We've had Darien in our family for 2 weeks now. Some things we've learned about him:

• He likes having his feet rubbed
• He likes scalp massages
• Bum pats calm him down
• He prefers to be on his back when you hold him
• He likes music, especially when grandma Dodge sings to him
• He takes long naps in the swing
• He seems to like his car seat and stroller and has slept through all of our outings so far (except the doctor's office but they woke him up to weigh him)
• He hates baths and diaper changes

He has smiled at me a few times. It only happens when all his needs have been met and he's comfortable and half asleep, he flashes an open mouthed smile in between drooping eyelids. 

He always seems to be really hot. We haven't dressed him very much, usually he just wears a diaper and has a blanket around him because he gets so hot when he has clothes on. Just like Quin! 

He is really enjoyable to interact with when he's awake. He is very alert but also calm. I love the intense look on his face, like he as something VERY important to tell you but can't get the words out. It's a look of concerned skepticism. 

I had mastitis during the first week when my milk came in. It got so bad I had to take antibiotics. I think they caused him to have a really bad diaper rash and some stomach pain. The over the counter diaper cream wasn't helping so I made a home made diaper cream with bentonite clay, beeswax, shea butter, coconut oil, zinc oxide, vitamin E and essential oils. I was really happy that I already had all of the ingredients I needed. I had bought them to make my own deodorant but never ended up doing it. 

Ruby gave him the nickname Dair Bear. She also refers to him as “dat cute little baby.” She likes to pet his soft blonde hair, sing to him, and ask me questions about him.

Ammon is completely smitten and always wants to hold him, touch him, and take care of him.

Quin is very protective and is constantly trying to get his siblings to leave the baby alone.

One of the best things about having him around is getting to watch my mom enjoy him. It melts my heart when she talks to him, sings to him, and snuggles him. He was definitely worth it and we all love him so much.