9 for 9

Earlier this week, a woman in the elevator guessed that Baby A was my first child because, when she asked how old the baby is, I responed that my sweet girl would be turning 9 months on Friday. And, that day is here. This time 9 months ago, I was just an hour away from meeting the little lady who would change our lives forever, and for the better. Here are 9 things on the top of my mind as my sweet princess turns 9 months old.

1) You are inventive, and stubborn. When you see a toy out of reach, you will come up with some way to get that toy. You'll roll over to it. You will lean and reach as far as you can. You will pull the blanket if the toy is sitting on it. But you will not crawl to it! Though you are close. You also stand while holding onto the couch, the ottoman, my hands. You are getting so strong.

2) You know what you want. If you are done eating, you just shut your mouth and refuse to eat anymore, even if it is your favorite bananas. And you know exactly what you are doing, 'cause you'll give me a little smile. You'll whine if you aren't getting your way either, but I'm not letting you get away with that.

3) You melt our hearts. Whether it's when you sleep all balled up on your side, or when you way hello in the morning, you have our hearts in your tiny little hands.

4) You've come so far. To think that 9 months ago you were born and couldn't do anything. Now, you feed yourself, clap your hands (especially after you feed yourself), roll over like a champ, wish you could crawl/stand/walk, dance and bounce and so much more.

5) You are my tiny dancer. This is one of your favorite things to do. When you hear the music, you start bouncing to the beat. Even when music isn't on, you bounce to the beat! It's in your blood (but from your dad, not me, with my two left feet).

6) You continue to be a talker. You squeal with delight. You say mama all the time. You carry on full conversations, but all gibberish. You understand more of what we are saying, and I know you can't wait to talk back.

7) You continue to teeth. You are at 8 now, four top, four bottom. But you are working on the others, chewing on everything you get your hands on. Brushing your teeth is a challenge, since you want to bite down on everything.

8) You have hair. You've always had hair, but now it's really growing in. The little bald spot in the back is almost gone, and you have plenty for all the tacky bows and flowers I make you wear.

9) Your eyes are still blue. They've become more gray, but still blue with hints of brown. And, watching. You are always watching, learning, growing.

We love you baby girl and can't wait to see what else lies in store.