James – Week Two

James,

You are so small. And you appeared so fragile, causing my heart to race from nervousness when you were first placed into my waiting arms for the first time.  However, once I got past the thought of dropping you, I focused on your delicate facial features, your breathing, and the little noises you made. And I felt the heat from your little body. I hope you keep that heat with you your entire life – the heat of energy and passion, to fuel you to do good in the world.

Our week with you in Maine and Boston is nearing its end. When Lizzy and I arrived at Boston airport on Friday, October 2, we drove straight to Brookline.  That is where we held you for the first time. We then loaded up our rental car with assorted baby stuff – crib, stroller, etc. – and headed for Maine to spend the weekend with Jim and Ilene, you, and your parents. Your parents followed us, carrying their precious cargo. So, the first trip in your life was from Boston to York, Maine. And you were not even two weeks old! You did great.

While is York, we celebrated you, but also found time to stroll the beach, stroll around York, and to play some golf.  Your grandfather Jim is passionate about golf, and your mom and dad love to play.  Your uncle Jack and grandpa Johnny are pretty good players too. So, I think you will be exposed to some golf as you grow up!

On Sunday, after grabbing some lobster rolls for lunch, Lizzy and I headed back to Brookline, where we got the apartment ready for your arrival. Since then, Davis, Bridget, grandma Lizzy and I have had a wonderful week with you. The weather has been glorious. And I am so glad that Odin, Lizzy and I were able to act as an entourage for you and your mom on the one-mile stroll to your two-week doctor’s appointment on Tuesday.

During the week, we have developed a routine. I am staying at a wonderful B&B two blocks away, while Lizzy stays over to help during the night. We take Odin for walks and your grandmother and I have completed many projects around the apartment, including spending three hours assembling your changing table/dresser.  When you have kids, beware of the phrase “some assembly required!” And Grandmother Lizzy is a wonderful cook, preparing wonderful stews and soups for dinner each night, which we enjoy together when your dad comes home from work. I know grandma Lizzy will enjoy preparing meals for you some day.

So, what has this week meant to me? Well, it has given me the opportunity to connect with you. Until this week, you were an image in photos and videos. I love receiving them, but nothing takes the place of physical connection. As former Surgeon General Vivek Murthy states, “Quite simply, human relationship is as essential to our well-being as food and water.” This week has given me the opportunity to be in relationship with you – to touch you, listen to you, and care for you – well, care for you just a little bit! I now feel closer to you and this week has given me and your grandmother Lizzy much joy.  I wrote this so I will never forget this very special week with you.