Happy one-month birthday!

Alexandria is one month old today - a whole month! To Mommy and Daddy, it seems much longer.


We've learned so much about caring for this little creature in the past month. We think we've almost figured out what her cries mean - which scream means "I'm hungry" and which one means "I have gas" (usually accompanied by vigorous kicking). Besides her crying, Lexi has another form of communication - various grunts and guttural noises. We haven't figured out what any of them mean yet, but when we decipher them, we'll let you know.

The best moments for me as a father/parent so far are when Lexi falls asleep in my arms or on me. One of her favorite positions for being held by me - although she's almost too long for it now - is tummy-down, draped along my forearm, with her head near my elbow. This position allows me to bounce her, which sometimes helps with the gas in her tummy. Sometimes she can fall asleep this way, and it's funny that when she does, her limbs and head just become limp.


But it was moments like last night that really melt my heart. It was probably the second time I figured out that Lexi could be comforted with her loud screaming from gas by holding her upright with her head on my shoulder and my arms wrapped around her fairly tight (a more traditional hold for a baby). She calmed down, and I was then able to lie down on the couch with her on my chest and watch TV at the end of the day. She curled up more into a fetal position and then fell asleep. When she does this - ahh, what better way does a baby show to a parent that she's comforted and is so totally trusting and vulnerable! Although I've just described what it's like for me, there's more to this feeling - as I've said, my heart melts, and it's a real tender, poignant moment for you and the baby.


Of course, the problem with Lexi is that it's hard to move her without waking her up. Once she falls asleep in your arms or on you, she's comfortable and likes it there. We're still trying to figure her out and learn what the tricks are.


But Sarah and I are enjoying our bundle of joy. It's been only a month, and we have many more months - and years - to look forward to!