I'm got hands!

Luke has become more aware of his environment on a daily basis. He has discovered more about himself and his surroundings. And boy, is he getting big!

He has a slobbering problem. I'm not sure what his motivation is, but he drools almost constantly now. Usually he has a hand, toy, or pacifier in his mouth. The hands in the mouth is the worst, because the slobber usually ends up everywhere afterwords. We like to kiss his cheeks, but I'm definitely cautious about it, otherwise it might be slobbery and gross.

His interest in his hands go beyond being in his mouth. We've taught him to grasp things, and he's starting to try it on his own. He has a couple of toys in particular where his first instinct is to try to grab stuff. It's quite amusing to watch. He intensely stares at his hand and whatever object he's holding. He seems to be noticing textures he feels, and he makes a note of it.

He's very observant in a new environment. Any time we take him out, he quietly takes in the world. He seems very curious about store aisles in particular, noticing all the merchandise we pass by and hearing all the noisy crowds. The neat thing is he's so interested that he doesn't fuss or even make a noise. Good for us!

Luke also seems more aware of Melissa and I. He recognizes our voices and will try to look around and find us. He definitely enjoys our entertainment. He still likes any strange sounds I make. Missy has a kissing game that he thinks is hilarious.

He actually has a "laugh". Not like a happy noise, I mean a real laugh. It's tough to get out, but is very funny to hear. He usually will do it during the "kissing game" or sometimes I can tickle it out of him.

He's growing out of his clothes! He's gained a lot of weight since we've switched to formula. He seems to be okay with eating it, but formula doesn't seem to have the "sleepy drugs" effect that real nursing does. Not that he isn't sleeping, but he doesn't pass out while feeding as much.

He's trying to talk. His noises are becoming more varied daily. Unfortunately, a lot of them are like high-pitched screams or squeals. Hopefully he learns soon that there's other, quieter, more peaceful sounds to make.