3 months.

Dear Rainer,

Happy 3 months sweet boy!

I'm sorry you are sick. My mom said it well - "Babies shouldn't be allowed to get sick. It's not fair!" You have the most sad, pathetic cough and your tiny little nose is stuffed up. At night you have trouble sleeping. I wish I could take away all your discomfort. This begins a lifetime of longing to protect you from all that causes pain, but already 3 months into your life, I'm left helpless.

You are such a people person. You always want to be in the center of the action. If we leave you by yourself in a room, even if you are surrounded by toys, you will not have it! As long as someone is sitting by you, talking to you and making eye contact, you will squeal and grin and kick your legs.

You are still a great eater. You are an efficient eater - you like to latch on and get the job done, and move on to other things. If you aren't hungry you won't comfort-nurse.

We've already passed on almost all of your size three month clothes to a friend who had a January baby. You are so big - already wearing six month clothes! You are stinking adorable in your button-up sweater with the elbow pads, and your navy cargo pants with your little 'fake' sneaker/socks.

We still haven't given you any vaccines because every time we go to the clinics they are out of the ones you need. :::sigh::: We have, however, already gotten your Mexican passport, and we have the appointment for your U.S. passport in two days. You are almost ready to be a world traveler, little guy!

Your Nonna is here visiting for 3 weeks. You love falling asleep in her arms and rocking in the recliner. She taught you how to hold a rattle, but mostly you love just sticking your arms up in front of your face and staring at them. It's pretty silly - looking!

We love you so much. I can't believe how fast you are growing & changing. I can't wait to see your personality more and more with time.

Love,

Mommy