What all the Fuss is about….

It’s been a busy couple days over here.

Because:

There are many of you out there who deserve to hear this news by phone. Or by getting an e-mail. Or through a sarcastic gorrilagram of some sort. But I just can’t manage it right now. As you can see by the picture, we’re all pretty tired around here.

Everyone always says things like, “The labor was 8 hours long…” or “She was in labor for 15 hours.” Or something like that. I don’t know where to officially start counting the official labor, but she started having contractions Friday night, and we had the baby Tuesday morning. So no matter how you count it, it was long.

The end result is pretty good though. Little Oot is healthy and happy. He resembles his daddy in that he likes boobs and sleeping. Everything else will be sorted out later.

I won’t trouble you with his measurements. I’ve never really understood the desire people have to quantify a baby. “He’s X big and Y long,” As if the baby is a fish you’re not sure you’re going to keep. Or some prize potato you’re hoping will win a prize at the county fair.

Rest assured that he does posses mass and volume. He has all three dimensions and the requisite number of usual parts. He is a boy child. A Libra. Full of grace. An ox. Pinkish in color. Soft. And we have just received independent verification that he is cute as a button.

I’ve been stockpiling blogs over the last couple months, so you’ll see some of those when I’m too busy writing and being domestic to write a new one. If anything, posts will probably be more frequent for a while.

If you have a piece of baby advice (and it seems like everyone I meet does) feel free to post it below. I will also accept cute baby stories. Everyone likes cute baby stories.

Sweet dreams everyone,

pat

This entry was posted in babies, Oot, SarahBy Pat317 Responses

100 Comments

  1. Megan
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 11:58 AM | Permalink

    Aww. Such a cute baby. I’m expecting a girl myself in four months – exciting news.

  2. Stephen Kotowych
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 11:58 AM | Permalink

    That is perhaps the best description of a new baby ever offered. Congratulations to you both! Very happy for you!

  3. Alex Bledsoe
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 11:59 AM | Permalink

    Congratulations, sir.

  4. Tyson
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:01 PM | Permalink

    Way to reproduce! We need more Rothfusses (Rothfi?) in the world.

  5. dreamwalker
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:01 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations! Very very nice photo.

  6. Anonymous
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:02 PM | Permalink

    I have one tip – his ex-utero name should not be Oot.

  7. Amber DeGrace
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:03 PM | Permalink

    Congrats! Being a parent is both the scariest and most wonderful experience you’ll ever have in life. You will come to a new realization of your own capabilities and find an inner strength you never knew you had. Take care of your lady, she has fully become a goddess now. There is nothing more beautiful than the fertility and fruit of your woman’s womb. :)

  8. D
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:05 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations!!

    Mommy of two advice-sleep when the baby sleeps, especially Sarah.

    If breastfeeding exclusively, don’t panic about weight. Breastfed babies tend to gain a little slower at first, and they poop wayyyy less. After the first few days, pooping once a week is not unusual. It’s one heck of a poop, though, lol. We used to put our son in his vibrating chair on Saturday afternoons…and he’d fill his little sleeper. Count wet diapers if you’re concerned about him getting enough.

    Smell that new baby smell as often as you can…it’ll be gone before you know it :)

  9. Charity
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:06 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations!

    As for advice: If sleep ever becomes an issue read “Sleepless in America” by Mary Sheedy Kurcinka.

  10. Chiara
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:07 PM | Permalink

    Pat, I´m so happy for you :))))))

    every time i see a newborn i want to cry because i´m so happy!

    enjoy little Oot, that´s my only piece of advise!

    love to all of you, Chiara

  11. Chris S
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:08 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations!

    Advice: boy babies tend to pee while their diapers are being changed. Plan accordingly.

  12. The Tussler
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:09 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations!

  13. Ellen-Mary
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:10 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations!! The only advice I have for you is to enjoy him. Enjoy every minute: when you see his first smile; make him giggle for the first time; when he flushes matchbox cars and clogs the toilet; when he yanks the curtain rods out because he tied his bathrobe belt around them and attempted to swing from the dresser like Robin Hood; when he catches the ball in the outfield and completely blanks on what to do next; when he insists on wearing his plastic sword to the supermarket so he can defend his mom from whatever may be lurking in frozen food. Just enjoy it all. Before you know it he’ll be nineteen and driving away in your car.

  14. Moadby
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:13 PM | Permalink

    Don’t know if this qualifies as cute, but these are some of my thoughts from last year on the first few months of my daughters life. She had colic, which I don’t wish on anyone:

    The number one question I get these days is “How do you like being a father?” The answer has improved to “It’s pretty cool”. For the first two months, the answer closest to my truth was: “It sucks. I feel like a useless bag of s**t, I’m exhausted and I’m not sure what I’ve gotten myself into.” Nobody, not your friends, co-workers, acquaintances or enemies, tries to explain to you what the first two or so months of your baby’s life will be like. They know that you would not believe them if they told you so they smile and say “It’s great, I wouldn’t trade it for anything.” They know that, no matter what they tell you, you wouldn’t understand.

    Perin was an angel for two weeks. She ate, slept and pooped and she was cute. Then she started to cry, then scream like she was being tortured. The doctor told us colic. The definition of colic is: We don’t know what’s wrong with your baby, but it hurts, she’s going to scream 20 hours a day and there’s nothing you can do about it.

    If you are a male human being and you are presented with a problem, your instinct is to analyze the problem, come up with a solution and implement it. As a father of a baby with colic, you can do a number of things. You can change it’s diaper, you can wipe puke off it’s face (and hair and arms and back), you can carry it around while it pukes on you (and the floor and the couch and the cat), you can bathe it and clean it up and dress it in dry clothes, which it will immediately puke on, and a clean diaper, which it will immediately poop in and you can repeat the process until your life seems like one long costume change in a screaming-baby horror film, then you can go to work. The baby does not care about this. You don’t get a smile, an atta boy or a high five. What you get is total ingratitude and more screaming. Here’s what doesn’t happen: If your wife is breast feeding, you can’t feed the kid. Therefore, you can’t make it stop crying. You are unable to implement any solution. You can’t fix it. This is very bad for the male psyche.

  15. Michael H. Tritter
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:14 PM | Permalink

    Wow, that’s a long labor. Course, it took 14 years for you to push out NOTW, so Sarah had to do something impressive too.

    Congrats, Dad.

    Congrats, Mom.

    p.s., if you are still looking for boy names, my word verification was ‘Rizede’

  16. Sylph
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:15 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations, he’s adorable. Baby advice…
    1. Love him
    2. Feed him
    3. Keep him away from fire…especially if it’s blue. That’s all I got.
    :)

  17. Captain Joe
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:21 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations and the best of luck to the three of you, Pat.

  18. gapyeargirl123
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:25 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations! Best wishes for Sarah & Oot.

  19. Maria Stahl
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:26 PM | Permalink

    *happy sigh*

    What a lovely picture!

    Hey, that’s a good hint: Take lots of pictures.

    Sarah looks wonderful and I hope she takes care of herself. She just be exhausted.

    Advice? Be patient with yourselves, and with each other. As wonderful a time as this is, it’s a huge change. Expect some stress as you work through it. (And keep a loving eye out for postpartum depression. Hopefully Sarah won’t have it but if she does, get her help, and quick.)

    One more thing: Guinness is good for lactation. Seriously.

    wv: Reedlize. How about that? Reed Lize Rothfuss?

  20. JG
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:27 PM | Permalink

    Nothing to say but congratulations.
    My only word of advice is recognize that you don’t need to raise the kid perfectly.

  21. Maria Stahl
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:28 PM | Permalink

    MUST be exhausted. Not JUST.

    New WV: Tabarif. Now THAT’s a NAME!! Tabarif… um… Ulysses Rothfuss.

  22. Ruth
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:29 PM | Permalink

    In contrast to the prior breastfeeding post, my son nursed 2 hours/ slept for 2 hours, repeat, for months . . . and I continued nursing (although it was infrequent at the end) until he was nearly 5. He pooped and peed a’plenty. He also grew 3.5″ and doubled his weight by 5 weeks of age and he was an utterly normal size at birth. He’s 21 now, healthy as a horse, and 6’5″ tall.

    Get involved with a local La Leche League. They are your lifeline to sanity.

    Best advice? There’s no such thing as “spoiling” an infant by picking him or her up and cuddling him or her. Babies are meant to be held, nuzzled, kissed, adored, snuggled with, and loved. Try to learn the difference between fussing because of tiredness and simply needing lovin’, and don’t be afraid to err on the side of cuddling. That goes for each other, too. *g*

  23. logankstewart
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:29 PM | Permalink

    That’s so awesome, Pat. Congratulations to you and Sarah, and Oot, too, for just showing up.

    Best of luck.

  24. Judy
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:30 PM | Permalink

    MAZEL TOV PAT!!!!!!!!!!! Many wonderful blessings to you, to Sarah, and to The Baby Formally Known As Oot (But Who Now Has A Very Wonderful New Name). :D :D :D

    The best advice? Trust yourselves, and take everyone else’s advice with a grain of salt. ;o)

    Many hugs and best wishes all around – thank you for sharing this priceless moment with us!!!

  25. Doug Warren
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:32 PM | Permalink

    Congrats, my little guy is 3 now and it has been great. My advice is ‘don’t be afraid’

    …to play with his toys
    …to watch his cartoons
    …to visit his imaginary kingdom
    …to be a kid again

    Having a kid is a magical experience. Try not to miss a second of it.

  26. Linden
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:32 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations! Enjoy your new adventures!

  27. jazza
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:33 PM | Permalink

    congrats to you both!

  28. Manu
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:34 PM | Permalink

    Matter, not anti-matter, I’m guessing :) Now seriously, congratulations!

  29. Arevanye
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:37 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations on such a lovely baby boy!

    Mother of two advice: breastfeeding is hard. It looks easy, but tell Sarah to be patient with herself if it doesn’t go well at first. Find another mom who has nursed children before as a support person for questions and sympathy. :)

    Our oldest daughter had colic and we found the thing that quieted her was to turn on the stereo LOUD and take turns dancing with her. She loved anything Beatles.

  30. Spryng
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:39 PM | Permalink

    !!
    Congratulations!
    That’s a beautiful photo.

  31. ANGIERAE
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:41 PM | Permalink

    Congrats! Mine started high school earlier this month and trust me, it goes SO FAST. Even when things are at their worst, when he’s screaming and you can’t comfort him, when you feel like you’ll never get more than two hours sleep consecutively – just remember it won’t be like that forever. It does get better, and being a parent is the absolute most rewarding thing I’ve ever done.

  32. stevenagy
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:42 PM | Permalink

    Congrats.

    And good luck with the book and the Prix de l’maginaire.

  33. Cynthia
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:48 PM | Permalink

    oh congrats! yay, baby!

    best thing I was told by my dad:
    babies cry. they cry because they are hungry, tired, wet, dirty, uncomfortable, and then somewhere over 10% of the time they cry just to cry. it’s ok. love them and comfort them, and understand that they feel your love and comfort even if they do not reduce or cease their crying.

    cute baby story:
    mine turned 9 months old on the day yours was born. he started sleeping mostly through the night around 4 months. every morning I go into his room saying “I hear a baby” then I turn on the light and exclaim “there he is!” 28 mornings out of 30, I get a huge grin and sometimes even a squeal of delight. it is the best way to start a day ever.

    finally, if you can still remember your own name at the 6 week mark, you’re doing better than most. there is no way to describe or explain that level of sleep deprivation. no way at all. and it was more painful than the very painful labor and delivery because it lasts so much longer.

  34. Kat Howard
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:51 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations to you, and of course to Sarah. I wish you both an amazing time getting to know your beautiful son.

  35. Ralf
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:52 PM | Permalink

    Congrats!!!

    Try and get some rest now.. you’ll need it later.. haha..

    Take care you 3 ;)

  36. Rickster8bit
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:53 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations to the 3 of you. Best of luck of the next few months as everything settles in.

  37. Cusick
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:55 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations!!! I just went through a very similar experience just two weeks ago, and it’s been a blast and a half! Busy though.

    As a recent new dad with only 2 1/2 weeks more experience than you do, I have just a few pieces of advice:
    1. List to Ruth, a few comments above mine. She speaks truth.
    2. I have found The Happiest Baby on the Block and First Three Years of Life to be incredibly helpful books. The first gives you some real, practical tips on dealing with fussy babies during the first three months (invaluable) and is a quick, easy read. The second gives a great big-picture perspective on the child development process, and you only need to read the first couple chapters this month! :)
    3. Ask for help. As a new parent you’ll probably want to be involved in every aspect of your son’s life, but you also need to sleep! It’s a marathon, not a sprint. :-)

    I don’t have any cute stories yet, but here’s a cute picture.

  38. Mike
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:55 PM | Permalink

    Congrats and welcome to fatherhood, the toughest job you will ever love.

    Advice (you did ask) and this is normally the only unsolicited advice I ever give – when you change him, make sure you have a cover ready, in case he isn’t empty.

    Additionally, make sure that diaper is on securely, or one day your son may come up to you and say, here daddy and hand you something that looks like a piece of chocolate.

  39. Justin Olivetti
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 12:57 PM | Permalink

    Congrats! My wife and I had our first five months ago, and we’re expecting our second next April (busy busy).

    My only advice is a no-brainer: love that kid. You can never hold them too much, kiss them too much, and tell them how proud you are to be their parent.

    The sleep situation is the real biggie, but you’ll figure that out.

  40. wirelessrobin
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:01 PM | Permalink

    AWWW Congratulations Pat! Love the pic, very artistic…. hope Sarah doesn’t kick your ass for almost showing her boob haha!

    You made a very nice baby :)))
    I wish I could hug you! And Oot, baby’s are so awesome!

  41. SunTzu
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:05 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations!

  42. RaynDragon
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:06 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations to you both! I will add my weight to the “sleep when the baby sleeps” advice. And mention that it does get easier as you go – especially after the three month mark. Also, Mamasource.com is a great reference for asking questions. Tons of experienced moms on there who are happy to share their insights & recommendations.

    Trust your instincts as parents. Only you know what’s truely best for your child.

  43. Jerry
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:07 PM | Permalink

    Congrats. As the parent of a 2-year old, my advice is to appreciate all of the little stages that they go through. Don’t wish for them to do the next thing sooner because they change fast enough as it is.

    Also, every parent should read the book “Free Range Kids” by Lenore Skenazy. It’s a great guide to all of the stuff that you shouldn’t waste energy freaking out about.

  44. Isenda
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:09 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations to both of you! Aww, he’s so tiny and cute :D

  45. Anonymous
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:10 PM | Permalink

    Well done, good and kindly sir. And special props to your lady, who had to do all the hard work. Now it’s your turn. I hope you enjoy caring for this new creation at least as much as you enjoyed making it.

  46. jdcb
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:11 PM | Permalink

    Congrats Pat, won’t bother you with long stories and advice as you just want to get with that little one, so I’ll just say to cuddle the little one as much as you can, they grow up faster than you think is possible right now, and pamper that momma…

  47. Benji
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:12 PM | Permalink

    Holy cow, Mom and Baby are gorgeous. You done good, kid. You done good.

    Advice: When people give you advice, smile wearily, say something like, “Thanks, I’ll keep that in mind.” Walk away and keep doing what you are doing. You might feel like you have no clue what is going on, but it is a normal side-effect of parenthood. It does not fade.

    I am told I have wonderful kids, but when I face myself in the mirror, I always ask, “What the Hell did I get myself into?” Then, I then exit the bathroom with a little less confidence, try to not trip over the toddler that wants a kiss, and I have conversations about pirates and Batman with the five-year-old. My confidence is renewed.

    Oh, and when you put words together you never thought you would say, write it down. Our first was, “Stop licking the television!”

    Enjoy them both. Well done. Well done.

  48. Verónica
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:13 PM | Permalink

    Oh, he’s so cute!! I’m really happy for you both, congratulations, becomming parents must be a wonderful experience. I hope you don’t have many sleeping issues, I have two nephews and that’s the only part I don’t enjoy of spending time with them.
    An advice: later on the year when his teeth begin to come in using small pieces of ice to calm them is always a good idea.

    Lots of love for you three!

  49. Katie
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:13 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations! I have three girls – seven, six and four and my best piece of baby advice is Boudreaux’s Butt Paste – that stuff will stop a rash in its tracks. Trust me.
    xo
    k

  50. Kari
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:15 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations! My word verification name suggestion is Inessi. :) I love your description, by the way, and am slightly sad that we may never learn little Oot’s real name, but internet privacy (or lack thereof), and you being something of a celebrity means you can’t be too careful.

    About 6 months ago when my little guy was born, we discovered the essential nature of a book called “The Happiest Baby on the Block.” It worked for us when nothing else did. If nothing else, it made us feel like we had a plan for when he cried and we didn’t know what to do. But usually, it calmed him down more quickly than anything else we were recommended.

    I wish the three of you all happiness. You have a wonderful adventure ahead of you.

  51. Zelda Zap
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:15 PM | Permalink

    He’s absolutely darling!
    I have only two pieces of advice. Take him to swimming lessons by the time he reaches 12 months or so… babies don’thave a fear of water at that age. He may never have a fear of water if he has swimmign lessons early. And read read read to him while he’s a baby. Read him what you’re reading. Read him everything you can think of. It’s great for him language developement and you can’t start too soon.

  52. Anonymous
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:16 PM | Permalink

    Many congratulations, Pat! As a new mom myself I can only say help Sarah out as much as you can. Sleep deprivation brings out the worst in you but remember: this too shall pass. We’re having the time of our lives with out little guy and I know you will too! Blessing on your little family! -Hannah

  53. Neuro
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:18 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations! Allow me to repeat the most important piece of baby advice I ever received:

    Don’t try to make a happy baby happier.

    Saved our butts more times than I can count.

  54. Greg
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:21 PM | Permalink

    Just wanted to echo Cynthia’s cute baby story:

    cute baby story:
    mine turned 9 months old on the day yours was born. he started sleeping mostly through the night around 4 months. every morning I go into his room saying “I hear a baby” then I turn on the light and exclaim “there he is!” 28 mornings out of 30, I get a huge grin and sometimes even a squeal of delight. it is the best way to start a day ever.

    This rocks me every time my youngest (5 months) does this. Congrats!

  55. Debra L Martin
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:24 PM | Permalink

    No matter how you count it, that was a very long labor. Glad everything turned out well.

    Congratulations to both of you. Enjoy your bundle of joy!

  56. Kris-chan
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:28 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations to you both! My only advice is to cherish every minute because he’ll be big before you know it!

  57. Amanda
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:29 PM | Permalink

    My deepest congratulations, Mr. Rothfuss.
    As far as caring for babies goes… I’m no expert, I’ve just been surrounded by then since the age of 10 or so, and I know that it’s hard. But they’re so worth it.
    I hope to see little Oot sometime :)

  58. Jambo
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:30 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations to both of you.

  59. Anonymous
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:31 PM | Permalink

    Do what works…and that IS different for everyone. What works great for some will not work for you. You guys will find your feet though.Its all good!

  60. h28koala
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:33 PM | Permalink

    CONGRATULATIONS!

  61. dajamama
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:33 PM | Permalink

    Mucho congrats. The nursing advice and snuggling advice are all in line with what I was going to say. One thing to add – get a few different types of baby-wearing paraphernalia. Ring sling, pouch sling, wrap, mai tai, ergo, whatever. (You can google the names if they look like gibberish to you.) All babies like to be worn close to a parent’s body. There’s all kinds of literature on the emotional and, yes, even physical benefits of baby-wearing. Again, google it. Yet another benefit, and this is HUGE – it’s something that you, yourself, with your decorative-non-functional chesty bits, can do to comfort the baby when mama is tapped out.

    However, different babies are comfortable in different positions. For instance, my first baby hated to be worn in anything that had her facing in, so it was all slings and baby bjorns for her. The second loved being smushed up against me really snug and tight in the moby wrap. (Still does, at 16 months, when she needs a nap.) So see if you can borrow some different types from friends or acquaintances or a local babywearing group (yes, they exist).

    I could go on and on about how babywearing is great for being out and about, how you can keep your hands free and still hold the baby, how skin-to-skin contact with newborns is proven to help them thrive…but I hope these are things that you will discover together with your beloved as you try it out.

    Good luck! Oh, and one other piece of advice – follow your gut and ignore everyone’s advice. :)

  62. Anton Strout
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:38 PM | Permalink

    Congrats, Pat!

    I will applaud you if you stick with Oot because every child deserves a chance to be named after the Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time!

  63. suziko
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:39 PM | Permalink

    To Sarah:

    Breastfed babies nurse all the time. You’ll read “every 2 hours” and such, but it’s not true. They pretty much want to be on the boob all the time. Or at least mine did. It’s normal, though not always so pleasant for mommy.

    Oh, and it’s ok to have a glass of wine.

  64. Alec
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:40 PM | Permalink

    “He resembles his daddy in that he likes boobs and sleeping. Everything else will be sorted out later.”

    Now there is tea all over my computer screen.

    Congratulations.

  65. Anonymous
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:41 PM | Permalink

    Conga Rats to all three of you!!!!

  66. Bonnie Hynes
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:43 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations, you’re officially multiplying! I have a few words of advice that really helped with my kids. First, don’t let the “La Leche League” people freak you out over the breast-milk versus formula decision and the timing. My wife wasn’t able to breast feed our kids and got way depressed over it, but we were able to use a breast pump (get the expensive ones, nobody wants a nipple ripped off by a cheap machine) and I was able to help feed the clones. We switched to formula early and my kids turned out just fine. The other advice I have is to check out a book called “On Becoming Babywise.” Some of it is a bit overboard, but tone it down a bit and we had our kids sleeping through the night after just a few weeks with it.

  67. Heather Faye
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:43 PM | Permalink

    Yay!

  68. Rob
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:46 PM | Permalink

    Beautiful, congratulations to you both. My own ‘baby’ is 20 on Monday! Enjoy every moment because it slips away before you have time to notice.

  69. Ken Harris
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:48 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations!

    My only advice is to give him a name that won’t get him beat-up in school. Your parents were good to you with Patrick. Stick with something like that. Everybody likes Mike, Tom or Steve.

    Stay away from Frapro (or any of the other word verifications above or below.)

  70. Jim C. Hines
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:52 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations to all three of you!

  71. Serge
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:52 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations to you and mommy!

    Peace of advise, get a “Diaper Dekor”. You’ll thank it many, many times. I am father of 15 month old twins and talking from experience :)

  72. Tal
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:58 PM | Permalink

    Smother it with love so that it either learns to break free or sits on the metaphorical couch for the rest of its life.

  73. Amelia Stone
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:58 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations! My son is 2 and I remember how excited/terrified/paranoid we were. Have fun with that. ;)

    On the advice front, only this: Advice is just that. Advice. Heed it or not, it’s up to you – just don’t freak out about it if your son isn’t speaking full sentences like the kid down the street when he’s 4 months old. He’ll take things in his own time – after all, it’s his life. ;)

    For Sarah: Don’t get involved in the breastfeeding wank. Your son, your body, your choice. If it works, it works, if it doesn’t, it doesn’t. I had to learn that the hard way so that’s always my first bit of advice to new mothers. That and post partum depression sucks and I hope vehemently you don’t fall prey to it. :)

    Love him. But you’ll do that anyway. :) He’s precious, you two will be great parents!

  74. Lucy
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 1:58 PM | Permalink

    I reckon you should take quite a lot of photos. You’ll be glad you did.

  75. Teri
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 2:00 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations! You’ve just met your greatest teacher!

    And, yeah, I’ve got some happy tears going.

    From reading all the posts, I’m thinking you have the best fans, ever. Beautiful stuff from all these hearts.

    Having nursed two babies, it is difficult at first, but don’t give up. The rewards are amazing.

    Yes, this time is short and precious. Treasure it mightily.

    Yay you guys!

  76. K. L. Howard
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 2:00 PM | Permalink

    He is so cute!! Congratulations to the both of you!

    Babies smile when they poo in the first few months, but don’t worry. They’ll start smiling on their own sooner or later.

  77. Laura Y.
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 2:02 PM | Permalink

    I have two little ones and would like to offer a piece of advice as counterpoint to those who say “sleep when the baby sleeps.” Yes, there will be times when you are bone tired and all you want to do is sleep, and when that happens, by all means get some sleep if you can. But if you’re not too tired and there’s something you’d *rather* be doing, something that will relax you and make you happy and that you can’t do very well while you’re tending to the baby, do that instead. You don’t *have* to sleep just because you finally can. But don’t waste the time cleaning house (unless that relaxes you and makes you happy, of course).

    Oh, and also, be aware that other parents will tell you that Little Georgie was sleeping through the night at 6 weeks. Don’t believe them. Ask what their definition of “sleeping through the night” is. For those people, it’s usually 4 hours in a row. I’m sorry — a nap from 1am to 5am does not a full night’s sleep make.

    And +1 on the Diaper Dekor — ours is still going strong after 3.5 years. Love it.

    Congrats — enjoy your brand-new, completely changed (mostly for the better) life!

  78. Anonymous
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 2:03 PM | Permalink

    Congrats! Now some brief words of wisdom… Rock Paper Scissors is a great way to determine whose turn it is to take care of Oot in the middle of the night. Also wear goggles and Face Shields when diaper time comes.

  79. Anonymous
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 2:04 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations

  80. Valarya
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 2:06 PM | Permalink

    Adorable baby-ness! *squeee*

    Everyone here is telling you to sleep when the baby does. I know it’s the usual “good advice” but that baby is gonna be sleeping for 20 hours a day the first several weeks.. so don’t stress yourself out too much. :)

    Someone earlier said to always cherish the stages as they come and not wish for tomorrow’s for they come soon enough. I completely agree. My daughter is now 9 years old and there are many days I miss her tinier hands and tinier cheeks to kiss. :)

  81. Lea
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 2:10 PM | Permalink

    OMG congratulations!!!!!!!!

    And one couldn’t give a more perfect description!

    You both deserve 2 weeks worth of naps for that looong weekend!

  82. larry
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 2:14 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations! Not sure if this was previously posted, didn’t read all the comments…..if he’s crying either change him or feed him or both. That fixes 99% of new baby needs.

  83. Hobo's Books
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 2:16 PM | Permalink

    “A person without a sense of humor is like a wagon without springs. It’s jolted by every pebble on the road.” – HENRY WARD BEECHER

    I agree with others as far as be patient with yourselves and each other and little Oot. Try to keep your sense of humor to cushion the bumps! When you feel yourself losing your sense of humor, breathe deeply. take a nap. eat a snack. cry. then keep on keeping on. Much love to the three of you!

  84. Cat
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 2:16 PM | Permalink

    What a beautiful family!

    The first 6 months are the hardest because the baby is basically a
    crying, pooping, fleshy squirming ball of need.

    After 6 months or so, they get a personality. And then it’s oh so much more fun.

    Think of it as the hazing period to get into the best frat ever.

    Also, buy used baby stuff. They don’t use it for very long and there’s no point to buying new.

    I have a one year old boy btw. Light of my life.

  85. L.E.S.
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 2:22 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations!

  86. Anonymous
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 2:22 PM | Permalink

    my best baby advice is… don’t worry too much about following other people’s advice. What’s right for someone else’s kid isn’t necessarily right for your kid. Do whatever works/feels for your kid and life will be good. Sleep-deprived and chaotic, but good.

  87. Loth
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 2:23 PM | Permalink

    Ok, so I don’t know if it is considered faux pas to give an author advice from another author’s book…but in this case in applies:

    DON’T PANIC!!!

    (and always know where your towel is. )

    ^-^

  88. Josiah
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 2:23 PM | Permalink

    Dang, well there never was any going back . . .

    Advice — there is nothing in his life that is to small for you to be a part of. From now on you are being watched, anything you say is going to come out of his mouth at some point, the way you act is going to have a huge effect on how he acts etc.

    O and don’t let Sarah baby him to much after age five. : P

  89. N
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 2:27 PM | Permalink

    ….umm, what’s his name. Because I kinda doubt that it will continue to be Oot.

  90. Posted September 25, 2009 at 2:33 PM | Permalink

    Enjoy every minute. They’ll only each happen once.

  91. Anonymous
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 2:39 PM | Permalink

    Congradulations to you both and welcome Baby Oot to the world!! He is beautiful.

  92. Tasha
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 2:49 PM | Permalink

    Firstly Congratulations! A beautiful baby boy!

    Advice:
    When given advice; Smile, nod and then do your own thing.

    Trust your own gut before anything else.

    Take thousands of pictures; better to have too many than not enough.

    Enjoy him, as Ruth said up the top, no such thing as spoiling a baby, hold ’em, kiss ’em and hold ’em more. Buy a baby sling and carry Oot round and let Sarah sleep (and the other way round)

    Congratulations again!

  93. Kim
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 2:55 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations!! Both the baby and Sarah look great. Sarah looks pretty sexy actually, all half nakey and what not.

    You too are truly lucky :)

    Kisolcu (Jonathan) Rothfuss…Interesting. That was my word verification

  94. Robert S
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 2:57 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations. I loved it when my little guy was small, now he’s a 19 month old ball of crazy.

    Take advantage of the time when they can snuggle up and sleep on your chest, its awesome. Its also an awesome excuse for not getting up to do things around the house.

  95. Pamala Knight
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 3:05 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations to you, Sarah and the bambino.

    Just remember, don’t be too nervous, lots of kisses and it’s okay to talk sweet baby nonsense to him now. He’ll remind you of it of it in a few years and it’s best to get it in now when he can’t really talk back. Coherently, anyway.

  96. James
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 3:08 PM | Permalink

    “fish your going to keep.” – that made me laugh, because whenever people say “he’s so big!” (and he’s not, it’s just one of those things people say) I say, yep, he’s a keeper!

  97. Mike
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 3:08 PM | Permalink

    Congratulations to two of you and welcome to one. We’re all happy to see you.

    Word verification:
    Azoibil Ander Rothfusss

  98. LiquidWeird
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 3:24 PM | Permalink

    Congrats, Pat!

    Now you’ll have to buy him a fake beard to wear until he can grow his own.

  99. Vulpes Fulva
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 3:25 PM | Permalink

    AWESOME! Great job, Pat!!! So, what’s Oot’s real name? Pat, Jr.?

  100. Anonymous
    Posted September 25, 2009 at 3:27 PM | Permalink

    Congrats!
    Now the real work begins.
    Remember how long your lovely girl was in labor when you start to get annoyed at her for asking you to change diapers or get up to feed the baby in the middle of the night.

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