9 Month Letter

Dear Jenna,

I've been dreading writing this letter. OK, that sounds a little dramatic. I've always looked forward to having an 8 month old. I've always thought of that age as a super fun age. Beyond the feedings every couple hours, eating solids, crawling but not walking and the emergence of a personality like never before. 

And, after officially being done with your 8th month, I was right. This past month you've come into your own. You're so much better at crawling around, you have spent the last month exploring and learning so much. I've been trying to slow the minutes down, trying to be able to enjoy the time we spend together because I know I won't get to live this again. 

You're so inquisitive. I love that about you. You also like to be a part of whatever is going on. You will not sit back and observe. You've also been babbling a lot more lately. You say 'dadadadada' though not necessarily in context (I think that's starting to emerge, because Dadada is only said when Daddy's around). 

Other exciting things... you've been trying to clap while sucking your thumb. It's really cute. one thumb is in your mouth while the other bats at it. You also have decided your changing table is now your least favorite place. When we lay you down on it, you roll and spin to try to get away from us. It's been quite a challenge for diaper changes and dressing you in the morning or the evening. You've started to get better at sleeping, but still aren't sleeping through the night. Although I've accepted that you're still waking at night, let it be known you will never be able to live the fact that you wake us nightly.   :)

We've started setting limits in terms of what you can and can't play with. We redirect you from both the entertainment center and the fireplace. You understand that you're not supposed to be over there (you turn to look at us just before reaching your arm out.... kind of like in Finding Nemo when his flipper touches the 'butt') but you are starting to test limits. This has resulted in a few crying spells when we pull you away.... but those are quickly followed by smiles even if the tears remain. 

We've gone on quite a few adventures this month, from a few trips to the park to Reno and visiting Grandma and Pop, we've been busy. I'm constantly struggling with the 'ick' factor of you crawling around at the park (gross!) and letting you be a little kid, playing and having a great time. After seeing the delight in your face, I understand that germs are everywhere and you enjoy playing among them. We've also gotten rid of the old guest bedroom set in your room and picked up a dresser to match your crib. This gives you plenty of space to roam in your own room and you've looked over every inch of that room. Daddy also got a new car a few days ago, along with a new car seat for you. It's been an exciting month all around. 

My heart sings every time I see a photo that shows your 'real' personality. The face you give me when you're not quite sure what I'm up to... the way you laugh after you sneeze, the fact that you think it's funny when I yawn. You talking to Daddy in the other room makes my heart swell and I just can't get enough of it. You're such a happy baby. You love to interact with others. I can't wait to understand what you're saying. To listen to you talk our ears off about everything and anything. 
I know I can't slow down and stop time. As much as I'd like to, I know there is so much more ahead. I know that you're going to start walking and talking, go off to pre-school and eventually elementary school. I continue to deny you'll ever be a teenager, but I know you'll get there, too. There's so much ahead. I'm looking forward to living every minute of it, observing from my 'protective mama' perch. 

I can't believe you've been in this world longer than you were in my belly. My head spins in thinking that you'll be a year old in a few short months. We've started putting your hair in ponytails and that, coupled with your prominent teeth makes me see you less as a baby and more as a toddler. It's a scary sight. 

Even when you're slowing down, you're still active (as is apparent above!) You love music, you love to dance, shake your booty and bob your head. Your Dad and I think you dance like the guys on Saturday Night Live, bobbing your head from side to side. My cheeks have gotten a work out this month from all of the smiling. Thank you for ensuring we start our day off with a smile. 

Happy 3/4 Birthday, my dear. 

Love, 

Mama