charlie's first haircut

A few weeks ago on a Friday, we found out Meatball's gender. The next day, we took Charlie to get his first haircut. I definitely do not recommend doing so many emotional things in such a short amount of time.

I wasn't really ready, but I don't think I ever would have been. I guess I just figured we would have to do it eventually so I just decided to rip off the bandaid one Saturday. I suppose a big brother does need a big boy haircut.

Charlie did great during the haircut. Mama, however, was way more traumatized. In a span of a few minutes, he went from being my baby to looking like he was ready to go off to college. I'm fine now that I've a had a few weeks to get used to the idea. I see photos of his long curls now and can't really believe I let it grow that long. It also helps that he still has some curls left - especially on humid days. :)

Charlie loved sitting in the little car chair, and he was perfectly content to eat his raisins and watch Sesame Street while the stylist worked her magic. She was very efficient and quick - this was clearly not her first rodeo. The whole thing took all of 5-10 minutes, and they were kind enough to collect a few locks for me to keep in his baby book, which is great because he's probably never getting his hair cut again.

Bye, bye curls!

This place has trucks?! I like it already.

Raisins for the win

Will sit still for raisins

All done. Mama even managed to smile. 

Don't worry, I still got my chubby baby cheeks. 

I spy some surviving curls. :)

it's a(nother) boy!!!

Exciting news here at the Hardin house. Charlie is going to be a big brother! Baby boy the second, affectionately known as "Meatball," will be arriving in mid-February. I'm feeling very grateful, a little overwhelmed, and hopelessly outnumbered. 

I was convinced it was a girl this time because this pregnancy feels different. I should have known my lot in life would be keeping adult Jon and two mini Jons in check. Lord help us. The good news is that I have absolutely loved everything about being a boy mom. I'm not even sure I'd know what to do with a girl at this point! Charlie is kind to not play favorites too often, but there is no doubt he LOVES his mama. If I leave the room, even just a few minutes, he lights up when I return and exclaims "MAMA!" And yes, I melt every time. And yes, I hope my boys will always think their mama hung the moon. 

Naturally, Charlie has no idea what's about to happen. The word "baby" isn't even in our vocabulary yet, and the looming transition is a bit daunting. We recently gave him a doll I've had since childhood in hopes of endearing him to this whole baby idea. He took one look at the doll and, no surprise, proceeded to throw it across the room. Perfect.

I'm so excited for Charlie to have a brother so close in age. I hope their age proximity will help create a sweet and lasting friendship....assuming Meatball can survive Charlie's affections, which I'm guessing will come mostly in the form of smothering, slobbery kisses, and sharing (i.e., throwing toys at him). Hopefully we can master the meaning of the word "gentle" before February!