Mr. Will

Our surprise baby boy! I was just sure that we had three girls growing in there but was elated to learn that he was on his way. But, poor Mr. Will had to reside within my rib cage. Not much room for him...or for my lungs! I was left winded just when I thought about moving.

Mr. Will chose delivery day for us. He had not grown over the previous two weeks. He weighed in as a 3 pound 1 ounce bouncing baby boy, much smaller than the doctors had anticipated. Had I delivered at 28 weeks with the onset of my preterm labor, he might not be here.

Will was small but mighty. He had a lot to say after delivery. In the NICU, he as full of angry cries, and he quite frequently set off his monitors with a heart rate well over 200. The little guy just wanted out of there. And, he did everything he could to get dismissed. He pulled out his feeding tube; he pulled out his IV. Both stayed out. He even tried to escape, working himself out of the bed in the isolette. Will was quick to accept bottles. He has been eating ever since.

Will has grown into such a sweet little boy. I love his big blue eyes and bashful grin. Will is very independent. He loves to explore the house and cares little if mom or dad is nearby. His adventures often lead him to trouble. When he hears "no," I love his "ah shucks" reaction.

Nicknames: Mr. Will, Mr. Man, Willy, Little Dude, Bubby

Likes: Food, long naps, bouncing in the jumperoo, screaming, exploring, the remote control

Dislikes: Car rides, shopping

I am so thankful for you, Will.