So I didn’t post Simon’s 4 month photos until almost 6 months. What can I say? I’m much too tired to think up a believable excuse. These days, I have to congratulate myself every time I complete a basic task (like brushing my hair or putting on clean socks) because it’s quite possible that it will be the high point of the day. Jeremy walks in the door and I proudly point to my feet as proof that having a baby hasn’t completely crushed my spirit. Why is the baby naked? What am I, some sort of wizard?

For years, I haven’t been able to get into the Christmas spirit. Buying unnecessary presents for people who would probably rather just have the cash. Being forced to listen to Christmas carols on every single radio station. Feeling pressure to bake cookies and participate in other wholesome activities when what I really want to do is put my feet up. Even putting up the Christmas tree has felt like work.

But this year, everything is new and shiny again. I’m excited to buy gifts for Simon. I sing along to Christmas carols (and enjoy it!) because I want them to be a part of his childhood. I proudly showed Simon his very first Christmas tree, and took the spit up on my shirt as a sign that he shared my excitement. I’m looking forward to a tree covered in pipe cleaner ornaments and my little guy waking me up at 2am to open gifts. I can’t wait to share him with his family this Christmas season.

And what happened then…?

Well… in Who-ville they say

That the Grinch’s small heart

Grew three sizes that day!

These family photos were taken when Simon was 8 weeks old. He screamed throughout the photo session, and these were the only shots that didn’t make us look like terrible parents.

So many cheek pinchers…

It’s possible that I’m biased, but I look at Simon and think he’s the most beautiful baby I’ve ever seen. I grab my camera and take what I’m sure will be the most incredible baby photo ever taken, but somehow my photos always lack a certain something. I’m so glad we were able to talk Megan into taking some beautiful photos of Simon at 9 days old, looking just as I want to remember him.

We love you, baby boy.

We’re proud to welcome baby Simon Maurice Schurman, born Sunday, October 3rd, 2010 at 3:14pm. Simon weighs 7 pounds even and measures 18 3/4 inches long. Mom and Dad couldn’t be happier. The day was a blur, but luckily Daddy managed to snap a few hundred photos. Here are a few of our favorites.

Mom and Dad love you, baby boy.

I’ll admit that I’m getting a little bit impatient. I’m looking forward to the small luxuries, like tummy sleeping, jeans that fit properly, and being able to enjoy a pop without debilitating heartburn. I’m ready to meet my little Kerfunkel. Still, I know I’m going to miss the kicks, hiccups, and playing my belly like a bongo. This has been such an exciting, hopeful time and I’m so glad we have these photos to remember it. These were taken at 35 weeks (August 26, 2010). Thanks Megan!

Our 30 week 3D ultrasound was spectacular. Just look at those chubby cheeks and pouty lips! You look oh-so-cool wearing your cord like a scarf. We just can’t get enough of you, Kerfunkel.

There’s just no privacy, is there? Here you are at your 19 week anatomy scan. All parts present and accounted for. And gorgeous. Did I mention gorgeous?

Meet our little alien… I mean, sweet baby.

We were shocked and amazed when your little face came up on the screen. At 17+2 weeks, you measure 11.5cm from head to bum and your tiny foot is 2.1cm long. I felt tired just watching your crazy water aerobics. Turns out I’ve been doing more than just sitting around drinking slurpees.

We first heard your little galloping heartbeat on February 23, 2010 when you were only 8 weeks and 5 days old. We recorded it and played it over and over on our ipods. Beautiful.

 We got our first sneak peek at you 2 days later at 9 weeks. Your little peanut body is turned away from us, and that’s the back of your head on the left. Your little arms and legs were wiggling around. Seeing your little heart beating so furiously made mine stop. Who knew you could fall in love with a cashew?