Three Weeks

Nathan is three weeks old already. It is amazing how time flies by. Since my last post, Nate has had a bunch of visitors. Our friends Natalie, Jeff, Laura and Juan, Marci and Jack, Rebecka, and Javier all stopped by to meet Nate. John's parents and brothers Bobby and David came down for a weekend and then my mom came the following Monday and stayed until this past Sunday. Melinda joined her on Friday and Ali came down Saturday through Monday. It has been so nice having family around to help out and spend time getting to know Nate. I have gotten a little spoiled with having my laundry done for me and being able to shower without worrying about if he wakes up, but this week it is back to reality.

Nate has been having some stomach issues and the pediatrician thinks it might be reflux. She started him on Zantac and we are supposed to wait and see if it makes a difference. So far, he seems to be able to burp a little easier but is still spitting up quite a bit.

Nate has a hard time napping during the day and we aren't sure if it is related to discomfort in his stomach or if he just doesn't want to miss anything. He is so alert for a newborn; he is constantly surprising us. He really looks at objects and people in his environment, pays attention to toys and books, knows Mommy and Daddy, smiles, and even laughs. It may sound crazy, but I think he already understands certain phrases and he knows when he is put on the Boppy or My Brest Friend pillow he is going to eat. He stares at his hands when his clothes have mitts on them as if he is wondering where his fingers have gone. He also has three distinct vowel sounds that he vocalizes. He loves going out in the car or stroller, being read to, and rocking in the glider. He is getting a little more tolerant of his bouncy seat and swing.

Nate had his first real bath (he didn't cry until he got out of the water), his first trip to the pool (he stayed in the shade with me while his aunts were swimming), his first trip to the mall (to buy Uncle Jon a birthday present) and even his first public feeding (in Union Station of all places). He is starting to grow out of some of his newborn clothes, especially in the feet.

I feel in some ways that he can't possibly be almost a month old since it seems he just arrived but at the same time it feels like he has been a part of our lives forever. We are so happy and grateful to have such a blessing in our lives.