Family and Fun

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