Brooks {1 Month}

Last week held some pretty lofty significance in the short life of Mr. Brooks Ritchie. On Monday October 10th, we celebrated 1 month since he made his surprise arrival into this world. In that time he spent 2 weeks in the NICU learning how to do "big kid" things like eating from a bottle, and another 2 weeks at home showing his mom and dad (and brothers) who's boss! At the time, those early NICU days felt like they stretched on forever, but now here we are questioning how he can be a month old already - especially given the fact that Tuesday, October 11th, was his original DUE DATE! 

Sweet baby Brooks, life with you has already been an adventure. You threw us back into NICU life (though on a much less critical level than we experienced with your sister) and reminded us that we should never the "normal" new baby experience for granted - or a good eater for that matter! It was so hard to leave you behind at the hospital each night - but we knew that it was very short-term and that you were in great hands. And we're eternally grateful for the arms that were there to snuggle with you when ours were busy at home with your brothers.

I can't even begin to describe how it felt to finally walk into our home with you in my arms - though my own excitement was greatly eclipsed by that of your brothers. They were absolutely giddy! That day also brought with it a sudden change in your eating habits. The feeding frustrations that consumed me for the previous 2 weeks became a distant memory and you became very vocal of your need for immediate food! Patience is not your strong point, sir, and you go from sound asleep one minute to a shrill scream the next when you're hungry. Amen for hungry little boys.

You are certainly the center of attention in our home these days. Max smothers you with kisses at every opportunity, and Harrison tells me daily that he loves you with his "whole heart." My own heart swells just thinking about it. I can't wait to watch you find your way in this crazy Ritchie brotherhood. It is certainly something special beyond my comprehension.

Sweet Baby "Bwooks" - our home feels more complete with you in it. I'm trying my best to soak in every moment - each snuggle, each coo, each sleepy sigh - as I know that this phase of life goes so quickly. I hope that you know how loved you are.

Happy 1 month (and 1 week) my love.