Letter to my 9 month old

My dear Amelia,

You are 9 months old today, and growing up so fast! You watch everything we do and love to imitate our actions. You love to read books, pet the dogs, dance to music, and play outside. We go everywhere together and we are starting to have conversations where I can tell that we both really understand what the other is saying. You are turning into a toddler, and I don't know if I am ready for all the grown up things you are doing.

This month:

• You took your first step! At about 8 months and 1 week you took your first step. It was in Ardmore at Grams and Pop's house. Your dad and I were both there to see it and we were so proud of you!
• You are officially walking. At the end of your 8th month you can take 7-8 confident steps. You have no problem standing up and going, but you can't stop yourself yet, so you just have to fall down.
• You love to eat! Anything and everything! You love to sample whatever is on our plate.
• You love to give kisses. Especially to Suki and Sullivan, and all your books. My favorite moment of any day is when you lean over and give me a hug and kiss.
• You say mama, dada, bye bye, dog, and uh oh. You also point at things and say something that we swear sounds like "what's that?" I think you are going to be a serious talker!
• You had your first boo boo. You fell and bumped your chin and lip on the table while you were cruising around the living room. One drop of blood came out of your mouth and I almost cried.
• You are still going to bed around 8 pm and waking about 6:30 am.
• You still only have two teeth, but the top ones have been giving you lots of trouble so I think they will be coming through soon.
• You do not like to get in trouble. It only takes hearing NO one or two times for you to stop doing something you are not suppose to. I'll keep my fingers crossed it stays that way!
• You got to see Uncle Adam for the first time since you were about 6 weeks old. He was home for a month while on his way to Italy. He spent several days with us and you got to spend lots of time together.

Even though everything is changing much faster than I thought it would, I am loving every minute. I have always loved staying at home with you, but lately I have really appreciated all the small moments and big milestones that I have been able to witness because I am a stay-at-home mom. It is simply the best thing I have ever done and I want you to always know that. All my love to you, my sweet baby girl.