Hand in the 2009 V-card

Well, it's one day past Valentine's. And, 2009 is (again) a year of firsts for our family. Obviously, it's is Garret's first Valentine's Day, and everyone in our family couldn't be more smitten with him. Lil' G was showered with love from all directions. G.G. gave him his first "Gunner" dog replica, so he'll know what it's like when he actually arrives home.

It was also Uncle Marc and Auntie Amber's first V-day as a married couple. Most people probably know that the only reason I would celebrate v-day is because I don't have a v.d. - guess that's as good a reason as any, and will now be less likely since we are in a publicly and legally recognized committed relationship (Note, the heavy sarcasm.). Needless to say, we didn't do anything out of the ordinary for the day, but did spend some quality time with one another including a trip to the dog park and dinner and a movie.

Back to the Darlings: as we all know winter is a long season that started for our family at the very beginning of November. The last few months of the season can seem particularly draining, which is also where we are at with lil' G's status in the NICU. He's lingering near the 7 lb mark, but hasn't quite sustained it - yet. Erin and Jim are becoming more understanding of his current physical status and are hoping it will improve with the weather over the next month. Our family is looking forward to new seasons and lil' G's growth with them.