One Month Old

Today you turned one month old, Nora. You had a doctor's appointment first thing in the morning. You've gained 500 grams (1 lb 2 oz) and are now 3.6 kg and 53 cm (you were 3.3 kg and 51 cm when you were born). After the doctor's visit, which included a hepatitis vaccine, your mother went to her beauty salon to schedule a leg waxing and a manicure, and the beautician took one look at your fingernails and immediately offered to cut them for us. We've been waiting out of caution (but mostly fear) until you were a month old. Surprisingly, you protested very little. Just so we're clear, on your one month birthday, you got a professional manicure!

After that it was a walk through the town market (a Friday event). We bought you three pairs of 3-month-old pajamas because you are quickly outgrowing your newborn 'jammies. One woman from a fruit stand came out from behind her stand to coo at you and talk to us about her experience as a 40-year-old first-time mother and tell us the rest of her life story. Then I picked up some meat, bread, birthday candles, and some pastries, while your mother and aunt ran home to exchange a rug they had bought at the market the previous week. You and I got home before they did and you bawled your eyes out until I could give you warm milk. The adults ate lunch, and then it was time for your birthday party. Your mother and I bought these party hats six or seven years ago in England for about £1 each, and we have carried them around with us to another country and through three houses. They were completely unused. Until today. Your mother and I plan on using these same hats for your first 14 birthdays...'cause we're stingy like that.

Stupid elastic band gives Daddy a double chin...more than he usually has. Your mother is looking fantastic, as always.

Your Aunt Belén partied with you, too.

Sleepy Birthday Girl.

This is about the most awake you were during your party.

I tried to animate you a bit.

Your first lesson in fire extinguishing did not go well. Pay attention next time!

To no one's surprise, you were exhausted after your party.

Anyone here who is at least one month old, please raise your hand! Anyone?

Happy Birthday, Nora! Your parents are pretty proud of themselves for keeping you alive this long. One month at a time, eh, kiddo?