To Dave and Ashley 2013, from Dave and Ashley 2011

I sense that you are considering another family expansion. Evidently the Dad, Mom, LB and Lux sandwich needs another layer of meat. Well the sandwich of the past fully supports the hoagie of the future. But in case your memory hasn’t been as reliable due to the mesmerizing affect of cartoon and Baby Einstein overload, here are some recommendations:

1. Technology isn’t always a good thing. The baby motion sensor pad which is supposed to give you peace of mind tends to have false alarms. That sound will turn your house into the 100yd dash and right now Ashley is faster than Dave. Just something to consider.
2. Two adults, 1 LB and 1 Lux are already too much for the bed. Turn LB into a toddler while adding another baby could spell disaster. I have already heard of a California King sized bed- hopefully in 2013 there will be a Texas King. Because everything is bigger in Texas.
3. Swings, Bumbo seats, Car rides and rap music are your allies. Tummy time is challenging in the beginning but pays off later. Country music, dog barks and gas are your enemies. So choose your friends wisely.
4. If you see a bare butt, it can see you. Except you have a huge target on your head and hands. Remember the fundamentals – sometimes the best offense is a good defense. “Remember the Alamo”.
5. Look for a tag before putting the shirt on. Direction for girls clothing is not as intuitive. Yes, that was me who put LB’s shirt on backwards. But I did get the beanie right…Love that lamb!

Milestones

3 month milestones
Baby should definitely be able to laugh out loud by now. Check. More of a contagious smile with a subtle chuckle.

Your 3-month-old baby's weight has continued to rise, even if she hasn't gotten a whole lot taller. Check on both. LB has gained 5lbs and grown 5 inches.

Babies are at their chubbiest (think Michelin man). Check. These cheeks are like elevator buttons for kids. I can’t walk by without pushing them and smiling.

Your little one knows her name now. Ummm…Testing 1-2-3. Lux is responding to our high octave name calling. LB responds to anything. To her….Goochie goochie goo might be her name. Homework item #1.

During tummy time she might be able to prop herself up on her elbows and observe the world in front of her, even with no head bobbles. Check. See above.

Shots! Shots! Shots!

Normally this would be the bird call to rally up the troops, line up the glasses and put down the bourbon. But this word has taken on new form after last week.

We roll up to the Pediatricians office, all smiles for our 2 month check. Similar to the guy at the state fair who guesses your age and weight, Ashley and I make similar bets on LB’s lbs prior to hitting the scale. Not to brag, but I was within a couple ounces. What can I say; I used to measure out Roast Beef sandwiches at Arby’s between 3-5 ounces. I have the gift of gauge.

Doctor gives another positive review- loving this guy. Then he quickly passes the baby to the nurse. I captured the following dialogue:
Dave: Dr. Benbow, where are you going?
Doctor: I went to school an extra 8 years so I didn’t have to stay around for this part.
Dave: OK, send in Nurse Ratchet.
(Nurse Ratchet enters)
Dave: I hear you are equally gentle as you are fast.
Nurse (pulling out an arsenal of syringes, think Dexter pulling out his knives): I practice every day.
Dave: So you are a Jedi master? Excellent. Please use your Jedi mind trick to make LB happy as you jab her.
Nurse (obviously not a Star Wars fan): please hold her down.
LB (after 1st shot) – Hmmmmm. This doesn’t feel like my normal checkup
LB (after 2nd shot) – Something bit me on the leg
LB (after 3rd shot) – OK, I am going to scream because there is a bee in my pants
LB (after 4th shot) – Holy *&%$#! There are two bees, one on each leg.
LB (after 5th shot) – I thought Bee’s can only sting once!
The rest was history and recovery was quick…Except for the schedule changes, sporadic eating and weird nightmares. Can’t wait for the 4 month mark.