Three months old

I can't believe that Brianne is three months old now. It hardly seems more than a few weeks ago that Vicki told me that we had a child on the way. Being home for Brianne's birth was very special. Seeing Vicki's heroic struggle, and the birth of Brianne has convinced me that men are wimps in relation to the pain that women handle in childbearing. I had also forgotten how it feels to be there and look into the face of a newborn. I have decided that for me, this is standing on holy ground.

Brianne is doing well. Her personality is beginning to shine through. She is a grunter. This means that she and I can communicate quite well, (It should be noted that "grunt" is a nickname for infantry soldiers).She also is quick with a smile and coo. She is a good sleeper. This means that she usually is content to bring up issues that arise in the night, in the morning. The big exception to this of course is "feeding time". That is just one thing that is not optional but satisfaction on demand.

Brianne is quite beautiful and charming. This "Downs Syndrome" thing is very new to me. In fact at times I find that I have to remind myself that she has it. The amazing thing is that even after five previous children, the wonder and excitement of looking into her face, playing with her tiny fingers and hands is still so strong. I don't tire of it. At times when we lock eyes, it is as if she looks right through me.

I think that Brianne has a very cruel since of humor. Thanks to this we have had several "Hazmat" incidents. I am surprised that we have not ended up on the evening news. Diaper changing is very different with Liam vs. Brianne. When Liam is ready for a change, all his work is done. It is just holding the nose, or breath and making the best of a not so good situation. But with dear Brianne, every time can be "Full" (pun intended) of surprises. There is an art to this. First, you must have all needed supplies on hand and organized. Second, there is a need for speed and effecteness. Woe to the man who leaves Brianne uncovered for any amount of time. You will be wearing your mistake.

In closing, the dress that you see Brianne in is very special. It is not just Brianne's. But it has been handed down to her by each of her sisters. It was also worn by Vicki. Vicki's grand mother, Kaye Stumm, knitted it for Vicki at her birth. Which was a long time ago, okay, we wont say just how long ago. But the dress is holding up nicely.