Family Photo at One Week

In this picture taken by Grandpa Chow on Sunday, August 17th, Kian is one week old and I (Althea) am still reliant on pain meds, as the road to recovery from an emergency c-section is not a bundle of joy. As I type this blog update on August 21st, however, I'm happy to report that although my "no refills" prescriptions have run out, I'm feeling pretty good now! All the aches and pains and inconveniences are worth it; Kian is such a blessing and a joy!

I feel so fortunate to have Ryan at home helping me during the round-the-clock feedings, diaper changings, and the swaddling & soothing. He's got the touch with Kian when it comes to calming him down to fall asleep after we've jostled him around during a diaper changing or snot-nose extraction.

We're grateful for the love, incredible support and practical assistance we've received from our own parents. Kian's proud grandparents have helped us with everything from doing the dishes, to delivering dinners, to holding him for hours and hours while we try to take naps. Grandpa Andre and Nana Joan have both returned to their respective hometowns, but we know that there will be many more visits to come! Luckily, Grandma Gei and Grandpa Matt are in town and lovingly available to help with just about anything!

We're also so lucky to have Uncle Devin & Aunt Teresa just blocks away, and we're thankful for the wonderful first-night-at-home dinner they provided, along with a basket of yummy fruit. Can't wait for Kian to be able to run around the neighborhood with his cousins Finn and Lochlann! We appreciate the many generous gifts and gestures from friends-- gift baskets, flowers, meals-- and we look forward to having visitors drop by so that Kian may meet all of you!

Thanks, everyone, for your messages of congrats and support!