Three weeks ago our lives were forever changed

It is hard to believe that three weeks ago - to the hour - we arrived home with a sleeping Joseph Sung Min Switalski.  The weeks have passed by quickly and in many ways it seems as if Joe has always been a part of our lives.

Now we are already looking back at our early sleepless nights and laughing.  We are so blessed to have gotten over that hurdle so quickly.  Three weeks ago, even two weeks ago, we were totally sleep deprived and not expecting any progress to be made on this front.  Two weeks ago, putting Joe Sung Min in his crib would result in screams and shrieks.  Today, he can be placed in and he will roll back and forth, stand up, sit down, roll around and go to sleep - and will sleep completely through the night. We are truly blessed.

Three weeks ago, Brian was ready to go out and buy a rice cooker expecting Joe Sung Min to have more of an issue accepting our food.  After snubbing most baby foods in favor of chicken paprikash, pork chops, mashed potatoes, acorn squash, burrito bowls from Chipotle and anything else Brian and I eat. Food is definitely NOT an issue.

Three weeks ago, we were wondering how difficult the attachment and bonding process would be.  We were not expecting him to slip almost effortless into our lives.  He is learning we will take care of him and meet his needs.  He smiles and laughs when we reach out to pick him up and snuggles right in.  And, if we're really lucky (not), he will bite into your shoulder and leave a mark.  (If only he would chomp his food with such gusto!!)  He giggles when he sees his big sister and watches her intently.  He loves being involved in anything  we are doing and we fully expect he'll be walking by the end of October - after all, he doesn't want to miss out on anything.

It is amazing to look back and see how much has changed in the last three weeks and how much the joy of Joe has permeated our lives - and those who have had the opportunity to spend some time with him.  Will there be bumps in the road down the line?  Absolutely.  Will they be worth it?  Most definitely.  We look forward to what lies ahead - and knowing that we'll get through it all - as a family of 4.