Happy 3 Months!

Collier, 

I think I'm going to say this around the 23rd of every month....I cannot believe that you're already 3 months old!  I also can't believe that I have one short month before I return to the "normal" life of a working mom.  I'm trying to treasure every sweet moment with your perfect baby-ness....spending a few extra minutes rocking you after you fall asleep (In fact, I was just doing this.  You must have been having sweet dreams because you were chuckling and smiling in your sleep.  Adorable :), and sneaking in snuggle time whenever I can get it.  You are such a cuddle bug, and I love it!

The last month has been a bit trying at times.  We are all three trying to figure out a routine that works for everyone; you getting the sleep you need, and eating at more regular times (you snacking every hour and a half was really wearing on mommy!) us getting to eat dinner sitting down, occasional exercise, and time together.  Most days, you are on an three-hour eat-play-sleep routine.  Hurray!  You seem reassured and comforted by this routine, and have fewer meltdowns.  You have had a lot of exciting "firsts" this month: your first nights in your crib, Father's Day, first trip to Grandpa and Nana's house, a babysitter for the evening, meeting new friends (namely Caroline--I think you were smitten), and a visit from Aunt Maureen.  You also had your first laugh this month.  Mommy was making silly noises, and you just let out a little chuckle--it was the sweetest sound!  You reserve your laughs for rare occasions, but we love them!  You're still growing like a weed:  13 pounds, and 25 inches long.  I calculated that if you continue growing at this rate, you will be over 3.5 feet tall by your first birthday.  So, slow down, please! :)  

Visiting your buddy Davis.  We'll eventually get a picture of both of you smiling. :)

Caroline liked you too! ;)

Aunt Maureen came to meet you, and brought you a very sweet Mickey Mouse lovey. 

Sleeping like a champ in your crib

You are quite the observer, little bug.  You love to be where you can look around, especially outside, and you like to look at different people, but you're not sure if you want them to hold you or not.  You enjoy being read to, and love to look at the pictures in books.  Your favorite toy is your activity gym, and you love looking in the mirror and talking to the critters that hang from the gym.  You've started to bat at toys, and occasionally will grab onto them.  Probably because you want to see what's going on, you have such strong head and neck control--people comment on this all the time ("Look how well he holds his head!").  Of course, we know that you're just advanced. :)

You love seeing yourself in the mirror

Having a conversation with Artie the Octopus

Check out how strong you are!

This month we've also discovered that you do not like loud noises like the rumbling of pushing the grocery cart through the parking lot, or the bus cart at a restaurant, or a car alarm.  You make the saddest face when something startles you--your eyes get so wide, and you stick your bottom lip out, then start to cry.  It's impossible not to scoop you up.  You also have a strong disdain for the car seat (maybe there's no one to talk to?), and bath time.

You think silly noises are just hilarious

So serious!

The last three months have been the best, most challenging, most rewarding, and most full months of my life so far.  Thank you, bug, for adding so much to our lives.  We love you so much!

Love, Mommy and Daddy