Two Monthaversary!

Wow! That last month just FLEW by!!! Can you believe it?

Now our wee little froggy-legged, Alfalfa haired newborn is TWICE the size of his new friend Sara Babish, born last Friday! He's the big boy in town at 12 lbs, 23 inches, firmly in the 50th percentile (outside of his head, which continues its streak at 80th!)

He's smiling every day! Nolie finds daddy and his array of smiles and accents hilarious, and is quite entertained at mommy's myriad expressions. He mirrors us all the time, right down to his daily attempts at conversation with a chorus of oohs, coos and gurgles.

We are so in love with our little snugly mush ball. Happy 2 Months Nolester!

Lucky Number Seven

At seven plus weeks, little Nolie is well into smiling, holding his head up, and sucking on his hand. Before I had a child, I always felt that these many "milestones" were no big deal. Now, I am amazed by each little change he makes, each challenge he meets.

Hearing him start to laugh is priceless. Watching him stand (with significant help from us) is mesmerizing. I love his little hula dance he does as he tries to gain his balance. And seeing him sleep peacefully (though still not that much at night) is perfection.

I can't wait to see what he is going to do next.

Happiest Baby on the Block

It's been quite an expressive week at the House-o-Raelin!!! Nolan is becoming increasingly alert and aware of his surroundings. And in particular, of us!

We've shared lots of looks, morning smiles, even some sounds of laughter! He also tries to "talk" to us regularly, and makes this heartwarming coo whenever he is content. Particularly sweet when we feel at the end of our ropes, and he looks straight in our eyes, smiles from ear to ear and gives a happy sigh. Cures bad moods instantly!

We're looking forward to more shared moments, giggles, and learning the amazing language of our baby.

All Snowed In!!!

Well we are just emerging from "Nemo", the first blizzard of 2013. We kept ourselves cozy and warm through the weekend, while we watched the world around is get blanketed in 2.5 feet of snow.

Despite the crazy weather, we had a lovely time connecting as a family, and listening to Nolie practice conversations in babyese. All his gurgles, coos and sighs make for some great stories!!!! I love his repertoire of sounds- the newborn orchestra.

Upwards and Onwards to Month Two

Mired in the midst of sleepless nights, dirty diapers, and feeding frenzies, we still marvel everyday at Nole's amazing progress. When we first took him home, I never thought we'd make it this far. With help and support from my folks, friends, and each other, we, indeed, have and then some!

Now Nolie is out of his newborn diapers, smiling like a pro, and even turning his head during his "tummy time" exercises. Unfortunately, being back at work means I miss some of these treasures so I'm doing my best to make the most of my time with the little guy when I'm home.

Here's to another month of learning, growing, and FUN!

2 Pounds x 2 Inches Equals No Sleep Forevermore

Nolie passed his one month check-up with flying colors! He's now 9 lbs, 12 oz and 21 3/4 inches tall. And his head circumference holds steady in the 80th percentile...he's got a great big head!

I spent yesterday in organizer mode, and redid all the clothing drawers and storage in the nursery, bidding adieu to newborn sized items. It's quite fun discovering new. outfits for him, and now it's not such a struggle getting onesies over his sizable head :)

We've had a few play dates with neighboring infants, namely James (9 wks) and his mom Amy, and Eila (8 wks) and her mother Heather. The kiddos pretty much alternated sleep and wake cycles, so they never quite acknowledged one another - but we mamas had a terrific time bonding and learning about how similar our experiences have been! Feels good to hear you're not in this alone.

Happy One Month Nolie!!!

Well, as of Sunday January 27, Nolie is one month old. Already???!!! We know - time flies when you're living with a newborn. And we've already seen so many milestones!

First off we're in disbelief that he's outgrown his newborn clothes. He's also getting a bald spot like daddy! Nolie's starting to resemble an itty bitty octogenarian.

He makes eye contact now - that is when he's not looking past our heads at the window or blinds - the excitement of pattern play! He also tracks our whereabouts - particularly during tummy time when he turns his head left and right to find mom's face or dad's voice.

Nolie's pushing with his legs, either to climb Mt. Mama to cover her face in baby "bites," or to kick up with froggy legs when he practices jumping. And he's now regularly attempting to lift his head throughout the day! Baby steps indeed.

Meanwhile mommy and daddy are continuing to adjust to a sleepless and love-filled life. Jeremy went back to work last week, while Mel is adjusting to solo time with the little guy. Luckily Grandma and Papa Joe Raelin come over weekly to provide support, along with local friends who visit and help out. Along with y'all in our online community- through this blog, Facebook, and phone check-ins.

As life becomes more social and oriented to the outside world, we find ourselves posting less. But never fear, we will continue to tell the story of Life with Nolan as it unfolds. Now enjoy his latest photographic highlights from the parent paparazzi!