four months

This has, by far, been the best month yet. Levi has always had so much personality, but it has really been shining through the past few weeks. In my last post I shared how sleeping and nursing has started to really even out, and that has persisted, for which I am so thankful.

This past month Levi has started to roll from tummy to back (just enough to let us know he can do it- but he seems to only surprise us with it occasionally). He's also started to really enjoy sitting, and can hold himself up quite well with a little assistance. Because he loves to stand so much, we got him an activity saucer, and it is such an amazing experience to watch him independently choose what he wants to play with, rotating to what interests him most. He sleeps from 7pm to 6am in his own crib with one feeding wake-up each night (though he may sleep a little longer if I bring him to bed with us at 6), and he's become a speedy little eater. He naps well most days- not on a schedule- but we fairly consistently get two morning naps and one afternoon nap averaging about an hour (though ranging 30 mins to 2.5 hours).

He smiles and laughs constantly and has such a wonderful nature. He loves his walks (now they're night walks, since it gets dark so early), being lifted up high above our heads, nurse time with mom, songs and books, and chatting with dad. I know he can't talk yet, but sometimes I swear he's saying 'hi.' Though we very rarely leave him, wanting to soak up all the time we can, Levi is so content to play by himself in his crib or on his play gym. He loves the toys he can grab, but can be just as content looking at his fascinating hands.

He hates his carseat and having to wait any time to eat. Even switching sides nursing can prompt a squawk of discontent. Other than that I can't think of anything that makes him upset. However I'm starting to notice that if we have a lot going on or are around a lot of people, he needs that quite time away with me. A few times recently when he's gotten upset (i.e. shots) when I've held him he's become instantly comforted. I feel more bonded than ever. I was worried that working full time would impact that, but we seem to have had no problems.

He had his well-baby visit yesterday and weighted in at 15 lbs 2 oz and a tall 26.5 inches. He's a tall lanky boy like his Grandpa Winn and Uncle Nick. I can't believe how blessed we are to have this beautiful baby who is so healthy.

I've been feeling much better too- nothing like more sleep to help you feel more like yourself. After some brief concern as I went back to work, I've really had a lot of success establishing a strong milk supply, another thing that I can only be thankful for. It was one of my biggest stressors for weeks. When I don't have work to finish up in the evenings, I take advantage of Levi's new found consistent sleep schedule to take the time to run errands, clean up, and generally get things done. We've fallen into a nice schedule at home, and it has made me appreciate routine more than I ever have before.

This sweet boy has brought so much joy to our lives. I'm so excited to share him with his loving family for the holidays. So much to be thankful for.