Joy

My goodness how quickly things can change in a few weeks. It wasn't that long ago I was losing my mind from lack of sleep, constant nursing and lack of patience. But I am so incredibly thankful that the last couple months are best described as joyous.

A big part of this is that Ivor is finally getting enough food and as a result sleeping much better, which means I am sleeping more and, voilà, the world seems right again! Instead of feeling like I am in a constant battle (where I am losing), I find myself smiling and laughing again, snapping less and playing more.

It feels so much healthier that my little boy is now the source of my joy instead of a fixture of my groaning. I just can't get over how cute, cuddly and lovable this little boy is! I spend most of my days kissing his cheeks, belly, feet and any body part I can get hold of while he's rolling and commando crawling around, exploring his new-found mobility. Everyday he becomes more and more social and tuned in to the world around him. It really is so sweet to watch.

At 7 1/2 months, Ivor is developing quicker than I can keep track. He now loves to feed himself, making use of his two little teeth, and turn the pages/lift the flaps in his books himself. Nothing cracks him up more than trying to 'feed' his food to Mommy. I am constantly shocked by how much food Ivor's tiny body can consume, but he is almost back up to the percentile he was at birth and I love the new fat rolls he is starting to develop.

Ivor's favorite activities include standing and jumping (with support, of course), making noise, reading 'touch and feel' books, and looking at pictures of Mommy, Daddy and especially himself. My little observer loves to people watch and see new things so long as Mommy or Daddy are close by. It usually takes him a while to warm up to new people/situations, but once he's comfortable it is impossible not to be charmed by his smiles and squeals.

I am loving this new phase with Ivor!