5 months...

You kick your little legs and flap your arms in excitement whenever you spot me. You smile and reach for me to pick you up, its downright adorable. Your temperament is as sweet as can be, friends and strangers alike remark on your happiness. I think you're perfect. Even in Flagstaff this weekend when you're a bit "out of sorts" and have only taken a few ten minute naps all day, you are still so polite and smiley. As long as you can keep an eye on me, all is well. But, heaven forbid I walk past when your heart is set on me holding you... Well then, your little feelings get hurt and you might start to cry.

You suck your thumb. It's so stinking cute and I love it. It helps contribute to your "perfect baby" title because most of the time, I'm able just to lay you down and you pop in the thumb, roll to the side, and sweetly soothe yourself to sleep. You are beautiful. Smooth skin and bright blue eyes. I confess I've missed more than a few "well checks" at the pediatrician's office because taking you and your brothers by myself to see the doctor sounds like a disaster waiting to happen. I do have an appointment in two weeks scheduled, though. My aunt is going to accompany us. Not sure if we will count it for your four month check or your six month one. Who cares, really? The days are busy and have their own rhythm. I do my best to not over schedule.

Little one, you've been sleeping through the night for some time but I have to admit that I stopped keeping count of that milestone a few kids back. I have noticed, however, that the past week or so you've woken up at 3 or 4am. When you cry, I pull you into bed with me and you nurse and we both fall back asleep together. I return you to your little bassinet beside my bed when I wake up an hour or so later. I'm guessing that means you are gearing up for solids foods but I'm just not willing to accept you can be that big already!

Sister baby, Anna Jean, sweetie girl. We all take turns cooing and cuddling and making you giggle throughout the day. We have a special song we sing just for you. Each of your brothers loves on you in a way entirely unique to themselves. Jared cares for you, you make Caleb laugh. Will is especially attentive. Will did inform your daddy today, though, that if he's playing with you and your head shakes up and down "like this" (demonstrates with his own head), it's too rough. Yes, Will has been known to get a little too excited with you sometimes! Shocker. You're going to be a tough cookie, no doubt about it.

The simple truth is, you light up our lives. I have to practically pinch myself when I stop to think that in all the days you've been in our family, I've never had to leave you or even miss one feeding. I am so grateful for that. So, so grateful Don't grow too fast on me, Sister Baby, I'm not sure I could handle it. Xoxo