8.29.2007

Happy FIRST Birthday, Gavin!



On August 29, 2006, at 7:47 pm Clint and I were able to experience the true miracle of life when our first baby boy was born. He was named Gavin Vance Grothaus. He weighed 9 lbs. 8.5 oz and was a lengthy 22 1/2 inches. Due to his head being lodged in the birth canal for a while, he had a very pronounced cone head which was easily camouflaged by a knit cap. He was the most beautiful baby we had ever seen. Unfortunately, due to complications with his breathing he was wisked away to the nursery and eventually on to the neonatal intensive care unit. We spent an exhausting 12 some odd hours worrying and praying for our son, not knowing what was wrong with him. Luckily, we would soon find out that he had pneumonia, a defective heart valve, and a heart murmer, all of which could be cured. Gavin spent the following week hooked up to monitors and IV's to help him get back to good health. We were so very happy to hold him that seventh day without any cords or tubes to get in the way. The rest of the days have been a whirlwind of emotions as we have watched our little baby grow into a toddler. He is such a lively little boy with SO MUCH energy and curiosity! He continues to improve his balance and coordination as he practices his walking skills. He had first big spill last week and scraped up his nose, lip, and elbow. It was very traumatic for mommy and daddy, but we have braced ourselves for many more accidents to come. Gavin increases his auditory vocabulary daily, with his favorite words being shoes, ball, more, music, and book. He has about two more weeks of being the king of the roost and then little Gunner will come along. I think he is going to have a rough time sharing mommy and daddy, but I have faith that he will grow into a loving and helpful big brother. That is just his nature. I will try my best to keep our blog updated in the weeks to come, but we have many preparations to finish before Gunner arrives. So, bare with me and continue to check us out even if we have to take a two or three week hiatus. Please keep us in your prayers for a safe delivery and healthy baby boy.

6 comments:

The Neally Family said...

Happy Birthday again Gavin. We are so thankful that you have grown into a healthy and happy boy. I think you'll be a great big brother and maybe you can even fetch your Mommy a diaper or two!

The Grothaus Gang said...

Yes, we are training him to go get things for us. As of right now, shoes, book, and football are the only things he will "retrieve". :-) Diaper is going to be tricky since he hates getting his diaper changed anyway.

Anonymous said...

Here's to Gavin scoring his FIRST touchdown. It's been a great first year watching you grow and looking forward to many more years. We love you so much and you bring such joy to our lives. Love you bunches and happy, happy birthday!!!

Cynthia said...

Gavin is quite the handsome boy. I love your reflection on the day he was born. I hope you all had a great party!

Anonymous said...

Sherri says,
We had a great time yesterday. We had a good day playing with Gavin and visiting. Gavin is so special and so is Logan and I am
sure Gunner will also hold a place in my heart. I hope and will be praying for a safe and uncomplicated labor and delivery and for the health of Gunner and his Mommy. Keep us posted and let un know whatever we can do to assist you with any needs.
We love all four of you.
Love, Sherri and also Leo

Anonymous said...

Well. it's been awhile, but finally got back into the 'computer age'!! Happy Birthday, Gavin--looks like everyone had a great day!! Wonderful pics of a wonderful day!! Love all of you SO VERY MUCH!
GOD BLESS YOU ALL!!