Welcome to the Farm

Boyd in his camo sleeping on Daddy.

Boyd talking to his Auntie Em.

Four generations of Burla's.

Boyd smiled for the camera. I dropped the camera and exclaimed, "Boyd's smiling!" I was so excited he was saying "cheese" that I almost missed capturing the moment.

Boyd wearing his Little Squirt Outfit. Very fitting.

Lounging on his transportation quilt.

Does this count as a smile? Shows off how cute Boyd is either way. I love him!

For those of you who haven't met Boyd yet, I warn you he is quite the charmer. Perhaps it is his good looks, wide array of facial expressions, or his farm noises that attracts you to him. Does anyone know of any nocturnal farm animals? I think Boyd might be related. Last night Boyd was making animal sounds the majority of the night. When I would check on him he would have his eyes closed-how tricky. Therefore Mommy was up all night. Perhaps he got the idea to be a sneaky animal from the children's books I read him, Giggle Giggle Quack and Click Clack Moo. Lack of sleep and snowy weather has mom a little cranky. Nevertheless, as I snuggle with Boyd and post this one handed, I can't help but smile. What a blessing he is. Maybe I'll end up an animal person after all.

One Month Doctors Visit (a day early)

Boyd enjoyed being held for hours by Great Grandma Burla.

Moving his hands as he tries to stay sitting up with the support of the couch pillows.

One of my many faces.

Hanging out on the couch with Dad. Aren't I a big boy?

Stretching out on his Very Hungry Caterpillar Quilt. He is similar to the character.

Holding Daddy's finger.

I cannot believe how time flies. Boyd has been in our family for a month tomorrow. He has added a whole new meaning to my life. I love him so much and I love being a mom. I don't think I will ever tire of watching him. His repertoire of facial expressions continues to grow along with his sound effects. Boyd is big into grunting and making a goat noise-such a funny boy. As of now, he is perfect. He has the sweetest temperament, he sleeps well and anywhere, he barely cries, he tolerates his crazy mom playing with him, conversing with him and singing to him, and he is adorable! He has captured the hearts of every person he has met so far. He showers his family and friends with love, and if you're lucky, some pee. Right Grandma Burla and Uncle Pete? On that note, Adam has still managed not to have to change a diaper. Although a diaper change would have solved the problem of a crying baby a week ago which led to a couple voicemails to mom saying, "Come home right now he won't stop crying and I am holding him and tried to feed him." Since Dad still dislikes seeing Boyd upset, maybe next time he will check the diaper. This past weekend Boyd had a terrible stuffy nose. I felt like I had the booger ball up his nose trying to help him breathe half the day. It turns out the source was too deep. After sounding like a freight train all day, an evening sneeze brought about the biggest booger I have ever seen. I could not believe it fit out of Boyd's nose. I had to show dad and Grandma. Once it was out, he was breathing normally again and back to his normal self. I was relieved. Despite thinking about it, we did not document the booger on film. Boyd has spent more time with his eyes open the past week which has been fun. I just wonder what is going through his mind as he takes in the world around him.

As for this mornings doctors appointment, Boyd is healthy and growing. We knew he was gaining weight by the folds in his legs, but neither Adam nor I predicted how much. He gained 2 pounds. Boyd now weighs 7 pounds 5 ounces. He is 20 inches long. Almost as much as I was at birth. He is in the 3rd percentile for length and weight, 5th for head circumference. Adam called him a shrimp, I think he is a little peanut. I am in no hurry for him to grow up too fast- just a healthy rate. The doctor said he would spend the next few months playing catch up. He also had his second hepatitis shot. He has a Snoopy band-aid on his leg and was easily comforted. He is looking like his own little self these days, less newborn and more Boyd. You just have to love him. We are blessed with this little guy and thankful that he is healthy and strong-must be all the love and attention he gets. Until next time-take care and enjoy the pictures.

The joys of a new baby

Playing in his bouncy seat and looking around.

Under the jungle gym looking like he is fencing, or swinging from branch to branch. He is starting to move around more, strengthening his muscles.

Boyd is too cute. Here he is in one of his swaddles. This is a must have item. Boyd loves his as they keep him comfy and warm in the night and help him sleep longer. When without the swaddle at night, he fights with his hands and wakes up.

Burrito Baby. Don't let him fool you, he is actually awake. I love this picture taken around midnight while playing with mommy before bed.

Daddy giving Boyd a surprise kiss on the head. A surprise ambush.

Boyd and Samantha's first playdate! What a cute couple. Eventually Boyd opened his eyes to admire her beauty. It was just as much fun for mom. Jackie and I have been on the same timeline for major life events since college. I am lucky to have her as my friend. There will be many dates to follow. Come Spring/Summer the four of us will be running around town- we can't wait.

Boyd and Mommy posing for a picture

The "Costume!" It kind of eats him.

So cute and he is actually awake.

Reaching for the camera. Probably to try and make the flashes stop.