Happy Halloween, Infant Wolf, and the Return of the Mad Cow

George has an unusual amount of "baby fur" all over his body and his ears.  The full moon is soon approaching, which may explain why he "wolfs" down his mother's milk.  Much to the consternation of meat-eaters everywhere, especially in the UK, it looks like mad cow has returned (see pic).  However, we do not anticipate an extensive outbreak as in 2001.  Also, it seems this mad cow can be soothed by the gentle swinging of a bassinet.  Happy Hollerween!

Cat Sniffs George; George Remains Calm Throughout Day

These two pieces of news are completely unrelated.  Fionn, self-proclaimed ambassador on behalf of all animals in the building, took the important first step to initiate dialogue with newborn George.  Fionn his sniffed his head.  The response from George was non-commital, as he largely ignored the grey feline.   Analysts from both sides of the aisle have interpreted along their respective party guidelines.  When George was pressed to comment further, he simply stared.

George slept much more today, which prompted the opposite response one would expect.  Rather than relief, the parents wondered why he wasn't fussing more.  Isn't it ironic that his quieting fussiness  is succeeded by his parents' discontent?  In case you were wondering if it was quiet all day, George shows his discontent with his father's morning snoring .....

Umbilical Cord StumpTown

The little bit of umbilical cord, a slightly icky looking thing, fell off today, revealing George's little belly button.  Kirsten persuaded me to not share any images with you.  But, fear not, once his belly button looks "normal" I will snap a few for your delight.


In other news, our friend, Rich, wants to start Friday night baby boxing bouts.  Given our cultural bent towards organized violence and all things cute, this mash-up will make babies lovers and fighters.  Rich guarantees he can make George a contender in 6 months.  This may be a case of something sounding too good to be true .... but some of these pics show a natural ....such as the one directly below showcases his baby "guns" ....

Suggestions for Sleep Deprived New Born Parents #1

Cutting your own hair really isn't a good idea.  George vocalizes his disapproval.

First Poo, First Doctor's Appt

George had his first real baby poo yesterday, which surprised him and us greatly.  We didn't expect such bowel movements for a couple of days.  He decided to repeat his new-found powers several times far into the night.  At our doctor's appointment this morning, our new pediatrician commented that he is developing quickly and is very strong.  His response to her comment: he peed all over her examination table. 


When I asked the best way to calm him when he's fussy, she suggested to ensure that he's been fed, been changed, and that I could sing to him softly.  So, I did.  Apparently somebody's baby doesn't like his papa's singing.

The Kiddy That Never Sleeps

One of George's supporters informed him that he was born in the city that never sleeps.  Unfortunately for us, he decided last night to witness for himself if this city sleeps or not.  In order to do so, he would have to stay awake the entire night himself.  His bravado, his pluck, and his sheer determination nearly saw him through, but Kirsten's persistent feedings eventually let us all fall blissfully asleep around 4 or 5.  You must admit his grit is praiseworthy.  We predict more all-nighters soon, so keep alert you night owls.

Picture for today (yesterday's photo showing George's warmup for the upcoming night performance):

First Day At Home

George is adjusting nicely to his new home. His sleep schedule is starting to form and we noticed he eats heavier first in the morning and late at night. Thankfully, he only required one feeding in the middle of the night and both of us were able to get some pretty decent sleep. We hope he will follow our sleeping pattern.

Thankfully, our friends upstairs - literally - wanted George to realize he arrived home and put up a lovely welcome sign and balloons for his arrival.

They also made cupcakes and spelled out his name, which confused George, as he cannot eat one and, at this time, doesn't even know what constitutes a cupcake. Plus, George hasn't yet learned to read despite our hiring of the brightest tutors from Europe. (Babies know rather little of worldly affairs, I'm afraid, but we in our eternal optimism hope for an exception in this regard.)

Finally, here is the picture of the day!