The Byron Clan: May 2011

Almost looks like you're giving me the peace sign here, but what I really love is those feet!

Typical Addi, toy to mouth.

5/8/2011

Addi Bug,

Your 5th month birthday fell on Mother’s Day this year. It’s incredible to think about how different this Mother’s Day is than last year’s Mother’s Day. Last year I was about 8 weeks pregnant, and we had only told immediate family. Mother’s Day was also the day I graduated with my master’s. I remember thinking at the time that December seemed so far away and didn’t know how on earth I was going to wait that long to meet you. We were so thrilled to be pregnant, but also felt quite nervous about being parents. As I held you today, I just felt so incredibly grateful that you had been sent to our family. You fit right in and your sweet personality brings so much joy into our home.

This last month hasn’t been a huge one for you as far as your milestones are concerned, but here’s a little bit of what you have been up to:

First of all, can I just say, that I love how most people’s first question they ask about you is whether or not you are always that smiley. You are a seriously smiley kid. It doesn’t take much to get one out of you, which is good because you’re very difficult to get to laugh. You’re generally a pretty happy girl, thank goodness!

That being said, you do get a little stranger anxiety with some people. It’s sweet that you love us so much, but it would be nice to be able to hand you to someone without any fear that you’ll scream. I think a lot of your anxiety comes at church. Maybe there’s just too many new people who all want to hold you and you’re not into that. Who knows. Hopefully if we keep working on this you’ll grow out of it.

You had your 4th month appointment at the pediatrician. You weighed in at 14.9 pounds (65th percentile) and 25 inches (80th percentile). You’re getting so big! The doctor walked into the room and said hello to you and you just gave her a huge smile (big improvement from the last time). She said, “Well I guess that means I can check the box that says, ‘Social!’” It made me laugh because the last time you took one look at the doctor (it was a different one) and let out a cry.

We left you with a babysitter (non-family) for the first time this month. We took you over to our good friend’s house where you spent a couple of hours so that your Mama and Dada could celebrate Mama’s birthday. We were nervous to leave you, but it turned out to be a good thing. You were very good and didn’t cry and fortunately, your Mama didn’t cry either. We were so excited to pick you up and it was fun to see the expression on your face when you saw us.

You continue to venture into the world of solid foods. You have now tried various kinds of squash, sweet potatoes, carrots, green beans, peas, bananas, applesauce, pears, peaches, prunes, and oatmeal. You absolutely love your veggies. The oatmeal and fruits, however, are a different story. We are very glad you love your veggies, but think it’s kind of funny that you don’t like fruits. What kid doesn’t like fruits?

Your eyes are still the most beautiful shade of blue. Your Dada and I both thought you would end up with brown eyes like your Mama, but so far that blue has stuck around. You have such big, gorgeous eyes.

Anyone who checks the blog frequently may discover there aren’t many (read: any) pictures of you sleeping. Why, you ask? Because you, my dear, are the world’s lightest sleeper. Any noise, no matter how small will cause you to stir when you are sleeping. I guess it’s a good thing you’re the first child...

We love you so much little one. And you just keep getting more fun with each new stage you’re entering. We’re so lucky to call ourselves your parents.

Love,

Mom & Dad