Seven Days

Charley seems to be attempting to prove to Lt he is in control. Unfortunately, it is me who must bear the brunt of his antics. Lt is home but he still must perform his duties each day.

This week Charley has been "fussy" often. I say fussy but really it is to mean crying often. He seems to be startled easily also. Lt or I simply touch his foot and his face contorts and he cries. Perhaps if I had said "boo" when I did this I would understand. If I touch him unannounced at any other place he does not react so. Mother has looked to him and is able to find nothing wrong. Perhaps he will grow out of it.

I warned Lt. He can not say it is not so. Lt received his first spray from his son. I warned him to always keep  the used diaper in place until he is ready to put the new or at the least to use the tents. He said it was silly to use the tents and only causes more laundry. I believe Lt to be highly intelligent so I am baffled by his apparent need to learn from experience rather than heed the advice of those who have been changing Charley. Now he will not consider changing diapers unless there is a tent at the ready.

I found myself tired this last week. Lt has been tolerant of my sudden and frequent naps but does not hesitate to wake me should his son cry and is inconsolable. Usually this is because the baby is hungry and there is no milk in the refrigerator. This has not stopped Charley from attempting to nurse however! Lt became quite surprised when Charley attempted to suckle when he held him while he wore no shirt.

If Lt has his way in this, Charley will be speaking very soon. Lt spends hours talking to Charley about most anything. Charley seems to listen intently and smiles frequently. His biggest smiles are when his father calls him "Dude."

Where did this name come from? Lt and I spoke long of what we would call our son. Dude was never mentioned. I see nothing wrong in the name but I never imagined anyone would call him dude. My only reservation is each time Lt uses this name my mind thinks of Crush, the sea turtle in Finding Nemo.

Mother and Jiao will return home at the end of this week. It has been good for them to be here. I have enjoyed their company and greatly appreciate their assistance.