Lois previously wrote about Russell’s birth story but we haven’t updated you on Russell since then. Here’s that post you’ve been waiting for, from Russell’s first five months!
October & November – noticing growth every day: rounder head, darker skin, more time with eyes open. Had baby shower near end of month. Lots of stress from baby and moving, though R quickly settled into new home. R’s paperwork got done. Outgrowing some clothes already. Started bed-sharing on day 4 and never looked back. Discovered diaper rash. Squeaks a lot. Showered with gifts at end of November. Loot includes awesome hats from Frances, story books and toys oh my, and enough clothes until he is 2 years old.
December – R’s hunger and sleepy cues are either getting more consistent or we just got better at noticing them (or likely both). Christmas at granny’s, met cousins for first time. Saw snow. first shots :( after which he had a small fever. Overreacting parents called newborn hotline freaking out about a 38 degree “fever.” First reliable smile/grin response to play while being changed – ah kick kick kick kick! Got Momo Sling.
January – had thrush scare but doctor says not to worry. Started EC-ing by peeing in sink. Spending 1 day a week with tai-po (great grandma). R giggles to person grinning, noticed own shadow. Slept 4-5 hours in one shift forr 2 weeks in a row before reverting. Noticing his pudge! Enjoys “see-food” and other tongue goofs. Got ERGObaby. Watches me and Matt while we use phone/computer. Diaper rash disappeared at some point. Poo is less frequent but bigger and smellier!
February – Babytime at the Library → silly songs and rhymes. Making songs up when we forget words. Enjoys “falling” down and up. Fusses when need to pee/poop sometimes but not reliably. Went swimming, doesn’t like it much :( Started rolls – first on slanted futon with help from giraffe, then on floor with no help, from front → back. Arches when nursing because of distraciton, needs to be clamped/lay down nursing.
March – More swimming! Granny came to swim and R started enjoying it. Tasted lemon, grapefruit, strawberries, canteloup, ice cream, bacon. Pees more often in potty than not. Does not sleep well at night, escaping from swaddle frequently. Enjoys songs about riding, marching, elevators and cuckoo clocks. Plays “gasp! ah nom nom nom nom” with Matt. Loves to chase Gir. Got Jolly Jumper. Mastering nursing in sling/Ergo.