Month Six: Happy Half Birthday!

This month was packed full of firsts. I can't believe how big and how grown up you became this month. You found and chewed on your toes--with your brand new teeth! I haven't really been looking for teeth but last week you were a little fussier than usual and I thought I'd just check. Lo and behold there were pokies in your mouth. You currently have two good-sized teeth and hopefully we are past the worst of your pain. At least until the next few decide to work their way up. You've been a tough little cookie and I've only put on the orajel for you a couple times. Cheerios, anyone?

I've been hesitant to start you on solids because, well, I just don't want you to grow up so fast doggone-it. But I've been able to tell that you are still hungry at night before bed so I figured it was time to break open the box of rice cereal. You gobbled up the whole bowl with no problem at all with probably only 30

percent on your face. Ok, maybe more.

You've been sitting up great for at least a month now and can play all by yourself with a basket of toys until you've pulled every one out. Nothing better than a good game of "Take the Toys out of the Basket." We just got a box of blocks so you can start learning your letters...we'll have you writing within the year. Right? After that we'll hit philosophy and the meaning of life.

And of course, we are pretty sure you're already a virtuoso. You can pound in what we like to call "artistic harmony." You usually stop to listen to daddy pound a little more gracefully, but as soon as he's done, you add in your own melody to his. It's lovely.

We went to two birthday parties of your friends. Of course, you don't really know yet that they're your friends, but that's ok. You like getting all dressed up, meeting new people and we like all the food, friends, cupcakes and party favors, aka bottles of bubbles. You are now a big fan of watching us blow bubbles into the wind. Summer is the best time for bubble blowing.

Ah, the crib bed head look. It's totally all the rage right now.

Some days you seem to keep every sip of milk down and other days you barf up half of it all. You are such a mess sometimes. But darn it, you're adorable. Let's just get a washcloth before any kisses, m'kay?

This month we finally got a bike trailer to pull along and go for bike rides with you. You had your shades, some fun rings and after being strapped into your car seat you held on for dear life. However, I was the one driving, so we couldn't really go too fast. Next time we're going to make Dad pull.

You can't pull yourself up or get into a sitting position from lying down, but you want to stand up all day long. You're starting to take steps with us holding you up. It's exciting, but at the same time it sure is handy to be able to leave you in the saucer while I make dinner or plunk you down with your basket of toys and a pillow and know you're not going anywhere. Oh the mischief you will get into when you're mobile! Stay little and stationary, my sweet.

We're still working on finding a way to make you like tummy time. We try new tricks every day in hopes that something will make you happy. Propping you up on a boppy pillow in front of an activity center and helping you play with all the wheels and knobs. Lying you on one of our chests and making faces. Flying you up above our heads or hovering you over the floor. The pool was the newest one--you had to hold your heavy little head up or it would get all wet! Fortunately, you did really well with that one. And you do love your pool.

We're starting to discover a few of your favorite things. A couple favorite books, your bunny blankie and, of course, your kitty. She is getting more patient with your hands grabbing for her soft fluffy fur and pulling her ears.

It was a good month, baby girl. There's a lot of junk in this world. A lot of frustration and heartache and pain for a lot of people. But when you put your tiny little arms around my neck for a hug it's all a bit better for a while. At least it is after I pry my hair out from between your fingers.