First up, our baby (who's not a baby anymore) turned TWO! Holy smokes. Leo continues to be as precious as he was the day he was born. He's just a happy kid who loves to laugh and play with his sister and sneak kisses to baby brother. He's super smart - loves to figure things out and touch buttons (a mechanic in the making), asks so many questions (why...why...why, mama???), and continues his passion with all tools. He can talk endlessly about mowers, blowers, screwdrivers, weed whackers and drills. Most important, he has a heart of gold and a sweetness about him that's almost unexpected. I love him to pieces.
We were without a nap the day before his actual birthday, when we had a small party for him at Kristin and Heather's house. The sight of a cake and sound of birthday song sent him into a tailspin of tears. Opening presents cured that. And because those who love him also know him best, he scored a toy drill from EVERY. SINGLE. PERSON. Grandma, the aunts, his Godmother, us...all purchased drills for his birthday. Nana got one for Christmas. He's a regular Bob Villa.
Being a household of 5 has its challenges at times, but not nearly as many as I was anticipating. I thank my lucky stars each day that Jude is a perfect baby. He's so content and happy. That's been a lifesaver, particularly during dinner or when we are trying to get kids out the door in the morning. And sure, it's chaotic and there are a lot of voices vying for attention, but we have schedules and routines that keep us in check and sane. I only have 2 more weeks of my maternity leave - so let's talk again once I'm back to working 40+ hours a week and traveling.
My little giant Jude visited the pedi for his two month appointment this week. Technically he's two and a half months (10 weeks), but he still clocked in at a high 99% for his weight: a total of 16.12 lbs. His height (24.5") is 93%. He's so giant that he comfortably fits in 6 month clothing, and even then his thighs are bursting the buttons open.
To quote the doctor: "Wow! He's ginormous!" and "he's a tank!" or my favorite "he's a 2 month old stuck in a 4 month old's body". She, who sees children on a daily basis of all shapes and sizes, was amazed by his sheer mass. More to love, I say. More to love.
And finally, we are in full swing for the Christmas season - and we've almost done it all. The tree was trimmed. Santa has been visited. The house is decorated. Cards are sent. Candy Cane, our elf, has returned for another year of mischief and morning surprises. A roll of sugar cookie dough ready to be baked in the fridge. Lists have been mailed to Santa, and hopefully this year he won't disappoint (like last year, I've been told). Michael Buble's holiday album is on a steady rotation in the car. We've gazed at local Christmas lights. We've watched Prancer, Home Alone and Charlie Brown. We've crafted angels and reindeer out of toilet paper tubes. Bottom line: we are on a freight train to December 25th and there's no slowing down. Watch out.
