Month Nine

Skylie,
I wish I could capture all the cute things you do, but usually the funniest moments aren't caught on tape. I wish they were. But you're too unpredictable. The following stories won't do justice, but hopefully you can imagine what a bundle of love you were at this age.

Story #1
On May 9, Dad and I sat in bed watching a T.V. show on the computer while you played on the floor. Your hair was completely disheveled and sticking up all over the place. Out of no where, you pulled yourself up on the side of the bed and gave us the cheesiest grin and giggle as if to say, "Look at me!" You seemed so proud of yourself. Dad and I laughed for a long time about was how cute you looked--crazy hair and all.

Story #2
A week ago I was reading through a baby book about the specific milestones you should be reaching. I learned that between nine and 12 months, a typical baby will learn to say "ma-ma" and "da-da" and actually know what he or she is saying. Figuring I should practice with you, I held you in my arms and the training began.

I said, "Skylie, I'm your ma-ma. Ma-ma. Say 'ma-ma'...."
You responded in a clear and distinct voice, "Dad."

Your dad was in the room and loved that! (But I'm still the one you go searching for and get upset when you can't find me.)

Story #3:
Since you're an early bird and usually wake around 6 a.m., I sometimes have to shower while you're awake. Once, I tried letting you play in the bathroom while I showered so I could peek out and help you if you got upset. You loved that and made it a game of peek-a-boo. I'm not sure if it was my greatest idea, because now you try that game all the time. You end up drenched and are determined to climb in the tub. It's crazy. But it sure is cute.

At nine months:

I love taking you outside. Often before your afternoon nap, we'll play outside our apartment and you'll explore. You're getting into mischief these days and love sneaking into the bathroom. If we ever leave the door open by accident, you dart in there as quick as possible.
Laundry is a chore you love helping with--combing through the folded clothes and redoing the job as you see best.
You usually end up keeping me company while I carry laundry up and down the stairs to the laundry room. How thoughtful of you! Good thing you're a lightweight.
A few times each week we visit the park and let you swing.
I finally dared to put pig tails in your hair. You sit in your Bumbo on the counter in my bathroom and stare at yourself in the mirror while I style your locks. (That's the only chance I have of getting you to hold still!)
The bed head you have the next day is hilarious!
You don't stay still for too long. I think you've been quick learning how to move around, but your ability to concentrate is an entirely different story! That's expected, right? You are a baby after all. You're a busy little girl, and I can't get enough of you!

XOXO,
Mom

Milestones you've reached:
Standing while holding onto something and then walking around
Jabbering
Understanding object permanence
Eating with fingers
Waving goodbye
Picking things up with pincer grasp
Crawling well, with belly (and knees) off the ground
Stands alone for up to 20 seconds
Playing Peek-A-Boo
Sleeping 11 hours at night
Eating lots of table food
Napping like a champ now that we've reajusted your schedule a bit