Eleven Months Old

Happy 11 Months, Ella!

Not so easy getting a picture of you in your monthly pose anymore!

I look at you, eleven months old, and am completely overwhelmed by what a little person you are becoming.  With your one year birthday just around the corner, you are thriving in that little body of yours.  Every day you show us something new about yourself; I don't even know where to begin to list all the changes you've experienced in just this month alone.

Let's start with your favorites: wooden cylinder blocks, Remy and Mia's bones, Starbuck your dog, flipping through magazines, blueberries, noodles, and splashing in water.  Picnics in parks, swinging, watching birds and being chased around the house are endless sources of amusement for you.  You're pointing and interacting with everyone around you.  Your curious spirit is contagious as you teach us to notice the everyday things in life.  You're pulling up, starting to cruise, and vocalizing more than ever.  You will purposefully do things to make us laugh, and it's clear that you have quite the sense of humor.  You can blow kisses, tell us how big you are, and follow directions.  You now initiate with us, flashing that grin, showing of your four shiny teeth.  I find myself having conversations with you every day and you are constantly watchings us, ever the observer.  You're a sponge and you definitely keep us on our toes.  I thought it was pretty amazing watching your development, but to witness you maturing has been an unexpected privilege.  

Not only are you growing, but our relationship is changing, too.  As you learn more about what you like and don't like, we're learning more about how to nurture the person you will become.  We are beginning to feel the weight of parenthood, and we couldn't feel more honored to be blessed with you to care for.  I will always cherish our tender moments at this specific time in your life: the snuggles you give me as I hold you in my arms, your gentle kisses, and your sweet smile as you nuzzle me nose to nose.  We love you so much!