Joni: the first month

Life with Joni June has been nothing short of transformative, chaotic, and beautiful. Our first month as new parents has been a whirlwind of sleepless nights, endless diapers, and moments of awe as we contend with our little bundle of joy.   

Emily and I entered parenthood with a grand plan: nighttime shifts to maximize sleep. In theory, it sounded perfect. One of us would handle Joni’s cries while the other caught some much-needed rest. In practice, though, “shifts” became a challenging concept. We did manage to each get a minimum of 5 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night but the sacrifice was not sleeping in the same room.  We did miss each other and despite our relative restfulness, we were missing that strange comfort in stumbling through it together.

Emily’s parents stayed with us for the first 30 days, and I don’t think we could have survived without them.  They took over the household responsibilities, cooked incredible meals, and gave us the space to focus solely on Joni.  Every dish they made felt like a hug, a small luxury when everything else felt so overwhelming. My parents arrived the week after Emily’s left, bringing the same love and support, along with stories of how they handled their early days as parents.   We even celebrated Joni’s first Christmas, hanukah, and New Years together! 

Of course, life had its curveballs. First, our TV broke, a small inconvenience but frustrating when all we wanted was background noise for those long nights. Then, our dryer decided to quit. As new parents drowning in laundry, this felt catastrophic. The cherry on top was discovering our water line needed repair, only to find the shutoff valve paved over.  If parenting has taught us anything so far, it’s the art of adapting.

Despite the challenges, we’ve had our share of hilarious moments. One of our first poopy diaper changes is a memory I’ll treasure forever, though Emily might not feel the same! As I leaned in to clean Joni, she suddenly squirted poop like a tiny squirt gun.

I dodged sideways, avoiding the mess, only to put Emily directly in the line of fire. Poop sprayed Emily, getting on her clothes and in her hair.  The look on her face had me howling with laughter, an emotion so rare those first few days that we couldn’t stop laughing for minutes. Emily announced, with poop laced hair, “I guess I’m officially a mom now.”

Parenting is not without its tougher moments. Joni struggles with constipation, which has been hard on all of us. Her tiny grimaces and cries tug at our hearts, and we’ve already become semi-experts in baby massages and leg bicycling techniques. Watching her finally relax brings relief and a strange sense of triumph. 

As I write this, it is 5am and I’m feeding Joni in our dark living room. Emily is catching a rare moment of sleep, and outside, the aurora borealis paints the sky with its vibrant colors. We are both illuminated by the flickering greens.  It’s a fitting reminder of how small we are and how vast and wondrous the world can be. This first month has tested us, exhausted us, and yet I remain excited for all there is to come. 

The Delivery

The day began as an apocalyptic symphony of nature’s fury. Overnight, over two feet of snow blanketed the land, only to be battered and undone by relentless rains. By morning, the world was a slushy mess of flooding and ice, with sideways rain hammering the truck as we braved treacherous roads toward the hospital. Emily, stoic despite her nerves, was a vision of quiet strength.

At the hospital, Leanne, a powerhouse OB nurse and good family friend, welcomed us with warmth, setting Emily up in the VIP room adorned with quotes celebrating strong women a perfect ambiance for the monumental task ahead.  Dr. Amanda arrived to initiate the induction, placing cervidil and a Foley catheter. Emily was officially in labor, her glow undimmed by the mounting storm outside.

The evening brought worsening weather and intensified contractions. Hannah, the “OB night ninja nurse,” and another close friend, took over with unmatched stealth and care, ensuring we rested as much as anticipation and Emily’s increasing pressure-like contractions would allow. By morning, the Foley was still in place until it “magically” dislodged during a bathroom trip. This signified that Emily could progress to membrane rupturing. Her sworn innocence about “testing” the catheter became a humorous highlight of the day. With Dr. Amanda’s expert hands, her membranes were ruptured, releasing an ocean of fluid, and contractions came alive with ferocity.

Lauren, our exceptional doula, transformed the room into a sanctuary: essential oils filled the air, soothing music played softly, and labor maneuvers kept Emily focused.  Pitocin (aptly nicknamed “pi-satan”) ratcheted up the contractions, each one more intense. We ambled up and down the hallways stopping occasionally to work through powerful contractions. Lauren instructed me on hip support techniques.  When Emily reached her breaking point, I sprinted to find Dr. Chang, anesthesiologist extraordinaire.  He worked a miracle, placing the epidural in one swift attempt during a single contraction, instantly bringing Emily relief. I questioned the strength of our marital bond after hearing the outpour of overwhelming compliments Dr. Chang received after removing Emily’s pain. She rested peacefully while massive contractions surged on the monitor her body in full labor mode.

Only two hours later and Emily was fully dilated. The time had come.  We were all ready; Emily’s mom Mary Jo, Dr. Amanda, Lauren, and Hannah. Emily, bolstered by the support of strong, confident women, began to push.  Each effort was awe-inspiring, a testament to her determination and strength. Between contractions, laughter, and mini-dance parties lightened the room’s mood.  I was in charge of tunes as my sole duty (and I crushed it!). After two grueling, heroic hours, Emily summoned the strength of legends to deliver the tiniest, most wondrous baby girl a fragile masterpiece of life itself. Her first soft cries were like music to our ears, filling the room with awe. I leaned in to speak, her delicate eyes fluttered open, locking onto mine with a gaze so pure it seemed to transcend time. She turned her tiny head toward me, and in that instant, the world faded away.  It was as if she knew me already. I was utterly, irrevocably smitten, my heart captured forever by this fated meeting. 

As Emily and I held her, overwhelmed with love, the incredible OB team skillfully finished the postpartum work. This odyssey of trials, triumphs, and heroes was a story we will cherish forever a testament to Emily’s resilience and the unwavering support of those who surrounded her.

Introducing Josephine ‘Joni’ June Rosenfeld born 12/3/24 at 11:29pm weighing 5 lbs 14 oz and 19 inches long… our daughter..

Starting the family

Below is the chronological events for Emily and I as we embarked on making a family. I had to record the earlier stages in silence for obvious reasons…

4/8/24

Third time is a charm! This week I was working nights and awoke after a fitful day of sleeping. As I groggily slogged to the bathroom to get ready for the day when I spotted what I initially thought was some garbage Emily left on the counter. As I drew closer and the fog of recent wakefulness lifted I recognized it was a pregnancy test. I crept closer with my heart now beating in my chest. I saw two lines… indicating a POSITIVE test!! Overwhelming I started yelling at the top of my lungs in joy and bounded downstairs to hug a grinning Emily. We’ve had some issues in the past so we were celebrating with hopeful reserve. I’m still as excited as I was the first time. I’m going to be a dad.. terrifyingly amazing!

5/1/24:

Today we were in Mykonos, Greece. The weather was overcast and slightly cold. Knowing Emily was pregnant she had been itching to get an ultrasound. After several calls around trying to find an ultrasound we stumbled upon Dr. Kirmoutselis a local ONGYN. He told us to come immediately as he had an opening. We showed up at a nondescript pharmacy with a small office upstairs. We entered and were greeted by an elderly and slightly obese Greek physician. He was pleasant with passable English. Emily and I identified ourselves as doctors and he set straight to an abdominal ultrasound. Immediately we saw the little fetus and efficiently he found the heart beat. Up until that moment I hadn’t realized I was holding my breath. The realization of a baby with a heart beat hit me like a crashing wave of excitement/anxiety/joy/fear all at once. Emily reached up her little hand and I, the idiot I am, high five’d her.. Then realized she wanted to hold my hand I obliged. After a few pictures the doctor shook our hands and adamantly declined to be paid as he stated, “it’s from one doctor to another”. We thanked him profusely and invited him to visit us in Alaska. Overwhelmed, returned to our hotel to celebrate. 

6/4/24:

Today we find out the sex! I wanted to wait until birth but Emily couldn’t wait that long so we settle on finding out together after a big dinner. We’ve been dieting for 30 days and our diet ended today. I planned on making a glutinous dinner and having a baby reveal cake. I cooked all day and even attempted sourdough bread, again, without success. It was an odd weather day with sun and intermittent storms. We even have a spot of lightening. I made Emily’s favorite pesto pasta, homemade breaded chicken, and caprese salad. Emily had a cake made with super blue or pink frosting in the center for dessert. We ate anxiously amidst lit candles and Italian music plying in the background. Finally we decided to cut the cake. No videos, no pomp and circumstance, just us, and a fine dinner. I was actually too nervous to cut the cake. I handed Emily the knife and she dove in. She cut twice and lifted the slice. Pink! A girl! We’re having a girl!! We hugged and smile and both began our mental journey of having a daughter. I am so excited!! I can’t wait to shout this from the rooftops!!

6/9/24:

Bursting at the seems wanting to tell everyone we prepared for a friend’s wedding in Juneau. We were nearing the end of the 1st trimester and were trying desperately not to jinx ourselves. Unfortunately we were about to attend a wedding with nearly all the OB nurses in Juneau. It was a perfect overcast day and we sailed to a gorgeous spot for the wedding. I was attempting to be sneaky with ordering drinks for both Emily and I to throw off the scent. We were extremely successful, that is, up until the dinner. Laughing and chatting with our friends at our table the mischievous Leanne sauntered up and shoved a margarita in Emily’s face tempting her to drink in front of our whole table. Emily shyly refused prompting Leanne’s eyebrows to nearly shoot off her face. At the same time Bailey, one of our good friends sitting across from Emily, also became wide eyed and stared back and forth between us. I couldn’t help but have a shit eating grin. She then suddenly burst into tears signaling an immediate retreat for Leanne and calling attention from one of my ER nurses. I sat in awe as the silent and efficient communication between all women present divulged volumes while Adam, one of my ER colleagues, dumbfoundedly inquired about the situation. We then proceeded to tell a few select people who were overjoyed.  My heart swelled with each friend we invited into our little secret circle. 

6/14/24:

It was Cassidy’s graduation weekend and we were finally able to our families the good news in person. The nieces all screeched with excitement as our parents and siblings smiled and congratulated us. I don’t think I could be any happier now that we are out of the first trimester and on our way to becoming parents. It has been a wild ride so far… I can’t wait for the next chapters!!! 

8/8

Another hard week of work and the annual flooding which devastated Juneau. We worked hard for several days cleaning the property and helping others. Emily and I turned in early for a good night sleep. Just as I began that blissful drift off into nothingness Emily shouts, “BABE”! A small amount of panic wakes me up right away. “I felt her!” After 3 weeks of her worrying that she couldn’t feel our baby moving it finally happened. I wish I could say I could feel the little soccer legs bicycling around but it was just Emily. I turned back to sleep but I could sense Emily lying next to me with her eye wide open in anticipation of further movements. So cool…

8/19

The baby bump was now in full swing. Emily was not waddling yet but glowing in that way that only the pregnant can. We finally released the announcement publicly and received an avalanche of praise and good wishes.  Everyone was so supportive, and the advice was rolling in. I felt a little awkward as despite Emily having an hourly reminder of the pregnancy and impending child I had not felt the fatherly bug yet. Emily looked amazing and had so far, not had any significant pregnancy issues. But! I have news! Finally, I felt my baby girl kick for the first time. It was surreal. Emily teased because every time I felt the little soccer player kick I recoiled my hand due to how surprising and alien she felt. Slowly it started to sink in; holy shit! I’m going to be a dad…..

10/5

Emily was so spoiled! Two baby showers in one week. Hannah and Leanne threw a spectacular baby shower at forbidden peaks. Several friends showed up and enjoyed in our celebration. I latched on to Patrick, the only other male, and we enjoyed beers and watched with trepidation all of the children running a mock. I’m writing this after we just finished the Sammamish baby shower a week later, and I feel so loved! My mom, sister, nieces, and sister-in-law all flew in just for a few hours just to celebrate with us. The amount of baby gear was a little overwhelming. Mary Jo threw a superb party with food, spiced cider, and homemade desserts. Even Liz and Kelly came! The Eck’s house was decorated to the hilt. It was such a fun and heartwarming event with both family and friends.  After a day filled with eating and chatting everyone parted ways and the excitement of the future girl started ramping up. We did receive some less than ideal news. Emily was found to have borderline gestational diabetes and elevated blood pressures. Though, I was not convinced. It sucked for her because she had to check her blood sugars 4 times a day and keep track of her blood pressures. Though again, her home values were all stellar. Husband goal: keep pregnant wife stress free. 

11/1

We are nearing the starting line. Only about 5 weeks to go. Today we picked up hopefully the remainder of all the baby gear. (Only 950 lbs from the shipping company) the super expensive closet in the nursery is finished and we have been preparing to paint and fully ‘nest-out’ the nursery. Again, the full brunt of becoming a father hasn’t crashed yet. 

11/28

It was a month full of support and love from our families.. We undertook painting the nursery which was challenging as it was carpeted and Emily wanted the trim painted as well. We spent 2 weeks working on that room.  Finally we finished painting the spring mint with textured walls and only had a handful of stains on the carpet (the paint soaked through the canvas that was supposed to protect the floor). Next I build all the baby items including the closet organizer which came with its own set of issues. Mom stopped in and helped us beat and clean the house. She organized and cleaned our whole kitchen and made dinners for us! It was fantastic having her around.  We even broke down 3 truckloads of boxes.  After she left Emily’s parents arrived for their month visit. We wrapped up the house including the nursery. I sure hope baby girl loves that light fixture with custom molding as it was the Bain of our nesting. Finally the house was set, Christmas decor up, and parents had all arrived. Next stop, the delivery. 

Last day in Italy

Our last day in Italy was nothing short of magical. We woke up to a perfect sunny day, the kind that makes you instantly grateful to be alive. Our hotel, perched gracefully above Lake Como, offered a luxury breakfast on the terrace. The view was breathtaking: the serene expanse of the lake glistening under the morning sun, framed by the lush, rolling hills and quaint villages dotting the shoreline. Sipping freshly brewed espresso and savoring delicate pastries, we couldn’t imagine a more perfect start to our day.

After breakfast, we embarked on a two-hour private boat tour of Lake Como. The wooden es Italian boat captained by a charming female swept us away on a calm and quiet lake. As we cruised along, we were treated to stunning views of opulent villas and historic estates, each with its own unique charm. With a glass of Prosecco in hand, we toasted the passing ferries and other boats. We felt top of the world. 

Returning to the hotel, we spent the afternoon lounging by the pool. The sun was warm and inviting, casting a golden glow over the water. We relaxed under the shade of umbrellas, occasionally taking a refreshing dip in the pool or a sweet cocktail. It was the perfect way to unwind and soak up the last of the Italian sunshine.

As evening approached, we ventured out for dinner in a charming courtyard. The restaurant, with its rustic tables and twinkling fairy lights, exuded a cozy yet sophisticated ambiance. We indulged in classic Italian dishes. Sighing over the fact that this was our last Italian dinner we signaled for the check and headed back to our hotel. 

Strolling back to our hotel, we were greeted by an unexpected surprise: fireworks lighting up the night sky. The bursts of color and light were likely for a wedding celebration, but coincidentally, it was also the 4th of July. We stood watching the fireworks reflect on the still waters of Lake Como. It was a serendipitous finale to our trip, blending the joy of a local celebration with a touch of home.

A Relaxing Day in Como

Yesterday we treated ourselves. The weather predicted heavy rains so we decided to take the ferry across the lake to our sister 5 star hotel for a day at one of the most extravagant spas I have ever experienced. Our spa day at the Royal Hotel in Menaggio was a heavenly retreat, perfectly timed with a day-long rain over Lake Como. The weather might have been dreary, but inside the spa, we were enveloped in luxury and tranquility.

Next, we explored the multiple themed steam rooms. Each room had its own unique ambiance and therapeutic benefits, from the soothing Mediterranean steam to the scorching Turkish steams. The variety made each visit a refreshing experience.

The saunas were equally impressive, offering a range of temperatures and environments. Whether it was the intense heat of the traditional Finnish sauna or the milder, pine wood sauna, every moment was blissful.

We then ventured into the relaxation rooms, which were designed to promote deep peace and serenity. Soft lighting, comfortable loungers, walls of moss, and a serene atmosphere made it ultra relaxing. 

One of the highlights was the scented showers. These multi-sensory experiences combined soothing water jets with aromatic essences, creating a rejuvenating and refreshing interlude.

We finished our relaxation day with massages before taking the lake ferry back towards our hotel for another epic dinner. 

We had made reservations at the reigning best restaurant in Lake Como, Visteria. From the moment we arrived, the service was impeccable. The staff’s warmth and attentiveness ensured we felt like cherished guests. As we settled in, on our balcony overlooking the lake, the sun began to set offering a magical backdrop to our meal. 

Chef Sarno’s inspired menu, a masterpiece of creativity and precision, was a pure joy to be consumed. The evening began with two amuse-bouche courses, each a tantalizing preview of the culinary wonders to come. The “fake tomato” and mini tacos were not only visually stunning but also a delightful explosion of flavors. The follow-up of roasted eggplant, yellow tomato, and eggplant parmigiana spheres were equally captivating, setting the stage for the gastronomic adventure ahead.

Bread, often an overlooked component of fine dining, was a star in its own right. The sourdough and sunflower seed bread alongside the buttery Girella, both perfectly paired with breadsticks aromatic with oregano and rosemary, highlighted the attention to detail that permeates Visteria’s offerings.

As we moved into the main courses. The squid with mint and zucchini was a refreshing start (and my personal favorite!). They even used “mint perfume”.  This was followed by the summery flavors of Palamita d’estate. The pasta courses were a testament to Italian culinary artistry; the Fusillo with squid and red shrimp was not only delectable but visually stunning, while the Scarpariello’s medley of six tomatoes was a vibrant presentation of what everyone imagines an Italian pasta could be.

A delightful pre-dessert, the Breva Gin Frizz with raspberry and gin, served as a refreshing though VERY sour palate cleanser. The final course, Red Passion with berries and lychee, was a symphony of sweet and tart that left us craving more. And they surprised us with an additional dessert course. The petit fours, including a Bounty-like creation, passion fruit with black sesame, and a playful taco with hazelnut, were the perfect finish. The Babà with Timoncello liqueur provided a sweet, lingering finale to an exquisite meal.

To complement the stellar cuisine, Visteria’s wine selection was exceptional, each pour enhancing the flavors of the dishes.

The personal touch from Chef Sarno, who came out and greeted us warmly at our table (the only table he did this!) made the night all that much more special.

Waddling back up to our room after the 12 course dinamo left us blissfully exhausted. We promptly crashed for the night.