Growing boy

Chubby Chin!

Sweet feet.

Fuzzy little head.

A Visit from Gran and Pop

Charles and Pop show off their rock house (by Charles' feet).

Gran and Paul.

Paul with Pop!

Big Boys

Paul at one month.

I squeezed him into his going-home outfit one last time

because it's so cute (hence the high-waters).

Charles loves to dance and sing with his guitar. And recently he insists on

putting his knee up while he plays—like Daddy!

Our first day of beautiful weather called for a picnic in the park.

Charles and Daddy played ball...

...while Paul napped and showed off his double chin.

A few of Paul's favorite things

His cousin Ellee who came to visit last week.

His new Boppy pillow.

Watching Daddy...

...and giving those sweet newborn smiles.

Paul William Raith is here!

First, doting grandparents arrive, hoping to meet Baby Brother.

Charles eats up the attention.

At long last, Paul William makes his appearance!

August 25 at 1:30 a.m. after less than 2 hours of labor...

8 lbs, 1 oz., 20.5 in.

Proud Big Brother Charles visits that morning.

And after settling in at home for a few days,

Paul meets his first stuffed animal:

Here he is at 4 days old.

Already in the first week his tiny squeals have changed to grunts,

he's gained almost a pound, and he's learning to appreciate (ignore?)

the many kisses of his adoring brother. Welcome to the family, sweet baby!

Charles is 3!

Happy Birthday, Charles!

Singing and blowing out a candle were a

little too much attention, I think.

But he warmed up to the presents-part right away!

Here's mommy's favorite gift he received...

And here's the coolest one of them all!

New Home

A few shots since we arrived in our new home:

I can't remember what he was eating, but he was pretty serious about it.

Charles loves to help in the yard. (The back yard is mostly paved...)

Here's a view of the side yard, dubbed "Paris Garden" by some former tenant (there's a stepping stone with the name). Let's not get carried away! It's a bit scraggly, but very peaceful. The crepe myrtle is now in full, fuschia glory. This was an afternoon romp in the sprinkler.

Charles' first night in his big-boy bed. Thanks for the bed, Uncle Will!