Moments big and small: an update on life with Tucker

Before Tucker was born, I imagined maternity leave looking something like a very long photo session. I would spend my days documenting Tucker's cute outfits, his dramatic expressions and all of our new, exciting experiences. Some days, we'd even wear coordinating colors and set up the tripod for some mother-son portraits. 

Turns out, that is not what maternity leave looks like. Shocker, huh? Now just the thought of lugging out the tripod is exhausting.

Most days, I'm lucky if I brush my teeth or dress him in matching clothes. When we do venture into a store, I walk around nervously and hurriedly, never knowing how much time I have before he'll cry to eat. Life with a newborn is like living with a really cute, snuggly bomb. 

Despite our chaos, though, we've had amazing opportunities for great photos — photos filled with people and stories I can't wait for Tucker to know about. 

Here's what we've been up to lately:

First bath and time with Mom & Dad

Overall, Tucker didn't hate his first bath. He enjoys the sound of the water and likes having his head washed.

Occasionally he's content lying in his crib, but only for a few minutes. He's spoiled!

Mirror selfies! I love his chunky arms and chubby cheeks.

He loves taking naps on his tummy. And look at those squishy lips!

He's lost most of his hair on top, but he's still rocking a patch in the back.

Tucker's first vacation!

Maybe we were crazy for taking a 3-week-old to the beach (everyone said so), but we couldn't pass up the opportunity to go on our first family vacation. Plus, we had LOTS of extra helping hands. Sure, things were different this year, but the fun outweighed the challenging (example: poop explosions at 1 a.m.). 

My first Mother's Day

This Mother's Day was big for two reasons. Most obvious, it was my first – which felt a little surreal. How am I already someone's mom?? Second, it was my grandma's last. Not many of you know this, but she passed away early yesterday morning. That Sunday was one of her last semi-good days. Though she didn't understand exactly who we were, we were able to talk with her, see her smile and take some photos. Having pictures of her and Tucker means more to me than anything. 

Meeting his great-grandparents

I never knew any of my great-grandparents, so having Tucker meet three of his is really special. He's a lucky boy to be loved by so many!