Boy'O.

A toast to Conor the Lion Heart! Conor An Chroí Lion... Thanks for warming up my day, Boy'O. I needed it. Truly.

Love you, Son.
-Dad

Changing the Way We Do Business...

Day 38:

Well Conor, after doing it one way, it's time to do it another... That's to say, change the way we're approaching how we feed you during the day and during the night. In fact earlier today we got a visit from your Uncle Nelson and Aunt Devin and, as the parents of two children who also didn't like sleeping at night, Uncle Nelson made a suggestion... Feed you just a wee bit less during the daytime feedings, and make up the difference during the night time feedings... The idea being, you're still getting the same amount of food, but you're getting more at night... We all know that when we eat more, we get sleepy! The Lion Heart should be no different. I say SHOULD be no different, but you are Conor An Chroí Lion after all... You may well be impervious to the night - guess we'll find out.

Thus far it seems to be having the desired effect. You've spent much more time awake (during the day) today than yesterday, so hopefully you've worn yourself out enough to sleep a bit more through the night. Otherwise there's not much to report, Boy'O! We're getting a touch of snow, maybe a little ice... The kind of weather that makes a Dad just wanna curl up with his Son and count sheep with... Not such a bad idea, actually.

I love you, Son. Goodnight...
-Dad

The Lion Heart Listens to the Blow Hards...

Day 37:

Fun day today, Conor! You and I spent the better part of this 24 hour day entirely together. Beginning at 12:30am this morning you were wide awake, Boy'O. I fed you, read you a book, burped you, changed you, read you another book, fed you again, changed you again, set you down in the crib in your nursery to let you 'fuss it out' while playing "Angry Birds" on my iPhone for sanity's sake, and suddenly it was 6:30am and you were FINALLY asleep. Now, admittedly I've had a few nights in my life where I've seen the sun come up, Conor... But none like this. As much fun as I've had staying up all night and partying with friends, I've never been as exhausted as I was when you finally fell asleep... I dragged my weary body to the bedroom with you in my rams, laid you down in the cradle with not much fuss, laid down in bed and crashed. When I woke up it was 11:00am and you were lying in the crook of my arm. I had no idea what was going on! Of course, Mommy had been awake since 7:30am, fed you again, changed you again, and then went downstairs to have coffee, make a phone call, and whatever else... And when I work up, there you were!

After getting my bearings and figuring out it was late in the morning and that Mommy had clearly laid you in my arm, I got it all figured out and got moving. Then, Mommy was out with a client for the better part of the day so I worked from home and hung out with you... All in all, a great day!

And then came the South Carolina GOP debates. I took one look at you and your body language said it all... It was EXACTLY how I was feeling! I'll support you through anything, Conor. but a politician? Please no! The Lion Heart is already far more talented than anything I see in that arena...

G'night Son. I love you.
-Dad

Finding Focus...

Day 36:

You know the thing about life, Conor? The big things matter, but it's the little things that count. Today I experienced one of those little things... While simply sitting on the couch with you this evening, looking you over again and again and again as I've been known to do, you locked eyes with me for the first time. To be sure, you captured my gaze! We were told in the NICU that it would be a while before you were able to focus your attention, specifically your eyes. It seems that time has come!

Thus far life with you has been a series of educational experiences embossed in smiles and wrapped in love. I was speaking with your Pops (my Dad) and Grandma Sarah tonight, and they said to me, "you know the thing about kids, you can appreciate other peoples' kids and even love them, but until you have your own you just don't get it." I'm paraphrasing of course, don't mean to misquote anybody, but to be sure that's the case. I never got it. Not until you. Now I get it completely. And it truly is every little thing. Conor the Lion Heart has already shown me more in a month than what I've thought to know in a lifetime.
And each time I look at you, I smile.

Guess I owe you a bit of thanks, Conor. So thank you. Thanks for being my Son.

I love you, Boy'O.
-Dad

Conor Trades Up...

Day 35:

Today was a very, very busy day, Son. It was an unseasonably warm day, 60 degrees in January which, in the DC area, is way out of character. Either way it worked out for the Yerkes family because we got you a new wagon to cruise around in! Well, not exactly a "wagon", but a 3.2 liter all-wheel-drive Audi Q5!

It took a lot - quite frankly it took YOU - to get Mommy to finally say goodbye to her 2001 BMW 325 xi. She really loved that car, Conor, and was determined to drive the wheels off of it! But Mommy realizes that both your and her safety is far more important than the sentimental value of a car, and so after months of chiding her to consider something new, she finally broke down... And to be sure, I understand Mommy's love for the car; especially being the car and bike guy I am. She chose each and every specification of the vehicle, had it built in Germany and shipped over seas, waited three months for delivery of the car, and it's been as faithful and as loyal a steed as any car owner could ever hope for. Uncharacteristic to many BMWs, it was largely maintenance free over eleven years and almost 115,000 miles.

Still, I had concerns... Mommy does a fair bit of driving for work... From Fairfax to Alexandria to Bethesda to Washington DC, that little BMW has taken a beating! My greatest fear was that it would break down while I'm away on business with you in the car and I'd be helpless to get to you both... Ironically, the week after you were born the BMW's serpentine belt snapped and the car had developed a pretty significant oil leak as a result of the seal around the oil-pump disintegrating... And not that these are totally unexpected repairs to an eleven year old car - but they're debilitating to the vehicle and can leave you stranded, and sure enough did. It was kind of a sign I guess. And so here we are, with a sweet little Audi Quattro in the driveway! Your new sled, Son! Only the best for Conor the Lion Heart. The finest horses in the land for Conor An Chroí Lion.

Would you expect anything less?

Love you, Conor.
-Dad

... And in this Corner- Conor "The Lion Heart" Yerkes!

Day 34:

First allow me to say "Thank You", Conor... Not only were you merciful last night, but you actually allowed Mommy and me to sleep a consecutive 4 hours! Maybe the most rest, in a continuous string, I've personally had in two weeks... Whew!!

Second; you had an appointment with your Pediatrician this morning to check you for both length and weight... And you're measuring in at 17 1/4 inches and weighing in at whopping 5.03 lb.!! No longer a "Flyweight" but now a "Super Flyweight"! As far as infants go anyway. Word on the street is, these big 'ole 10 lb. "Heavyweight" infants can be lazy out of the womb. If that's the case, you've got a leg up, Son. Because you've been fighting and fighting and working and working since taking your first breath. And you get stronger every day. Not that I'm biassed or anything...

Otherwise it's been a pretty stock day. Two ounces of food every three hours, loads of dirty diapers, and the occasional smile between naps. Conor the Lion Heart is doing what's necessary to someday be a heavyweight like Daddy- as an adult anyhow. Only keep this in mind, Conor. You'll never be able to take your old man... I promise you that!

I love you, Son. My Little Lion Heart. Conor An Chroí Lion...
-Dad

Conor the Merciless...

Day 33:

Well Conor, let me be the first to say; you were not as much a Lion last night as you were a BEAR. My goodness, Son! You cried, and screamed, and cried, and fussed, and screamed and... From 1:00am to 6:00am, nothing but "AAAAAARRRRGH!" in that sweet little Conor cry... There was nothing I could do to settle you down. Eventually Mommy had to get up and intervene and after a few hours of crying in her ear, we switched back.. And then again... This went on all night. When I finally crawled into bed, the sun was coming up. Mommy slept in a chair! When I woke up again at 10:00am I didn't know if I was coming or going... It's been quite a day, Son. And we never did figure out why you were so fussy...

Still, the remainder of the day turned out to be just fine despite the delirium that seemed to be setting in on both me and Mommy... I don't think we said 3 words to each other all day as neither of us could think! But there was something to look forward to; going to have dinner with Aunt Jennifer, Uncle Paul, and Big Nate! It would be your first time out of the house for anything other than a Doctor's visit, and for Mommy and me, it was just what the Doctor ordered; some social time with friends, some silly time with Nathan, good food, and glass of Daddy's favorite whiskey. Just enough to take the edge off.

I've just fed you, swaddled you nice and tight, and tucked you away to bed. Mommy's already sacked out and if she's not asleep already, she will be very soon! We're hoping Conor the Lion Heart will find it within himself to give us a break tonight. For tomorrow, at least for me, starts another work day and I'll take as much rest as I can get for what's ahead of me...

I love you, Boy.
-Dad

The Lion Heart's Loyal Subjects

Day 32:

"So much of what is best in us is bound up in our love of family, that it remains the measure of our stability because it measures our sense of loyalty. All other pacts of love or fear derive from it and are modeled upon it." --Haniel Long

This quote, Conor, is as true a statement as I might be able to muster, only said eloquently and with conviction. And to be sure it's family, and friends close enough to be family, who will be your guiding lights through your lifetime. And I will support your every wish no matter how small, so long as you realize each and every decision you make will bare some level of impact greater than just yourself, but also on the family who loves you so. It's a hard thing to figure, especially as a young man. Impossible as a young boy. But every decision you make carries with it a weight, and those decisions, be they good or bad, can always be shared and / or confided in family and your closest friends. And they too will support you.

I don't mean to wax poetic, Conor, but it's truly impressive; the bond of family. Every family is diverse, though the individuals within it are what shapes you. This is true morally, ethically, and spiritually, and the older you get the more unique you'll become on the culmination of these things. Be they your Mother and Father, Aunts and Uncles, Cousins, Grandparents, or closest friends, you'll take a little a from each a little at a time. And I believe that starts now.

You're a month old today, Son. In that time you've seen not only visitors from the Washington DC area, but from South Carolina, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Pennsylvania. They're making these journeys simply to meet you, Conor. Love and loyalty unmatched. And there's no doubt you're going to receive more visitors filled with love and bearing gifts and anxious to meet the Lion Heart. The little boy they've heard and read so much about. Conor An Chroí Lion. The fighter they've been inspired by. The flesh and blood they've fallen in love with from afar. Today's post is dedicated to those family and friends. Those who've come and those who are coming. You're so very blessed, Conor. You're so loved. And when you read this many years from now I should only hope you'll recognize your life as having been filled with all the love I speak of in this post, because then it will be your turn to pay it forward. To do unto others as has been done to you.

I love you, Conor. Always.
-Dad

And they Travelled from Far and Wide

Day 31:

Today was a fun day, Conor! Your Great Uncle Eddie and Great Aunt Jo came by for a visit - and all the way from Tennessee! Your Uncle Eddie has more to do with the man your Daddy has become than most anybody would realize. When I was a kid he had a bobbed out Harley-Davidson and I thought it was the coolest thing I'd ever seen. Sometime later I got my own Harley-Davidson and the rest is history! Great Uncle Eddie is a very unique man - far more than just having a Harley-Davidson, and I always admired his spirit so it really meant a lot to me for him to meet you. But more than that your Great Aunt Jo was not about to put you down! She fell in love with you like anybody else whose met you... In fact, she's offered to baby sit anytime at all - again, all the way from Tennessee! But maybe, just maybe we give her the chance on a visit to Nashville... It's probably one of the top 3 cities in the country I've never seen but always wanted to... Time will tell...

Otherwise we were pretty much in for the day, Conor. It was cold outside so no going out, but that's okay, there's plenty to do inside! Later in the evening I went to see a bunch of friends who I ride motorcycles with and of course they were all very interested to learn about how you're progressing at home. The word of the Lion Heart has spread far and wide, and they all know how hard your working to get big and strong. With this in mind, should you ever decide to ride a motorcycle of your own, these men would be ready to ride... Right there with you. A ride with Conor An Chroí Lion. I like he sound of that!

But only if you want...

Until tomorrow, Son. I love you.
-Dad

Another Day in Paradise

Day 30:

Conor my boy, you are packin' it away these days. Putting down food like it's your job... And so, well, I guess it IS your job! You're putting away bottles like a miser, son. Mommy and me can't make bottles fast enough AND you're breast feeding. It's unbelievable.

I noticed tonight that your fingers can actually wrap themselves around my index finger! Only a short 4 weeks ago your little fingers weren't any bigger than the nail on my own index finger. Now, you can hold that same finger like a baseball bat! A baseball player - suits you. Your Mom wants you to be a football player but I like this baseball idea.
"Conor the Lion Heart steps to the plate!" I can hear it now...

Other than a few huge bottles and a few huge diapers, nothing new to report today, Son. Just another day in paradise...

Love you Boy.
-Dad

A Day with Friends

Day 29:

Well, I have to say, you gave us a bit of a break last night, Conor. Though it's not going so well tonight - as you can see by this blog post being done at 10 minutes after 1:00am! Still, today was a very low key day - and the weather dictated as much. It was a dark and bleary, rainy day. My time was spent going through the house to get it in order for dinner this evening with friends as close as family - the Lunsfords and your Uncle Justin. While I was cleaning up, your Mother was cleaning out. She went through the entire kitchen and got rid of at least a couple hundred pounds of junk! Old pots and pans, old food, unused candles... Chucked it all. Kinda liberating for her actually.

Around 7:00pm this evening the Lunsfords showed up with Justin coming in right behind them. We talked about you, your stay in the NICU, the differences between raising a preemie vs. a full term baby, and how soon it's gonna be before we have you on a horse! Anyway, your G-Ma Marsha was completely smitten with you. You see, Marsha has known me since I was 16, and pretty well too. Whenever I've had trouble up here in NoVA, they've been there for me like my own parents would. So there's always been a special place in my heart for Gil and Marsha Lunsford I'm proud to have then as a part of your future, Conor. And you're going to just LOVE the cabin on the Circle L Farms in Highland County.

Anyhow, great dinner tonight. Truckloads of fun (and wine) and so I'm turning in, Conor the Lion Heart... The weather gets better tomorrow... Maybe we'll go for a long walk? It'd be our 1st! Stay tuned...

Love you, Boy.
-Dad

Conor Daniel does Blue Steel...

Day 28:

Today was a big day for Conor An Chroí Lion. It was a "boys" day! Mommy went out shopping so you and I sat on the couch and watched TV. It was such fun! In particular we watched a documentary about a favorite band of mine called, "The White Stripes". It's a two person band featuring Jack and Meg White. As we watched the show I thought to myself, "so this is what's meant by "Start 'em young"? Well, here's to hoping my taste in music wears off on you... With so much non-creative over-produced crap out there these days, Son, I'd just assume you start taking notice of anything from Johnny Cash to Jim Hendrix to Eric Clapton to the Black Keys. (As a rule of thumb, if there's a dance routine involved, turn it off) I digress...

That wasn't the half of it, Son. Mommy went out shopping and came home with your first pair of jeans! Boy'O, I can't wait 'til you can fit into them. Jeans are a quintessential staple in any man's wardrobe. You'll be no exception.

But then the real fun began... At 5:30pm Mommy invited a professional photographer to the house to do a shoot of you in these early and wonderful days... Her name is Melissa and she's clearly very good at what she does. She snapped off some amazing pictures of you, Conor! I couldn't believe how good you were through it all, Son. Well behaved and composed. Should I expect anything less? Of course, the photo shoot was primarily you in the buff, which meant it was only a matter of time until you pee'd on somebody... Just so happened that somebody was me! I didn't mind. Not at all... But where it got funny was when you pee'd on Mommy about a half hour later! She was holding you at her chest and you of course released the fury straight upward - hitting Mommy in the chin and all the way down to her feet! I could barely contain myself, Conor. It was everything I could do to make it to the kitchen I was laughing so hard!

Anyhow, the photo shoot was a success... The photographer said you were the cutest subject she's shot in as long as she could remember, and I believed her... You're such a handsome boy, Son. Conor the Lion Heart. Conor the Handsome.

I love you, Conor. Always.
-Dad

How 'bout a Snow Day?

Day 27:

Well Conor, you're really puttin' the screws to us, Son. Seems you've absolutely NO INTEREST in sleeping through the night. This has amounted to my getting about an hour to 90 minutes of actual sleep last night. Your Mom got a bit more than that, but not much more... And what's worse it's taken a toll on me in a most punishing way! I got sick!! I can't hold you, Son... I'm so freakin' paranoid about your contracting RSV that I'm staying away from you as if I had the plague. And honestly boy, there's nothing I can think of that's more torturous than not being able to hold you. Hrrrrrumph!!!

I'm cashing out early tonight, Conor. Gonna watch the rest of the BCS Championship game from bed and try and catch up on some sleep. Bama vs. LSU... An SEC barn burner! I'm still going to feed you, but will do so after thoroughly scrubbing my hands and face so we'll see how it goes... I don't get sick often, and when I do I tend to combat it pretty quickly. I'm a fast healer, always have been... I hope this is a trait you get from me. I can't stand the thought of the Lion Heart having to fight off any bugs... Not even for a second.

As for the rest of the day, well, we saw our first snow of 2012 today and you got a little taste of that. We had to get you to the hospital to get some more blood work done and it was coming down pretty good while we were out and about... SO for fun I opened your little canopy to let you catch a snow flake or two. You were less than amused by the cold air so I quickly covered you back up, but it was a first experience none the less.

The nurses in the lab were so impressed by you, Conor. They awed at your taking the needle stick and not even flinching. And when they squeezed your tiny foot to get the blood to flow, you hardly fussed at all... She looked at me and said "He's a tough little fella, isn't he?" and I just smiled and nodded. 'Cuz in my mind and in my heart, I already know who you really are. I know how tough a guy you are, Son. Conor the Lion Heart. Conor An Chroí Lion...

I gotta hit the rack, Buddy. I'm fading fast here... Do me a favor, would ya? Take it easy on us tonight! Try and get some sleep, okay? We'll be thankful for it, I promise.

I love you, Boy'O.
-Dad

Conor's Sunday Funday

Day 26:

Big fun-day today, Son! Once again your Mom was up with you the better part of the night while you protested and fussed about the very notion of sleep. Seems you're only sleep-averse at night, Conor. I thought this was cute early on... Kind of a similar trait of mine. Your old man being a night-owl and all. But I think now Mommy and I are ready for you to get some sleep in the dark hours... Of course, your wild night of partying with Mommy translates in to yours truly getting up at the crack of dawn to make sure you get your morning change, morning bottle, and changed again... So I'm in bed at 1:30am and up at 5:30am while Mommy is up at 2:00am and comes back to bed at 5:00am. This Conor, is what's called "paying your dues". God willing, you'll have the same honor someday. And though tedious, make no mistake it is an honor...

So, to compensate for Conor the Lion Heart's night-time-awake-and-alert routine I had to figure out how to get you to stay awake longer during the day. Seems you really like the sound of my voice because as long as I'm talking to you, you stay awake! So I pulled up "Winnie the Pooh" on my iPhone and began to read. We read better than half the book! And you stayed awake through it all... Sure, I've already read you Dr. Seuess' "The "Cat in the Hat", as well as Shel Silverstein's "The Giving Tree" (the very first book I learned to read cover to cover and a favorite still today!), but "Winnie the Pooh" is a bit more of an involved read. What's more, as I was reading it to you it dawned on me, I'd only ever seen the cartoons! I'd never read "Winnie the Pooh" and I gotta say, I love it! I can see why it's such a timeless children's tale. Maybe some day I'll write one myself...

So Conor An Chroí Lion, it's almost 1:00am. Time to put you down for the night... Think you can control your roar 'til at least 4:00am? Let's hope so! But if no, not a bother. For tomorrow we'll try to keep you awake again and finish "Winnie the Pooh"... Sounds like a pretty good day, actually.

Sleep tight, Conor. I love you.
-Dad

Conor's Lazy Saturday

Day 25:

Last night was what will no doubt become one of many restless nights, Conor. Quite plainly, you had no interest in going to sleep before 4:00am. And even then, you were up again at 7:00am, raring to go. Mommy and me marveled as to where in that tiny body you were storing all your energy! It seems your sleeping throughout the day would only spell trouble for when it was time to hit the rack, but then again I have no idea how to keep you awake! At this point you can't do anything so we're kinda at the mercy of your own internal clock... If it's any indicator as to what that'll mean for you down the road, Son, you'll be a "night person" like your old-man.

Anyway, this also meant that, while Mommy and me were sapped of our own energy throughout the day, you just slept the day away. There was plenty to do in the house today. Took down the Christmas tree, packed away all the ornaments, cleaned the house top to bottom... And through it all, not a fuss... Not when the dogs were barking at the vacuum, not with my music playing; its sound filling up the whole house. Nope, not a flinch. And we know you passed your hearing test! You were simply sacked out, Son. Conor An Chroí Lion, recovering from a long and wild night! (Not that I would know anything about that, Son)

Finally a reprieve though... After busting our humps to get this place all cleaned up, your Uncle Paul, Aunt Jennifer, and Little Cousin Nathan came by to hang out a couple hours. It was absolutely surreal to look at Nathan in comparison to you, Conor. He's fifteen months old, you're technically negative one month old (36 weeks gestational age), and Nathan may as well have been a teenager. He looked HUGE next to you! As evidenced in the picture above... Still, I know it won't be long until you're every bit as big as Nathan, Son. And you guys are gonna no doubt be great friends...

Good game on TV, Boy. I'm all to happy to watch it with you. The first round of the NFL playoffs; an NFC match up between the New Orleans Saints and the Detroit Lions. An aerial show down! And I get to watch it with my Son... Just like I used to watch football with my Dad. It really is the little things...

Love you, Conor.
-Dad

Busy Days, Hungry Nights...

Day 24:

This morning started with a mad dash out the door to make your 2nd Pediatric appointment this week. The good news is, you're now weighing in a whopping 4 lb. 7.4 oz.! The bad news is, we had a 9:15am appointment and walked into a busy waiting area full of sick children. It's the last thing I wanted to expose you to, especially while we're waiting to hear about whether or not you're going to "qualify" for the RSV shot. So to unfortunately expose you to that, even for only a few minutes, made me want to suck all the polluted air from the room and blow it out the window. I'm no Superhero, Conor. Not like you. Not like Conor the Lion Heart. But since it's been my privilege to know you I feel like one. I feel as though I could take on anything just to keep you safe. I'd like to think this is a sentiment all parents feel for their young ones, though I know that's not the case. Some people just can't be heroes, Conor.

Dr Banta is very pleased with your progress; even after only knowing you two days. She seems to be an excellent Doctor, Conor. I like her and really enjoy her quirkiness and end energy. However, it's clear she relies upon less than competent office staff - no doubt to compensate for her practice's high overhead in Fairfax Corner. Mommy and me had to have a little "what for" with one gal in particular over some orders that got screwed up for blood-work. The young lady was dressed poorly and dismissive when in the office, and showed horrible telephone mannerisms and a presumptive "know it all" nature when on the phone. I discussed this with Dr Banta as well, though I'm afraid it makes no difference. But I digress...

As for you, Conor An Chroí Lion, you continue to seize every opportunity to grow. Your weight is going up and, as mentioned last night, you're growing before my eyes. A preemie outfit Mommy put you in on Monday saw you swimming in it so she took it off and set it aside. Today, when you stretched (you stretch a LOT, Conor) you almost popped a button! It's fascinating. Truly.

I love you, Conor. And I can't wait for tomorrow...
-Dad

Bigger, Stronger, Faster...

Day 23:

Finally! I'm home, Son! I have nothing to do for the next 10 days but spend time with you and watch you grow... Today wrapped up my final day at work for the next 6 business days... Been waiting for this since December 14th, Son.

I continue to be marveled by you, Conor. I'm watching you grow right before my eyes. Each day I notice the subtle differences. Your eyes are so expressive, your chin has filled out, and you're getting stronger every day... Your Mom and I have increased your feeding volume by 5 MLs a day for three days straight. Almost 2 ounces per feeding! It's funny to think that in a few short months you'll be eating solid foods, but today we're excited over a couple of milliliters of breast milk...

Your Aunt Jennifer came by to visit you today. She fed you a bottle and could hardly put you down, Son... Seems the Lion Heart has that effect on people! She thinks you look like your Daddy. I still don't see it... Time will tell, Son.

Tomorrow we have you back at the Pediatrician for another exam, then blood work at Fair Oaks Hospital to follow, then pictures in the afternoon... Surely a more interesting day! But, at least your Mom snapped off some great pictures of you smiling for the camera!

I love you, Boy.
Daddy

Off to the Doctor We Go...

Day 22:

You're keeping Mommy and Daddy busy, Son! While it was great to spend a full 24 hours with you yesterday - no nurses, no wires, no tubes; it was back to the Doctor's office today. This time to see your Pediatrician, Dr. Banta, in Fairfax. She's a lively woman who was as excited to meet you as anybody, and I'm confident she's going to be a great doctor for you for years to come. Dr. Banta was pleased with your size and weight, and was insistent you get a vaccination for RSV, or Respiratory Syncytial Virus. Apparently this dreaded infection is the primary cause of respiratory infection in infants worldwide.

Knowing this it would seem the vaccination for this dreaded virus would be made available to each and every child born, but no. In fact, the only reason you didn't get the vaccine in the NICU is because the cost of the vaccine is so expensive the primary insurer must approve the shot, and that approval is based on a number of factors including gestational birth period (under 35 weeks), weight (1800 grams), and time of year (between November and February). And even IF you were determined to have met the requirements, and you do, it would take several weeks to deliver the shot.

While I'm an ardent proponent of Capitalism, Conor, this is where the system can be flawed. Because the RSV vaccine is relatively new to the market there's no "generic", so the drug company can charge better than $2,500.00 per shot. What's more, because only a marginal number of infants contract RSV- roughly 100,000 hospitalized due to severe infections, each "season" (Nov through Feb)- of the 1.3 million babies born during that time, the insurance companies are willing to take the chance and NOT vaccinate / approve the vaccination against RSV. Still, this approach is all but likely to bite them in the behind down the road... Babies infected with RSV are highly probable of contracting it, as well as upper respiratory infection repeatedly. And this virus is not to be taken lightly, Conor.

I pulled the following information directly from the National Network for Immunization Information:
"Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most common cause of bronchiolitis—inflammation of the bronchioles (small airways) which causes wheezing—as well as pneumonia among infants and children under 1 year of age.1 It is estimated that by 2 years of age almost all children will have been infected with RSV, and half of them will be infected twice.2 Re-infection throughout life—usually upper respiratory infection—is common.

Most healthy infants infected with RSV are not hospitalized. However, infants with underlying lung or heart disease and those with immune deficiency are at increased risk of severe or fatal RSV infection. Each year in the United States, it is estimated that between 70,000 and 126,000 infants are hospitalized with RSV pneumonia or bronchiolitis."

Not even Conor An Chroí Lion - the mighty Lion Heart, can effectively combat an enemy he cannot see. And preemies are more susceptible than full term babies... But don't worry, Son... We'll get you that shot. Your little lungs will one day be big and mighty... Just like you.

I love you, Son.
-Dad

1st Day on the Job

Day 21:

Your homecoming, while sweet, was ground shaking, Son. Let's just say your Mom and Me haven't quite found a rhythm yet... We were trying to switch off as to who feeds you and when, who changes you and when, and well, sleep was something we got none of last night. Of course this was to be expected. We've heard all the stories from all the parents who've made this leap before us. Still, each experience is unique to every parent and certainly, this household would be no exception.

The first concern came with how fussy you were. We'd noted you hadn't had a "movement" (Politically Correct for "poop") in better than 24 hours and surely that'd be contributory. I called the NICU at 3:00am I think? They gave me some ideas as to what it might be, what it could be, and then suggested we just keep on feeding you. So that's what we did.

The morning came way too soon and despite what felt like constant feedings, still no poop. I worked around the house and got a few things done, checked your diaper a few more times... Alas, no. Later in the afternoon Mommy decided to step out to run errands. She'd be gone a couple hours and so you and I settled in to watch a movie - and a good one at that... "Days of Thunder", a CLASSIC! Odd considering I'm not a NASCAR fan, but I love that movie for some reason... I digress.

While watching the movie with you snug in my lap, I began to catch hints of odor emanating from your backend. Within a few moments the smell was near toxic and I was now so distracted from the movie I could only think to change you. But I was flying solo! Again, Mommy was out running errands so I would have to brave what's now been 48 hours without a poop! There would be no mercy, Conor. The Lion Heart had eaten like a Lion over the last several feedings, and upon my removing your diaper and seeing the culprit, the effort became a poo-tastrophy!! Each time I thought I'd gotten it all, I'd bring in a new diaper and BOOM! more poop! Three diapers and eight wipes later we were FINALLY done! I swear you lost a half lb of weight. I'd never seen anything so small produce so much! But I didn't mind. Didn't mind cleaning up, didn't mind running this operation solo... It's only poop, right?

Needless to say it was an exciting few minutes... And you've been so hungry since then that you actually ate twice in an hour! Conor the Lion Heart. Conor An Chroí Lion. Conor the HUNGRY!

And I can't wait for day two, Son.

Love you, Boy.
-Dad

Conor Comes Home...

Day 20:

Well, I can't believe it but they actually let us out of the hospital, Son. No ID scan, no IQ test; I just walked out the front door with you. Amazing, right?

Actually, it's not so amazing... Not at all in fact. Sadly anyone can have a baby, though assuredly not everybody should. Never the less, you're leaving the Virginia Hospital Center's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit triumphant. And your adoring public will miss you so... Yes Conor, you have some real fans in the NICU. And as your Mom and me were leaving the ward we were surrounded by the entire on-duty staff; all the NICU nurses and Terry the Nurse Practitioner... It was a tearful moment, Son. Everyone in the NICU who worked with you loved you. They were enamored with you, awed by you, impressed with you, and so hopeful for you. They all noted your meteoric rise to strength... How quickly you knocked down the challenges in front of you and how young you are to be leaving the hospital. Not a lot of "35 weekers" see their way home, but you're not a lot of 35 weekers, are you? No, you're not. You're my Son. Conor the Lion Heart. Conor An Chroí Lion.

There's no exaggeration in this, Conor. The people of Virginia Hospital Center's NICU lined up to bid you a fond farewell and to hug Mommy and me as we made our way toward the doors... They asked that we please bring you back through to say hello and to keep them abridged as to your progress. They urged us to call with absolutely any question and at any time. They genuinely loved you, Conor, and they made your Mom and me feel so very good about being your parents. We're already blessed and quite confident about what it'll take to be good parents to you, but validation through your peers, who three short weeks ago were all perfect strangers, is somewhat comforting. Because though we are confident, we journey forward with you into the great unknown, and every little bit of support helps.

Driving down the road with you was a surreal feeling, Son. The base of your car seat is borderline cutting into the leather on the rear bench seat of my Tahoe SUV... Like any good parent I wanted to be sure to offer you the best, safest means of transportation available. The mighty Tahoe rolled confidently down I-66 West on the 15 minute journey home. Like a trusted steed, of her 120,000 miles only one other time has she carried cargo so valuable... A giant, black tank of a truck... never have been so pleased to be driving such a behemoth. And of course, she didn't disappoint...

Upon arriving home, you finally got to meet your dogs, Bruiser and Mickie, who were all to happy to welcome in their new Master. Conor An Chroí Lion. Conor, the Lover of Hounds. In fact. since you've come through the door Mickie's not been more than 6 feet away from you. Her ever watchful eye following your every move. I suspect you and she are going to be great, great friends, Conor. Bruiser too, but Mickie will be yours for the taking.

All in all, your arrival home was better than advertised. Shortly after your arrival we watched our first football game together; a dream I've had since seeing you for the first time. The South Carolina Gamecocks vs. the Nebraska Corn Huskers- the victory going to the Gamecocks. Let's just call it the Cherry on Top...

Welcome home, Son. I love you.
-Dad

The Lion Heart Triumphs...

Day 19:

"I firmly believe that any man's finest hour, the greatest fulfillment of all he holds dear, is that moment when he has worked his heart out in a good cause and lies exhausted on the field of battle - victorious." --Vince Lombardi

This quote has always been one of my favorites, Conor. And for you, Conor An Chroí Lion, a fitting tribute to your early trials with us on this Earth. It's been a whirlwind 19 days, Son. I've seen you come through challenges that would test the most hardened man, and you've come through them with a determination and strength long forgotten by those who would take advantage of all that is given to them. You've battled for life and I believe this will define you as you grow.

From your first breath you've been fighting. Fighting to breathe, fighting to eat, fighting to develop into the strong young boy you are, and the fine man you will no doubt become. And through it all, nary a fuss. Needles and tubes and wires and machines, and you've endured it all with grace. The strength of a Lion. Conor the Lion Heart.

Now, many people would argue these triumphs aren't as much about your strength, will, and character as they're more based in the advancement of modern medicine and technology... And to be sure they'd be right, though to a point. The world we live in undoubtedly affords us the benefit of the modern age. However, I believe that a man's heart is what defines him. And from the first time I heard the beating of your heart on an ultrasound and doppler what seems like a lifetime ago, I knew. I just knew you'd be so strong. You've exceeded whatever expectation I had, Son. What lies ahead are what I consider to be lifetimes of wonderful experiences, beautiful sights, bewildering sounds, and many, many challenges. But I know in my heart, that you'll take them all on, and that you'll win, Conor. Because it's all you know how to do, Son.

Another quote I love is maybe the simplest of all quotes... "Never, Never, Never Give Up." --Winston Churchill
You don't have an ounce of quit in you, Son. And you've taught me to remember the same. And I'll be right here with you for as long as God will allow. And I'll share every victory...

I'm so proud of you, Conor. Conor the Lion Heart. Conor An Chroí Lion. For tomorrow, you come home. Victorious.

I love you.
-Dad