When everyone told me, “Cherish the moments. Babies grow up so fast”, they weren’t joking. Jackson is 5 weeks old and I keep making comparisons to only a few short weeks ago. It’s bittersweet. I want my newborn back, but I’m so glad that he’s healthy and growing. He is also becoming so much more engaged and fun with his coos and ahhs, smile and alertness. So, as much as I want to go back, I can’t wait for everything going forward.

Anyway, here is what a few weeks will do in the baby world:

Jackson no longer fits his newborn clothes (biiiiig tear!), as evidenced by his tummy filling his onesies and his ankles popping out.

1 week old

5 weeks old – his legs are showing!

Jackson used to only smile in his sleep. While many say they are gas smiles, another theory is that they are meant to warm up males so they will keep their baby. Interesting theory… but the smiles do make us want to keep him even more. Anyway, Jackson is now smiling while he is awake and we’re talking to him! You might call this a “social smile” but it’s not consistent yet so I’ll hold the term until we’ve truly mastered the skill with 90% accuracy (lame SLP joke).

4 days old- Jackson smiling in his sleep

5 weeks old- Jackson smiling while awake! I know, his cheeks are so big you can’t really tell he’s awake. But he is!

At his 2 week appointment, Jackson weighed about 7lbs 15 oz (46th percentile) and by his 1 month appointment he weighed 10lbs 14 oz (73rd percentile). We’re still within average range, but walking a fine line if we’re using the narrow average range (25th to 75th percentile). Let’s just use the broad average range (16th to 84th percentile) so I don’t feel like I’m over feeding him.

2 weeks old: Jackson fit and trim

5 weeks old: Check out the balloon belly!!

It’s been quite an amazing 5 weeks with our thriving boy. Can’t wait for what’s to come!