Sleep, baby Lucas. . .

Lucas, why are you reluctant to sleep? Your eyelids are heavy and you restlessly rub them. You are stretching and curling to find that comfortable position. And yet, you devote all of your will and might to staying awake. You play and laugh and then eventually cry. Your body knows what you need, but you will not let go. Are you afraid of where sleep will take you? Are you distressed by missing moments of life? Are you concerned that you may not awake in the same world? Rest, baby Lucas. Know that you are safe. Your world is beautiful and secure. You are loved whether chasing life or peacefully rejuvenating for the adventure. God will watch over you, and we are always here. Sleep, baby Lucas. Sleep.

Awesome Responsibility

Being a Dad is the best. Seeing Lucas encounter the world for the first time is humbling and rewarding. His inexperience makes everything new for me, too. I feel so proud of the smallest accomplishments, and I cannot explain why. When he rolls over (or now he sits for several seconds), I am thrilled with his achievement even though it was probably and nearly inevitable. His life is a miracle. My heart stirs with excitement for what will come for him. Right now, I think we are probably giving him the best environment that we possible can, but this is all just a warm up. As he matures and develops, his needs will be more sophisticated. Are we ready? Can we give him everything he needs while encouraging his own determination? Can we stimulate his brain development and independent thinking? Will he know God and appreciate faith? Can we foster Lucas' zest for life to be like the passion I have for his life? With "awe" being fear and wonder, this is an awesome responsibility!!

Mobility

The last week has been a bit of a development spurt for Lucas. He has started scooting. He scoots around the floor and off of his playmat, etc. One day, he was supposed to be sitting in his car seat (not buckled in) waiting to eat, and he managed to scoot almost all the way out. Somehow, his arms caught him before he fell, and I was able to get there in time to save the crash. I guess we know now! He can roll over now, although he is reluctant. He hates being on his belly. We've seen him sleep on his side, and yesterday, Mom found him rolled over in his crib and asleep on his stomach. His balance also has dramatically improved lately. He can now sit up by himself for several seconds (15?) at a time. He will master this art soon, because he loves to be up where he can look around.