Eric Church and his wife Katherine are looking forward to the first holidays they’ll share with baby Boone McCoy, pictured above, who was born on Oct. 3. But for Church, this is just the prelude to what will be many happy holidays with their firstborn son.

“Of course I’m looking forward to the first Christmas with our first child,” Church tells Taste of Country. “All parents do. But I also know what’s coming when he starts to realize what the holidays are — I can’t wait for that!”

Although Church is a road veteran, he says that life with baby Boone has kept him challenged to get enough sleep.

“The most surprising thing is how little sleep a person can go on,” Church says with a laugh. “I thought I was somewhat conditioned [to function with little sleep]. I thought if anyone could segue into non-sleep, I should be the most conditioned person out there. [Having Boone is] great but it’s also tough trying to get the schedules set.”

“He had his days and nights mixed up,” he continues. “That’s just one of those things you just get through. But it’s been great because I’ve been able to be off in anticipation of [my first headlining] tour next year. I’ve been able to change diapers and do all of that!”

In 2012, Church will kick off his first headlining tour. The Blood, Sweat and Beers Tour will begin on Jan. 19 in Fort Smith, Ark.

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