Getting Misty-eyed

It's funny how a baby-to-be can change a person and not just the obvious changes a mother goes through as her body becomes an abode for a yet-to-be-seen perfect gift. Expectant fathers go through changes as well. In the last several weeks I have felt a great host of emotions. The other night, I nearly fell apart like a blubbering idiot in the baby section of our Canton Target. Julie and I had met after work for a quick dinner at Taco Mac and decided while we were in the area, it would be a perfect time to register at La Targette. We were doing well, having just selected some of the necessary staples that infants of today need for survival, including mirrors for the car, play mats for the floor, and cages to contain baby service wear in the dishwasher. It was along our path to select bottles that my emotional fortitude would be tested. At the end of the aisle, I joined Julie in an area examining breast pumps (of all things). I had noted a lovely lady of African-American descent at the end of the aisle shopping for baby foods, but must admit that I had really paid her little attention. As I observed the equipment, which I must say looks very scary and elicited questions as to what went where and how, I glanced down into the lady's buggy to see the most beautiful little brown eyes staring back at me. He was precious. His eyes followed me for a moment, but I had to get Julie's attention. We stopped for a brief chat with the lady. He was 8 months old and his name was Joshua. She mentioned that he was a bit premature and so he was still a little small for his age. Julie and the mother carried on a casual conversation about our blessing, but I tuned everything out. I just stared at that little boy. I tried to hold it in, but I must admit my own eyes wielded some tears thinking about how Great God is to but such joy in the eyes of a little child. It melted my heart as I thought about how exciting it would be to gaze into the eyes of my own son.

Lately, I have spent a great bit of daydreaming moments thinking about life after Turner arrives. I think about holding him as we both drift to sleep for an afternoon nap. Sometimes I think about the way his little head will smell. I look at some of the baby clothes we have and imagine him wearing that particular outfit. I know that when he comes my life will be forever changed. SO many people have advised me to sleep now. To enjoy these last few months because babies are a lot of work. I know that there will be an increase in work to do at home and that there are only 24 hours in a day. I know that I will work harder than ever, will get less sleep, and will have more stress. After gazing into the eyes of that little boy Joshua ... I can't wait. We're four months away and I think it's time I pack a handkerchief with me at all times. Babies are so cute and I am becoming a softy.