Dear Vinny,
We have noticed some remarkable developments in you lately.
First of all, you have begun to regularly communicate your desire to have a bottle! Since you were about two months old, we've been squeezing our hand and saying "ba-ba" to you just before giving you your bottle. This has paid off because you now request a bottle by doing the same thing. It must be quite empowering for you to be able to communicate your hunger.
Second, you have tried a lot of new foods and eaten them without gagging too much. Most recently, I gave you some tofu, which you seemed to like well enough. I put some small chunks of it on your tray and you picked it up and ate it, like you do with cheerios. In addition, I mashed up some banana and fed it to you, and you absolutely loved it. How did I know that? Because you exclaimed "mmmmm" as you ate it! I also tried giving you chunks of banana like the tofu or cheerios, but you soon discovered that it was a lot more fun to squeeze the banana in the palm of your hand and through your fingers than to actually eat it!
Third, and most significantly, you have become stronger and much more mobile. Even though you're still not crawling, you can roll and fishy-flop without difficulty. I understand that you need to be able to sit up from the lying down position before you will be able to crawl, so you still need to learn to do that. The problem is that your head is big, so that makes it difficult to master these gross motor skills. But I am confident that you will pick this up soon!
Yesterday afternoon I made you some pear sauce. I fed it to you tonight, and unlike the last time I made it, you didn't gag on it at all. I think this is because you are becoming more and more skilled in eating.
This evening you and I had a fun time roughhousing. You were rolling and flopping around on the floor in your room, and I was tickling you. It is fun to play with you, sweet boy!
Love,
Mommy
Monday, June 25, 2007
Another Busy Weekend
Dear Vinny,
This past weekend, we invited over Ann from next door, along with her daughter Katie, son-in-law Joe, and grandchildren Bert and Amelia. You were a very good sport on Friday and Saturday while Mommy and Daddy cleaned the house, and I think you had a good time with our guests too. You took a brief nap during dinner, but otherwise you were alert and watching and interacting.
I plugged in the electric keyboard, and you had a great time banging on the keys. Amelia sat on it and started one of the automatic songs, which was pretty funny.
Amelia is about six months older than you, so she is already crawling around and very mobile. At one point she saw you and decided to kiss you. She gave you several big smooches before moving on to poking you in the eye and smacking you with a toy. Her mom put a stop to that but you didn't seem to be much bothered by it. You definitely enjoyed the kisses.
I think we all had a good time, and resolved to get together again soon!
Love,
Mommy
This past weekend, we invited over Ann from next door, along with her daughter Katie, son-in-law Joe, and grandchildren Bert and Amelia. You were a very good sport on Friday and Saturday while Mommy and Daddy cleaned the house, and I think you had a good time with our guests too. You took a brief nap during dinner, but otherwise you were alert and watching and interacting.
I plugged in the electric keyboard, and you had a great time banging on the keys. Amelia sat on it and started one of the automatic songs, which was pretty funny.
Amelia is about six months older than you, so she is already crawling around and very mobile. At one point she saw you and decided to kiss you. She gave you several big smooches before moving on to poking you in the eye and smacking you with a toy. Her mom put a stop to that but you didn't seem to be much bothered by it. You definitely enjoyed the kisses.
I think we all had a good time, and resolved to get together again soon!
Love,
Mommy
Monday, June 18, 2007
Busy Weekend
Dear Vinny,
This past weekend was a busy one. On Saturday, we went over to my colleague Sreekanth's house to meet Baby Aneesh. Aneesh is just nine weeks old. We gave him some of your old clothes that you had outgrown. You were the star of the show. Since you're six months older than Aneesh, you are quite a bit more active and aware and generally charming. You smiled and giggled and flirted for Sreekanth and Maria. You didn't pay much attention to Aneesh. You didn't object to being held by Sreekanth or Maria while Mommy held Baby Aneesh.
Then on Sunday, we celebrated Father's Day with Daddy. You gave him a card that you had written on at least a little bit. Daddy was very touched. I think he's as proud to be your Daddy as I am to be your Mommy!
Love,
Mommy
This past weekend was a busy one. On Saturday, we went over to my colleague Sreekanth's house to meet Baby Aneesh. Aneesh is just nine weeks old. We gave him some of your old clothes that you had outgrown. You were the star of the show. Since you're six months older than Aneesh, you are quite a bit more active and aware and generally charming. You smiled and giggled and flirted for Sreekanth and Maria. You didn't pay much attention to Aneesh. You didn't object to being held by Sreekanth or Maria while Mommy held Baby Aneesh.
Then on Sunday, we celebrated Father's Day with Daddy. You gave him a card that you had written on at least a little bit. Daddy was very touched. I think he's as proud to be your Daddy as I am to be your Mommy!
Love,
Mommy
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Baby Gourmet
Dear Vinny,
This past weekend, I got inspired to cook for you. First I noticed that you were biting on everything, including Mommy and Daddy and your own arm. So I decided to make you some teething biscuits. I wanted to make them without wheat if I could, because my grandfather was allergic to wheat and I didn't want you to get that allergy. So I came up with a concoction that turned out to make pretty good teething biscuits. You have chewed on them a few times, with success.
Then, I had read that babies love to eat a combination of peaches and chicken, so I made you some peaches out of some frozen peaches that we had, and I also poached a chicken breast and ground it up. The chicken was pretty dry, but the peaches moistened it up. At first, you didn't know what to make of peaches and chicken, but then you decided that you liked it and you ate it with enthusiasm.
They say that babies go through every sound in all languages as they develop. On Thursday, you started making the rolled French r sound with your uvula. You are really good at it although to us it kind of sounds like you're gargling. Yesterday you did it in between sips of juice, so I think you really may have been gargling.
You really get a kick out of it when Mommy or Daddy make a retching sound. I don't know why, but it totally cracks you up. It's a really good way to get you giggling so much I think you'll never stop. I have no idea what's so funny, but whatever works for you!
You have all the prerequisites for crawling, you just need to put all the moves together. Until recently, when you would reach out for something you would do a face plant. But since about Friday you are able to retain your balance on your hands and knees, so I think it's just a matter of time before you figure it out.
You are such a sweet baby boy!
Love,
Mommy
This past weekend, I got inspired to cook for you. First I noticed that you were biting on everything, including Mommy and Daddy and your own arm. So I decided to make you some teething biscuits. I wanted to make them without wheat if I could, because my grandfather was allergic to wheat and I didn't want you to get that allergy. So I came up with a concoction that turned out to make pretty good teething biscuits. You have chewed on them a few times, with success.
Then, I had read that babies love to eat a combination of peaches and chicken, so I made you some peaches out of some frozen peaches that we had, and I also poached a chicken breast and ground it up. The chicken was pretty dry, but the peaches moistened it up. At first, you didn't know what to make of peaches and chicken, but then you decided that you liked it and you ate it with enthusiasm.
They say that babies go through every sound in all languages as they develop. On Thursday, you started making the rolled French r sound with your uvula. You are really good at it although to us it kind of sounds like you're gargling. Yesterday you did it in between sips of juice, so I think you really may have been gargling.
You really get a kick out of it when Mommy or Daddy make a retching sound. I don't know why, but it totally cracks you up. It's a really good way to get you giggling so much I think you'll never stop. I have no idea what's so funny, but whatever works for you!
You have all the prerequisites for crawling, you just need to put all the moves together. Until recently, when you would reach out for something you would do a face plant. But since about Friday you are able to retain your balance on your hands and knees, so I think it's just a matter of time before you figure it out.
You are such a sweet baby boy!
Love,
Mommy
Thursday, June 07, 2007
Eight Months!
Dear Vinny,
On Tuesday, you turned eight months old. It is hard to believe that only eight months ago, you were born. But it is true.
You have learned a lot in the past month. You are able to sit up from a reclined position, which is impressive. You haven't figured out how to crawl yet, but I think it's just a matter of putting all the pieces together. You've learned how to pick up a cheerio, put it in your mouth, chew it up, and swallow it. The cheerio makes it into your mouth more frequently and you gag on it less and less.
Your eighth tooth is just popping out of the gum. It seems like you could be getting molars at some point soon, because you like to chew on things with the back of your jaw. Something else that's strange that you do with your teeth is you sort of grind the front teeth together to create a very strange popping sound.
Every day I spend with you is truly a joy. You are so good-natured and happy! I hope that you continue to feel so happy as you grow up.
Love,
Mommy
On Tuesday, you turned eight months old. It is hard to believe that only eight months ago, you were born. But it is true.
You have learned a lot in the past month. You are able to sit up from a reclined position, which is impressive. You haven't figured out how to crawl yet, but I think it's just a matter of putting all the pieces together. You've learned how to pick up a cheerio, put it in your mouth, chew it up, and swallow it. The cheerio makes it into your mouth more frequently and you gag on it less and less.
Your eighth tooth is just popping out of the gum. It seems like you could be getting molars at some point soon, because you like to chew on things with the back of your jaw. Something else that's strange that you do with your teeth is you sort of grind the front teeth together to create a very strange popping sound.
Every day I spend with you is truly a joy. You are so good-natured and happy! I hope that you continue to feel so happy as you grow up.
Love,
Mommy
Tuesday, June 05, 2007
Weekend Visits
Dear Vinny,
This weekend was very busy. We went to Kentucky to celebrate Granny and Granddad's 40th anniversary on Sunday. But on Saturday, Daddy and I left you with Grandma and Grandpa for the evening. From what I understand, you had a lot of fun with them. They took you on a walk to the arboretum, and they fed you some peaches and more, and they also gave you a bath in the kitchen sink. You enjoyed it all, and you didn't cry or miss us at all, although I think you were happy to see us on Sunday morning.
We went over to Aunt Rhonda's house after noon. Your cousins Stuart and Ian and your Aunt Ginger and Uncle Johnny were already there, and Granny and Granddad arrived soon after. Your Aunt Ginger was really excited to see you, and she held you for a while, until Granny and Granddad arrived. Granny really wanted to hold you, and she got plenty of opportunity to do so, but Granddad hogged you for a great deal of time too. Daddy gave Granddad a drawing of you and Granddad together, and I had gotten Granny a digital photo keychain that Daddy filled with photos of you. They were both quite pleased by their gifts. I don't know how they couldn't be pleased to have pictures of their incredibly cute grandson!
At one point, we all lined up to have a family photo taken. I was holding you in my arms behind your cousin Stuart. You thought that Stuart's hair was so interesting that you kept on pulling it. But Stuart was very patient with you, and didn't get upset with you pulling on his hair. Back in the house, Daddy took a really good picture of you and your cousins.
Soon it was time to go, and we went back to Grandma and Grandpa's house. We spent the night there, and in the morning you stayed with Grandma and Grandpa while Daddy and I went shopping for a Father's Day present for Grandpa. At lunch we celebrated Father's Day by giving Grandpa his present, as well as a card from me and one from you that Daddy had had you scribble on with a marker. Grandpa was thrilled with his present and with his card from you. In the afternoon we went to see my grandmother, your great-Grandma. Great-Grandma was cheered by the sight of you. You were very sweet to her and you even reached out and touched her face a few times. She was pleased with how nice of a young man you are!
Eventually it was time for us to go home, so we packed, put you in the car and headed home. You were asleep when we started but you soon woke up, and you were not too happy about how things were. You fussed most of the way home, but you fell asleep close to the Tennessee border. We brought you inside, fed you a bottle, and took you to bed.
Over all, we had a great trip and I think you really enjoyed yourself. But it was nice to be back home and back to our more normal life.
Love,
Mommy
This weekend was very busy. We went to Kentucky to celebrate Granny and Granddad's 40th anniversary on Sunday. But on Saturday, Daddy and I left you with Grandma and Grandpa for the evening. From what I understand, you had a lot of fun with them. They took you on a walk to the arboretum, and they fed you some peaches and more, and they also gave you a bath in the kitchen sink. You enjoyed it all, and you didn't cry or miss us at all, although I think you were happy to see us on Sunday morning.
We went over to Aunt Rhonda's house after noon. Your cousins Stuart and Ian and your Aunt Ginger and Uncle Johnny were already there, and Granny and Granddad arrived soon after. Your Aunt Ginger was really excited to see you, and she held you for a while, until Granny and Granddad arrived. Granny really wanted to hold you, and she got plenty of opportunity to do so, but Granddad hogged you for a great deal of time too. Daddy gave Granddad a drawing of you and Granddad together, and I had gotten Granny a digital photo keychain that Daddy filled with photos of you. They were both quite pleased by their gifts. I don't know how they couldn't be pleased to have pictures of their incredibly cute grandson!
At one point, we all lined up to have a family photo taken. I was holding you in my arms behind your cousin Stuart. You thought that Stuart's hair was so interesting that you kept on pulling it. But Stuart was very patient with you, and didn't get upset with you pulling on his hair. Back in the house, Daddy took a really good picture of you and your cousins.
Soon it was time to go, and we went back to Grandma and Grandpa's house. We spent the night there, and in the morning you stayed with Grandma and Grandpa while Daddy and I went shopping for a Father's Day present for Grandpa. At lunch we celebrated Father's Day by giving Grandpa his present, as well as a card from me and one from you that Daddy had had you scribble on with a marker. Grandpa was thrilled with his present and with his card from you. In the afternoon we went to see my grandmother, your great-Grandma. Great-Grandma was cheered by the sight of you. You were very sweet to her and you even reached out and touched her face a few times. She was pleased with how nice of a young man you are!
Eventually it was time for us to go home, so we packed, put you in the car and headed home. You were asleep when we started but you soon woke up, and you were not too happy about how things were. You fussed most of the way home, but you fell asleep close to the Tennessee border. We brought you inside, fed you a bottle, and took you to bed.
Over all, we had a great trip and I think you really enjoyed yourself. But it was nice to be back home and back to our more normal life.
Love,
Mommy
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Stacking
Dear Vinny,
Today Daddy bought you a stacking toy. It has rainbow-colored donuts that stack on a spindle. When I got it out of the packaging, you were absolutely fascinated. You picked up the donuts and examined them closely. At one point you took two donuts in your hands and banged them together. You first banged two objects together over the weekend. So you are learning new skills.
You haven't started crawling yet, although Daddy reported yesterday that you moved your walker forward all on your own! And sometimes, I think you kind of crawl backwards, although not very far and probably not on purpose.
You've held up well to the heat the past few days when the air conditioning has been out. We've just dressed you more lightly and that has helped.
For a while, you had kind of stopped doing your cute geek laugh, but these past few days you've been geeking out a lot. It is still incredibly cute and makes us laugh!
Love,
Mommy
Today Daddy bought you a stacking toy. It has rainbow-colored donuts that stack on a spindle. When I got it out of the packaging, you were absolutely fascinated. You picked up the donuts and examined them closely. At one point you took two donuts in your hands and banged them together. You first banged two objects together over the weekend. So you are learning new skills.
You haven't started crawling yet, although Daddy reported yesterday that you moved your walker forward all on your own! And sometimes, I think you kind of crawl backwards, although not very far and probably not on purpose.
You've held up well to the heat the past few days when the air conditioning has been out. We've just dressed you more lightly and that has helped.
For a while, you had kind of stopped doing your cute geek laugh, but these past few days you've been geeking out a lot. It is still incredibly cute and makes us laugh!
Love,
Mommy
Monday, May 28, 2007
Weekend of Fun
Dear Vinny,
This weekend, we have been very busy. On Friday, I had the day off and we mostly just relaxed. We went to Home Depot in the afternoon, where one of the employees was entranced by you and spoke in his native tongue to you. I couldn't tell if he was African or Haitian, but he spoke French to you.
On Saturday, we had the annual neighborhood picnic. You are quite the people-watcher, so I carried you around from person-to-person, and you talked with them all. Marilyn from down the street, and our hostess Marty wanted to hold you, so you graciously agreed to be held and charmed them with your big smile.
On Sunday, Tia and Uncle came over for dinner. Before they came, you and I went to Kroger and did some major grocery shopping. I carried you in the sling, and you seemed to think that was okay, although you were kind of tired and by the end you were getting cranky. Daddy cooked a big meal for the adults, and you had peaches. You seem to like peaches, although the first time you tried them you didn't know quite what to make of them. We have also given you some prune juice, because you don't poop as often as you should.
Today, we have once again spent most of the day relaxing and playing with you. You are a joy to be with, as usual!
Love,
Mommy
This weekend, we have been very busy. On Friday, I had the day off and we mostly just relaxed. We went to Home Depot in the afternoon, where one of the employees was entranced by you and spoke in his native tongue to you. I couldn't tell if he was African or Haitian, but he spoke French to you.
On Saturday, we had the annual neighborhood picnic. You are quite the people-watcher, so I carried you around from person-to-person, and you talked with them all. Marilyn from down the street, and our hostess Marty wanted to hold you, so you graciously agreed to be held and charmed them with your big smile.
On Sunday, Tia and Uncle came over for dinner. Before they came, you and I went to Kroger and did some major grocery shopping. I carried you in the sling, and you seemed to think that was okay, although you were kind of tired and by the end you were getting cranky. Daddy cooked a big meal for the adults, and you had peaches. You seem to like peaches, although the first time you tried them you didn't know quite what to make of them. We have also given you some prune juice, because you don't poop as often as you should.
Today, we have once again spent most of the day relaxing and playing with you. You are a joy to be with, as usual!
Love,
Mommy
Saturday, May 19, 2007
A Perfect Day
Dear Vinny,
This morning, we had a pancake breakfast with Granny and Granddad. You sat in your high chair and had your bottle while we enjoyed our pancakes.
After Granny and Granddad left, we went to the park and had a picnic lunch. We sat on a blanket under a tree, by the lake. The weather was beautiful. You played with some toys, and Daddy took a bunch of pictures of you and also drew a portrait of you and me. Then you and I headed over to the playground and I got you into a swing. I pushed you and as you began to swing, you loved it. You smiled broadly and you giggled as you saw me getting closer and farther.
Then, we went home and you and I took a long nap. I cradled you in my arms and you slept soundly for more than two hours. You woke up when Daddy was just about finished making dinner. We went into the dining room, and you enjoyed some peas while Mommy and Daddy had their dinners.
During dinner, we realized that you didn't really know how to chew. So Daddy made some exaggerated chewing motions, and you imitated him. Daddy chewed a cheerio, and then he gave you a small piece and you chewed it (or at least you tried to). I think that it was more successful than previous times when we've given you cheerios to eat.
You're not crawling yet, but I think you are such an easy-going little guy that you're not impatient for change. You do get into the crawling position and rock, but you haven't really connected that to movement yet. We continue to put things slightly out of your reach, to see if it will tempt you to crawl.
Thank you for being such a sweet baby, and having such a good day with us!
Love,
Mommy
This morning, we had a pancake breakfast with Granny and Granddad. You sat in your high chair and had your bottle while we enjoyed our pancakes.
After Granny and Granddad left, we went to the park and had a picnic lunch. We sat on a blanket under a tree, by the lake. The weather was beautiful. You played with some toys, and Daddy took a bunch of pictures of you and also drew a portrait of you and me. Then you and I headed over to the playground and I got you into a swing. I pushed you and as you began to swing, you loved it. You smiled broadly and you giggled as you saw me getting closer and farther.
Then, we went home and you and I took a long nap. I cradled you in my arms and you slept soundly for more than two hours. You woke up when Daddy was just about finished making dinner. We went into the dining room, and you enjoyed some peas while Mommy and Daddy had their dinners.
During dinner, we realized that you didn't really know how to chew. So Daddy made some exaggerated chewing motions, and you imitated him. Daddy chewed a cheerio, and then he gave you a small piece and you chewed it (or at least you tried to). I think that it was more successful than previous times when we've given you cheerios to eat.
You're not crawling yet, but I think you are such an easy-going little guy that you're not impatient for change. You do get into the crawling position and rock, but you haven't really connected that to movement yet. We continue to put things slightly out of your reach, to see if it will tempt you to crawl.
Thank you for being such a sweet baby, and having such a good day with us!
Love,
Mommy
Visitors
Dear Vinny,
On Thursday, Granny and Granddad came down for a visit. They came to see you, of course. Daddy had bought a computer for Granddad, and before they left, Daddy filled it up with pictures of you.
Granny was really happy to see you. It was hard for me to get a chance to hold you after I came home from work on Thursday and Friday. But I am always glad that your grandparents love you so much.
On Wednesday, you had a "Helen Keller" moment, when you realized that you could wave. Interestingly, you had this moment while you had your arm horizontal, with the back of your hand on your chin. So you put your hand on your chin and wiggle your fingers, and that's your wave. It's kind of strange, but incredibly cute!
Last night, your seventh tooth began coming in. It's on the bottom left, next to your middle teeth that are already in. It's hard to believe that you're getting even more teeth. You'll be ready for that pork chop in no time!
Love,
Mommy
On Thursday, Granny and Granddad came down for a visit. They came to see you, of course. Daddy had bought a computer for Granddad, and before they left, Daddy filled it up with pictures of you.
Granny was really happy to see you. It was hard for me to get a chance to hold you after I came home from work on Thursday and Friday. But I am always glad that your grandparents love you so much.
On Wednesday, you had a "Helen Keller" moment, when you realized that you could wave. Interestingly, you had this moment while you had your arm horizontal, with the back of your hand on your chin. So you put your hand on your chin and wiggle your fingers, and that's your wave. It's kind of strange, but incredibly cute!
Last night, your seventh tooth began coming in. It's on the bottom left, next to your middle teeth that are already in. It's hard to believe that you're getting even more teeth. You'll be ready for that pork chop in no time!
Love,
Mommy
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Party Weekend
Dear Vinny,
This past weekend, you were very busy. As I said before, Saturday was busy with Amelia's birthday and going out to dinner with Tia and Uncle. But then, on Sunday, we went for a pool party with Amelia and her family. Amelia's grandma had a wading pool, which she filled with water. At first, you were unhappy about the pool, because you thought it was a bath. But I gradually got you accustomed to it, and by the end you were content to be sitting in the pool all on your own.
After your swim, we sat in the neighbor's screened-in porch and had some dinner. You fell asleep on my lap. Amelia's parents were amazed that you would just fall asleep like that.
You continue to be a happy and adorable baby, and Mommy and Daddy love you so much!
Love,
Mommy
This past weekend, you were very busy. As I said before, Saturday was busy with Amelia's birthday and going out to dinner with Tia and Uncle. But then, on Sunday, we went for a pool party with Amelia and her family. Amelia's grandma had a wading pool, which she filled with water. At first, you were unhappy about the pool, because you thought it was a bath. But I gradually got you accustomed to it, and by the end you were content to be sitting in the pool all on your own.
After your swim, we sat in the neighbor's screened-in porch and had some dinner. You fell asleep on my lap. Amelia's parents were amazed that you would just fall asleep like that.
You continue to be a happy and adorable baby, and Mommy and Daddy love you so much!
Love,
Mommy
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Talk and Crawl
Dear Vinny,
You are growing fast. Recently, you have been jabbering a lot. You say "ma-ma-ma-ma-da-da-da-ba-ba" and similar strings of syllables. I am amazed by how verbal you have become.
This morning, I think you signed for a bottle. You squeezed your hand into a fist, just like we do every time we give you a bottle.
You are also getting ready to crawl. On Tuesday, Daddy reported that you crawled backwards very slowly. You readily get into the crawling position (on your hands and knees), but you haven't really put it all together yet. But it is a matter of time before you are mobile, and Mommy and Daddy need to prepare for that!
Love,
Mommy
You are growing fast. Recently, you have been jabbering a lot. You say "ma-ma-ma-ma-da-da-da-ba-ba" and similar strings of syllables. I am amazed by how verbal you have become.
This morning, I think you signed for a bottle. You squeezed your hand into a fist, just like we do every time we give you a bottle.
You are also getting ready to crawl. On Tuesday, Daddy reported that you crawled backwards very slowly. You readily get into the crawling position (on your hands and knees), but you haven't really put it all together yet. But it is a matter of time before you are mobile, and Mommy and Daddy need to prepare for that!
Love,
Mommy
Party Boy
Dear Vinny,
Yesterday was a big day. It was Amelia's first birthday, so we went to her grandmother's house next door for the party.
You were the youngest baby there. Unlike the rest of the children, you are not yet mobile, so you contented yourself by sitting on the floor and watching everyone. You are quite the people watcher.
Then, that evening, we went out to dinner with Tia and Uncle to celebrate Mother's Day. You sat at the table with us, on a portable high chair that used to be Byron's. You watched all the people in the restaurant, and you ate some prunes during dinner. But most of the time, you jabbered a lot. I think you were really enjoying yourself.
After dinner, we went over to Tia and Uncle's house, and you had fun with Tia. But then you got kind of sleepy and we took you home. You fell asleep in the car and we put you to bed in your crib, where you slept until morning.
Love,
Mommy
Yesterday was a big day. It was Amelia's first birthday, so we went to her grandmother's house next door for the party.
You were the youngest baby there. Unlike the rest of the children, you are not yet mobile, so you contented yourself by sitting on the floor and watching everyone. You are quite the people watcher.
Then, that evening, we went out to dinner with Tia and Uncle to celebrate Mother's Day. You sat at the table with us, on a portable high chair that used to be Byron's. You watched all the people in the restaurant, and you ate some prunes during dinner. But most of the time, you jabbered a lot. I think you were really enjoying yourself.
After dinner, we went over to Tia and Uncle's house, and you had fun with Tia. But then you got kind of sleepy and we took you home. You fell asleep in the car and we put you to bed in your crib, where you slept until morning.
Love,
Mommy
Saturday, May 05, 2007
Seven Months!
Dear Vinny,
Today you are seven months old. It is amazing to think about how tiny you were when you were born, compared to your size now. You weren't even eight pounds seven months ago, yet you must be over twenty by now!
On Friday, Daddy fed you some prunes for the first time. You loved them! You grabbed the spoon out of Daddy's hand and made quite a mess with the prunes. We are still finding prunes everywhere on you, from that time and from the day after, when I fed you some more prunes. There's a smudge of prunes behind your ear, and on the calf of your leg, and on your right eyelid... prunes everywhere!
Your top four teeth are all coming in at once. I'm not sure why they all decided to come in at the same time, but they've broken through the gums, finally. You are also getting better and better at sitting up on your own. Your balance is improving and you haven't done any face plants recently.
We continue to enjoy watching you grow and change. I love you, little boy!
Love,
Mommy
Today you are seven months old. It is amazing to think about how tiny you were when you were born, compared to your size now. You weren't even eight pounds seven months ago, yet you must be over twenty by now!
On Friday, Daddy fed you some prunes for the first time. You loved them! You grabbed the spoon out of Daddy's hand and made quite a mess with the prunes. We are still finding prunes everywhere on you, from that time and from the day after, when I fed you some more prunes. There's a smudge of prunes behind your ear, and on the calf of your leg, and on your right eyelid... prunes everywhere!
Your top four teeth are all coming in at once. I'm not sure why they all decided to come in at the same time, but they've broken through the gums, finally. You are also getting better and better at sitting up on your own. Your balance is improving and you haven't done any face plants recently.
We continue to enjoy watching you grow and change. I love you, little boy!
Love,
Mommy
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Sounds of Joy
Dear Vinny,
You are becoming more vocal with every passing day. You have been babbling a lot and screeching with excitement, which is really thrilling to listen to. You've said "ma-ma" and "da-da," but I'm not convinced that you know what you're saying.
In addition, sometimes you get very excited and start giggling. I find it really humorous when you laugh with this very hoarse laugh, like you're inhaling when you laugh. It's like you have your own geek laugh and it's just so adorable!
I fed you some avocado, finally, but you weren't too crazy about it. I think the problem was that I didn't mash it up enough for you. You still like your foods to be pureed. But I will try again later, and take more care mashing it up.
I love you, little boy!
Love,
Mommy
You are becoming more vocal with every passing day. You have been babbling a lot and screeching with excitement, which is really thrilling to listen to. You've said "ma-ma" and "da-da," but I'm not convinced that you know what you're saying.
In addition, sometimes you get very excited and start giggling. I find it really humorous when you laugh with this very hoarse laugh, like you're inhaling when you laugh. It's like you have your own geek laugh and it's just so adorable!
I fed you some avocado, finally, but you weren't too crazy about it. I think the problem was that I didn't mash it up enough for you. You still like your foods to be pureed. But I will try again later, and take more care mashing it up.
I love you, little boy!
Love,
Mommy
Saturday, April 21, 2007
Growth and Change
Dear Vinny,
You are growing and changing with every day that passes. These days, you take 9 ounces in your bottle every 5-7 hours. We've fed you peas and green beans, and you seem to like them both. Next we're going to give you some avocado, whenever I get around to buying you one at the grocery store. We also give you pear juice almost every day, to help keep you regular. Otherwise, you seem to get pretty constipated and then you cry a lot when you finally go.
You are babbling a lot these days. You've figured out how to say "ma-ma-ma" although I'm pretty sure you're not talking about me. You love to giggle and shriek too. Daddy makes a funny face at you and that's all it takes to put you into a giggling fit. I'm not nearly as funny as Daddy, but sometimes I can get you to giggle by kissing your tummy or vibrating your hand, tummy, or face with the "V" sound of your name. "Vvvvvinny!" I exclaim. The big smile this causes is reward enough.
You are beginning to sleep through the night. You begin to wake up and wiggle halfway through the night, but if we hold you, you fall back to sleep without fully awakening. And one night last week, Daddy put you in your crib and you slept there the whole night. So maybe you don't require our presence so much to sleep.
We're not sure exactly what color your eyes are going to be, but it's pretty clear that they're not blue like Daddy's. Right now they are somewhere between green and brown. It will be interesting to see what the final color will be. Your Aunt Laura has hazel eyes, and you may end up with the same. Other than the eyes, you look a lot like Daddy. You have the same chin and ears. Your fingers and toes are long and slender like his. Your hair takes after Daddy's side more than mine. You have very fine, blond hair right now, kind of strawberry blond like your Aunt Rhonda. I wonder if it will darken as you age.
You are an amazing little boy and I love watching you learn and grow!
Love,
Mommy
You are growing and changing with every day that passes. These days, you take 9 ounces in your bottle every 5-7 hours. We've fed you peas and green beans, and you seem to like them both. Next we're going to give you some avocado, whenever I get around to buying you one at the grocery store. We also give you pear juice almost every day, to help keep you regular. Otherwise, you seem to get pretty constipated and then you cry a lot when you finally go.
You are babbling a lot these days. You've figured out how to say "ma-ma-ma" although I'm pretty sure you're not talking about me. You love to giggle and shriek too. Daddy makes a funny face at you and that's all it takes to put you into a giggling fit. I'm not nearly as funny as Daddy, but sometimes I can get you to giggle by kissing your tummy or vibrating your hand, tummy, or face with the "V" sound of your name. "Vvvvvinny!" I exclaim. The big smile this causes is reward enough.
You are beginning to sleep through the night. You begin to wake up and wiggle halfway through the night, but if we hold you, you fall back to sleep without fully awakening. And one night last week, Daddy put you in your crib and you slept there the whole night. So maybe you don't require our presence so much to sleep.
We're not sure exactly what color your eyes are going to be, but it's pretty clear that they're not blue like Daddy's. Right now they are somewhere between green and brown. It will be interesting to see what the final color will be. Your Aunt Laura has hazel eyes, and you may end up with the same. Other than the eyes, you look a lot like Daddy. You have the same chin and ears. Your fingers and toes are long and slender like his. Your hair takes after Daddy's side more than mine. You have very fine, blond hair right now, kind of strawberry blond like your Aunt Rhonda. I wonder if it will darken as you age.
You are an amazing little boy and I love watching you learn and grow!
Love,
Mommy
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Six Months!
Dear Vinny,
On Thursday, you turned six months old! We took you to the doctor for your checkup, and you weighed 19 pounds and were 27.5 inches long. That's about the 75th percentile for weight, 85th percentile for height, and 95th percentile for head size.
The doctor said that you could start eating vegetables now. We're starting you with green beans, then peas, and then branch out to orange vegetables, before moving on to fruit. At some point I'm going to try feeding you some avocado, because that's supposed to be really good baby food.
The doctor was a little disappointed that you couldn't sit up on your own yet. But on Sunday, you just spontaneously decided to sit unassisted, without even tripoding yourself with your hands. I don't know how you did it, but you figured it all out at once!
Your Grandma and Grandpa came back through town on Saturday night on their way home. I think they will do just about anything to see you. If they were going to New York, they'd take the southern route through Tennessee!
Daddy made you a nice Easter basket. He put some toys, a teething stuffed animal, and some packages of baby beans and peas in it. We started you off on the green beans on Sunday, and you seemed to like them.
Last night, we opened your Easter basket from Granny and Granddad. It was very big, full of toys, clothes, and stuffed animals. Daddy took lots of pictures of you opening the Easter basket. It was very nice of Granny and Granddad to send that basket for you!
I can't believe that it's been six months since you were born! So much has changed since then, but you are still my sweet little baby. Congratulations on your six month birthday, sweet potato!
Love,
Mommy
On Thursday, you turned six months old! We took you to the doctor for your checkup, and you weighed 19 pounds and were 27.5 inches long. That's about the 75th percentile for weight, 85th percentile for height, and 95th percentile for head size.
The doctor said that you could start eating vegetables now. We're starting you with green beans, then peas, and then branch out to orange vegetables, before moving on to fruit. At some point I'm going to try feeding you some avocado, because that's supposed to be really good baby food.
The doctor was a little disappointed that you couldn't sit up on your own yet. But on Sunday, you just spontaneously decided to sit unassisted, without even tripoding yourself with your hands. I don't know how you did it, but you figured it all out at once!
Your Grandma and Grandpa came back through town on Saturday night on their way home. I think they will do just about anything to see you. If they were going to New York, they'd take the southern route through Tennessee!
Daddy made you a nice Easter basket. He put some toys, a teething stuffed animal, and some packages of baby beans and peas in it. We started you off on the green beans on Sunday, and you seemed to like them.
Last night, we opened your Easter basket from Granny and Granddad. It was very big, full of toys, clothes, and stuffed animals. Daddy took lots of pictures of you opening the Easter basket. It was very nice of Granny and Granddad to send that basket for you!
I can't believe that it's been six months since you were born! So much has changed since then, but you are still my sweet little baby. Congratulations on your six month birthday, sweet potato!
Love,
Mommy
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Fun with Grandparents
Dear Vinny,
This weekend, your Grandma and Grandpa came for a visit. They were on their way to the beach in North Carolina. You had so much fun with your grandparents.
On Saturday night, Tia and Uncle came over for dinner. We all ate outside on the deck. After dinner, Grandma and Grandpa took you downstairs to watch the NCAA men's basketball tournament.
Speaking of eating, Daddy has fed you some mashed banana a couple of times. The first time, you seemed to really like it. But when we fed it to you on Saturday night, you weren't so interested in it.
On Sunday afternoon, we went to the American Museum of Science and Energy here in town. Daddy took a picture of you under a black light there.
Speaking of pictures, I recently bought a new camera for Daddy for his belated Valentine's Day present. He has used it to take even more pictures of you. It has better resolution and a lot of fancy settings that he's working on figuring out.
You are a wonderful little boy and I am so happy to be your mother!
Love,
Mommy
This weekend, your Grandma and Grandpa came for a visit. They were on their way to the beach in North Carolina. You had so much fun with your grandparents.
On Saturday night, Tia and Uncle came over for dinner. We all ate outside on the deck. After dinner, Grandma and Grandpa took you downstairs to watch the NCAA men's basketball tournament.
Speaking of eating, Daddy has fed you some mashed banana a couple of times. The first time, you seemed to really like it. But when we fed it to you on Saturday night, you weren't so interested in it.
On Sunday afternoon, we went to the American Museum of Science and Energy here in town. Daddy took a picture of you under a black light there.
Speaking of pictures, I recently bought a new camera for Daddy for his belated Valentine's Day present. He has used it to take even more pictures of you. It has better resolution and a lot of fancy settings that he's working on figuring out.
You are a wonderful little boy and I am so happy to be your mother!
Love,
Mommy
Sunday, March 25, 2007
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
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
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
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