Welcome, Luca Joseph

Was I really pregnant just two weeks ago?

It’s hard to believe I haven’t known my precious newborn forever—my life seems to gravitate around his, and weird sleep patterns mean my sense of time is distorted. I gaze at him while he eats; I nap or get things done while he sleeps (like now). Luckily for me, my parents are here making sure Joe and I get solid meals (and helping change those poopy diapers!).

At night, every grunt or whimper or coo has me turning over to see if he is ready to eat or ready for a new diaper… or if he has soaked through his diaper and the bassinet sheet. Again.

In short, I am so in love with this little man who has come to change my life.

Luca Joseph Kim arrived on July 10 at 5:18am after 8 hours of drug-free active labor (more on that in another post). He was right on time: His due date was July 9 or 10, and it was the 10th in Korea and the 9th in the U.S. when he made his grand entrance.

He weighed 8lbs 14oz and was about 21 inches long. We were surprised by such a big baby, but then I look back at my 40-week belly picture, and… well, I guess that belly was getting pretty large and in charge.

Luca, a version of Luke, means “bringer of light.” Joe’s parents provided his Korean name: 대근, which means “big root.” We are hoping he will be a solid, grounded man who is a light to those he meets.

We haven’t decided how we’ll spell his Korean name in English, but perhaps Daegan or Daegun. It sounds like “day-gnn” and rhymes with Reagan, if you say Reagan quickly.

I have never experienced a joy quite like holding my son in my arms. I am awed by such a gift from God—and by such a responsibility.

Isn't he the cutest? I think so, but then I'm extremely biased and I've got all these new-mommy love hormones kicking around.