Shortbus Conquers the World: Born in the USA

Now that things have calmed down a little bit, I guess it's about time to update the blog with some minor news. I'm currently in the U.S. on paternity leave. Our little girl Ryan Abigail came into the world ten days early, but still at a very respectable 8.4 lbs. Elyse called me at work in Kathmandu last Wednesday morning, just after I had left the visa line, to tell me it was time. I was on a plane that night, traveled 32 hours via Doha and London, and went straight to the hospital from the airport. Not seven hours later I was holding my daughter. (Elyse can fill in the birth details if she wishes but, other than a brief period that would have made George Carlin blush, I'll just say she did great.)

Aside from an extra couple of days in the hospital due to a minor complication, it's been smooth sailing. Parenthood hasn't phased me yet. Feels natural, honestly. It probably helps that Ryan is a content baby who seems to love nothing more than nursing and sleeping. And she does both very well. Based on the reactions we get from other parents, we've lucked out in the sleep department. Ryan usually only gets up twice a night, roughly around 2:00 and 4:30. Then she and dad get up at 6:30 or 7:00 to hang out on the couch and watch Sports Center while mom catches up on her sleep. Next we listen to Morning Edition, she with her milk and I with my coffee, and discuss the news of the world. The brainwashing has begun: she already loves the Phillies and knows which politicians are simpletons. To top it off, Elyse and I have managed to keep leading our regular lives. The three of us have gone for walks in the park, seen the Tibetan Buddhism art exhibition at Emory's Carlos Museum, thrown a pizza party, and quaffed a pint at our local pub. And did I mention she's cute? See pictures below for proof. If you haven't already, I hope you can meet Ryan Abigail soon.