We've Gone Viral

I think we've run the course of bacterial and viral infections in this household with Dylan the only one coming out of it unscathed. It really didn't set us back too much, and I'm just glad it was this week and not next. G2 turned 6 months old, and other than that we've clocked one normal doctor, two pediatricians and one optometrist this week, along with Gavin's last swim lesson for a while, a tasty lunch at Juan Jaime's, and some splash pad time with cousins. Gavin had a sleepover with my parents on Monday and had a grand ol' time.

Graham took his 6 month shots like a champ and then treated me to a two hour long nap afterward. With the other guys out of the house for the afternoon, I had the most peaceful and productive two hours that I can remember around here. He is growing faster and faster, and his head circumference continues to be his most impressive measurement at 80-something %. At 16.4 lbs, he's in the 25th percent for weight, and at 26.75 inches that puts him at 55th percent for height. Still our tiny little bean but just perfect in every way! Also, he suddenly turned into a champion sleeper, waking only once in about 13 hours each night. With Dylan helping more at night with G2 this week so that I could get over my multiple health ailments, this has added up to some of the best sleep in my recent history. I almost didn't want to say anything for fear of jinxing it, but then I remembered that we're flying him to a time zone three hours behind us in just a few days, throwing all sleep predictability for both boys out the window anyway. No jinx required.

A little foot bath at Nonna and Papa's house.

For as long as I can remember (I'm thinking for about a month), Gavin has been waking up cranky, protesting everything I say and throwing multiple tantrums in the day. And then suddenly he turned into an agreeable, happy cooperative little angel this week. It made me feel completely full of joy. I don't know what changed...or what was causing his misery before, but I do know that having a happy kid is life-altering in the best way, and I'm trying to soak it up before he gets sick or over-tired again. He's been throwing us concerts lately, where he stands up on the coffee table and sings for us. We call him "Singing Guy." It's the best.

Gavin and Graham, both at exactly 6 months old. They don't look alike at all!

Introducing Graham to a smoothie...or what Gavin calls "chocolate drink."

Dylan can't sit still for a second without this monkey tackling him in hugs. If my cluttered kitchen causes you anxiety, just know you're not alone in feeling that way.

Brotherly love.

Splashing at Desert Ridge.

His first tantrumless haircut! Let's hope he can keep it up.

Making GoPro videos on an indoor bike ride.

Causing a racket in the exam room, playing with the paper.

We are staying busy this week tying up all our loose ends and packing before we get out of here for a while. Last summer before I left, I was so ready to go. I needed the break from my routine in the worst way, so I bailed without looking back. This year, I feel like I've found my groove a little bit, and I don't feel the need to run away from life so urgently. It's a good thing. Don't get me wrong...I'm thrilled to be going on vacation, especially with the forecasted weather. It just means life is really good, and who could complain about that?!?