Right on Cue!

Dearest Derek,

Yesterday, Papa and I visited you at home for the very first time. We were super excited to see you outside of the hospital, and we're so glad they let you go home with your mommy and daddy.

Your mama said that you are a perfect angel so far. Well, of course you are! And it's a good thing, too, because new moms and dads are very, very tired from not getting enough sleep and from worrying about every little hiccup and noise (or lack of it).

As I held you, your mommy and daddy and Papa and I were talking about the meaning of your name ("the people's ruler"). I gazed at your tiny face, and I told you that you are small right now; but, before you know it, you will be big and strong and tall. You will be "Derek, the Mighty." I said that, for sure, you are definitely the ruler of the people in your house! And do know what you did? You chose that very moment to smile really big! Brilliant! We all laughed and laughed.

Your mommy said that your timing is perfect already. And it is.

Much love,
Nana

A Star Is Born

Hi, Derek,

Early, early in the morning today, Papa and I got a phone call from your Daddy that it was time to go to the  hospital. Your Mommy and Daddy were on their way there so you could be born! I was so excited as I got ready to go. It was very dark outside, a time of day when I am usually sound asleep. I am not a morning person, but for you, Derek, anything, anytime, anywhere!

We arrived at the hospital about ten minutes after your Grandma Jane. Papa and I waited in a special room outside, but she was able to see you being born! It was a wonderful experience for her, Derek, and she got happy tears in her eyes telling me about it. She is a lovely and loving person. I feel blessed that your Daddy has such a nice mother-in-law and you have a family that adores you.


And so you made your appearance in the world at 4:49 this morning. You did not like your first bath and screamed the whole time. I thought I heard you say, "Hey! What do you think you are doing to me? Leave me alone, already. I want to take a nap!" to the nice nurse who was taking care of you. Your voice is strong.

As I watched your Daddy holding you gently and giving you a tiny bit of formula to tide you over until Mommy is ready, I could see he is a natural. Most new dads are a little nervous holding their infants, but not your Dad. It was as if he'd been practicing for years. He's an awesome Daddy already. 


When I held you in my arms, my heart felt like it got really big and full. And when your Papa held you, your tiny body seemed to disappear into his tender embrace. 


Welcome to our world, Derek. You were created especially by God. You are a miracle. There has never been anyone like you, and there will never be anyone else like you. You are unique and valued and gifted, and this is your birthday. So, happy birthday!


I love you, little one,
Nana

Baby Showers and Wall Colors

Dear Derek,

Well, your mom has some great friends! There were two baby showers in one week, the first on Sunday afternoon hosted by Mrs. Baumgardner, and the other the following Saturday afternoon hosted by Miss Russell. There were some very special guests, including your mom's friends and your aunts and great-aunts and grammas. And also your great-grandmother, "Daria the Great!" She is going to be 90 at the end of the month, and she traveled for hours to be there. She's my mom, and she's amazing.

This is the punch I made.
It was yummy!

A wonderful time was had by all, and I was blown away once again by the generosity of others. So many gifts of clothing and baby gear and, of course, dozens and dozens of diapers and baby wipes. I don't think you're going to have to worry much about what to wear or whether your bottom is going to stay dry. Not that babies worry about all that, but mommies sure do. Your mom will be able to change your clothes five or six times a day with no problem!

I've told you already how beautiful your mom looks. She is happy and excited and glowing. There is a look in her eyes that says she is very relaxed and calm as she waits for you to make your appearance, Bump. I know she will be the very best mom and will dote on you. She will be amazed by your every growth step.

Your dad likes car races.
He hopes you will, too.

And your daddy, well, he's got that same excited anticipation and relaxed look. He is already totally devoted to you, as you will see when you feast your eyes on your room. He painted it for you with the help of Papa Harry, and it is so perfect for a little boy. Or even a big boy, for that matter. You will love it.

By the way, while the ladies were busy at the baby showers, guess what your daddy was up to? He and his friends had a "Man Shower" up in the mountains. I think it was a great way for them to celebrate, too, and yet be very manly at the same time. Be sure to ask him to see the pictures when you are a little older. Nana's heart is smiling at the thought of it, Derek.

It's only a few more weeks now before I get to see you and hold you, little one. What a day (or night) that will be for all of us who have been waiting and waiting. You are loved!

Hugs and kisses,
Nana