First Month, Second Year

Amalia is 13 months today!  and all of a sudden she isn't much of a baby anymore - she's a toddler!  Sniff...sniff...

Dearest Mali,

Happy thirteen months, baby girl!  You have always wanted to be big, and little by little you are getting there.  We are so proud.

You are walking.  You started taking your first steps just after your birthday, but just this week, you've been using your feet to get you places.  You have been practicing and practicing, and now prefer walking to crawling.  You can crouch down to pick something up and stand back up by yourself.  If you lose your balance a little bit you can regain your footing without falling.  You always look so proud of yourself whenever you are on your feet.

You are also starting to climb.  You can get into your new wagon, the baby cradle, the chair by the fireplace, your little rocking chair, and the kiddie chairs, and can even get back down all by yourself.  You are attempting higher climbs and are so persistent.

You've been eating lunch at the kids' table; you look so grown-up.  The first time I let you eat there, you had such a surprised and happy look on your face.  You always want your own utensil when we eat and practice using it, though mostly it just bangs against the table.

You are a talker.  Your list of words keeps growing, and I'm not sure I can list them all anymore.  You know what a sheep says, and how to cluck like a chicken.  You search the house calling for grandpa and get so excited whenever he gets home and holds you in his arms.  You always want a bit of whatever anyone is eating, and will ask for it by saying, "Me?"  Sometimes you'll follow that with "Peese?"  or "Dat?"  I think you are trying to say Sofia, though I can't recreate the sound you make.  Sort of sounds like 'sisi', but not quite.

Right now, you are a teething monster.  You wake up many, many times a night.  You are drooly.  Your nose has a constant curtain of boogers.  I can see the swollen gums where your one-year-molars will be, and am begging those little guys to pop out soon.  I need my baby back!

You have a temper!  Still.  and More.  When you don't get your way, you tend to scream.  Then hit.  Then throw your head into the carpet and wail.  It is quite the performance.

My little boogie-baby, I love you so much.  Your giggle is infectious, and the games you play hilarious.  You bring so much joy and love to this family.

Loveyouforeverandalways,





Mama