6 Months Old

We've survived parenthood for half a year! I'm pretty impressed with myself, obviously. There were a few times where I was sure we weren't going to make it...but thankfully James's cuteness pulled me through. :)

He never stops moving. Ever.

Silly smiles. 

James is now sitting up unassisted for short times, and I'm always there to catch him when he inevitably tips over. Baby tipping! Sometimes he evens stands with assistance - definitely working on some leg muscles over here. He has been LOVING his jumperoo and will bounce in that for 45 minutes or so, playing with the toys and looking around. That toys has been a lifesaver, and I'm so glad he's finally enjoying one of the baby gear items we purchased. Can't say the same for the swing or bumbo haha.

Tummy time, aka tortute, isn't too popular here. He usually lasts about two minutes before shrieking to be picked up, or he just rolls over. He doesn't really roll over from back to tummy, but then, why would he? He hates it! :)

Four days after turning 6 months James got his first bottom tooth! It was relatively easy, actually. He had about two rough nights and then voila, there it was one morning. We were pretty shocked when Brian discovered it (James bit his finger - ouchie!). He now has his two bottom teeth, and it is the cutest thing ever.

We've been doing a lot of play dates since car rides are less stressful now that he's enjoying his convertible carseat. We're in a local babywearing group and a nursing moms group and it has done me a world of good to get out of the house and spend time with other moms who are going through the same things we are. The nursing group is run by an RN and IBLCE (who is nursing her second son at almost 3 years!) so if we have any questions or concerns it's easily addressed. I highly recommend all moms join groups like this!

Half a year - can you believe it?

Baptized!

On June 30 our beautiful son was welcomed into the Catholic Church with 6 other little ones in a beautiful group baptism ceremony. We are so blessed to have had so many friends and family attend - it was a wonderful day.

This church is very special to me and our family - I was confirmed here, received my first communion here, Brian and I were married here, and now our son has joined the Church here as well.

The ceremony was full of smiles and joy - Deacon Roger has an amazing ability to make everyone, even those family members who are not Catholic, feel welcomed and loved. Everyone commented afterwards on how much they enjoyed it.

Deacon Roger anoints James with chrism. 

Well, that wasn't too bad!

My parents try to help James keep it together after his hair got wet.

Godparents Heber and Courtney

Thank you Deacon Roger!

Since I'm a Catholic convert and Brian's siblings are non-practicing, we had a difficult time finding a Catholic Godparent for James. Thankfully, Kendra, who I've become close to over the past year, offered to be our Godparent by proxy. Thank you so much Kendra - you are an amazing friend and I know you'll be an amazing Godmother to our son!

It's awesome to think two and a half years ago Brian and I professed our vows to each other at this same altar. Look how far we've come! We are so, so blessed.