6 Months Already, and I'm Not Ready

This little ham is 6 months old. He's not so little anymore. Looking at him now, i already can't remember how small he was, until i look back at pictures. He's turning into a big man so fast, and I'm not ready. I was calling daycares and babysitters today, to plan for January. Really. Already. Oh I'm not ready. I want him to grow, learn, explore, and become what he is made to be, but i don't. When he's in my arms, he leans away, because a toy is more interesting. When i give him a thousand kisses on the neck...i only get a smile sometimes, the other times, i get a chubby little hand pushing mama away. I'm so not ready. He's crawling faster everyday, standing at the ottoman, reaching for the couch, just itching to "cruise". Babbling, screeching, yelling and throwing. He's turning into a little boy. Boy oh boy, i'm not ready. I really get it now, appreciate the baby days, they're gone so fast. Everyday i try to get in extra long hugs, cuddles, and snuggly time nursing. Slow down, my sweet little man. I'm ready for you to stay my tiny newborn baby a while longer (give or take a few years). 

*Disclaimer- Taking pictures of a sleeping baby is risky business!*

Guest Post: Baby Sign Language

Ten Things You Need To Know About Baby Sign Language
Baby sign language is fun, it’s free – and it works! Read on for the top ten things you absolutely must know about baby sign language...
1: Signing to your baby helps with bonding
Baby signing is a two-way activity, encouraging communication from baby to parent and back again. Mothers who sign with their babies often feel closer to them, noticing and appreciating their efforts at communication earlier than non-signing moms.
2: Children who learn to sign as babies often learn to speak earlier
Baby signing can act as a ‘stepping stone’ to full speech, supporting a young child’s efforts to express themselves. Research has shown that babies who have early exposure to signing often have bigger speaking vocabularies later on.
3: It’s easy!
You can start signing with your baby by learning a handful of signs, such as Mommy, Daddy, Milk and Diaper. Find more useful starter signs here.

4: Dads can do it too
Often dads feel left out when bringing up a young baby, especially if Mom is breastfeeding. Signing is something baby and daddy can do together, creating a special bond.
5. You can start to sign from birth 
The sooner you start signing to your baby, the sooner he will begin to communicate his needs back to you. You can start at any time, even from birth. 
6. Signing is fun!
So many things these days are just plain hard work! Baby signing is fun – and that’s one of the reasons it works so well. At first your baby will just look at you making signs and may even smile or laugh. You may feel silly too. This is good for you and for baby. Parenthood should have as many light moments as possible.
7. Flash cards really work
Baby sign language flash cards are a valuable teaching aid to help you develop the signing vocabulary of your baby. Flash cards work because they are a visual stimulus for you and baby, and create extra interest in the idea or object you are signing.
8. Signing reduces tantrums 
Baby signing has been proved to reduce frustration (for babies and for parents), and help children through those toddler-tantrum years. Most tantrums are caused by communication frustration, and if your child can express what he wants he is happier and calmer – and so are you! 
9. Your friends will be envious
When you and baby are out for coffee, imagine how envious your friends will be when baby tells you she’s tired, or hungry, or too hot – just by making hand gestures? Amazing! While other moms struggle through the baby years, you and your baby will be communicating happily with each other. Be sure to share your knowledge with them!
10. It helps with post-partum depression
The bonding aspects of baby signing cannot be underestimated. But post-partum depression can begin at any time, even during the second year. Many early-years programs teach baby sign language to moms and babies to help build communication and trust. 

This guest post is brought to you by Baby Sign Language. This free resources is here to help you and your baby start signing . Be sure to check the flash cards, tips, and first signs to learn.

5 Months

This little stinker is 5 months old. 

What has month 5 brought?

For us;

More love, hugs, kisses and amazement than we could ever imagine. 

Having a child really is like having your heart outside of your body. 

I so look forward to scooping him up out of his crib and drawing out the morning, snuggling in bed.

Marcus looks forward to coming home everyday, because the excitement in Jacksons eyes when his daddy finally comes home makes it all worth it.

For the Jaxman;

Rolling like a maniac

Perfecting sitting (he can sit for 15-20 mins without tumbling over)

Putting his sookie in his mouth

Sleeping and napping like a champ in his crib

Standing holding onto our fingers

Attempting to pull himself across the floor (i see crawling in a month)

Jumping up and down in his exersaucer 

Foods he's tried;

Sweet potato

Squash

Carrots

Peas (didn't like)

Green Beans

Bananas 

Apples

Peaches

Pears

Prunes 

Lentils (only mixed with veg)

Tofu (only mixed with veg)

Avacado

My dear sweet boy, the past 5 months have flown by. 

Each day with you is more fun than the last, and we look forward to the months to come.

Sitting!

We have officially achieved sitting. Without assistance! I hate to brag, but my son is a freaking GENIUS!

Isn't it crazy how your child is all of the sudden doing something new? 

Lately it seems each week he achieves something big. Any day now i tell ya, i'll turn around and he'll be at the other end of the room. It may be time for baby proofing very soon!

 These are the best times. He is constantly surprising me. 

Getting excited about something so small reminds me to appreciate every little bit of life.

Have a great weekend.