5 Months

Dear Hayden,

You are just shy of a half a year old, and it is amazing how much you have grown. As I lug you around this house I think back of that tiny newborn I held just months ago. You are well over twice that size now, and really gaining on your older sister. If she doesn't watch out, she'll be wearing your hand-me-downs someday soon!

You learned how to get that pesky arm out of your way and roll over from back to front on Saturday. The problem, it seems, is that you do not much care for being on your belly but have forgotten how to roll from front to back. Pretty soon though you will discover that tummy time has its advantages in terms of ease of movement, and then my life of leisure will evaporate. Mobility has its downsides, I'm telling you. Listen to your mommy on this one.

You also don't care much for sitting these days. Whether in my lap or in the bumbo, you arch your back wanting to stand up. You enjoy the jumperoo quite a lot although you are not as much of a jumper in comparison to your sister. The toys are nice though. And if you are really lucky, Jillian will come over and "help" you jump. That is always good for a few laughs.

You are quite ticklish around your neck. Oh and you have discovered your voice from adorable coos to wild screams. It is a little difficult to tell if you are happy or sad sometimes. You help us figure it out eventually though!

My dear Hayden, you really are the sweetest baby. I would keep you like this always if I could.

Love,

Mom