Puttin' on the Ritz

Mark hit 4-months and we decided to celebrate big with an overnight trip to the Marina del Rey Ritz-Carlton Hotel. What 4-month old doesn't deserve a break from his rowdy brothers and sister, after all? OK, really it was Chris' work conference putting him up so Mark and I tagged along.

We jogged to Venice Beach and watched the sunset.

We strolled past the marina. Fond memories of Shake n Bake flooded my memory.

Mark wooed the ladies at the front desk who had this tasteful onesie delivered to our room.

Did I mention the beach? Yeah, it was wonderful. We're both having trouble adjusting back to reality but I told him I'd do it again for him on his next big birthday. Maybe for his 6-month or something.

Does this look like my happy face?

He's already gained 2 pounds and grown a few inches. It's amazing what little eating, sleeping, growing machines these little guys are! That last month of pregnancy was miserable, but I was nervous for the newborn phase as well. I don't know why I was so scared. The love I had for him the instant he was born has just grown and I love holding him and consoling him. Even his crying is so darn adorable (most of the time). The kids get really worried about him when he cries. At home they'll just pick him up, bring him to me, and say "Mom, the baby wants you!" IN the care they plug their ears. He's not a fussy kid so far, but who wouldn't get upset at all the crazy stuff he's exposed to after 9 months of blissful warmth and darkness and solitude. Well, you're in the Barney house now mister! He hasn't been dropped yet, but they way. This really is his happy face.

The kids lined up waiting for their turn to hold Mark on their tummies. They love how cuddly he is. For FHE we talked about what we're thankful for and all of them named their new baby brother. I love my kids!!!