Ruby is 8 weeks now!

We are finally getting the swing of things (after 8 weeks, thank goodness)! There is a semi-routine throughout the day and we're learning what works and what doesn't. Tonight we managed to cook and eat dinner in peace (well, it was just hot dogs and Coronas, but still...) using a combo of pacifier (or 'dummy' as they say in the UK), baby swing (best purchase ever for £30 on ebay!) and some nice Italian music in the background. Eating dinner is a major feat, because no matter what time it is, as soon as we sit down, Ruby typically starts crying... But not tonight! After dinner, since Ruby was still in a semi-good mood, we tested out our new baby carrier that just arrived yesterday. We walked to the neighborhood pub (the Earl Spencer) for a pint.

Ruby smiles in her summery dress

Today we met some friends for coffee...Ruby looked super cute in her summery dress, especially since she flashed a semi-smile!

Baby's got blue eyes (for now anyways)

This is one of my favorite outfits for Ruby. I think it really brings out the blue in her eyes. We know they will likely change to hazel like mine, or brown like Alex's, but they are just the most beautiful shade of blue right now.

Daddy has special skillz!

Over the past few weeks I have noticed that Alex has a special skill for putting Ruby to sleep. Yes, I can put her to sleep while she is laying on my chest, but Alex has a specific rocking, swinging motion that puts Ruby to sleep enough he can lay her in her cot...and walk away with her staying asleep! He usually does the 10/11 pm and the 3/4 am (on the nights she doesn't sleep through to 5/6 am) and so this talent comes in quite handy! Anyways, Ruby and I are so lucky to have such a hands on, loving daddy.

July 4th BBQ at Lon and Toni's

This past Saturday we celebrated July 4th by attending a BBQ at Lon and Toni's flat. Ruby got into the spirit of red, white and blue....and even found a friend wearing coordinating red and white polka dots (Leah!) It was bittersweet since Lon and Toni are moving back to the US in August.

Ruby shares her playmat

Thursday after baby massage class, Alex, Ruby and I went out to lunch with Brenda and her son Roman. Afterwards they came back to our place for tea, a cupcake and a chat. Ruby shared her playmat with Roman. In the past week, she is just starting to show interest in the dangling toys and swats at them occasionally.

Heat wave in London!

The past few days it has been super hot! Clear blue skies, blazing sun...and no A/C in our flat or anywhere really. We've been going out for short walks in the morning and early evening, but midday we are mostly at home in the shade. Today was around 90 F which, for London merited a heat wave level three warning. However, this morning Ruby and I headed out to see Lesley and her baby Holly. Here are a few pics from our visit.