16 & 17 Month ~ Letter to August

My darling little Auggy,

Wow these last 2 months have gone in a whirlwind of firsts, walking, more teeth, and general doses of life!

I am so sorry that I didnt write you a letter last month. Your 16th month was one of my favourite, you perfected walking and I couldnt have been more proud of you. We spent many a day in the paddling pool, cooling off in the fierce July heat. It was a month of growth and taking life slowly, enjoying the summer and learning lots of new exciting things and spending lots of time with our wonderful family.

You have discovered the joy of laughter and are always doing funny things to make us smile. You have days full of chuckles and those are just wonderful. You love to hide and jump out at us...you do this over and over again. I adore to see your reaction to our surprise and shock. The pure joy you share with us is something that always amazes me. I never thought being a Mama would be this wonderful.

You still copy our actions, whether it be a sticky out tongue, a kiss, or a nose beep. I can literally see you learning by the second. We recently went to pick some beans in the garden, and I was passing them to you, you were putting them into the basket...you are so smart darling. You can complete most of your toy puzzles, and you know all the farmyard animals and their sounds.

   

Unfortunately you have also started throwing tantrums...they dont last long and are only when you are frustrated about something or over tired. You love to throw yourself on the floor, face screwed up with fake tears, and waving arms. I'm hoping these dont last for long! 

Your love of books is fabulous. i have been worried that you wouldnt like to read as you have never really given them much attention until the last 3 months. You will bring me a book to read you at least 8 times a day. You love anything with animals or a tractor. You point things out and i will reread it over and over until you get bored.

When we went to the zoo, Papa reworked your favorite Miffy book using your name instead. We saw so many amazing animals, however the one that got the biggest reaction was the gregory's giraffes! You adored them and got right up close to them. You waved and waved and chatted away to them.

You love 'Goodnight Tractor' and ask for it to be read to you most days.

You will now only stand in the bath.

You have a fork, and a new straw sippy cup!

You have had a big growth spurt, and your long legs have got really chubby.

You have another bottom tooth through.

You adore to climb the stairs.

You still have a weird love for any knitted item and your blankets are still your favourite.

you turn every switch on and off and press every button.

You are walking in shops, however you are not confident enough outside on the uneven floors.

You say 'MamaDada' really quickly and then giggle uncontrolably. 

You love to learn new things and at the moment you are obsessed with pointing to the clock, ball and putting your shoes on!

You are really interested with the potty and say 'Wawa' then you have had a pee!! i think we might start potty training soon.

You are still hugely funny, thoughtful, gentle and sweet. You have real moments of stillness and contemplation and I often wonder what you are thinking, what has taken you away, what you have found fascinating. 

At 16 months you started laughing at CBeebies, you find  'waybuloo' so funny, and i love your silly sense of humour. You love to blow raspberries and pull Papas shirt up and jiggly his belly.

You bring us a million laughs a day, we are always being amazed by how smart you are. You make strangers in the street smile and say hello. You chat up waitresses with your good looks and blue eyes...no-one can resist those long eyelash flutters. 

I think we are going to have our hands full with you in the future and I cannot wait!

Reach for the star darling pickle, they shine nearly as bright as you do.

I love you millions,

Mama

xxx

15 Months ~ Letter to August

                             

Hey my clever walker!

Yep Mama was right...this month you WALKED!! You took your first few steps on the 12th June 2013...I was so proud and so was Papa. It took me awhile to get a photo though. You would walk a few steps and bump down onto your bum so quickly I couldn't catch you mid step!

This new found skill is making you a very happy chap, you look pleased as punch with your new freedom. Mama however is slightly weepy at the fact that her baby is now all independent. 

Life has been passing by at a gentle pace...mornings in pyjamas, and lazy hazy hot days of naked baby time, long lunches & BBQ's is the garden. I have enjoyed this month with you so much. I am remembering the baby and looking at the toddler it is weird for Mama...but wonderful to see you grow so beautifully.

You are happy, fun and charming little Pip...all this hard work is paying off.

You have really developed a love for books this month, and I often find you looking through one.

You walked!!

You share all your food with us.

You love to chew on the flooring foam letters.

You have 4 new teeth all coming through at once ;(

You have inherited your Papa's love for Lego.

Opa, Oma and Tante Miranda came to visit you.

You love an audience and anyone with a camera.

You get shy and upset when new faces are around.

Banana's still rock your world.

You went in a big van on a work trip in the gorgeous June heat and met your cousin for Lunch

You HAVE to smell flowers if you seen them.

You will not lie down to have your nappy changed.

You know the phrase 'shall we go and brush your teeth' in both English and Dutch. you also put your hand up to your month in a mock brushing action!

You are quick at learning new things.

You love to empty your bookcase.

You are still clingy if tired, in pain or in new situations.

Life is gloriously full at the moment. You make us so proud and thankful. You make me think quick and enjoy the small things. Living simply is a big thing for us right now. We don't want to miss a thing.

Keep amazing us Darling boy.

You Rock our world.

Love you,

Mama

xxx

14 Months ~ Letter to August

Darling Boy,

So much has changed this month. You have developed  a LOT. I feel like the days have flown by and you have achieved and learnt so much. 

The summer is starting, and like a plant you have spent a long time physically growing towards the sun, taking nutrients, storing energy, however now you are starting to unfurl into this beautiful flower. You whizz around cruising and crawling...your so quick! The chatter has turned into words, and you seem to pick up new words almost daily. When you were only a few days old, I had a lovely South African midwife come and give you a hearing test. She told me as we were raising you bi-lingual you might take much longer to talk...I think you are bucking the trend.

This month we have seen lots of family. Your Cousin Isla seems to like you alot...the feeling is mutual, you like to hold each others hands and smile at each other...a lifelong bond is forming. As I have told you before it is your job to protect her and screen every boy who comes within 10 feet of her!!

Your toys have taken on a new role, and you have started problem solving...working out that the stacking cup all sit in one another...and the tower of rings all are different sizes and only go on one way. I love to see the look on your face as you work it out for the first time...you do it, look around for me, I tell you how clever you are and this huge smiles come across your face...pride. You amaze me with it everyday.

We recently found this little piano at the charity shop...I have high hopes that you will learn an instrument, something I wish I hadn't flaked out on...I would have been a female version of Nigel Kennedy by now if I had not :). You love to listen to us play it, and when you play it, you are always giggling at the sound it makes.

I now have gone back to work, it is nice for us. We have some time apart and I'm sure we are both benefitting from it. I however adore coming home to your smiles and nose bumps, and even homemade Mama cake!!

You love to play in the baking cupboard, picking up all the colouring bottles, hundreds and thousands, and flour.

You can say Mama, Dada, Nana, No,Tractor, Banana, Flower, More, Nijntje, and when we say Baxie to you, you wave!

You eat mainly with your hands now...the spoon is banished.

Peas...they rock your world....with huge 'ohhhhhh' when you see them on your plate.
You can stand without help...for all of 3 second :)
You adore your bedtime stories with Papa.
You sit in the bath without a seat.
You smell flowers in the shop with Nana everytime we go in, which is daily.
You are loving the time we spend in the garden.
You had your first swim...you might need a few more as you were not amused!
We all went camping in the woods...you got naked A LOT!
You and Papa have a boys day every week.
You dont have to have anymore jabs until you are 3 years old...YAY!

The next stop is walking Master B...I think this time next month I will be writing about it. I cannot wait to see you run around the Garden, a great big grin on your face, squealing with joy.
 More memories, more fun...It will be magical for us all.

Be bold my beautiful boy.
Love Always,
Mama
xxx

13 Months ~ Letter to August

Dearest Auggs,

The photo above melts my heart. You & Papa snoozing in our bed a year apart...can you see your newborn wrinkly hands? and your dark hair? I packed away that tiny babygrow this weekend and me & Papa marveled about how tiny you were...how perfect; How lucky we are to have you here safe and well; giggling, smiling with your cheeky-ness.

It has been a month of growth spurts, fun and adventure. You are getting very quick and i often think you are in the front room happily playing and then find you in the hall trying to climb the stairs...you are keeping me on my toes and i love it. You have started to talk more and you are starting to communicate with us. You say 'no', 'more', 'Mama', and your favorite; 'Narna' meaning you can see a banana and want it right now!

You are growing in so many beautiful ways. Some are challenging, some are funny...all are amazing to me your Mama. It is a real honour to be your play partner, food giver, comfort, tickler, memory maker, wardrobe assistant and chief nappy changer. 

Today we went to the swings after a hard long winter of snow and freezing weather. You were not sure about it, but you loved to watch Papa & me playing and reliving our childhood! You loved trying to catch Mamas feet as I swung higher and higher!

I cannot wait for a summer of warm breezes, sparkling skies, playing outside and you learning to walk with your chubby legs in shorts. 

You are quick....crawling and cruising.

You cannot see a banana without wanting it!

You are starting to understand what we are telling you.

You copy us.

You say uh oh...or uh uh... or oh oh!!

Mama is your new favorite word repeating it ALL the time!

You open & close the cupboard doors with great pleasure...we are teaching you 'open' close'...'open' 'dicht'

The tractor is your toy of the month...it talks...'we're off to the fields'!!

You love to push buttons delicately with one finger.

You think it is hilarious to grab our noses to see what sound they make...we all have a different sound, and are possibly regretting this game :)

You love to look out of the French windows...nose squished against it.

Miffy rocks your bedtime story EVERY night!

blue is your favorite colour...you spend ages playing with just the blue toys!
You has your first taste of ice cream.

I have been reminded this month what a little miracle you are...how we would be lost without you.
You have changed our world in a million ways...each one for the better.
You have my heart little man.
I love you
Mama
xxx

10 Months ~ Letter to August

 Mr Moo,

Wow how you have grown little man! Developmentally you are so smart, I love to see the amazement in your face when you discover something new. We build towers out of your blocks and you don't like to knock them down but place more things on top. Like your dummy or another block, it is so sweet to watch.

You love to share and offer everything to us....if your playing, you offer us a stacking cup, dummy, or toy. You have even started to offer us your spoon after you have taken a mouthful. I adore to see this kindness in you, I pray it continues throughout your life, because it is a wonderful quality to have August.

We have seen you sleep a lot better this month...I bought you an amber anklet to see whether it sooth's your horrid teething pain...I really think it has worked to take the edge off. You seem so much better, and that make Mama & Papa so happy.

This month we have been spending a lot of time with other babies, it has been fun, you are so calm and gentle, even when others are crying and fussing. However the only time this doesn't work is if your hungry...you are ruled by your tummy; just like your Papa!! Your meals just keep getting bigger and bigger as does your appetite!  Food is your world, which is great. I am very grateful you are not fussy about what you eat and you hardly ever refuse anything...thank you for that darling boy, it makes Mummy's life so much easier.

Avocado is still your favorite and you have just started to eat some finger food and wheat puffs are devoured with much pleasure and orange hands.  

Mama has made your 1st Birthday Party invites, which I'm trying not to think about because you cannot possibly be one soon!

You love wheat puffs

You can stand up with the help of the chair

You can turn around on your bum

You now sit sideways in your high chair!

You still wave like crazy

You bounce to the beat of the music

You Dutch clock ALWAYS gets you smiling and laughing

You hate strong wind

You hate the car seat

You saw your first ever snow, and loved touching it

Your handknitted GG blankets are a huge comfort for you

You love to dance with Mama in the sling
You play peek-a-boo, lifting your blanket to cover your eyes then dropping it to reveal a huge grin!

You had your first fall...and bruise!

I have spent 19 months loving & nurturing you. Imagining your future, worrying, laughing and enjoying your every wriggle, hiccup, smile & giggle. Seeing your achievements, the light in your eyes, every pound gained, every mouthful , every ounce of milk & every outfit outgrown. Words cannot say how mind blowingly beautiful this time has been. 

Can we do it all again August? With maybe more sleep?

I adore you with every tiny atom in my body and soul.

Hugs,

Mama

xxx

P.S I want to see teeth next month please!

9 Months ~ Letter to August

Wave, Wave, Wave Auggy

This month you have waved at everyone...to Daddy and me, to the dog, a lady in the street, the mirror and the telly....you never stop. It is still a slightly royal wave, which has us laughing all the time. 

You really are a joy to be around and your first Christmas was amazing. Watching you rip open presents and your big round cheeks fill out as the huge grin reaches across your face....you light up with happiness...i treasure every time this happens....i mentally tie it up in a ribbon and store it in my heart forever.... precious moments.

 These 9 months have been such a wonderfully new and exciting time for us....I have learnt so much, and experienced so much more than I ever thought possible. Sharing my waking moments with you is an adventure, never the same, never boring...you keep me on my toes little man!

I feel the next adventure will be the crawling! I have to be honest...i'm dreading it....you however will love it! I dread it because your growing up too quickly Auggs, its all going to fast. I look back on photos and wonder where 9 months have gone? It feels like yesterday we brought you home, with your giant feet and long legs! I think i have been in some weird time warp.

You are such Fun! you love all your toys and play with each one with intrigue and a slight frown...then a huge grin once you work out that it makes a noise or moves... stacking cups are a favorite you love to knock them down.

We wont mention the teeth...or the lack of sleep...but boy there are taking their time!

You however made your Mummy very happy by saying 'MAMA' as your first word...thank you you clever chap!

You walk across the kitchen in your walker

You wave, and wave, and wave!

You say 'Mama' and 'Papa'.

You love to make noise by hitting things together

You throw your dummy out in anger

You have gotten really loud

You seem to love to eat the high chair!

You are trying to crawl, however you quickly get frustrated.

You recognise voices

You wave goodnight to your toys and room. And over Christmas...the tree!

You went to the airport to meet your auntie Elle off the plane from Oz!

2013 is going to see more changes, adventures and a mountain of fun and laughter...we will share it with wide eyes and hearts full of wonderful memories. 

Bring it on August...I cannot wait for another amazing year with you by my side.

Love Always,

Mama

xxx 

8 Months ~ Letter to August

Darling Auggs,

What a roller coaster of a month....you have grown in so many ways. Your getting more and more mobile, loving playing in your walker of rolling around on the floor. You are so active that you hate to sleep, nap or do anything other than play or cry in your cot!! It has been hard work trying to settle you. Whether it is your teeth, separation anxiety, or just the change of a new house we do not know...we have tried most thing. However it might just being as simple as you don't like a cold bed! So Bee the wheatie toy has been keeping you warm at night.

We have been having some beautiful Autumn days, with low sun, and long shadows. you manage to nap in your buggy while I walk you around for miles...it is a joy to share these moments with you, even if you are snoozing! 

You are still enjoying your food a lot, feeding yourself, and getting slightly grubby in the process. You love to have a full belly, and you still have sweet potatoes, and butternut squash as favorites.

You wave...a slightly amusing 'royal' wave...sometimes you are shy and don't, however we say goodnight to everything in your room and you wave in a crazed manner! It makes me smile, and I cannot get over how quickly you pick these things up. 

You sit up without falling down

You love hair, pulling, stroking, & eating it

You can stand up holding on to the footstool

You celebrated your first Sinterklaas

You had your first presents to unwrap

You rode your Great Opa's handmade Rocking horse

You have had a huge growth spurt

You felt a frosty leaf

You have a talking Dutch clock!

You can put your whole dummy in your mouth

You have started to suck your thumb

This month has been the month of the hug...when happy, sad, sleepy, joyous they always make my day. When your little head rests on my shoulder and your arms wrap around me, stroking my hair, your breath on my neck...my heart skips a beat. You continue to amazing me. Just when I think I couldnt love you more, my heart is full tot he brim, you smile, giggle or wave and I realise my love is endless....everlasting.... it will survive forever and a day.

Keep Giggling Mr,

Love always,

Ma 

xxx

7 months ~ Letter to August

Hey Pickle,

It seems this month has been the the month for teething...however we still have none! Frustrating is the word of choice. It makes me sad to see you in pain and not being able to make it disappear in a flash...I wish I could be the one in pain and have you giggling and happy. 

You love routine, and as I have found out, dislike it when we deviate from it, infact it puts you in a huge grump for the rest of the day. Likewise you have to have a lovely full belly, and just like your Daddy, get grumpy when hungry or someone else is eating and you're not. You have also developed a fascination with mugs...you love them and watch our every move when drinking from one...hands out stretched and little grunts indicating you want it....I think you might have a love for tea...or maybe a Dutch love of coffee more like!

At baby sensory you dressed up as a pirate captain for pirate week...we were the only ones dressed up but everyone loved it, and it has to be one of my favorite moments with you...such fun! It confirms my wish for you 'There is no one else like you, so be Magnificent!' Your day as a pirate only proved that.

All signs of that tiny dependant baby have left, and you are now starting to strive for more and more independence ..you want to feed yourself, you sit up unaided, pick out the toys you want to play with, you have, in your own way, started to communicate your wants and needs more than ever.

You now wave.

You have mastered sitting up

You are moving up to all the big boy classes, which makes me a tiny bit sad that we won't see all the dinky babies come in.
Shiver me timbers you were a baby pirate!

You giggle at silly faces and love being made to jump

Fruit is slowly being added to your meals

Prunes are your new favorite

You still havent mastered finger food

You love me singing 'Old MacDonalds farm' especially the ducks & the pig noises.

You have been seen rocking your winter squirrel hat

You have a little cheeky sideway grin

I think the next month is going to see you grow in so many more ways. I have my camera ready for all those fabulous moments and my heart ready to be filled with more amazing memories.

Please remember to keep smiling, giggling and being a wonderful little chap. You make my days so full to the brim with happiness and joy.

I adore you Pip the Pickle & always will,

Mummy

xxx

6 Months ~ Letter to August

Happy half year Birthday to you,

Happy Birthday to you,

Happy six month Birthday,

Happy Birthday to yoooooouuuuuu!

This month your Auntie Charlotte had a darling little girl; Isla Grace. You are exactly six month older than her...therefore it is your duty to look after her and be her friend for life. 

We went to see her when she was 2 days old, she was wrinkly, and so cute. It amazed me how light she was, and how tiny. It seems like a lifetime ago that you were that small. Your tiny mews for milk, and newborn smell. 

6 months has been wonderful...we have moved house, seen lots of friends and family and started back at baby sensory. We have had play dates, long journeys and plenty of smiles, giggles and happy chatting!

This month we bought you a walker for the new house and you love it...you dance at the {slightly annoying} music, and watch me as I cook dinner....you seem happy with the independence it gives you, which makes me swell with pride.

You sit up unaided now, and bob along to the music at our sensory class...you even recognise other babies, people and greet them with big smiles. You love to smile, big, huge grins and then giggle like it is the funniest thing ever.

You love avocado and pasta.

You love the bath and playing with water.

The jingly bells are you favorite at baby sensory.

Your weight is back up to normal.

You love us pulling very expressive faces.

You are happiest when you are out and about meeting people and seeing the countryside.

You love to chew on your sipping cup and rub it along your gums to sooth some of your teething pain.

You love attention.

You know what 'no' means, especially if you are trying to put your feet in your mouth while you eat!!

You are very noisy when you eat.

You prefer veggies to fruit, and your not keen on meat.

Your teeth are coming through, and you seem very upset by this...we try to keep you jolly and amused. It's hard work for Mummy & Daddy. We will celebrate when they do make an appearance that's for sure!

We adore you so much August, you make us smile, laugh, and swoon at your little personality shining through. 

Bring on another glorious month little one.

Ik hou van jou 

Mummy 

xxx

5 Months ~ Letter to August

To My Darling Auggs,

This week we have been for a short holiday to the seaside; our first holiday as a family!

We visited a sandy beach, a cobbled town, and an artists house...Your Dad and me have relaxed and you have been so well behaved. You came to dinner with us every night and had everyone in awe at your manners...we couldn't have asked you to be more wonderful.

This month we have been trying to pile on the pounds as you are taking your time to gain weight. I started off being worried, now I'm relaxed to the fact that you will be what you are, which is happy and healthy and growing strong...your'e perfectly long and lean like your Dad.

You are so bright...you love all toys and look at them with such fascination, joy and happiness. Your favorite is your dummy clip...Monkey, he is perfect mouth sized!

You love bananas, sweet potato, porridge & squash.

You are starting to sit up unaided...however you just sway to one side!

The simple toys are the one which hold the most joy.

You tug on your ears when you are tired.

You had a cool bath in the garden tub.

You grab your toes, and they are now going into your mouth!

You are chatting loudly.

You know your name.

You know when your food is coming and get very impatience.

You are drinking water from a sippy cup.

You are starting to get a bit anxious if you cannot see me or Dad.

We think one of your bottom front teeth is going to come through first.

The other day you woke for a feed at 1.30am. I walked into your room to smiles and sweet coos...your arms open asking to be picked up. As your were feeding I realised that these moments have been my favorite since you came into my life. The gentle noises outside, the slight chill of the room, a shared experience between Mother and Son.

Once you had finished you peacefully watched the light and the shadows that come through the door from the hallway... you have always loved the light dancing on a ceiling, or shadows cast from a dappled sunlight, or the bright red flowery umbrella on a dull day. Your wonder and intense stare remind me of an artist working out his approach to a painting...trying to get the best light...waiting for the inspiration to hit. 

I love the way you play with my hands like you are making a study of them....bending them, working them out in your own sweet mind, then moving yours in realisation. I'm going to miss these tranquil snippets of our lives. I know soon you will sleep through, become more independent and you wont remember our quiet conversations...but I will.... and they are so precious to me. Your sweet face, milky breath, pure wonderment, and the gentleness of being in the moment.

Thank you for them August... You are my wonder...My masterpiece.

I love you,

Mummy

xxx

4 Months ~ Letters to August

{oh Mummy i love Moomin!}

Master Auggy,

What a month! You have grown so much, had your first cold and your teeth are coming...all this has made you slightly grumpy and unsettled. 

The weather has been weird...weeks of rain and cold and now we are in sweltering heat! I don't think either of us are dealing to well with this. We are a little bit bored of being stuck inside...and now it is hot and sunny, you hate to be outside as it really is too muggy.

However we started to go to baby sensory which we both love. We baby sign...and you now wave when we say 'hello' to you...you are so smart darling boy.

You are now sleeping in your big boy bed all the time and you love the space in there. 

You still fight your sleep, and it takes a while to get you off to the land of nod.

You love to read books in your bumbo.

Captain Calamari has entered our lives.

You saw the queen bee in the bee hive.

You are starting to roll.

You are having a bottle in the evenings.

You adore the bath.

You rub your eyes and nose when you are tired {just like Mummy!}

You have ticklish elbows.

A year ago today I found out I was pregnant...my life changed in that moment.... I couldn't have asked for a more wonderful special little man to enter my life. 

You really do make my world so fantastic August.

I love you to the moon and back.

Mummy

xxx

3 months ~ Letters to August

Darling Boy,

Three months have gone is a blink of an eye. Every time I catch a quick glance at you I am amazed about your size...your chubby chops and your loud chattering. Last night we had a bath together as it the only way you enjoy a bath. It has to be deep and hot; just how I like it...and its even better with company. You giggled and kicked your huge feet and I could see the wonder on your face. Moments like these are simply precious August.

Three months ago I was sat staring at you while sitting on a hospital bed, being interrupted by nurses every 10 minutes...people with information, advice & friendly smiles. All I wanted them to do was to leave me alone, I needed to take it all in, I think I was in shock. Shocked because for 9 months I had been waiting for this moment, and now you were here I didnt know how to react. 3 months on and I often have to pinch myself that I have a son...a beautiful happy chap who loves to smile, chat & wiggle.
I wake up with your happy smiles as I lean over to say good morning...we sing to the sun, thanking him for waking up with us...this is the best part of my day...I love that you know me...you know my voice and my smile.

You nap in you big boy cot.

You have a new elephant light.

You always have your hands in your mouth.

You havent found your thumb yet!

Your wardrobe is better than mine

You love your butterfly toy.

You can sit up in your bumbo.

You still hate tummy time.
You went to your first wedding.
You helped Mummy in the shop
You smelt lavender for the first time...you smiled.

We adore your big smiles and your rare giggles. Your beautiful relaxed soul is shinning through already. I cannot wait to see you grow and progress even more.

Today we got some books for you from the library...there is nothing better than a good book August...I hope you love reading, to disappear in a story... it is the best way to relax and let your mind expand....let your thoughts and dreams multiply.

Your dreams are precious, and will come true...if you believe.
Follow your bliss Little one
Love,
Mummy
xxx

2 Months ~ Letter to August

Auggy Bear,

Month 2 has gone so fast. We had our check up and your first injections, you were brave and only cried for a few seconds. You met your Oma & Opa for the first time along with Tante Miranda. We had our first long car journey down to the south coast sunshine, where we had a BBQ to celebrate Nana's Birthday, with your gorgeous bumped up Auntie. 

It amazes me on a daily basis that you are growing so fast, and not just physically. You stick your tongue out at me when I do, you are batting away toys, and talking so much more. Yours smiles are just divine. We spend most mornings talking to one another...big smiles and kicking legs are just perfect even at 5am!

You have grown out of your mosses basket.

You are wearing 3-6 month clothes albeit a tiny bit big.

Your hair has turned blonde.

You had a boys night in with Daddy.

You have been playing in your big boy cot.

There has been the odd sleepless night, and days of random crying. The tears make me sad; however I understand you are just trying to tell me something and I just have to learn what that is.

The more I get to know you the more I am sad that some people are missing it. Sometimes I feel them around us...you often look into space and smile a lot...staring at nothing, however I believe you see what I only feel. We are lucky to have them visit us August. 

Others choose not to be apart our world.... their loss. Missing out on your pure beauty, happiness and joy only makes me realise how foolish one persons decision can be. 

Your happiness is not dependent on another person August...never let someone else rule your world.

"You are the captain of your own ship; don't let anyone else take the wheel."

 Michael Josephson

Until then Captain, I will guide you through the still & rocky waters, holding your hand all the way.

I love you 

Mummy

xxx

One Month ~ Letter to August

Darling Boy,

Well this first Month of being a mummy to you has gone in a flash. I have enjoyed every second August. You have been a joyful bundle of scrummy baby-ness. Your chubby cheeks, long fingers, and big feet make my day, and keep me in awe of you. We created you, you camped out in my belly for a whole 9 month ( minus a day!) and now you are here, brightening our lives...I am still amazed by that fact.

Right now, as you sit frog like on my chest I remember the moment I found out we were having you. It was a beautiful July day, the day before was your Dads birthday and we had been to the seaside....I knew then on that beach, that you were in my belly, I felt i wasn't alone. I next day it was confirmed. I cried with pure joy and utter fear that I was having a baby. 

However I had nothing to fear...

You are perfect in every way. The fear has washed away, replaced by happiness and instinct. 

You bring us laughter with your milky smiles, rolling eyes and little noises. You have grown out of your new baby babygrows and at the last measurement you were 65 cm long...your Dutch ancestry is very apparent!

We can only get you to settle by swaddling you....you love touching your face....shadows on the ceiling...walking up and down the stairs with Daddy...the mobile above your cot...watching me stick my tongue out at you, i swear you try and copy me....and boy do you burp loudly!

Every one you have met has instantly fallen for your good looks, long eyelashes and button nose. However the jury is out as to who you look like....but your frown is all your Dads!

We love you little chap...make sure those sweet dream your having right now on my chest are big and happy ones 

Love, Mummy xxx

Letter to Pip ~ Part 7

 Darling Pip,

This is us at 39 weeks...don't you look fab? I'm still happy with my gorgeous bump and I'm going to miss being pregnant feeling your kicks and general naughty antics. 

I didn't sleep so well last night as I had my second experience of Braxton Hicks, I got all excited and was willing them to stay and get bigger so we could meet you....that and it is my guess day today!! Your Dad got it sooo wrong with his I thought I had won the bet, however they went after 3 hours and I fell asleep dreaming about what you are going to look like.

Everything is ready for you...the house is getting cleaner by the second, due to my boredom! Your drawers are still neat and tidy, and your bag has been repacked my Daddy so he know what to dress you to come home in. We have done the last minute shopping, my bag is packed and the list of your possible names is getting longer!

I am trying to relax, get some sleep, and not worry about being induced, which seems more likely as each day passes. I'm sure we will cope either way. The excitement about meeting you will over take the worry anyway :)

The daffodils daddy planted for your Birthday are all out and happy, waiting for you to arrive. I can't wait to walk you through our garden...have picnic rugs on the decking under the umbrella when it is hot, and listen to the swifts chattering overhead, while I marvel at your chunky legs with rolls of baby fat, while you coo away in ruffly bloomers! 

Life is going to be so sweet little one.

Stay safe until the time is right...then arrive quick and healthy, bouncy bambino

We love you to the moon and back

xxx

One week and four days to go!!

We are so near the finishing line! I am slightly grumpy and uncomfortable right now, but I am still so excited about giving birth to this little Pip. As a woman the whole process amazes me and it is something I have been wanting to go through for ages...so bring it on baby :)

I feel I have had a super easy pregnancy so far. No horrid symptoms, no swollen ankles, not a lot of sickness. Ok, we have been to the hospital more than most, but it normally ended up with us getting a look at Pip, so that has been our silver lining. I have been uncomfortable yes, but that is nothing compered to what some ladies I know have been through. 

The Wonderful one, told me it has been difficult for him. Our pregnancy wasn't what he expected. He, unlike me, thought it would be easier for me. He hates that he cant help me when I'm uncomfy...he said he just never thought that would be an issue...so maybe I have been moaning more than I thought!! 

He is also worried about how he will be in the delivery room...bless him! I know it will be tough to see someone you love going through such a powerful and painful experience, however I have told him to be strong, make me smile, tell me I'm doing a great job and to keep the cold face cloths coming!! 

....The pressure is building...the excitement is mounting...

Do you think Pip will hold out until after Mother's Day?

Will I get another weekly photo out of this bump?

Is my guess day right?

Time is a cruel, but thrilling thing :)

Letter to Pip ~ Part 6

Dear The Mighty Pip the Pickle,

Well my darling we are nearly there...today you are 37 weeks old and I couldn't be more proud of you and my body. We have been through a lot. We have had adventures, laughter, stresses, fun, tears and moments of breath holding and prayers.

You seem to be kicking well this week. In fact I feel you are running out of room and those long legs are getting a bit cramped now. We managed to freak Auntie Louise out as she watched you kick and jiggle about, she just couldn't believe how strong you are...I think we might have put her off having a baby. I however told her how wonderful the feeling was. After last weeks antics you can kick as much as you like darling baby.

So all you have to do now Pip is arrive soon, before the 28th March would be wonderful. I want to give birth to you naturally, so you have 2 and a half weeks to pack your bags and come into this wonderful world.

We are all waiting & wondering what you will be....boy or girl? We have all had a guess in the 'Pip Tote'. Mine is a Boy born on the 21st March, however I am only about 50.5% about the boy thing...I think it could go either way!! 

Daddy thinks Girl born on the 9th March....so you better get a wriggle on if he is to be right!!

We are off to have a spa day on Thursday with Auntie Jenna...a lovely gift from our wonderful family...I honestly cannot wait. We are going to have a massage, facial and pedicure....we are going to float in the pool for ages, in our blue polka dot tankini, in which we look rather like a whale in!! 

So if you can resist coming out until we have been pampered I would really appreciate it!

Come safely and quickly gorgeous babe...we are ready & waiting for you to complete our little world Pip.

Head down little one

We love you 

xxx

Letter to Pip ~ Part 5

Our Dear Darling Pip,

This is us at 31 weeks....the PJ's are being rocked a lot lately which is just great as we are both super comfy in them.

These last few weeks have been sleepless. A mixture of you and me tossing and turning in bed, and the dreaded restless legs. Nothing seems to calm them down, so we are ever grateful for a good book!

When we do sleep I wake up to you striking weird positions in my belly. Papa and me try to work out which part of your tiny body we are feeling but it is tough. However your poses make us smile and marvel at your skilled acrobatic moves!!

To attempt to calm the dreaded legs we have been soaking in the tub A LOT, a personal favorite of mine...blissful hot water and bubbles makes my day. Your wriggles make the water ripple like a fish in a pond...you still amaze me everyday... I cant wait to meet your sweetness...tickle your toes...and watch you be in wonder of the world.

This weekend we have managed to get on top of your room...it is looking so fantastic. I have a slight love of pale blue at the moment, I don't know whether this is you trying to tell me that you are a boy...but we are working it in with pale greens, grey and lemon yellows...a giant world map is going up soon, so you can plan your big adventures from your cot.

We have placed our last orders for all the essentials...they all arrive this week, so your room will be done and all pretty in time for your Auntie Nats and Uncle Luke to visit....and before Valentines day, which will leave us free to make lots of people very happy with flowers! It will be a very busy few weeks until you are born... however I promise to keep you safe and happy until the doctors; or you decide to make an appearance.

8 weeks little one...8 weeks until you become a part of this beautiful, inspiring and amazing world of ours

It holds it arms open in a huge welcome to you Pip

You are Lucky

We love you

Papa & Mummy

xxx

Letter to Pip ~ Part 4

 Hey bouncy baby Pip,

Well haven't we have been busy bees this month? From decorating lovely homes for Christmas, serving hundred of customers in our shop, walking Bob in rain & wind, Christmas shopping, and now finally I have started on our own little room.

I am so excited about this...plus a little daunted as Ma hasn't kept it very tidy, so everything needs sorting out before I can fit any of your beautiful things in it.

However I think a couple of weeks and I will be posting photos of your new home...oh it going to be wonderful Pip!

You have been so active this last month. I sometimes jump with the force of your kicks...under the ribs are fast becoming a favorite of yours...& boy baby these hurt!! I think you are a little shy, as your Auntie Lottie really wanted to feel you over the Christmas break, and you didn't kick for a good 2 days...you also do this to your Papa, I swear he thinks I make up the force of your kicks, as you go quiet when he rests in hands on my bump! However strong, I love these daily going on in my belly...I can feel your hiccups, and the way you are lying...I marvel at this, as I will never have this again with you, and it is so special.

We saw the midwife yesterday, and Papa got to hear your heartbeat for the first time...he looked amazed.

Sue our Midwife was pleased with your progress...totally normal and the perfect size for 28 weeks.

I however feel huge...that space by my ribs are beginning to be filled, which is stopping me bending very far...Papa might have to paint my toe nails soon!

Words cannot describe just how excited I am to meet you in 12 weeks...I have moments of being scared, then I remember that all the pain in the world will be worth having your eyes look into mine...seeking that acknowledgement that knowing that I am your Ma...

We are planning to giggle you out...happy smiles...and belly laughs all the way Little Pip

We cant wait to hold you close and be amazed by you.

All my love Always,

Ma 

xxx