hattie at 6 weeks.

I've been waiting for a smile! And yesterday I got smiles all day long! Since I'm motivated by affirmation, I am feeling greatly encouraged!

I'd sum up this baby by simply saying: Hattie is a delight. She is pretty calm on the whole, which is very nice of her. And loves to cuddle. When I go to burp her, she tucks her legs in like a little ball and rests her head on my shoulder in the sweetest snuggle. There are lots of times in the middle of the night when we fall asleep like this in the glider rocker. I have a hard time putting her back in her crib when she is so, so snuggly. In the early morning I'll bring her into our bed and lay her on my chest. And she will inch her way up so that her head is tucked right under my chin. She is a sweetheart and I love her to pieces.

Her sleeping has been remarkable being a newborn and all. The big exception would be this past weekend when I had chocolate in some cookies I made, and felt the consequences. She was gassy each  night, sleeping for maybe 45 minute stretches... if I was lucky. We had two nights of this and I was reminded of what true delirium feelings like. What it's like to literally not be able to see straight because I was so tired. And the power of a strong cup of coffee, a brisk walk outdoors (I took three on Sunday) and a fast shower to wake back up.

She sucks on her pacifier like Maggie Simpson sucked on hers. Except that Harriet has trouble keeping hers in her mouth. She sucks in and out with such vigor that it often falls out... which is very frustrating for her. So I will hold the pacifier in her mouth and when I do this, she wraps her fingers around my pinky and pointer fingers. Oh I love that so much.

This third baby is a joy. I feel way more seasoned than with the first. And way more settled than with the second. This time around I am just taking in the snuggles, saying no to a lot of outings and opportunities, and feeling quite content about our every day.

We named you well, little Hattie. You are a complete joy.