Ten weeks.

Well, your ninth week was filled to the brim with new experiences and lots of interaction with friends and family. Spring is almost here and we're getting outside more and more. You are smiling all the time now and judging from all the noises you make, you are clearly on the verge of real laughter. You recognize us easily and your eyes follow us across the room. You suck on two fingers until you fall asleep- you're still averaging eight hours a night. You are often frustrated with your inability to move yourself how you'd like. You would run if you could! You hold your head up so high when we lift you up. Your hair looks even redder lately, especially in the sunlight. You don't like being in a cradle hold, unless you're being fed- you would always rather face the action head on, sitting up. 

We started the week with a long dinner with our good friends whom we met in birthing class. Their sweet baby girl is five weeks old. I love seeing the two of you together- we can't wait to see your relationship play out. On this visit you seemed to notice each other a little more than usual. I always wonder what that must feel like- seeing another baby when you are a baby. We love sharing you with everyone who has loved you since before you were even born.

You had your two month check up with the pediatrician. You weighed 14 lbs 10 oz- up a full pound since our trip to the Farm! You were 24 inches long. He proclaimed you fantastic. You had your first round of shots. I cried as much as you did. I was concerned when, several hours after the fact, you started crying and didn't stop. You nursed pretty easily though, and wound yourself down. The next morning you seemed better than ever- actually, you had maybe your biggest ever poop. Five diapers, one pair of leggings, the lid to the wipes, and the changing pad cover all had to be washed promptly afterwards. I laid you on the bed and you fell asleep almost instantly, one fist raised triumphantly. You're prolific!

Your Pop celebrated his birthday- you helped me bake a chocolate covered cherry cake from the wrap. We had friends over with snacks and pizza and beer. There was music and a bonfire. We turned Facetime into a video baby monitor- a modern parenting innovation- which allowed us both to enjoy the party outside while you slept inside. You were most certainly the life of the party, smiling and flirting for the small crowd that gathered around you. You won over many admirers and met a few of our friends for the first time. Later in the week I went to a Mama's night out and enjoyed lots of snacks and conversation. Your Pop was happy to have some one on one time with you, but of course, you slept. All the other moms brought their babies- I'll have to bring you next time and show off your cheeks. Your Uncle Walker flew into town to play a show with his band. We went to an outdoor show, your first musical event. You stayed awake long enough to greet your Uncle for the second time and then fell asleep. You didn't seem to mind the crowd or the music. We had a family dinner before his show and you showed off a few of your big smiles and even said "Hi." Your Grandpapa "Birdie watched" for us while we went to the show. Lucky him, you slept the whole time we were gone. 

This weekend you took your first bottle. I doubt we'll try it again anytime soon. I was mostly curious and had also already expressed the milk. It was very interesting to be able to see you eat from a different angle. You kept looking at me, confused as to how your Pop could be holding you and I could be over there while you ate. You ate 3 oz. in about ten minutes but didn't seem very satisfied with the experience. Later you had your first bath in the kitchen sink. You cooed and hardly fit in it. Afterwards we wrapped you up in a huge fluffy white towel.

We had brunch with the downstairs neighbors and took a walk on the greenway- your first time in a stroller. It wore you out for sure, especially after a nice long meal on a bench in the sunlight. It feels good to be social and to introduce you to the world. And oh what a big world it is! With warmer weather will come playing in water, laying in the grass, long hikes, rides on bikes, afternoon naps, shorter sleeves, and bigger hats. The fun is honestly just beginning.