Gram is just over three months old, which means that he's finally leaving behind all of those annoying newborn habits, like crying for no reason and vacantly staring at nothing. Instead, he's perfecting a smile so wide that it starts in his mouth and travels all the way to his balled fists, which he beats on his chest like a tiny little ape surprised by his own brute strength. A few days ago I tickled his neck and he giggled for the first time. It might as well have been a sonic boom in our living room, we were so stunned.

People ask Jim and me all the time how it's going, and the answer is fine. Sure, there are lots of frustrating moments, and sometimes the edge in my voice makes Juniper cry, but for the most part, we're hanging in there. With winter finally gone, I'm still overcome with gratitude every single time I look out the window and see actual green leaves. Dear Spring: I'll never take you for granted again. Thank you for making the earth warm enough that I don't have to worry about my husband forgetting the kids' coats.

A few weeks ago, Melissa asked me to suggest some kid-related items for Mighty Junior. I already have an unhealthy relationship with internet shopping, so I was happy to oblige. And now that I'm done, I can say that recommending things for other people to buy is almost as much fun as buying it for yourself. Thanks, Melissa! Now that I've pointed everyone else towards those ridiculously adorable mary-janes, I don't have to buy them for Juniper, who certainly doesn't need them. If you're curious what sorts of things I'd buy if only my husband didn't get so annoyed when he saw the UPS truck pull up in front of our house, you can see my picks here.

Oh, and Jim is working on something very special to post later today or tomorrow.