myopic pilgrim

What I Expected at My First Son’s Birth

When my wife was pregnant with our first son, I would talk to fathers about what to expect, mainly during labor and delivery. Many of them, like my Uncle Brian, described seeing your child born as a mind-blowing experience. I remember him saying “dude” a lot.

Fathers told me I’d see this miracle taking place and would receive this clarity of thought. My place in the universe will be solidified when I’m asked to cut the umbilical cord—and I must cut the umbilical cord! It will all be a mystical experience and I’d better pay attention. As the due date approached (and passed), I prepared myself. I expected fireworks and angelic choirs. I was ready to receive some sort of epiphany about, dude, my life and the world. Read the rest of this entry »

haiku: bathroom light’s still on / while mom sleeps, dad’s pinky knuckle / comforting baby

We got home yesterday afternoon. We should have picked up Susan’s Percocet on the way home, but as of this morning she has her pain meds. Susan’s mom is here until Thursday. People are bringing us meals six times in the next two weeks.

Thanks again everyone for thinking of us and praying. We’ll make photos available soon as we can.

Gabriel Robert Skinner

Mom able to walk around a bit. Dad still making dumb jokes. Baby still not named.