Dear Vinny,
Last week, while I was on a business trip, you and Daddy went to Kentucky for a visit to Granny and Granddad. You ended up seeing your Aunt Rhonda, your cousins Stuart and Ian, and your Aunt Ginger and Uncle Johnny. In addition, you got to meet some of your Daddy's friends, Ben and Jason, and a lot more of Daddy's relatives, including his Aunt Bobbye, and cousin Liz. And on Sunday, you saw your Grandpa and Grandma and met a bunch of their friends. You were a big hit: you are a charming young lad and it shows!
Although we were apart for only four days, when you got home I could see that you had changed and grown a lot since I'd last seen you. You were taller, for starters. Daddy and I think you might have had a little growth spurt.
Also, you figured out how to do something Daddy calls the "fishy-flop": while lying on your back, you arch your back and scoot away by pushing off with your feet. Another way to describe it is that it's kind of like an inchworm move, except that you're on your back instead of your tummy. You do it while we're trying to change your diaper, or when we're in bed, or anytime you're bored and on your back. A lot of times in bed, you scoot yourself until your head is hitting the headboard, and I have to pull you back down.
You really like to bounce. I stand you up on my lap, leaning against my chest, and you bounce and bounce by bending and straightening your legs. You have the greatest time with that. You also seem to enjoy it when I hold you upside-down. You are fascinated by how different everything looks from that position. And we can make you giggle by tickling you. Daddy is especially skilled at this. He nibbles on your ear and you just howl with laughter.
Another way you express your pleasure is by screeching. We know that you are happy if you are either talking or screeching. It is absolutely charming.
You fuss a lot sometimes, perhaps because you have some new teeth coming in, but we haven't seen them. Last night you were really upset, but Daddy gave you some Orajel, and took you upstairs and rocked you, and you calmed down. Then it was time for bed, but you were so happy that you and I played for a while before settling down and going to sleep.
Yesterday the three of us went to the park. It was a warm, sunny day. You were fascinated by all the children playing on the playground. Daddy strapped you into the baby carrier, and I wore you while swinging on a swing. I think you kind of enjoyed it, but after a while it became clear that you'd almost had enough, so we quit. Then Daddy and I walked the path along the lake, pushing you in your stroller. You were alert and interested in the passing scenery most of the time, but by the end you did fall asleep.
You continue to charm and amaze me. I love you so much, sweet potato!
Love,
Mommy
Sunday, March 25, 2007
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Five Months
Dear Vinny,
On Monday you were five months old. I can hardly believe that you are already five months old. It has been a really amazing experience so far, getting to know you, and hug you and hold you in my arms. You are an incredibly loving and sweet-tempered little guy.
You are also incredibly cute! I have some pictures of you in my office. The other day, Robert, a guy I work with, came into my office to help me figure something out. He saw your picture, and declared that you were so cute that you could be a model! I have to agree that you are indeed a handsome young man. Some friends from England saw your picture, and declared you a "bonny lad." Your great-aunt Barb told us that you were the cutest baby she'd ever seen, and that she'd seen a lot of babies. This summer, you're going to get a chance to meet her, and I know she'll just dote all over you.
You still enjoy eating your rice cereal, and you continue to be fascinated by Mommy and Daddy eating. I am looking forward to next month, when we can start feeding you other foods.
You are not so scared of the bath anymore, and in fact, you seem to kind of enjoy it. You used to scream and cry when we would put you in the water, but now, you don't seem to mind it so much. That makes bath time much easier for all involved.
You are also better able to put yourself to sleep. I used to need to hold you until you were fast asleep, and to keep you sleeping through the night, keep my arm around you. But now I am able to put you down when you're in a drowsy state, and eventually you fall asleep. You still sleep with us in the bed, but maybe we'll put you in your crib in a few more months.
Something you really seem to like is having a soft blanket on your face. I try to put the blanket on your cheek, but you like to pull it over your head. This makes me a little nervous due to the danger of SIDS, but when I pull the blanket away from your face, you just put it right back. So I guess I should stop worrying.
You are the sweetest little boy and we are so lucky to have you!
Love,
Mommy
On Monday you were five months old. I can hardly believe that you are already five months old. It has been a really amazing experience so far, getting to know you, and hug you and hold you in my arms. You are an incredibly loving and sweet-tempered little guy.
You are also incredibly cute! I have some pictures of you in my office. The other day, Robert, a guy I work with, came into my office to help me figure something out. He saw your picture, and declared that you were so cute that you could be a model! I have to agree that you are indeed a handsome young man. Some friends from England saw your picture, and declared you a "bonny lad." Your great-aunt Barb told us that you were the cutest baby she'd ever seen, and that she'd seen a lot of babies. This summer, you're going to get a chance to meet her, and I know she'll just dote all over you.
You still enjoy eating your rice cereal, and you continue to be fascinated by Mommy and Daddy eating. I am looking forward to next month, when we can start feeding you other foods.
You are not so scared of the bath anymore, and in fact, you seem to kind of enjoy it. You used to scream and cry when we would put you in the water, but now, you don't seem to mind it so much. That makes bath time much easier for all involved.
You are also better able to put yourself to sleep. I used to need to hold you until you were fast asleep, and to keep you sleeping through the night, keep my arm around you. But now I am able to put you down when you're in a drowsy state, and eventually you fall asleep. You still sleep with us in the bed, but maybe we'll put you in your crib in a few more months.
Something you really seem to like is having a soft blanket on your face. I try to put the blanket on your cheek, but you like to pull it over your head. This makes me a little nervous due to the danger of SIDS, but when I pull the blanket away from your face, you just put it right back. So I guess I should stop worrying.
You are the sweetest little boy and we are so lucky to have you!
Love,
Mommy
Saturday, March 03, 2007
News Flash!
Dear Vinny,
This morning you rolled over, twice in a row!
It started when I sat you on the floor and you tipped forward onto your belly. You stretched out on your tummy and almost immediately rolled to your side, and from there to your back! I congratulated and praised you heartily. Then I wanted to see if you could do it again, so I put you on your tummy again. At first you were just content to be on your tummy but then you got kind of upset. You heaved yourself on your side but fell back on your tummy again. You were still upset but I encouraged you to keep trying. You pushed yourself to your side again, and this time you were stable. Then you rolled from your side to your back. I couldn't contain my excitement and seeing me so happy temporarily lifted your mood, but it was only temporary. I picked you up and held you in my arms until you fell asleep. You're asleep in my arms as I type this.
Congratulations on rolling over, buddy!
Love,
Mommy
This morning you rolled over, twice in a row!
It started when I sat you on the floor and you tipped forward onto your belly. You stretched out on your tummy and almost immediately rolled to your side, and from there to your back! I congratulated and praised you heartily. Then I wanted to see if you could do it again, so I put you on your tummy again. At first you were just content to be on your tummy but then you got kind of upset. You heaved yourself on your side but fell back on your tummy again. You were still upset but I encouraged you to keep trying. You pushed yourself to your side again, and this time you were stable. Then you rolled from your side to your back. I couldn't contain my excitement and seeing me so happy temporarily lifted your mood, but it was only temporary. I picked you up and held you in my arms until you fell asleep. You're asleep in my arms as I type this.
Congratulations on rolling over, buddy!
Love,
Mommy
Friday, March 02, 2007
Too Happy to Sleep
Dear Vinny,
Last night, I was really tired and definitely ready to go to sleep. You were not as tired as I was, but you didn't protest when we went upstairs and read some books, and rocked in the rocking chair. Then we went into the bedroom to lie down. At first you lay there quietly but after a few minutes you started screeching with joy for some reason. I told you it was sleepy time, but you didn't seem to care. You kept wiggling while my eyes closed because I was so tired. At one point I opened my eyes and beheld your enormous grin beaming happiness at me. I tried to remain stoic so as not to encourage you, but I burst out laughing. My little boy was too happy to sleep!
Love,
Mommy
Last night, I was really tired and definitely ready to go to sleep. You were not as tired as I was, but you didn't protest when we went upstairs and read some books, and rocked in the rocking chair. Then we went into the bedroom to lie down. At first you lay there quietly but after a few minutes you started screeching with joy for some reason. I told you it was sleepy time, but you didn't seem to care. You kept wiggling while my eyes closed because I was so tired. At one point I opened my eyes and beheld your enormous grin beaming happiness at me. I tried to remain stoic so as not to encourage you, but I burst out laughing. My little boy was too happy to sleep!
Love,
Mommy
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Giggles and Wiggles
Dear Vinny,
You have developed the most adorable belly laugh. I'd do just about anything to hear it. We play this fun new game where I kiss your belly and you grab my hair and laugh! It's totally worth getting my hair pulled.
You have not yet rolled over consistently or on purpose. Daddy reports that you have rolled over a couple of times, probably by accident. I've been trying to tempt you to roll over by putting interesting things near you but just out of reach, but so far no luck. Today I had Clement waiting for you and you easily rolled from your back to your side, but you were not interested in going any further than that. They say that easy-going babies are the last to roll over, because they're content with how things are going and have no incentive to shake things up. You are remarkably easy-going so I am not surprised that you are happy on your back.
We've had some success with our bedtime routine. There are still some nights that you are hard to parent to sleep, but you are getting used to winding down with the routine. You still love to be held but touching works too.
Over the past two weeks or so, you've become more aware of your surroundings. You seem to be developing a better understanding of the world. I think this also makes it harder for you to go to sleep, because you don't want to miss out on anything.
Mommy and Daddy love you more than ever!
Love,
Mommy
You have developed the most adorable belly laugh. I'd do just about anything to hear it. We play this fun new game where I kiss your belly and you grab my hair and laugh! It's totally worth getting my hair pulled.
You have not yet rolled over consistently or on purpose. Daddy reports that you have rolled over a couple of times, probably by accident. I've been trying to tempt you to roll over by putting interesting things near you but just out of reach, but so far no luck. Today I had Clement waiting for you and you easily rolled from your back to your side, but you were not interested in going any further than that. They say that easy-going babies are the last to roll over, because they're content with how things are going and have no incentive to shake things up. You are remarkably easy-going so I am not surprised that you are happy on your back.
We've had some success with our bedtime routine. There are still some nights that you are hard to parent to sleep, but you are getting used to winding down with the routine. You still love to be held but touching works too.
Over the past two weeks or so, you've become more aware of your surroundings. You seem to be developing a better understanding of the world. I think this also makes it harder for you to go to sleep, because you don't want to miss out on anything.
Mommy and Daddy love you more than ever!
Love,
Mommy
Sunday, February 18, 2007
Fun and Games
Dear Vinny,
The majority if the time, you are a happy little boy. You love to play with Mommy and Daddy. Some of your favorite games with Mommy include grab parts of Mommy's face and upsy-downsy boy. I've already talked about the Mommy's face game, where you grab my face and I tell you what it is that you've grabbed. Upsy-downsy boy is a game we play while I'm sitting in a chair. First I hold you up with your feet on my shoulders and exclaim, "Upsy boy!" Then I bring you down to near the floor and exclaim, "Downsy boy!" Sometimes as you're transitioning between upsy and downsy positions I give you a kiss.
You enjoy playing Where's the toofer? with Daddy. In this game, Daddy is searching for the pair of teeth that have broken through your lower jaw, and he tickles you and engages in some silly antics until you can't help but giggle and show those teeth!
You are the cutest little boy ever, and we are so proud to be your parents!
Love,
Mommy
The majority if the time, you are a happy little boy. You love to play with Mommy and Daddy. Some of your favorite games with Mommy include grab parts of Mommy's face and upsy-downsy boy. I've already talked about the Mommy's face game, where you grab my face and I tell you what it is that you've grabbed. Upsy-downsy boy is a game we play while I'm sitting in a chair. First I hold you up with your feet on my shoulders and exclaim, "Upsy boy!" Then I bring you down to near the floor and exclaim, "Downsy boy!" Sometimes as you're transitioning between upsy and downsy positions I give you a kiss.
You enjoy playing Where's the toofer? with Daddy. In this game, Daddy is searching for the pair of teeth that have broken through your lower jaw, and he tickles you and engages in some silly antics until you can't help but giggle and show those teeth!
You are the cutest little boy ever, and we are so proud to be your parents!
Love,
Mommy
Sunday, February 11, 2007
Adventures with Mommy
Dear Vinny,
On Tuesday after I got home from work, Daddy was so tired that he went upstairs and crashed into bed. You and I were left to our own devices. There was a rather large shopping list, some of which was important to get soon for you, so you and I went out on a shopping expidition.
I'd never taken you out by myself before. But it proved to be fun. We zoomed through the store, you in your baby carrier down in the basket of the shopping cart, me making funny faces at you when I wasn't occupied with looking for items or trying not to hit anything. At the checkout, an older, construction-worker type was in front of us. He seemed kind of tough and gruff until he turned around and took a look at you. Your big smile melted yet another heart!
On Thursday night, I decided to try feeding you rice cereal. I mixed the rice cereal and formula to the consistency that they said on the box was suitable for baby's first feeding. It turned out to be not much thicker than normal formula. But I fed it to you using a spoon anyhow. At first you didn't know what to make of eating off a spoon, but soon you and I both got the hang of it. I haven't had a chance to feed you solid food since then, but I think we might do it again tonight.
On Friday night, we went over to Tia and Uncle's house for dinner. You were the center of attention. Tia can't get enough of her nephew, and she is so excited about you that even her colleague Jennifer (who was also there for dinner) was entranced by you. She had seen all the pictures that Daddy takes of you, and she was really excited to meet you in person.
I had considered trying to put you in your crib in the other room to sleep. But, truthfully, I felt like that might be too sudden and scary right now. So you are still sleeping with Mommy and Daddy. The past two nights you have slept through very well. I have gotten pretty good, restful nights. For a few nights before that, you were hard to get to fall asleep. At your Aunt Rachel's suggestion, we have started a nighttime routine, in which you and I read a few books, then we rock in the rocking chair as I sing to you, and then we go to bed. You really like to be held all night, but I discovered last night that just making sure that our bodies touched all night long worked just fine. So my arm is not as sore as it was yesterday.
Some people think that co-sleeping is a bad idea, but I think it is wonderful for the whole family. Someday you will outgrow the need to sleep with Mommy and Daddy, and that is just fine. In the meantime, we are enjoying it while we can.
Love,
Mommy
On Tuesday after I got home from work, Daddy was so tired that he went upstairs and crashed into bed. You and I were left to our own devices. There was a rather large shopping list, some of which was important to get soon for you, so you and I went out on a shopping expidition.
I'd never taken you out by myself before. But it proved to be fun. We zoomed through the store, you in your baby carrier down in the basket of the shopping cart, me making funny faces at you when I wasn't occupied with looking for items or trying not to hit anything. At the checkout, an older, construction-worker type was in front of us. He seemed kind of tough and gruff until he turned around and took a look at you. Your big smile melted yet another heart!
On Thursday night, I decided to try feeding you rice cereal. I mixed the rice cereal and formula to the consistency that they said on the box was suitable for baby's first feeding. It turned out to be not much thicker than normal formula. But I fed it to you using a spoon anyhow. At first you didn't know what to make of eating off a spoon, but soon you and I both got the hang of it. I haven't had a chance to feed you solid food since then, but I think we might do it again tonight.
On Friday night, we went over to Tia and Uncle's house for dinner. You were the center of attention. Tia can't get enough of her nephew, and she is so excited about you that even her colleague Jennifer (who was also there for dinner) was entranced by you. She had seen all the pictures that Daddy takes of you, and she was really excited to meet you in person.
I had considered trying to put you in your crib in the other room to sleep. But, truthfully, I felt like that might be too sudden and scary right now. So you are still sleeping with Mommy and Daddy. The past two nights you have slept through very well. I have gotten pretty good, restful nights. For a few nights before that, you were hard to get to fall asleep. At your Aunt Rachel's suggestion, we have started a nighttime routine, in which you and I read a few books, then we rock in the rocking chair as I sing to you, and then we go to bed. You really like to be held all night, but I discovered last night that just making sure that our bodies touched all night long worked just fine. So my arm is not as sore as it was yesterday.
Some people think that co-sleeping is a bad idea, but I think it is wonderful for the whole family. Someday you will outgrow the need to sleep with Mommy and Daddy, and that is just fine. In the meantime, we are enjoying it while we can.
Love,
Mommy
Monday, February 05, 2007
Four Months!
Dear Vinny,
Today you are four months old. You had your four-month checkup at the pediatrician today. Dr. Stephens seemed really happy to see you. I guess she is getting to know you better now. She said that you are about average on weight (15 lbs), but in the 80th percentile in height and 90th percentile in head size. I guess that shows how much brain power you have!
She also told us that we can start feeding you a little bit of very runny rice cereal. I know you are ready for that. Every time we eat in front of you, you are fascinated. Your eyes follow our forks on their trips from the plate to the mouth and back. So I am looking forward to you getting a chance to eat some food yourself. I'm just sorry that it's going to be such dull food. But in time, you will eat just like Mommy and Daddy.
The doctor continues to be amazed by your advanced head control skill. It is pretty amazing to watch you. You can now lie on your tummy and hold your head up, and sometimes you roll over, but I'd say that's a skill you still need to master. But it is just a matter of time before you do.
You also had your immunizations today, four shots and one oral, and while you were pretty unhappy about them, it was nothing like last time. The nurse who administered them today was much gentler than the other nurse was.
I still love to play with you every night when I come home from work. You brighten up my day with your huge smile, which is so big that it's like your tongue is falling out, as Daddy puts it. I have a picture of you cheesing for the camera as the background on my computer, and every time I look at it I can't help but grin myself!
Love,
Mommy
Today you are four months old. You had your four-month checkup at the pediatrician today. Dr. Stephens seemed really happy to see you. I guess she is getting to know you better now. She said that you are about average on weight (15 lbs), but in the 80th percentile in height and 90th percentile in head size. I guess that shows how much brain power you have!
She also told us that we can start feeding you a little bit of very runny rice cereal. I know you are ready for that. Every time we eat in front of you, you are fascinated. Your eyes follow our forks on their trips from the plate to the mouth and back. So I am looking forward to you getting a chance to eat some food yourself. I'm just sorry that it's going to be such dull food. But in time, you will eat just like Mommy and Daddy.
The doctor continues to be amazed by your advanced head control skill. It is pretty amazing to watch you. You can now lie on your tummy and hold your head up, and sometimes you roll over, but I'd say that's a skill you still need to master. But it is just a matter of time before you do.
You also had your immunizations today, four shots and one oral, and while you were pretty unhappy about them, it was nothing like last time. The nurse who administered them today was much gentler than the other nurse was.
I still love to play with you every night when I come home from work. You brighten up my day with your huge smile, which is so big that it's like your tongue is falling out, as Daddy puts it. I have a picture of you cheesing for the camera as the background on my computer, and every time I look at it I can't help but grin myself!
Love,
Mommy
Saturday, February 03, 2007
News Alert!
Dear Vinny,
Today I felt in your mouth and felt a very sharp tooth prodruding from your lower left gum. Congratulations! All that pain was worth something!
You have a cold, unfortunately. We suctioned a lot of snot out of your nose this morning. Then today Daddy and I washed you in some soap recommended by your Aunt Rhonda, with eucalyptus and stuff to help clear your head.
Congratulations, sweet potato, on your new tooth!
Love,
Mommy
Today I felt in your mouth and felt a very sharp tooth prodruding from your lower left gum. Congratulations! All that pain was worth something!
You have a cold, unfortunately. We suctioned a lot of snot out of your nose this morning. Then today Daddy and I washed you in some soap recommended by your Aunt Rhonda, with eucalyptus and stuff to help clear your head.
Congratulations, sweet potato, on your new tooth!
Love,
Mommy
Thursday, February 01, 2007
Rock and Roll!
Dear Vinny,
This past weekend, I put you down on your back while I went to the bathroom, and when I came back, you had rolled to your side! Then Daddy put you on your tummy on Monday and Tuesday for tummy time, and you rolled onto your back. You are moving more and more. Your mommy and daddy are going to have to babyproof the house soon. Before we know it, you'll be walking!
You've had a little cold lately, so Daddy took you to the doctor today. She said your ears were fine but you have a sore throat. She didn't think it was strep, though. When you go in next week for your shots she'll check you again. She also remarked that your teeth should be coming through soon, and you are about a month ahead of most babies in terms of development.
As always you are a beautiful baby and we are very proud of you!
Love,
Mommy
This past weekend, I put you down on your back while I went to the bathroom, and when I came back, you had rolled to your side! Then Daddy put you on your tummy on Monday and Tuesday for tummy time, and you rolled onto your back. You are moving more and more. Your mommy and daddy are going to have to babyproof the house soon. Before we know it, you'll be walking!
You've had a little cold lately, so Daddy took you to the doctor today. She said your ears were fine but you have a sore throat. She didn't think it was strep, though. When you go in next week for your shots she'll check you again. She also remarked that your teeth should be coming through soon, and you are about a month ahead of most babies in terms of development.
As always you are a beautiful baby and we are very proud of you!
Love,
Mommy
Friday, January 26, 2007
Fun and Sleep
Dear Vinny,
You are growing and learning more and more every day. You are becoming more and more aware of what's going on around you, and becoming more coordinated too. You are able to hold onto Ridley the Rattle and Clement the crustacean pretty well. You are also pretty good at sitting up when we hold you at the waist. You really enjoy it when we take a washcloth or our hands and lightly brush them across your face. You have a very contagious smile and getting you to smile is worth any effort.
You are sleeping longer and longer through the night. You have gone as much as nine hours between feedings, but usually you last about 6 or 7 hours. We still sleep with you between us in the bed, although we may start putting you in your crib sometime soon.
I can tell when you're tired because you disengage and then you become a little bit cranky. The formula for putting you to sleep is to pop that binky in your mouth, hold you against my chest so you can hear my heartbeat, and pat you gently until you fall asleep. Usually when you are falling asleep you wiggle around and grab my shirt or sometimes my mouth. I know that you are actually asleep when you stop wiggling.
Love,
Mommy
You are growing and learning more and more every day. You are becoming more and more aware of what's going on around you, and becoming more coordinated too. You are able to hold onto Ridley the Rattle and Clement the crustacean pretty well. You are also pretty good at sitting up when we hold you at the waist. You really enjoy it when we take a washcloth or our hands and lightly brush them across your face. You have a very contagious smile and getting you to smile is worth any effort.
You are sleeping longer and longer through the night. You have gone as much as nine hours between feedings, but usually you last about 6 or 7 hours. We still sleep with you between us in the bed, although we may start putting you in your crib sometime soon.
I can tell when you're tired because you disengage and then you become a little bit cranky. The formula for putting you to sleep is to pop that binky in your mouth, hold you against my chest so you can hear my heartbeat, and pat you gently until you fall asleep. Usually when you are falling asleep you wiggle around and grab my shirt or sometimes my mouth. I know that you are actually asleep when you stop wiggling.
Love,
Mommy
Thursday, January 18, 2007
Developments
Dear Vinny,
As I write this entry, you are asleep in the baby carrier, with your face resting on my chest. You have been fussier lately, because of your teething. Daddy rubs Orajel on your gums and gives you Tylenol, and it seems to help. And there are plenty of times when you are not fussy.
You are taking six or even seven ounces in your bottle these days. I have bought your formula direct from the company over the internet, which cuts down on the price a bit. Daddy has figured out how to wash your bottles in the dishwasher, which cuts down on bottle maintenance time.
You are smiling more than ever. When you first see me when I come home from work, you break out a big smile. It is so cute that it melts my heart. One day I was feeling kind of depressed but when I saw that smile all my troubles just vanished.
You also enjoy grabbing onto parts of my face. You have a surprisingly strong grip. You grab onto my face, and I tell you what part you're holding. "That's Mommy's chin." "That's Mommy's lip." "That's Mommy's cheek."
You also tend to squeal with delight when you are having fun. Things you enjoy include talking with Mommy and Daddy; playing with Chloe the Cow, Clement the Crustacean, and Ridley the Rattle; kicking your feet in the air; and playing in your walker. Yes, you are big enough for your walker and Daddy puts you in it every day.
You are getting very big. You have outgrown all your 0-3 month one-piece sleep-and-plays; I replaced them the 3-6 month ones a couple of weeks ago. Lately you have had a growth spurt and I think you may have now outgrown your 0-3 month onesies too.
I love you, sweet potato!
Love,
Mommy
As I write this entry, you are asleep in the baby carrier, with your face resting on my chest. You have been fussier lately, because of your teething. Daddy rubs Orajel on your gums and gives you Tylenol, and it seems to help. And there are plenty of times when you are not fussy.
You are taking six or even seven ounces in your bottle these days. I have bought your formula direct from the company over the internet, which cuts down on the price a bit. Daddy has figured out how to wash your bottles in the dishwasher, which cuts down on bottle maintenance time.
You are smiling more than ever. When you first see me when I come home from work, you break out a big smile. It is so cute that it melts my heart. One day I was feeling kind of depressed but when I saw that smile all my troubles just vanished.
You also enjoy grabbing onto parts of my face. You have a surprisingly strong grip. You grab onto my face, and I tell you what part you're holding. "That's Mommy's chin." "That's Mommy's lip." "That's Mommy's cheek."
You also tend to squeal with delight when you are having fun. Things you enjoy include talking with Mommy and Daddy; playing with Chloe the Cow, Clement the Crustacean, and Ridley the Rattle; kicking your feet in the air; and playing in your walker. Yes, you are big enough for your walker and Daddy puts you in it every day.
You are getting very big. You have outgrown all your 0-3 month one-piece sleep-and-plays; I replaced them the 3-6 month ones a couple of weeks ago. Lately you have had a growth spurt and I think you may have now outgrown your 0-3 month onesies too.
I love you, sweet potato!
Love,
Mommy
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
Three Months!
Dear Vinny,
On Friday you turned three months old! You are growing into a very big boy, and Mommy and Daddy are extremely proud of you.
Aunt Laura came to visit this weekend. She spent all day yesterday with you, Mommy, and Daddy. She remarked about how much you had grown since she had last seen you but she said she could still recognize you as the same baby.
Today Daddy took you to the pediatrician to check up on your ears. Your ear infection has gone away and you now weigh fifteen pounds! The doctor also confirmed our fears: you have started teething. A couple of weeks ago I began noticing that you were drooling more. Your gums are kind of sandpapery and you chew on my finger rather than suck on it when I stick it in your mouth. Usually babies don't start teething until they are six months old.
You are still our sweet baby and we love you more and more as the days pass.
Love,
Mommy
On Friday you turned three months old! You are growing into a very big boy, and Mommy and Daddy are extremely proud of you.
Aunt Laura came to visit this weekend. She spent all day yesterday with you, Mommy, and Daddy. She remarked about how much you had grown since she had last seen you but she said she could still recognize you as the same baby.
Today Daddy took you to the pediatrician to check up on your ears. Your ear infection has gone away and you now weigh fifteen pounds! The doctor also confirmed our fears: you have started teething. A couple of weeks ago I began noticing that you were drooling more. Your gums are kind of sandpapery and you chew on my finger rather than suck on it when I stick it in your mouth. Usually babies don't start teething until they are six months old.
You are still our sweet baby and we love you more and more as the days pass.
Love,
Mommy
Thursday, January 04, 2007
New Year
Dear Vinny,
On New Year's Eve, your grandma and grandpa arrived. We rang the new year in by watching "Little Miss Sunshine" (while you slept). In fact, I think you were asleep at midnight.
You are recovering well from your cold. Your cough is almost gone now. I think when we take you back to the doctor next week, she will find that the ear infection is gone.
You have made some interesting developments recently. First of all, you discovered your reflection in the mirror. I don't know that you realize that it's you, but you are definitely interested in that other baby. And Daddy says that yesterday and today, you began to discover your feet. You've been lying on your back and raising your feet into the air, fascinated by them.
This evening, you had a major diaper blowout. I heard what sounded like the mud bubbling at Yellowstone. As it turned out, a bubble of gas caused your poop to leak out the leg hole and all over the place. It was pretty darn disgusting, but I managed to get you all cleaned up.
Today we got a package from your great-aunt and uncle Barb and Glen, and their kids Glenna and Julian. In it was a book of Mother Goose rhymes. I think you'll really enjoy the Mother Goose rhymes because of their rhythm. You definitely like rhythmic things like when I pat your back or when I talk to you with exaggerated rhythm.
Welcome to 2007! It is your first full year in this world, and I hope it is a good one for you.
Love,
Mommy
On New Year's Eve, your grandma and grandpa arrived. We rang the new year in by watching "Little Miss Sunshine" (while you slept). In fact, I think you were asleep at midnight.
You are recovering well from your cold. Your cough is almost gone now. I think when we take you back to the doctor next week, she will find that the ear infection is gone.
You have made some interesting developments recently. First of all, you discovered your reflection in the mirror. I don't know that you realize that it's you, but you are definitely interested in that other baby. And Daddy says that yesterday and today, you began to discover your feet. You've been lying on your back and raising your feet into the air, fascinated by them.
This evening, you had a major diaper blowout. I heard what sounded like the mud bubbling at Yellowstone. As it turned out, a bubble of gas caused your poop to leak out the leg hole and all over the place. It was pretty darn disgusting, but I managed to get you all cleaned up.
Today we got a package from your great-aunt and uncle Barb and Glen, and their kids Glenna and Julian. In it was a book of Mother Goose rhymes. I think you'll really enjoy the Mother Goose rhymes because of their rhythm. You definitely like rhythmic things like when I pat your back or when I talk to you with exaggerated rhythm.
Welcome to 2007! It is your first full year in this world, and I hope it is a good one for you.
Love,
Mommy
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Holiday Fun
Dear Vinny,
On Saturday, we went to a holiday party at the next-door neighbor's. You were a popular guy and lots of people wanted to hold you. For a long time, a neighbor down the street, Shigiro, held you and you two watched TV in the other room. You knew her from Halloween and from when Mommy and Daddy voted, because she was one of the poll workers and she watched you while we voted.
But it was that night that we noticed you were a little crankier than usual. By morning you were all stopped up and had a cough: it was your first cold. Continuing the holiday tradition of children everywhere, you were sick on Christmas. We had been invited to go over to Joe and Katie's for Christmas dinner (that's the son-in-law and daughter of the next-door neighbor) but we had to decline because you weren't feeling good.
On Christmas morning we opened our presents. You helped Mommy and Daddy open your presents. We would start to tear the wrapping paper, and then we helped you get a handhold on it and you would rip it some more. I think you will enjoy your presents more next year. You made out like a bandit. Daddy and Mommy bought you a bunch of toys, but Granny and Granddad also gave you toys as well as some cute clothes.
The day after Christmas, I took you to the doctor. As it turns out, you also had an ear infection, so you are now on amoxicillin, which they are able to put in a thick, berry-flavored liquid that you seem to think tastes pretty good. Daddy has been doing a consistently good job of spraying your nose with saline spray and sucking out your boogers, which you totally hate. But it makes it easier for you to breathe. I've also been taking advantage of the fact that you cough before you cry in order to make you clear your breathing passages. Sometimes while you're eating it sounds like you're having a hard time breathing so I take away your bottle, which makes you upset. The first thing you do before crying is you cough, so I just wait until you clear out your throat and then I give you the bottle again. It's a dirty trick, but it seems to work.
Later in the afternoon your grandma and grandpa arrived, en route to Florida. They were happy to see you, even though you were still under the weather. But you were cheered up by their charms. Your grandma spent some time cooing with you, and she really enjoyed it. Grandma and Grandpa also brought a bunch of presents, most of which were for you. Even some of the presents for Mommy and Daddy were actually for you!
They were reluctant to leave in the morning, but they knew that they'd get to see you again on their way back from Florida. They will be back tomorrow evening. I'm sure they can't wait to see you again!
Love,
Mommy
On Saturday, we went to a holiday party at the next-door neighbor's. You were a popular guy and lots of people wanted to hold you. For a long time, a neighbor down the street, Shigiro, held you and you two watched TV in the other room. You knew her from Halloween and from when Mommy and Daddy voted, because she was one of the poll workers and she watched you while we voted.
But it was that night that we noticed you were a little crankier than usual. By morning you were all stopped up and had a cough: it was your first cold. Continuing the holiday tradition of children everywhere, you were sick on Christmas. We had been invited to go over to Joe and Katie's for Christmas dinner (that's the son-in-law and daughter of the next-door neighbor) but we had to decline because you weren't feeling good.
On Christmas morning we opened our presents. You helped Mommy and Daddy open your presents. We would start to tear the wrapping paper, and then we helped you get a handhold on it and you would rip it some more. I think you will enjoy your presents more next year. You made out like a bandit. Daddy and Mommy bought you a bunch of toys, but Granny and Granddad also gave you toys as well as some cute clothes.
The day after Christmas, I took you to the doctor. As it turns out, you also had an ear infection, so you are now on amoxicillin, which they are able to put in a thick, berry-flavored liquid that you seem to think tastes pretty good. Daddy has been doing a consistently good job of spraying your nose with saline spray and sucking out your boogers, which you totally hate. But it makes it easier for you to breathe. I've also been taking advantage of the fact that you cough before you cry in order to make you clear your breathing passages. Sometimes while you're eating it sounds like you're having a hard time breathing so I take away your bottle, which makes you upset. The first thing you do before crying is you cough, so I just wait until you clear out your throat and then I give you the bottle again. It's a dirty trick, but it seems to work.
Later in the afternoon your grandma and grandpa arrived, en route to Florida. They were happy to see you, even though you were still under the weather. But you were cheered up by their charms. Your grandma spent some time cooing with you, and she really enjoyed it. Grandma and Grandpa also brought a bunch of presents, most of which were for you. Even some of the presents for Mommy and Daddy were actually for you!
They were reluctant to leave in the morning, but they knew that they'd get to see you again on their way back from Florida. They will be back tomorrow evening. I'm sure they can't wait to see you again!
Love,
Mommy
Monday, December 18, 2006
Visitors and Parties
Dear Vinny,
On Thursday night, Granny and Granddad came down for Uncle Wayne's heart surgery. They were really happy to see you and remarked about how much you had grown. They also brought with them a carload of presents, the vast majority of them for you.
After Granny and Granddad left on Saturday, we went over to Sho's house for his birthday. You slept for much of the time, but you were a big hit with Sho's parents. They really like babies but haven't had one in the house for a long time.
Then last night we went to my department's holiday party. My colleague Rick's wife Sarah really doted on you and enjoyed holding you. There was another baby there, who was 4 months old, but you were half his age and twice his size!
Then today we were special guests at the birthing class that Mommy and Daddy went to before you were born. We were there to tell the story of your birth and reassure people that they will make it through the ordeal. You were so cute that you stole the show. That's something I've gotten used to since you've been around. You are way cuter than Mommy or Daddy could ever hope to be!
Love,
Mommy
On Thursday night, Granny and Granddad came down for Uncle Wayne's heart surgery. They were really happy to see you and remarked about how much you had grown. They also brought with them a carload of presents, the vast majority of them for you.
After Granny and Granddad left on Saturday, we went over to Sho's house for his birthday. You slept for much of the time, but you were a big hit with Sho's parents. They really like babies but haven't had one in the house for a long time.
Then last night we went to my department's holiday party. My colleague Rick's wife Sarah really doted on you and enjoyed holding you. There was another baby there, who was 4 months old, but you were half his age and twice his size!
Then today we were special guests at the birthing class that Mommy and Daddy went to before you were born. We were there to tell the story of your birth and reassure people that they will make it through the ordeal. You were so cute that you stole the show. That's something I've gotten used to since you've been around. You are way cuter than Mommy or Daddy could ever hope to be!
Love,
Mommy
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Two Months
Dear Vinny,
Tuesday was your two-month birthday. It is hard to believe that a mere two months ago, you were born. You have changed a lot since then. For one, you are more responsive to us. If we tickle your mouth, you smile. It is enough to melt my heart when you grin so wide and stick your tongue out.
Today we took you to the doctor for your two-month appointment. You have grown a lot in a month. You weighed in at 13 lbs 2 oz, and 24-1/4" long. That puts you in the 90th percentile for both height and weight. Unfortunately, you also had to have some vaccinations today: one oral vaccine, and four shots. You were very unhappy with the shots, and rightly so, because I'm sure they hurt like the dickens. They gave you two in each thigh. Daddy held your hands while the nurse braced your legs against the table with her body. You cried a lot and I'm sorry it had to hurt like that, but really, getting those shots is much less painful than getting the diseases they protect against. You'll have to go back in February for some more shots.
Words cannot express how much I love you and how proud I am to be your mommy. I really enjoy holding you. Every night I take you up to bed and hold you on my chest until you fall asleep. Then I place you to my side but continue to cradle you in my arms. You sleep peacefully, up to five and sometimes six hours that way. I am glad that I can help you to sleep so peacefully.
Love,
Mommy
Tuesday was your two-month birthday. It is hard to believe that a mere two months ago, you were born. You have changed a lot since then. For one, you are more responsive to us. If we tickle your mouth, you smile. It is enough to melt my heart when you grin so wide and stick your tongue out.
Today we took you to the doctor for your two-month appointment. You have grown a lot in a month. You weighed in at 13 lbs 2 oz, and 24-1/4" long. That puts you in the 90th percentile for both height and weight. Unfortunately, you also had to have some vaccinations today: one oral vaccine, and four shots. You were very unhappy with the shots, and rightly so, because I'm sure they hurt like the dickens. They gave you two in each thigh. Daddy held your hands while the nurse braced your legs against the table with her body. You cried a lot and I'm sorry it had to hurt like that, but really, getting those shots is much less painful than getting the diseases they protect against. You'll have to go back in February for some more shots.
Words cannot express how much I love you and how proud I am to be your mommy. I really enjoy holding you. Every night I take you up to bed and hold you on my chest until you fall asleep. Then I place you to my side but continue to cradle you in my arms. You sleep peacefully, up to five and sometimes six hours that way. I am glad that I can help you to sleep so peacefully.
Love,
Mommy
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Mommy's first day of work
Dear Vinny,
Today was my first day back at work. Actually, I was trying to ease back into it so I did only a half day. I missed you a lot. The people at work were happy to see me, and curious about how you were doing. As I told them, you are doing great. You have just recently started to smile at me and Daddy. At first we really had to coax it out of you, but now it comes easily when you are sufficiently alert and cheerful. And when that smile comes across your face it is like a beam of sunshine, straight to the heart. When I miss you at work I just picture your smiling face and it makes me feel better.
Love,
Mommy
Today was my first day back at work. Actually, I was trying to ease back into it so I did only a half day. I missed you a lot. The people at work were happy to see me, and curious about how you were doing. As I told them, you are doing great. You have just recently started to smile at me and Daddy. At first we really had to coax it out of you, but now it comes easily when you are sufficiently alert and cheerful. And when that smile comes across your face it is like a beam of sunshine, straight to the heart. When I miss you at work I just picture your smiling face and it makes me feel better.
Love,
Mommy
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Thanksgiving
Dear Vinny,
We shared Thanksgiving dinner with the neighbor and her family. She invited us over for dinner at the beginning of the month too, but I don't think you remember that because you slept pretty much the whole time! Anyhow, we were once again at the table with Ann, her daughter Katie and son-in-law Joe, and their kids Bert and Amelia, and joined for the first time by Ann's son Quentin. The dinner was delicious and a good time was had by all. This time Daddy and I had to eat in shifts because you were awake and fussy if we put you down.
Amelia is just a couple of months older than you. Right now that is a big difference (developmentally speaking) but I think as time goes on you may become friends and playmates.
It is good to have such nice neighbors and I hope that we continue to see them.
Love,
Mommy
We shared Thanksgiving dinner with the neighbor and her family. She invited us over for dinner at the beginning of the month too, but I don't think you remember that because you slept pretty much the whole time! Anyhow, we were once again at the table with Ann, her daughter Katie and son-in-law Joe, and their kids Bert and Amelia, and joined for the first time by Ann's son Quentin. The dinner was delicious and a good time was had by all. This time Daddy and I had to eat in shifts because you were awake and fussy if we put you down.
Amelia is just a couple of months older than you. Right now that is a big difference (developmentally speaking) but I think as time goes on you may become friends and playmates.
It is good to have such nice neighbors and I hope that we continue to see them.
Love,
Mommy
Monday, November 20, 2006
Meeting more family
Dear Vinny,
This past weekend, we traveled to Kentucky. It was our first major trip away from home with you. We stayed with Grandma and Grandpa and you got to meet even more family.
The purpose of the visit was to give your 98-year-old great-grandmother (my mother's mother) a chance to meet you. But while we were at it, Grandpa brought his mother over from Evansville, Indiana, so you got to meet your other great-grandma too.
On Saturday morning we took you over to great-grandma's place at the retirement home. I always knew that she liked babies, but seeing you really brightened up her day. She gasped at the sight of you and was overwhelmed by your cuteness. Although she has trouble with her short-term memory, she remembered you for days afterwards.
Great-grandma Mary found you to be adorable too. I don't see how anyone couldn't. You are a handsome young lad, and you don't mind meeting new people. Your grandma couldn't get enough of you, either. She literally snatched you from my arms on more than one occasion. I didn't mind, though, because I am always happy to see how much all these people love you!
On Saturday evening, your great-Aunt Rosemary arrived from New York, on her way to Evansville for Thanksgiving. She was also excited to meet you. She held you and even fed you once (Grandma let her have that opportunity.)!
Then on Sunday, we went over to comfy Aunt Rhonda's house, where you got a chance to see Granny and Granddad again, and also to meet your cousins Stuart and Ian, and your Uncle John, and your Aunt Ginger and Uncle Johnny. I don't know what it is about grandmothers, but once Granny got ahold of you, she didn't want to let go. But she gave Aunt Ginger a chance to hold you and feed you and get to know you. While we were there, we dressed you in this Santa outfit that Granny and Granddad had bought for you, because they wanted a picture of you in it. You were okay with the outfit until we put the hat on you. I don't know what it is about hats but you hate them with a passion. But we managed to get a nice picture of you with Granddad.
Vinny, you are a lucky boy indeed to have so many relatives who love you so much! The only close relatives you have yet to meet are your Uncle Scott, your cousin Byron, and Aunt Laura's girlfriend Anne. But I am confident that you will be a big hit with them, too.
Love,
Mommy
This past weekend, we traveled to Kentucky. It was our first major trip away from home with you. We stayed with Grandma and Grandpa and you got to meet even more family.
The purpose of the visit was to give your 98-year-old great-grandmother (my mother's mother) a chance to meet you. But while we were at it, Grandpa brought his mother over from Evansville, Indiana, so you got to meet your other great-grandma too.
On Saturday morning we took you over to great-grandma's place at the retirement home. I always knew that she liked babies, but seeing you really brightened up her day. She gasped at the sight of you and was overwhelmed by your cuteness. Although she has trouble with her short-term memory, she remembered you for days afterwards.
Great-grandma Mary found you to be adorable too. I don't see how anyone couldn't. You are a handsome young lad, and you don't mind meeting new people. Your grandma couldn't get enough of you, either. She literally snatched you from my arms on more than one occasion. I didn't mind, though, because I am always happy to see how much all these people love you!
On Saturday evening, your great-Aunt Rosemary arrived from New York, on her way to Evansville for Thanksgiving. She was also excited to meet you. She held you and even fed you once (Grandma let her have that opportunity.)!
Then on Sunday, we went over to comfy Aunt Rhonda's house, where you got a chance to see Granny and Granddad again, and also to meet your cousins Stuart and Ian, and your Uncle John, and your Aunt Ginger and Uncle Johnny. I don't know what it is about grandmothers, but once Granny got ahold of you, she didn't want to let go. But she gave Aunt Ginger a chance to hold you and feed you and get to know you. While we were there, we dressed you in this Santa outfit that Granny and Granddad had bought for you, because they wanted a picture of you in it. You were okay with the outfit until we put the hat on you. I don't know what it is about hats but you hate them with a passion. But we managed to get a nice picture of you with Granddad.
Vinny, you are a lucky boy indeed to have so many relatives who love you so much! The only close relatives you have yet to meet are your Uncle Scott, your cousin Byron, and Aunt Laura's girlfriend Anne. But I am confident that you will be a big hit with them, too.
Love,
Mommy
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