A Baby Changes Everything

Having a baby changes your life. We knew this, but the reality is so different, so much better than anything we could have ever imagined. Nash is almost 8 months old and by now, it feels like he has always been a part of our family and that our routine isn't a burden any more but just our lovely life. He has been doing so well - learning all sorts of new and exciting things. He wants to crawl so badly right now. As I watch him struggle to learn this new skill, I just want to help show him exactly how to do it but know that he must learn it on his own and in his own time. I know this is just the first of many times where I will want to jump in and show him exactly how to do it, but doing so would deprive him of the triumph he will feel once he accomplishes something himself. I'm sure I will learn this lesson again and again as a mother.

We are facing new challenges in this phase of his development, though. We are trying to get him onto table food, which he is less than happy about. You put a spoonful of mashed potatoes in his mouth and you'd think the boy had been fed poison. He gags and acts like he is just going to throw up! I'm hopeful that we will get over this hump soon so he can begin enjoying the flavors of the world...and so mommy and daddy's bank account can hopefully be a little less burdened by baby food! Whew - that stuff is expensive! I've been getting lots of tips from other moms that have been so helpful. I even got to be the "experience mom" in the grocery store the other day. A mom was there with her 7 week old and was looking at formula while I was grabbing some more for Nash. She stopped me to ask questions about what we used, if it seemed to be OK on Nash's tummy, etc. It was great to share my experience with her, and at the same time, realize how much Nash has grown since he was 7 weeks old. I remember being so frustrated when someone would tell me "They just grow out of it." But it is so true! I was glad to lend her a little comfort, though, knowing how much it meant to me to have another mom share their insights when Nash was first born. It was so overwhelming and I often felt so helpless. I finally get why moms need a network of other moms to offer support. I am anxious to find that here in Edmond as well.

I'll leave you with a few of our favorite shots from Nash's 6 month photo session. I might be biased, but I think he might be the most handsome baby I've ever seen. :)