My first child, a boy, was born Saturday morning at 4:17am. Like all other biological grandchildren of my parents, he was male, about 7lbs 13oz, and 21inches long. Come to think of it, all their children were boys as well (though I'm not sure on my and my brother's stats). I guess there's some pretty strong boy genes in the family :)

Sparing details, the birth experience was quite simply the most difficult thing I've ever participated in. Last night I got some decent rest for the first time since Wednesday night. It's amazing what necessity can allow you to do. Heidi's recovering nicely and feeling great.

We learned the gender at the birth, but most of Heidi's family and our friends were certain it would be a girl. As such, we had a few girls names picked out, but had only barely agreed on one boy's name. Liam Eleki. We haven't yet decided that would be his name as I'd like to get to know the person first. Funny, writing the name for the first time makes me feel a sense of decisiveness about the choice, as well as thinking "hmm, that's ikele mail backwards". I just looked up the history and meaning of Liam, and I guess it is the Scottish form of William, a germanic of Willhelm. Now I can't stop thinking about the infamous Willhelm scream. I'd rather my child not be associated with screaming, but it is pretty amusing. I think the name means "strong protection" which is nice enough. Not that anyone cares or references the origin or meaning of a name in day to day life. Eh.

He's been healthy and strong the whole pregnancy, and continues to be so. Like I've heard happens to every new parent, I fell in love with the guy at first sight. He's a good looking kid, if I do say so myself :)

I reasoned out this morning that children probably always look beautiful to their parents because mom and dad are used to seeing themselves in the mirror and looking at their spouse (presuming), whom they obviously care immensely for. The baby looks like two people they love, so of course it's beautiful. Still, that's one cute little man. Everyone's entitled to their own opinion, of course, but they'd be wrong if they didn't agree with me :)

I'm somebody's papa.

Wow.

Update: It's official. Liam Eleki Smith. I even bought him his own domain :)