4 Months Later

Those pajamas say it all!

Dominic just turned 4 months old… but he’s been in our lives now for 1-year.  And what a year it was.

Oddly, people talk about how much your life changes. Really, ours hasn’t changed that much, just a lot more diapers, a lot more drool and far less money. Anyway, I figured this was a good opportunity to look back at the last four months and look ahead as well.

What’s surprised you the most about being a parent so far?

Melissa: I think I’m most surprised by how little sleep I can get by on.

Justin: I think I’ve been surprised by just how silly people act around a baby and that includes myself. Ridiculous faces, silly noises all to make someone who poops in their pants smile.

What’s the best part of being a parent?

Melissa: The chubby cheeks and that big smile. I also like the funny noises and the giggle. Even though I’ve only heard one.

Justin: I love it all. Well maybe not the lack of sleep, but everything else is great. It’s amazing how consumed you can get by such a little person.

What’s the most useful advice or warning you received before Dominic was born?

Melissa: Invest in a good stroller. We use the BOB everywhere.

Justin: I think not telling people his name before he was born was the best advice. Not only was it fun because it drove our parents nuts, it also created the awesome moment where I got to introduce Dominic to them.

What was the least useful advice?

Melissa: Honestly, sleep when the baby sleeps. By the time you’re ready to lie down he wakes up. It never times out right.

Justin: I’m not sure I got bad advice. Besides I ignored most of it.

Last question, what are you looking forward to most before Dominic’s 1^st birthday?

Justin: I’ll answer this one first. I can’t wait for him to walk. Lugging around that carrier is a lot of work. Do babies even walk before their first birthday?

Melissa: I’m looking forward to the first real hug. One, where he knows he’s hugging me. Also 8 hours of sleep in a row.

Justin: Amen to that.