I'm not exactly sure how it's happened, but my baby is three months old today. Seriously, where have these past three months gone?! I'm not completely sure why and I do know that there are likely a lot of factors involved, but it seems as though I've enjoyed these newborn days more than ever before. It likely has a lot to do with the fact that our big kids adore him and that they are willing and able to offer real help. Whether it's baby snuggling or toddler fetching that I need, they are always right there. I've also had more outside help during this newborn time than ever before, the biggest being cousin play time for the little boys a couple of times a week.

Of course, a super happy baby who sleeps awesomely at night doesn't hurt either. As tempting as it could be to wish that he would stop right where he is and stay this sweet little peanut forever, I am actually pretty excited to watch his personality develop and see how he makes his own little spot among this wild and crazy crew.

But I think maybe it's the benefit of perspective that has had the most to do with my ability to enjoy this time so much. Having a few kids who are much older than it feels like they should be really helps to slow a mama down and truly savor these little years. Every stage has been wonderful so far, but I'm starting to see that once a stage is gone, it's gone. As much as I look forward to the next stage for each of our sweet kids, I don't want to miss a moment of the ones we're in.

(and please, if that smile and those stick-out ears don't slay you then you're not breathing.)

Three months old joy...