Not-so-average Joe

I apologize if it seems that I am infatuated with how cute my baby is right now. I simply cannot help it. I can guarantee this will not be the last time I can't help but post pictures of his adorable-ness. After all - he is my last baby to cuddle and be googly over. Besides, there is just something about the smiles a baby gives when he is just learning to do so. They are instant joy! I bet there is not a soul so hardened in all the universe that would not be able to contain their own grin if a 2-month-old baby were to look at them like this:
These tiny babies smile with their entire, chubby faces - and sometimes even their arms and legs get involved - flailing involuntarily with glee. It reminds me of the song I can't get out of my head these days:

"Sunshine and lollipops and rainbows - everything that's wonderful is what I feel when we're together!...."

(Can you name the movie that features this song? It is currently Alice's favorite. She watches it every morning. And I like it, too!)

So Joe's current nickname is "Average Joe" due to the fact that he has gone all the way from the 5th percentile in weight at his 2-week checkup to 50th percentile at 2 months. I was kind of worried about him not putting on weight in the first few weeks, so I consider his chubby legs and overall chunkiness a real victory.

*Sarah stands up to bow and accept your applause*

Anyone who has nursed a baby will understand. This ain't easy work! And it is so very... personal. I have a lot invested in this "project" emotionally and physically. I suppose anyone who has devoted themselves to any kind of "project" that requires their time and attention (not to mention use of their body) 24 hours a day will "get it". I am just supremely lucky that my "project" gets to be this adorable, lovable baby. Now that I have older children I know full well that his baby smiles will be all the reward for my now and future efforts I will get for many years to come. Between now and the Mother's Day after they have their own first child there will be a dry spell of genuine "thanks". Not that I'm in this motherhood thing for the gratitude from my children. But it sure is nice when they appreciate the things I do for them. They think I'm kidding, but when they ask me what I would like for a gift, be it for birthdays or Christmas or whatever... I always ask for "sweet and happy children". There is nothing more rewarding in all the world than a sweet, happy, and grateful child. Ahhhh... I'm suddenly looking forward to Mother's Day!