What I love about John

I always knew John would be a great dad. You can just tell by looking at him that he is loving, playful and trustworthy. Before and during my pregnancy, I'd watch him with our friends kids and feel so fortunate that he was naturally good with children. When I'd see him hold a new baby, he never looked uncertain or worried, even though he had only held a few in his lifetime, and only for just a few minutes. When Oliver was born, the nurses in the OR passed him over to John and I have never seen him look so confident in his whole life. He didn't look uncomfortable or unsure in any way. He held his baby tight and knew exactly what to do. Back in our room, John was at Oliver's side every second he could be. When the nurses came in, John hovered over them to see what they were doing. He helped them give Oliver's first bath. He went with him for his jaundice and blood testing and held his tiny hand. He changed all of his diapers. He swaddled him perfectly. He protected him and let him know that he was safe, and loved. Our birth story is much different than I expected, and I've wondered if I'd have regrets later down the line. After carrying this baby for 10 months, I thought I'd be the first one to hold him and love him and to bond with him. I imagined I'd breastfeed right away and spend as much time as I could before he was taken off my chest to get a bath, wrapped up and then passed over to John. Our experience was the opposite, and I've wondered if I'd eventually feel like I was cheated out of that experience. But the answer is no. I think Oliver is lucky to have been placed in his dad's arms first. He felt the same unconditional love, strength and security that I feel when I'm in John's arms. It's so powerful, and amazing.

Now that Oliver is almost 3 months old, John is an even better dad than I could have imagined. And, he's an incredible husband. After working 12+ hours, he comes home and immediately takes the baby to give me a break. He tells me it's OK if I need to leave for a few hours just to get some air. Yesterday was one of my most challenging days as a mom yet– Oliver refused to nap, but was overly exhausted so he just cried an fussed all day. John had a busy day at work but managed to find time every couple of hours to check in and see if I was ok. He sent encouraging messages, telling me I'm wonderful, beautiful, and strong. When he got home, he took the baby and played with him. He fed him, and then rocked him. When Oliver fought sleep and screamed louder, John held him tighter and tolerated the noise. And just a few minutes later, Oliver was sound asleep. John just knows what his baby needs. It's incredible to watch.

Thank you Johnny, for the unconditional love you have for your fussy baby and crabby wife. Thank you for working long days and still having the energy (and desire!) to spend the evening dealing with us. Oliver and I are so lucky and blessed, and we love you.