4 Month Stats

The results are in! Drumroll please........ Violet weighs in at a whopping 15 pounds 4 ounces! That's the 90th percentile, folks! I knew she was a big girl, but my goodness! Fortunately, at 25.5 inches, she's also in the 90th percentile for height, so at least she's proportional. Her head circumference (who knew they even measured that? and why?) is only in the 50th percentile, however. So looks like the noggin has some catching up to do.

Yesterday, in preparation for her big day today, Violet managed to work herself 360 degrees around in the exersaucer all by herself. The practice paid off, because she wowed Dr. Teague with all her mad skills. Holding her head up while pulled into a sitting position - check. Tracking an object 180 degrees- check. Lifting her head up during tummy time - check. That little stinker was just showing off for the doctor. I never get all that fancy tummy time action. We have the go-ahead to start rice cereal whenever we want, although like Dr. Teague says, there's not really any rush. If anything, it would just give her good practice eating from a spoon, but it's not like she needs the extra calories or anything. We'll see. It might be a fun new experiment to try if things get dull around here. (Ha!) We had a good report all around, and then Violet earned four blue Snoopy band-aids on her chunky little thighs after her shots. Her crankiness aside, today was a pretty good day. I even bought some ice cream for myself to help Violet feel better after her shots. (Don't ask me how that logic works, it just does.)

Of course, the internet was down all day, which kinda sucked for me. Matt came and rescued the situation just now and I gleefully logged on to find only two legit emails amidst the junk, and only two sad little updates on Facebook. Depressing. I might need more friends.

However, no internet meant I had plenty of time to catch up on my book club pick. (It took me a while to figure out what to do without the computer... it was back to the Dark Ages for a while there until I remembered I have a stack of books to plow through.) July's pick is Forrest Gump - we were going for something patriotic, but that was the closest we could find without having to read some long, dry war book that's been adapted into a long, bloody war movie. And I'll take a box of chocolates over war movies any day. But... I'm not reading Forrest Gump just yet. The library misplaced both copies, so I was forced to jump ahead to August's pick. August equals football season (go Dawgs!) and in honor, we're reading The Blind Side. And let me tell you, that book is awesome. The story is great, plus it's backed up with all these interesting insider football facts that a nerd like me can really enjoy.

I've come to realize that I like reading books that educate me in subjects I didn't know anything about, but do so in a sneaky, fascinating way. Sort of like eating a delicious meal only to find out that the chef snuck in a full serving of vegetables without you even realizing it. Healthy, and yummy! Seabiscuit comes to mind as another example. Before reading that book, I knew little about horse racing and didn't care to really learn any more. But I devoured that book. Came away entertained and enlightened. And that's all any author came hope for, I suppose. Anyway, now I have to hope I can finish The Blind Side and still make it through Forrest Gump before the end of July. Before Violet, reading was a breeze. But now the only time I have to sit down with a book is while the baby is napping, and let's face it, I have a long list of more productive things I should be doing while she's sleeping. Sigh. Still, a good book can grab hold of me by the collar and keep my eyes open far longer than they should be each night, so I think my chances are pretty good this time around.

Monday's Child

18 Weeks!

Is this not such a grown up picture of the Little Miss? I swear, she gets bigger every day. And is this not an adorable outfit? Yeah, good story about that. So these clothes were a gift from our neighbor K., and I've just been waiting for Violet to grow into them so I could dress her up and show her off. Well. Every single time she has worn this outfit, she has pooped in it. I'm not kidding. And it's not just a little poop. It's the kind of squirt that necessitates changing her entire outfit, plus the changing pad cover, and walking her straight to the bathtub and plopping her in. Gross. Today we were at Walmart when Violet started pitching a fit and I got home only to discover, yep, the outfit's streak (haha, get it?) is still alive. And now I'm washing the car seat cover as well. Good times! But she looked good while it lasted.

In other news, we went to the pool! Saturday was perfectly overcast and I jumped on the chance to actually get Violet in the water. I wrestled on her bathing suit, grabbed the floaty and booked it down there. We flew out of the house so fast, poor Matt was left at home doing yard work and missed the whole thing. I was also woefully unprepared as it was lunchtime and I had no food. But we didn't stay that long, anyway. Just long enough for Violet to enjoy the water (apparently not screaming = enjoying, I'm told) and make tons of new friends. No one can resist a cute baby, apparently! I felt bad for all the other kids, though. Their moms kept yelling for them not to splash around the baby (which I appreciated, but was unnecessary. I can protect my own!) Alas, not having Matt there means there are no beautiful photographs of Violet's first dunk, but I'm sure we'll rectify that soon.

In the meantime, you can enjoy this close encounter of the cute kind:

 

Just Add Water

Violet got a swimsuit! Okay, this post would be way better if the accompanying photo had been taken in the pool instead of our living room. But it's still so frackin' hot outside, I'm not sure when we'll ever be able to venture down the block to the pool. So... this is all you get.

Totally worth it, though, right? I know I said I was going for a two-piece for the convenience factor, but our Target sucks right now and this was all I could come up with. Still, I looked for the suit with the easiest on-and-off set up, and this won. It's a halter top (good grief!). Still that does make for easy access. There were some other cute ones, but with criss-cross straps or an awkward one shoulder design and I could just see the nightmare unfolding if I needed to get it off her anywhere within a four mile radius of other people's ears. But the one I got it rather cute, I do say so myself.

Now, if only this heat wave would pass us by and give me a chance to actually get to the pool, I'd be happy!

Bubble Bath!

So Violet is getting a little too big for her bathtub. In fact, she's getting a little too big for a lot of things. She's growing out of her clothes like mad, but that's okay because I have a closet full of stuff for her. But today I went to get her a bathing suit (we have an awesome neighborhood pool and have only been once! It's practically a crime, considering what we pay in HOA fees. It's just too darn hot to even contemplate it!) and it was too small! I mean, I know the sizes they put on there are totally arbitrary. What fits one kid at six months will fit another kid at four months. But I just couldn't reconcile myself to the idea that she might actually be too big for a 6M. Naturally, she was. Plus that thing is a pain to put on. It's hard enough squeezing myself into a one-piece. It's almost impossible when you have a chubby, squirming, complaining child. So now, once again, I'm considering doing something I said I would never do. I might actually buy my baby girl a two-piece. Oh the irony. I'm not even in a two-piece this year! But it would be so much easier to put on her, especially considering how much she hates getting dressed right now. Remember when she used to hate to be naked? We've definitely turned a new corner. Now she hates putting clothes on. Not wearing them, just getting them on. Eh, we'll see. If I can find a swimsuit that actually fits her, maybe it will be different. Back a-Targeting I go.

Back to the bathtub dilemma, though. So now that she's almost too big for the infant tub, what do I do with her? She can't sit up by herself, so a real tub is out of the question. Is it kitchen sink time? Lay her in the yard and spray her off with a hose? Take her on a walk during a really good rainstorm? Put her in the shower with me? Taking all suggestions.

4 Months!

Four Months!

Now excuse me for being biased, but if that's not a doll baby, I don't know what is! Even if she only wore the outfit for picture time, it was cute while it lasted. I'm learning something about myself... I'm too lazy to deal with fancy outfits and hairbows. Give me a onesie and we'll call it a day. I'm all for practicality and comfort. I used to think I'd play dress up all day long with my girl, but dressing her is kind of a pain. She hates having her arms pulled through sleeves of any kind. Perhaps because it means that for a split second, her hands won't be at her disposal to plop in her mouth. It's funny, all the things I thought I would do when I had a baby, only to have things turn out differently when she actually got here. But hey, that's okay.

Violet marked her fourth month by spending the day with her Mimi. After all the running around we've done, it's a luxury just to hang out at home. A week from today we head back to the pediatrician for her well-check (and more shots). I'm a little nervous... Dr. Teague made the mistake of telling me some of the milestones she'll be checking for, so I've been trying to practice with Violet. But so far, she hasn't showed much interest. Although she likes to show off for her doctor, so maybe she'll surprise us like she did at her one month check up when she rolled over for the first time. (Poor girl peaked too early with that skill... she hasn't rolled over, or showed any interest in it, in a couple months now.)

Monday's Child

17 Weeks!

Yep, someone thinks it's great to be a Georgia Bulldog!  

We have had quite a weekend, one that makes me happy to be here at home and content not to go anywhere for a while! Father's Day was wonderful. Matt got to play golf with his dad here in the neighborhood, they even stopped to say hi when they were on our hole (alas, the beer fridge was empty or I could have offered them a cold one). Once they were done, we had the neighbors over for dinner and all squeezed around our little sun room table. I promise one of these days we'll have a legitimate dining room that seats more than four.

As for the other weekend activities, things started out rough. Poor Emily was put through the wringer on Friday while we attended the rehearsal dinner. In retrospect, I wish I could have just brought Violet along. There were plenty of other kids there and it was so noisy, no one would have noticed her. But instead I had to leave her at home and she was violently protesting the fact for a good hour and a half. So sad. The only consolation was that she cheered up in a big way before I came home, so there were plenty of smiles to greet me. Still, I imagine Emily will think twice before volunteering for babysitting duty again. (Although for the record, she has already volunteered again, so she is a better friend than I thought! Seriously, though, she loves Violet like her own.)

Saturday was a little better. Violet decided to give me the business before my parents even showed up, so she got it out of her system. For once, I got to leave a happy baby.

Violet seemed pretty content with Mimi before I took off for the wedding. My mom spent the evening wheeling her around the house in the stroller, singing. When it finally cooled down, they took a lovely walk around the neighborhood. All seemed well! (Or I've been lied to quite convincingly!)

For the first time, I was able to fully enjoy myself. Every time I checked in, things were going smoothly, I didn't hear any crying in the background, everyone seemed happy. A million thanks to my parents for coming up. 

And as for the event itself, beautiful!

After a HOT ceremony, we heated up the dance floor and partied the night away. It's always fun to watch people you love get married, especially when they seem so happy and excited to be starting a new life together. I'm glad Travis and Wendi are living relatively close by and we'll be able to see them often. Congrats, kids!

Happy Father's Day!

Happy dad's day to all the dads out there, but especially Violet's daddy!

Two dads and a little girl. (Notice her anti-theft device... when you're this cute, you need all the protection you can get!)

For the record, Grandpas are pretty cool too...

 But nothing beats Daddy's arms...

I love you, Daddy!

Happy Friday! (I hope!)

Happy Friday, everyone! And when I say "happy," I sincerely hope so. I have to leave my baby girl again tonight in order to attend a rehearsal dinner. I'm excited about the event, especially since it honors two of my favorite pie-giving friends, Travis and Wendi.

But... I'm nervous about leaving Violet after the episode on Monday night. At least I will only be one town over this time, close enough to come home should Emily decide to throw in the towel on my inconsolable child. (I know she won't, she loves Violet like her own. But still, I'm offering should she get desperate...) But as my dear friend says, "A happy baby is always more fun, but I've dealt with plenty of crying babies too..." I'm accepting all prayers, however.

I'm not listening to you! Lalalalalala..... I'm a perfect baby! Lalalala....

Another reason to celebrate this Friday, my pal Natalie is hosting another giveaway! Remember the last one I blogged about? It turns out, I won!!! Ha ha! So I'm crossing my fingers that I'll win this one too. But if you want to chance to snag some beautiful cards, go enter it yourself. Just don't blame me if I win again. Perhaps I'll send you one of the cards as a sympathy (in your face!) prize.

Holy Explosion, Batman!

You know those stories our parents love to tell just to embarrass the crap out of us? Like Matt's "You're not the boss of my pants!" story or the one where I... well, come to think of it, I don't have an embarrassing stories about myself to share. (The privilege of writing this post.) Anyway, now that I'm a parent, I guess I can start collecting stories about Violet that I can tell at inopportune times, like when she introduces us to her boyfriend for the first time. Here's one.

So I'm over at the neighbor's. Turns out, A. is just as big of a West Wing fan as I am, and having nothing better to do, she invited me over for a little viewing party. Once her little boy fell asleep, our attention turned to Violet, who ended up being the star of the show, naturally. The West Wing went on in the background as we plunked Violet down on the UGA blanket and attempted to teach her colors and numbers and how to reach for things. Everything was going smoothly; eventually it was time for her to eat (the West Wing is a Pavlovian trigger for her since I watch it most mornings during her breakfast). Afterward, as I often do, I sat her on my lap so we could finish watching the show together.

Suddenly I heard (and felt) it. She was having a party in her pants. But no worries, I live right next door. I would just take her home and change her, and perhaps finally bring over some diapers to keep at A.'s house. But before I could move, the pants party continued into an after-party. And this party was rocking.

"Oh my gosh!" I gasped.

"What?" A. asked, looking over, concerned.

We both look down. The party had spilled into the streets. My lap was covered, and I mean covered, in poop. But with horror, I realize that I'm not the only victim. There is poop all over A.'s couch. I was appalled. Just speechless. The only thing I could think to say was the apt, "Oh Sh!t" over and over. Sweet A. was so calm, telling me not to worry, she needed to wash the couch cushions anyway and I was just helping her jump start her to-do list, her kids made messes like this all the time... Meanwhile I'm half laughing and half dying of embarrassment.

We wrapped Violet, who was grinning from ear to ear like it was the funniest thing to happen all day, in a dish towel and I marched her home and straight into the bathtub. Later I confessed to my neighbor that I'd eaten Varsity the night before while we pre-gamed for the Conan show. It must have been the chili dog, we concluded. By then the cushions were nice and clean and I was able to make my amends by helping reassemble the couch. I also brought over flowers, Clorox wipes (if you knew A., this would make sense. She's a bit of a Monica), and some recent pictures of the pooper herself as a peace offering. Naturally, this last bit was what earned forgiveness.

And now we have a story we can tell Violet when she gets older. "One time you pooped on the neighbor's couch..." Yep, I can hear it now!

Yes, Violet is Sleeping Again

Hi all, real quick... SO many people have asked if Violet is sleeping better these days. Apparently I made quite a stink over it in a post a few days back. At the time it certainly seemed like the end of the world. But yes, she's doing fine now, thanks for all the concern and well-wishes. We're back to swaddling her and it has done the trick, even if we wake up most mornings to her escapee arms spread wide open on the bed. She's downstairs with us again, but only because this week is nuts with all the babysitters and whatnot. She'll be back in her own room come next week and we'll be crossing our fingers that her 3 a.m. phase has passed. I'll certainly keep you posted if not. Let's face it, I'll be screaming that news pretty loud, you won't be able to miss it. But my girl is almost four months old now and I have great faith in her ability to sleep peacefully all night.

Her ability to go peacefully into the arms of her babysitters, now, is an entirely different story. And for that, we'll take your advice and prayers. That girl loves her mama. And don't get me wrong, I'm flattered. But it's getting a little embarrassing. Not to mention stressful for whoever is stuck with her. So wish Emily lots of luck tomorrow night!

With a capital T and that rhymes with P and that stands for Pool!

This weekend, Violet took her first dip in the neighborhood pool!

Okay, when I say dip, I mean her pretty little toes. She's not quite big enough for the Little Swimmers diapers yet, plus she doesn't own a bathing suit, so her legs were the only part that actual touched water. But I figured it was enough excitement for her first trip to the pool. Plus the sun was crazy hot and her skin is still so fine... They say not to use sunscreen on babies until they're six months (which is right around the corner anyway) but I'll be double-checking with the pediatrician at our next appointment to see if there's anything else we can do.

Still, I'm pretty sure she had a good time.

Also, thanks to the excellent photography skills of my hubby, you can't tell that I made the ultimate mom purchase the other day (other than buying a minivan, this is as mom as you can get). I bought a one-piece bathing suit. I know, I know. I haven't worn one since I was eight. But I think it's kinda cute in that retro, sexy (but not too sexy) way. I might have even bought it if I wasn't a mom. But the thought of a two piece this year just turns my stomach (and my stomach flab) a bit. Anyway, here's hoping I have plenty of occasion to wear it this summer. It is seriously too hot to even contemplate stepping outside right now, but one of these days maybe...

Monday's Child

16 Weeks!

Sorry this is late, folks. I took the picture yesterday and then never got a chance to post it. Matt and I were off to Conan O'Brien's "Legally Prohibited From Being Funny on Television" comedy tour extravaganza at the Fox last night and had to jump in the car before I got near the computer.

Violet's day yesterday started well enough. Grandma came up in the early afternoon and got plenty of sweet smiles and playtime with the munchkin. But wouldn't you know it, 30 minutes before we were due to leave, Violet had a total meltdown. I think her tummy was really hurting. She screamed and screamed. (That or her dad really pissed her off because she tended to look at him and bust out in bloody murder. I don't think he took it too personally, though.) Lee Anne finally got her to sleep just minutes before we left, but I did so with much fear and trepidation. I had a bad feeling...

Sure enough, when I checked in a few hours later, she was screaming so loud I could hear her through the phone and had refused her bottle. I can't even describe what it feels like to be so far away from your child and feeling helpless. I totally trusted Grandma to know what to do, but I just felt awful that a) Violet felt so bad, and b) that Grandma and Grandpa weren't getting the fun cuddle time they came all the way up from Peachtree City for. Thank God they called back just 15 minutes later to report that Violet was now calm, happy and eating. A tiny part of me suspected they might be lying just to make me feel better so I could enjoy the show, but my neighbors backed up the story and reported a very happy Violet was spotted swinging on the back porch later that evening. Whew! I'm thinking it's time for some local date nights, rather than marathon outings to downtown Atlanta. I'm all for going out, getting Violet used to the babysitter, etc, but perhaps it shouldn't take place quite so far away for quite so long a time. (Much longer post on this topic to come, I'd imagine.)

So it took some effort, but I did manage to enjoy Conan. It's always amazing to see someone you've watched for years on television up close and personal. I love Conan! He was decidedly less bitter than I imagine he was at his first few shows. And you'll be happy to know that my boobs survived the show as well, although I made a beeline for the breast pump in the car after the show. So if anyone was on the streets of Midtown last night and spotted some weird activity in the car next to them, I apologize.

Who would  have thought this happy girl would have such a meltdown just hours later? But at least she looked this happy to see us again in the morning.

PS Thanks for rockin' the vote on the latest poll, everyone! This has certainly been the fastest voted-on poll to date. And we definitely have a clear lead. I'm wondering if I should have added Papa or Pops as an option... ah well.

One Step Forward, 47 Steps Back

Excuse me for being a little over-dramatic, Violet hasn't regressed 47 milestones back to the rag-doll phase of her life. It only feels that way. In actual fact, her neck strength is better than ever and she can totally support all her weight when I stand her up on those chubby little legs of hers. But when she's wide awake fussing at 3 a.m., it does bring me back to those early weeks when I'd be frantically trying to calm her in the dark living room, praying that she wouldn't wake Matt up since he's our sole bread-winner and should probably remain reasonably functional at work in the a.m.

It's been three days now, or is it four (see what happens? Already losing my mind) that Violet has been up in the night. Perhaps it was my pride that inevitably led to this fall. I was so excited to note her milestones on the calendar: Violet sleeps through the night. Violet sleeps in her own bed. Violet sleeps in her own bed while Mommy and Daddy sleep downstairs in their own bed. But it only lasted a few short weeks. I have no idea what has brought on this new game of hers, but I'm not liking it one bit. I'd started taking for granted my full night's sleep. In fact, we'd moved on from how to get Violet to sleep through the night to how to get Violet to go to bed even earlier so we can actually enjoy the remains of the evening together. Now I'd be happy just to know she's staying asleep.

Last night after I'd been up once on pacifier duty and Matt had pulled our little bundle into bed with us, we threw in the towel and reswaddled her. I have nothing against it, it's always worked for us in the past, but she's getting a little big for the velcro contraption we have her in. Plus I worry about her getting overheated. But it looks like it's back to the baby straight jacket for her. Hopefully it will work and she'll get her sleep patterns back on track. I don't know how long it takes a three-and-a-half month child to figure out how to manipulate her parents, but I'd like to nip it in the bud. I don't want her thinking we'll jump to her beck and call in the middle of the night, or swoop her up and let her sleep in the big kids' bed with us.  (But at the same time, I just can't let her cry it out yet. Sue me, I know. The girl has staying power. And often she has a legitimate reason - trapped burp, etc. And then I just feel bad.)

I am at a loss. We'll see if the swaddling works. Otherwise...???

A First Time for Everything

There have been a lot of firsts in the Casa de Loughman lately. First off, I'm proud to announce that Violet's feet have touched the earth! We hanging out on our neighbors' patio last night and A. asked if she could put Violet on the grass. Sure, I said. Why not? And then secretly I thought to myself, why don't I ever think to do cool stuff with my kid like let her run her toes through the grass? I felt like a crappy mom for about 2.6 seconds, but quickly recovered. Violet loved standing in the grass. Oh yeah, did I tell you? She loves to stand up now; can hold all her weight on those chubby little legs of hers.

Then we busted out the swing the neighbors gave us and attached it to their swing set and next thing you know, Violet was rocking away with the big boys! She had a BLAST! She felt so safe and secure, she eventually drifted off to sleep amidst the glow of the sunset and fireflies. What a doll. It's amazing, she's growing so fast that I totally don't realize when she's ready to tackle the next adventure (a.k.a. grass, swing, etc). But as soon as we try it, she's off to the races and I'm amazed at how far she's already come.

 Blurry action shot. Violet did not approve of me stopping the swing to snap a photo, so this is the best I could manage. Check out those thigh rolls!

Case in point. Here is a stunning little outfit gifted to us by the lovely Kelly. Now, I know it's not football season yet. But I'm afraid if Violet doesn't wear it now, by the time I go to put it on her it will be too late and she'll be too big to squeeze into it. So I'm putting her in it now, just in case.

And finally, little Miss Violet slept last night without being swaddled, for the first time since she was born. And it is probably about time. Two nights ago she managed to completely unwrap herself and kicked off the covers, leaving her freezing cold by morning. Today I got her up and her back was soaked with sweat. So we tried something new, one of those sleep sack things where your kid is basically zipped up in a little sleeping bag with arm holes. It worked well enough. She woke up once, but I don't think it was swaddling related. I'm not sure what it was related to, actually, but here's hoping it resolves itself soon. Trekking upstairs to pop the paci back in is far different from reaching over to the pack-n-play and popping the paci back in.

EDIT: Okay, this didn't get posted last night, so here's an update. Violet was so inconsolable last night that we finally got tired of going upstairs. I brought her down around 3 a.m., held her for 45 minutes, then finally conceded defeat and put her in he bed with us around 4 a.m. If the paci wasn't constantly in her mouth (courtesy of me holding it there, naturally) she was pissed. I'm too nervous to fall sleep with her in the bed with us, plus my shoulder was all out of whack from the way I was holding her. Then the cat protested the extra visitor to the bed and had to be forcibly removed a few times. Not a pleasant night, to say the least. I'm almost hoping Violet is teething early, just so there's a reason for this new-found fussiness. Other culprits I have to consider: the lack of swaddling, the dropped feeding, being lonely upstairs, or the fact that she has her parents wrapped around her little finger. Stay tuned.

Rock the Vote

A new poll is up! This one will hopefully resolve the dilemma of what my dad should be called.

Some factors to consider: My mom goes by Mimi, so Mimi and Pappi might be nice together. Of course Grandpa is the traditional, and what we called our grandfathers. But that's what Matt's dad is also going by, so there might be some confusion. As my dad often refers to Violet as "The Child" (in noble, somber tones) I thought it only appropriate that he could be called The Grandfather (in equally noble, somber tones) And Pop Pop is in there because what do I know? Maybe that's a good option?

Too bad there's not a write-in option. If you have something better, or just want to let me know what names you have for your own grandparents, feel free to leave a comment! And let the voting begin!

Who is doing all this finger-pointing? Violet should at least have a name to go with the face!

The Bearded One Cometh

Violet made some new friends this weekend. First up, the lovely Shannon.

Shannon and I have been friends since high school. We sang in the chorus together, took various road trip adventures, and when she decided to move to Texas, we roamed around Fort Worth together. She inherited our old couches when we departed, and just bid her own fond farewell to them as she takes off for an exciting new music therapy internship at a children's hospital in Utah. Anyway, I love Shannon and apparently Violet does too.

The same can't really be said for this guy. I think Violet is a little wary of men with beards. Especially one as thick and luscious as Marcus's...

But all was not in vain. For putting up with the mountain man, Violet was reward with her very own ExerSaucer! It might be a wee bit big for her still, but no doubt she'll be rocking it in no time! Look at that intense concentration already! If only she showed this much motivation to learn how to roll over. (I know, I know, I shouldn't rush it. I can't help it - it's my competitive nature.)

The new toy kept Violet busy while I headed out on the town for my very first girls' night out post-baby. I had to call it an early night (thanks to my 7 a.m. alarm clock that doesn't have a snooze button... at least not one that I've found yet!) but it was fun while I lasted.

Too lazy to fix the red eye, sorry!

The occasion - Wendi's bachelorette party. The location - Flip Flops (among other places). The weather - fabulous. The bride-to-be - beautiful. My boobs - getting bigger by the minute! Poor Kelly and Jenny had to endure me pumping in the backseat on the way home but I like to think I was just educating them on what lies in store one day. 

There was some drama when my mom called at 7:30 to say that Violet wasn't taking her bottle. She was just screaming whenever they tried to offer it to her. Could something be wrong with the milk? That's the worst feeling - being so far away from your kiddo when you have no idea what's wrong. Matt usually gives Violet the bottle, so I have no idea if that was normal behavior (I suspect not, or I would have heard about it by now). Nor did I really know what to do. Eventually she took it just fine, and the next one as well, but I still don't know what happened and now I'm a little nervous about leaving her in someone else's hands again, especially when I can't tell them what to do or how to fix it. Sucks, because Violet is up for three different babysitters next week as we head to a rehearsal dinner, wedding, and Conan O'Brien at the Fox! Oh well, here's hoping no more problems like that arise.

Life with the Fortunatos

Violet and I spent a long weekend at my parents' house while Matt was off in Vegas for a bachelor party. Now that my mom has amassed so much baby gear, traveling has become a lot easier. Good thing too, because the weekend was nuts!

On Saturday, Violet and I got a chance to catch my little sister in action at her horseback riding lesson. She looked like a pro up there on her horse TJ. I'm not sure I'd ever have that much confidence.

 Self-portrait. The Baby Bjorn definitely came handy out on the horse farm. Violet enjoyed a nice little nap in there. And how hilarious is her expression in this picture? It's all "How you doin'?"

Violet also enjoyed her first taste of the famous Fortunato Sunday lunch, complete with the customary spaghetti and meatballs. The jury is still out on her opinion. Perhaps she got a little intimidated by the directive to "make it all gone!"

Lunch was part of an early Father's Day celebration with her Grandpa Frank. By the way, we're still trying to decide what Violet should call her grandpa. My mom goes by Mimi, so I'm thinking... Papi? Pop-Pop? The Granddaddy of Them All? Hmm... Perhaps a poll is in order.

Finally we got our chance to recreate Chitra's graduation so I could finally get a picture of her and Violet. (Some of you will recall how we had to bail on the graduation ceremony early due to the dumb@ss with the air horn.) But no matter, we got it done. Besides, I know Chitra was just looking for a good excuse to put that cap and gown on again.

The photo session was so much fun, next thing you know the whole family got involved!

Proud Grandparents

Monday's Child

15 Weeks

Violet obviously feels like 15 weeks is serious business. As I post this, she is sitting in her swing next to me, talking up a storm, probably complaining about the picture I chose of her. "Um, does this picture make my cheeks look fat?" she's wondering. Yes. Yes it does, Chubbs. But it's pretty safe to say that the camera didn't add the extra weight. She has puffed up like a marshmallow in the microwave. And she is just as sweet.

Happy Conception Day!

Exactly one year ago today, my good friends Shelly and Jeremy got married.

Congrats, kids! We loved being a part of your beautiful day. Even if you did force me to confront my fear about all things squirmy and physically wrangle these butterflies for the big release during the magical kiss. I'm proud to say, 14 out of 15 butterflies survived. But more importantly...

Exactly one year ago today, little Miss Violet ceased being merely a twinkle in God's eye and became a new life.

Look at us, so young and carefree, no idea how our lives are about to change... I'm happy to say, it's all working out pretty well so far. And since you probably don't need anymore details about Violet's conception day, how about the butterfly story?

So there I was, crouched on the floor of the hotel bathroom in my wedding finery, ready to prep these butterflies that Shelly had brilliantly decided she just had to have during the ceremony. The previous night had been spent in wide-eyed apprehension as I was charged with keeping the butterflies, asleep in their tiny boxes, cold enough to stay alive but still. There were frozen ice packs packing the box as it sat on its very own chair in front of the blasting air conditioner. Meanwhile, Matt and I huddled together for warmth under the insufficient covers. Now it was time to open the triangular boxes and see how many had survived.

The instructions for moving the butterflies were clear and terrifying. I had to find an enclosed room, so in case one of them escaped, it could be recaptured. My only option was the bathroom; the 15 foot ceilings were going to present a problem. With trembling hands, I picked up the first box. A skin-crawling scrabble of wings and legs could be heard inside. The butterflies were awake! I was going to have to move fast to open the package, free the insect and dump it into the larger box the girls would be carrying. Quick like ninja, I popped the seal. The instructions directed me to pick up the butterfly by pinching the wings together. Gack! But bravely, the vomit barely held at bay, I did. I dropped it into the box and screamed for Matt to shut the lid. Success! One down, 14 to go. But now with one butterfly flapping away in there, how to add the remaining ones without the first escaping?

It was horrible. The little box was shaking and vibrating its way across the bathroom counter as the butterflies (Lord knows what they were doing in there, killing each other?) flapped about. Finally the transfer was complete and I only had to keep the suckers alive until Shelly and Jeremy's daughters could release them. First I prepped the girls. If the butterflies were "sleeping" that was okay. They weren't to get upset, just leave them be. (Please let the butterflies stay alive!) Seconds before Shelly hit the aisle, I placed the boxes in the grass (the buggers couldn't handle direct sunlight for more than 20 minutes lest they get overheated and melt or whatever). I was on pins and needles the entire ceremony, praying for flight. I think I was more nervous than the bride and groom! Then finally, the big moment, the kiss, the boxes opened, and... release! They made it! The butterflies took to the sky and then hung out with us for the entire reception. It was lovely. And Shelly, you're welcome. Please don't EVER ask me to do that again.

Graduation Plus Randoms

This post is way late. But enough happened over the weekend that I might as well give you the run-down! First of all, my little sister graduated from high school! Big deal! And also, I'm old!

I used to think high school graduation wasn't that big of an accomplishment - to me it's more of a requirement. But now I realize it's not just finishing high school, it's the fact that one part of life is over and you're moving onto the next. It's a step closer to adulthood, to your future. So in that case, yes, big deal. Congrats Chitra! (Picture of Violet and her auntie in her graduation getup to come.)

There's Chitra on the left, walking to her seat before the program commences. Good grief, was my high school graduation this long?!

We took Violet to graduation and thankfully it wasn't too hot. And thanks to our awesome snap and go stroller, she could just chill out in the car seat at the top of the bleachers and have a great view.

She didn't love her icy cold bottle, but she took it nonetheless and was on the verge, the very edge, of sleep until the a-hole in front of us let loose on his air horn. (And I just realized that sounded like a fart joke.) Not funny. Poor Violet majorly freaked out, even though I saw it coming and had one of her ears smushed into my arm and my hand over the other ear. No good. So thanks a lot, jack@ss who reeked of alcohol. After that, every spat of cheering sent Violet over the edge and we ended up taking her home early, thus smartly beating the crowds and traffic. Besides, we'd already heard all the speeches and watched Chitra march across the stage (go girl!).

Memorial Day weekend continued with a neighborly cookout and fireworks the men set off on the edge of the golf course about three minutes before a violent (not violet, like I just wrote) thunderstorm broke over us. That's when Miss K (all friends/neighbors to remain anonymous until they give me permission to blog about them) gave some toys to Violet and I had the sudden realization that I've been boring my child. We headed out on Monday and bought her some fun new things (naturally, she likes the hand-me-downs way better than the stuff we spent our money on).

 Hey, we paid good money for that!

And if I haven't mentioned it already, Violet has been sleeping upstairs and we have been sleeping downstairs. It all works well. She still gets rocked to sleep (I just can't let her cry it out... she can keep it up for 45 minutes in the car and no one needs that!) and every now and then I make the trek upstairs to pop the paci back in, but things have been pretty smooth so far. When I told my neighbors, they both gave me a little round of applause. That's what I love about them - they both have kids, so they've been down that road and they know what a big deal it is. Not that you guys don't understand... I just can't hear your applause through the computer.

Tummy time is more fun on daddy's tummy.

100 Days

1 day old

We've come a long long way together

Through the hard times and the good

I have to celebrate you baby

I have to praise you like I should

 100 days old


Happy 100 days, big girl! I can't imagine life without you.

Pulling My Hair Out

No literally, I've been pulling my hair out. I was warned it could happen, that after nine months of shiny, thick hair, post-birth everything starts reverting back to normal. But I didn't really notice any unusual shedding. Up until now, that is. Apparently my body has decided three months later that it's time to lose the winter coat. I'm talking by the fistfuls, too. It's gross. Every morning my shower drain has enough hair clogged in it to wig out out a Barbie, and it shows little signs of stopping. The race is on to see who sheds more, me or the cat. (At least I don't yack up my hairballs like Spooky, though. Small comfort.) So why is the hair finally coming out but the weird brown line down the middle of my belly is still there? I need answers, people! And preferably before I've got a bald spot like baby Violet!

Also, I need some new pants that fit.

Sure, laugh it up, Baldy!

Life is in the Details

So it's the little things that matter.

Violet just woke herself up by farting.

The other day, she was sucking merrily away on her pacifier until she spotted me. Her eyes lit up and she started to smile.  Suddenly a wave of concern passed over her, furrowing her brow, as she quickly realized her smile was causing the beloved pacifier to slip from her mouth.

We spent a good five minutes cracking up when, every time Matt touched her nose, Violet opened her mouth wide and said "aaah".

Sometimes I think Violet does something cute just to get me to smile at her. And then when I do, she looks absolutely delighted. Other times I'm trying so hard to get her to smile, and eventually she does, but with a confused "Okay, you obviously want me to smile and I'm not sure why, but I will..." look on her face.

Her burps are starting to have an old-man-beer-belch quality to them. Juicy!

When I breastfeed her, Violet sometimes punches me in the boob with her little fist as if to say, "I know there's got to be more in there!" Although at the rate her little belly is expanding, I'm not sure she needs any more!