Elizabeth Anne Gibson

Well, for anyone that may not have heard the news, Karissa and I welcomed our first child, Elizabeth Anne Gibson, into the world on April 12th at 1:03 PM. She weighed in at an incredible 8 lbs 6 ounces, and measured 21 inches long. I say incredible only because Karissa never looked like she was carrying a baby that large. I remember her doctor saying upon holding Elizabeth, "Holy moly, what a chunky monkey!" Just a few weeks prior to delivery, Karissa's doctor thought the baby may only be 6-7 lbs.

Elizabeth was the most beautiful and amazing thing that I have ever seen...and this is coming from a man that loves his wife more than anything. I think all parents can relate to the overwhelming emotion and joy they feel upon seeing their newborn child; whether it's the first, second, third, etc. I immediately knew that I would do anything for her, whether a big or small request, and I would always work to make sure that she gets everything that she needs in this world. Of course, a nurse asked, what happens when she asks for her first car? I responded, "Well, I've already got one picked out for her. It's the 2007 Black Chevy Malibu sitting out there in the parking lot!"

The next few hours, days, weeks have been one continuous blur, but certainly countless memories stand out that me and Karissa will never forget. I was able to bathe Elizabeth for her first bath at the hospital. Karissa was able to have her first feeding with the young baby. We had our first sleepless night (the first of MANY) due to countless feedings, diaper changes, and burping sessions. We even had our first 'scare' as new parents in the hospital. Elizabeth has been undertaking a bout of jaundice for the past couple of weeks. Though it's a common occurrence in newborns, it was something unfamiliar to us, and the consequences if not treated effectively, can be quite alarming. Elizabeth had to stay an extra night at the CS Med Center to undergo blue-light treatment. The staff at the College Station Med were phenomenal, the whole way through. Always professional, caring and attentive, they answered every question we had and were more accommodating than I ever thought a hospital staff could be. Kudos to them.

The Monday after Elizabeth was released, we discovered a relapse in her jaundice levels. After three doctor appointments this week, it appears that Elizabeth is moving back in the right direction, and Karissa and I are confident and hopeful that she will continue to improve as we move toward our next doctor appointment. She's doing everything that a normal child does, she just looks a tad yellow. It's kinda like she was at the beach for a couple of hours soaking up the sun!

Needless to say, we love her. Karissa and I our proud parents!!!

More updates to follow...