Emma's Birthday

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Nine Months

Dearest, Sweetest, Most Wonderful Will,

It is simply unbelievable to me that you are now nine months old. You have changed so much and in so many ways since we first brought you home from the hospital.

You have become such a Little Man, your personality coming through more and more each day. You are learning so many new things each and every day. You especially like "dancing" with Mommy and giving Daddy high-fives. You have learned to clap and are this close to crawling.

I love that you are such a happy boy. When we go places, people compliment us on your good nature. You love to go on errands with me, especially places like Costco, where you try new things, like chicken nuggets, yogurt with fruit in it, and raviolis. You like to sit in the cart and swing your little legs back and forth, back and forth, smiling and flirting with anyone who comes within your smile-radius.

Speaking of food, this month you and I have started eating a lot of the same things. Breakfast is either pancakes or waffles, banana, sausage, and yogurt or oatmeal. For lunch, your new favorites include a grilled cheese sandwich or a cheese quesadilla! The other day, I thought we could share one, but you quickly corrected me and ate all but one piece all by yourself! For dinner, you like to eat some of what we are having, or sometimes all of what is on my plate. The other night, I sensed an ally and made something that I love and Daddy hates - meatloaf! Looks like we'll be having more of that, since you ate an entire mini-loaf by yourself, plus thought that the mashed potatoes that went with it were pretty yummy, too! Daddy does wonder about you sometimes, because even though you like pretty much any food, you have a clear preference for green beans! If there are a ton of things on your tray, you will always go straight for the bean!

You are so much fun to be with, whether we are playing a fun game, taking a walk, eating a meal, or just cuddling on the couch together. Every day that I get to spend with you is like an amazing gift. I am so thankful for you and so proud to be your mother.

Love,
Mommy

Friday, May 8, 2009

I Love Books

When Mommy was pregnant, she read to me every night. She had read an article that said that babies who heard the same books in the womb would be comforted by hearing them after being born, recognizing the rhythm and cadence of the familiar words. Although some people laughed at Mommy, when I was about ten weeks old, she and Daddy both noticed something peculiar.

I like books.

No, wait! I love books!

When I woke up in the morning, Mommy and Daddy would read my "Good Morning, Good Night" book, and I would stare in wonder. Then, Mommy found "The Belly Button Book," which I also found fascinating.

My love of books has grown through the months. I have all sorts of favorites. Reading calms me down and I like to point at things when Mommy and Daddy ask where they are. Reading together is something that we do before every nap and bedtime. Mommy also has books in my diaper bag for if I get grumpy while we are out. I am glad that there are always books around, especially at scary places, like the doctor.

One day, Mommy took me to the most wonderful place called a bookstore. It has a lot of books, even more than I have at home!

I was pretty excited about all of these books. . .


I decided that I loved books so much that I must kiss one. . .


I do love books!