Where We Are: Graydon at 6 Months

We are six months into the life and times of Graydon, and heavens, I am loving everything about this boy's story so far.

In most ways, he is a very typical six month old. He's hitting all of his milestones beautifully: he rolls like a whirling dervish, sits up unsupported, and eats, with great gusto and much mess, three solid meals a day.

He likes carrots. A lot.

In other ways, he is precocious. He said his first word yesterday on the Fourth of July: Da-Da. Said very clearly, distinctly, and with a huge smile and eyes fixed on Tim right after he walked in.  It was unmistakable. It seems impossibly early, but I checked my blog, and Addie said Mama right around the same time. And yes, he's kind of a Daddy's boy. I pretend not to mind this.

His sister dressed him. Please notice that the crown says "New Mom to Be". And that thing he's holding? A magic wand. And he's so pleased about it. Someone must have explained the concept of "bribery" to Addie.

In some ways, he is difficult. He doesn't sleep through the night yet. Are you kidding me? He wakes up predictably between 11 PM and midnight, again between 2 and 4, and gets up for the day at 6:30. And take his toys away at your peril (I'm looking at you, Addie). He will get FURIOUS in a hot minute if you take the thing he happens to be gumming. He breastfeeds like a champ, so much so, that a normal nursing position now bores him. He now attempts to nurse AND watch everything that is going around him AND perform the kind gymnastics that only prepubescent Chinese girls are capable of...all whilst attached to me. Can you say "niplash"? I'm living that dream.

His shirt says "usually stays awake." Touche, Target, touche. And that pink giraffe? Addie picked that out for "the baby" while I was pregnant.

I pretend to mind this. In reality, I love the middle of the night snuggle sessions and his crazy antics make me laugh. Even though niplash does suck. Pun intended.

In all ways, and at all times, he is adored. And he's so strong. He has already fought through some big challenges for such a little guy.

One month old, in the intensive care unit

G man, we are so glad that you are here and that you belong to us. And we are so thankful for you!

We love your crazy curly mohawk hair, your "blayzel" eyes (blue/gray/hazel), your dimpled grin, and your magnificent thighs (credit to Nicole for that descriptor!).

And most of all, we love your sweet spirit, your exuberant good nature, and your tender and loving heart. We would not be the same without you and we are so glad that you're our son. Happy half-birthday, big guy!