4 months: we tried everything and then he grew out of it, or did he?

4 months family portrait

The thing I am realising about babies is that they are constantly creating new patterns. Hugo gets into some sort of rhythm of naps, feeds, play, sleep etc... for a couple of days and then gets into a brand new one. Trying to keep up with him and constantly adapting to his new routines can be challenging and frustrating as I feel constantly off balance. It is when I let go of my expectations of what he should be doing when that I can relax and enjoy the ride.

Hugo still has some bouts of distressing crying once in a while and a large part of my energy, this month, was spent figuring out what and if something was wrong with him and, of course trying to fix it. I tried antacids, wind drops, more carrying, more burping, tilting his cot, pro-biotics, nasal saline solution, cutting dairy/coffee/chocolate out amongst other things. Some days, some things worked and some days, nothing worked. Of course, since I tried everything simultaneously, I came no closer to knowing what the problem might be, or if in fact there was a problem at all. Grown ups have good days and bad days. Babies should be entitled to having them as well!

At the same time, little things are happening which seem like he might simply be growing out of his discomfort, like falling asleep in his pram again or in our arms rather than only by feeding and the bouts of intense crying are becoming less frequent. Generally, he seems to be able to wind down a little easier, whether it is at home or out and about.

He has also become very interested in his surroundings, scanning everything around him, listening and observing. He is very reactive and greets us with the brightest smiles and eyes full of laughter. He sings and coos to himself when he wakes up after long naps. He plays with toys and grabs anything which comes near his busy little hands. He is growing beautifully (he basically skipped one size of clothing) and our amazement for him is as well. He is starting to wriggle, squirm, play and laugh.

Sometimes, I squeeze him tenderly and tell him, "you're my baby!" as much for his benefit as to remind myself that this perfect little being really is mine. Sometimes, I can hardly believe how much it is possible to love. At least, that's one thing he won't outgrow...

And now, for this month's photo recap...

Hugo met his A-Caz and got plenty of cuddles,

Managed to kick Chris out of bed to cuddle with his Maman,

Continues being the cutest baby in the world. Fact.

See what I mean?

Indulged in some guilty pleasures,

Just another ridiculously cute photo with one of his bunny rabbits.

Modelled the latest fashions in monochromatic tones of grey,

Consolidated some friendships, 

Graduated to a more upright position in the pram, ready to take in the big wide world,

Another giraffe bites the dust. 

Caught some precious zzzzz,

Spent some quality time with Daddy,

And last but not least, met his hilarious GrandPa Jean and his new friend, Jeannot Lapin.