Eight months

February 19, 2015

Dear child of mine,

I'm about a week late in writing you this month because of life. Someday you'll understand that and hopefully be better equipped to deal with all of life's surprises than I am. You have been acting like you're in the throes of teething for some time, but you still don't have any teeth (for which your primary source of nutrition is grateful). 

This month has included some huge milestones. You are crawling across the house faster than your sleep-deprived momma can chase you, and you are pulling up on everything in sight and cruising around. It all happened within about a week, and your sleep has suffered greatly. :) But your brain is making some big connections, which requires more frequent feedings and makes you restless. I'm trying to be understanding of that, and sometimes I succeed.

Another sleep-depriving event this past month was a viral cold, followed by a mild case of croup two weeks later, followed by an extended feverish runny nose spell. Needless to say, you and your first time momma are recognized by the doctor office receptionist now. Maybe next month we can try not to be so sickly. (I am beyond thankful that your illnesses have all been minor and that overall you are a healthy, thriving baby.)

You like to say "ma", and sometimes you string several together in a row, so it sounds like you're saying my name. You have also decided that Daddy is "ba," and we'll see how long that lasts. You consistently look at his picture or at him and say "ba" for now.

Your beautiful smile is biggest when we come to get you out of your crib, and you get the giggles when we make growly noises or toss you in the air. You are aggressive with your love and have left little scratches on my face, neck, and arms multiple times. We're working on "being gentle" and trying not to throw ourselves off the changing table. You are just a very active little lady.

I love you more every day, and when your eyes light up in recognition of me, it validates all the sleep deprivation and smelly diapers and then some. :) Daddy will do just about anything for you, but we can't afford a pony, so please quit asking. There are too many adorable things that you do to capture in a letter, so suffice to say, you are our favorite little girl, and we love you all of it.

Love, 

Momma