Keeping Up With Kate & James: New Parents

Last summer was quite eventful for us. Steph started graduate school, I started a new job at St Anthony's, and we moved from Mattoon to Effingham. However, the biggest occurence was when we found out we were going to have a baby. After nine long months of waiting, Kathryn Grace Uebinger arrived on April 15 at 4:44 p.m. She weighed 6 pounds and 11 ounces and was 20 inches long (much smaller than everybody predicted.) This blog is dedicated to Katie and the milestones she will reach.

Katie had several visitors at the hospital. Many people were like us and just couldn't wait to meet her. She got to come home with us on Saturday and we were on our own as a three-person family. At times, both Steph and I considered staying at the hospital forever. When we settled in at home we found out that Leon, Becky, Andrew, and Priya surprised us by cleaning our house, mowing the lawn, and welcoming Katie with signs and balloons. Thanks a lot, because we were too exhausted to do much except take care of Katie.

Things settled down by the end of the first week. Her bilirubin level continued to fall and she was given a clean bill of health by her pediatrician. This doctor's appointment marked the second time our family ventured out of the house together. Steph forgot what the word diaper in "diaper" bag meant. She packed the wipes, but forgot the diapers and Katie made us pay for this blunder. Luckily, we were at a pediatrician's office and they were prepared for such emergencies. Katie got her diaper, albeit one that was exceptionally large for her tiny body. I commented that I was glad that DCFS wouldn't come and take Katie away, and the doctor assured me that it would take a lot more than a missing diaper for that to happen.

We have had a lot of help these first days of parenthood - our families and friends have been great. They have given help, advice, and food, all in exchange for a few minutes of holding Katie. Our moms and dads have been helpful with everything from chores like laundry and cooking to mowing the lawn. Friends, like Jill Ginder and Steph Gannaway, have been reassuring us that we aren't making any major parenting mistakes - yet.

Aunt Renee, Ben and Owen came from Kansas City on Wednesday to meet Katie. The boys were great with her, and Owen refers to her as "My baby Katie." Renee spoiled her with attention and clothes. In addition, she took several quality photographs of Katie. Renee has the distinction of being the paparazzi of the Uebinger family. We were sad when they left on Saturday.

The last couple days were quiet. I am just trying to rest up for work; I go back on Thursday. It will be hard for me after spending so much time at home, but at least Steph will be with her until the middle of August.