Hey Kyle!

CONGRATULATIONS!!! I can also remember hearing my son's heart beat for the first time - let alone seeing the ultrasound of the little guy. It is a very emotional time and yet a very happy time!

The only advice I have, it to not do what we did when we left the hospital after my son was born - WE FORGOT TO ASK FOR THE OWNER'S MANUAL!!! <VBG>

No seriously, there are a few things I can suggest:

1) The baby has no concept of time - nor will they be interested in, or care about the concept of time - they have their own time/schedule. We are better equipped to adjust to their time (Even though we may not like it...)

2) Talk to the baby as if they were an adult - that is use "regular" language and not baby talk. Then they won't have the problems of trying to learn two different languages - at least one of them has a structure... <G>

3) If you notice that the baby can sleep in the nursery at the hospital with the others crying, then after the baby comes home - keep the day to day noise level at "normal". The reason for that is if the house is quite only when the baby is sleeping, then the baby will learn that is the only way to sleep and won't sleep unless it is quite!!! Of course if the baby is also one of the babies that is crying all the time in the nursery then what I mentioned above may not apply...
We were LUCKY that my son was one that slept well in the nursery, and to this date can drop off asleep with "normal" house noise...

4) If the baby won't sleep and you have tried everything - try the clothes dryer! What I mean is start the dryer, and put the baby in a basket on top of the dryer. Stand near by to keep the baby/basket combo from falling off!!!
The heat and constant rhythm of the dryer helps them to fall asleep.
Note: this is similar to the driving in a car routine. Babies sleep really well as long as the car is moving...

5) If you and your wife are used to going someplace at a drop of a hat, well now it takes some planning! Where it used to be one suitcase for the two of you, now it will be four or more for the three of you. One for you and your wife, one for the babies clothes and/or dypers; one for the toys; one for the food; and of course one for the sleeping/bathing supplies... Also don't forget the car seat and baby stroller...

Bottom line is enjoy your baby! They will give you the most pleasure and yet they can frustrate you as well. Just remember they have a lot to learn, and they look to us to guide them and teach them. They are like little sponges, and they will surprise you with some sayings that they picked up from you...!!!...

There is nothing like coming home (or picking them up at Day Care) and seeing them get so excited to see you. It makes all of your problems go away!!!

Again, congratulations to you and your wife!!!

Your life's will never be the same again!!!

Dick