Dispatch from cold DC

Hello to December! Sean is, unfortunately, welcoming the arrival of cold weather (and some snow flurries on Saturday) with his first cold-- he's got some congestion more in his throat that's noticeable when he's been horizontal (i.e. sleeping-- which makes him an even louder sleeper than normal!), but when he's more upright he is his usual happy self. We are so lucky-- this guy really only gets fussy when he is sitting in a wet diaper or in the 2 minutes before he nods off. Besides that, he smiles, looks around in wonder, tolerates his parents' bad jokes, dances around in his mother's arms to amuse her, and overall is just a joy to interact with. And, he's getting bigger all the time-- some of his 3 month onesies are already getting tight, especially when he's wearing his cloth diapers. As he grows he is getting taller, and doesn't really have that pudgy baby thing going on yet. Instead, he's built like a miniature version of his 6'3" lean father. And, he can stand up somewhat on his own! It was Gramma Dodson that first noticed this and had him begin his workout-- standing up for at least a few seconds at a time with one of us helping him balance. He usually holds his head steady during this workout as well, and he's gotten better and better at tummy time. Check out our December 2008 album for more photos and videos of tummy time.
I admit, Sean doesn't mind the winter weather-- it's his mother that is getting more and more whiny as it gets colder. Now that Chris is back at work (averaging 3-4 days per week in December while we are here), Sean's naturally extroverted mother needs social interaction with fellow adults, and fresh air, but I have a hard time motivating to get myself and our small babe out in under-30' weather. When we do get outside, which is most days, Sean is happy and cozy, especially with my fun early Christmas present, the Peekaru. After today the weather here in DC will get warmer and it won't be such a daunting thing to take a 1+ hour walk outside. Besides walks, our days typically include lots of feedings (yes, I still think I spend about 6-8 hours feeding him), naps (and he continues to sleep at night for at least one 4-6 hour stretch most nights, except for now when he is battling this cold), reading several books, looking at the interesting things in the apartment (his faves: our colorful bookshelves, the purple starfish-- a wooden sculpture-- from British Columbia, the lighthouse in the Maine wall hanging above his bassinet/changing area, and any lights), and some webcamming with Gramma Dodson and others.
I may add to this post later, but I hear a little boy stirring so will close this out. I hope everyone is enjoying the holiday season, staying warm, and will be spending the coming weeks surrounded by the love of family and friends.