Dear Whitney,
You are 11 months old now--one more month and we'll be celebrating your first birthday, Darlin'! We are very excited about the milestone and look forward to throwing you a big party--purple and pinwheels is the theme :) Until then, we're going to soak up every last day of your babyhood!
This month, you have changed so much.
You have gotten your two front teeth on top and one more next to them. You are still trying to get used to your new pearly whites and you often grind your teeth and explore them with your tongue. You probably have more teeth coming in, but you won't let us peak in your mouth.
You are eating regular food and lately, you flat-out refuse puree. You backhand the spoonful and send it flying! New foods this month include scrambled eggs, rice with mixed veggies, coconut milk-soaked whole wheat Chex cereal, and chopped watermelon, cantaloupe, and peaches. Whatever Mommy and Daddy are having, we often let you have it, too--as long as it's dairy-free. Still not a fan of avocado or tomatoes.
You are becoming increasingly vocal. You sure have a lot to say, but no actual new words this month. You babble on and on and always gesticulate with your hands to accentuate your point. It's really funny! You love to make silly sounds by blowing through your pursed lips.
You also started throwing tantrums this month and you've learned how to whine. It is dreadful.
You are clapping and waving more this month, too. Your wave looks like the gesture for "Give me". :)
You went in the swimming pool for the first time this month. You cried and kicked at first but after about 15 minutes, you were okay with it. Didn't love it, that's for sure. But you do like bath time and playing outside at your water table.
You easily climbed the stairs at your grandparents' home July 14th--we know how much you like to climb things but never knew that you could climb stairs :)
Your favorite activities are chewing on foam bath letters, holding matching small toys one in each hand, standing up and squatting down repeatedly, dropping toys and food repeatedly, and picking up books and reading them. You are now able to slide the little window open and closed as we read each page of "Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?". You understand the concept of putting things "in" and taking things "out". You recently learned how to roll, bounce and throw a ball. You love peak-a-boo. You love to chase after us.
You remain very tentative about taking steps.
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Lots of celebrations happened this month, too.
On Father's Day weekend, we dedicated you to the Lord at a special ceremony at church. Grandma and Grandpa Bateman, Grandma Jeanne and Grammy came and witnessed our commitment to raise you in a Christ-centered home. We want you to grow to know and love Jesus and to give your life to serving him. We're here to help lead you, Sweetie.
The day after your Baby Dedication Ceremony, we celebrated Daddy's first Father's Day. The special day included a trip to the zoo! Grandma Jeanne was with us, too.
Then we celebrated your first Independence Day. Uncle Jack and Auntie Devon were here to share the holiday with you.
At the close of the month, we took you to Bishop for the first time. We visited your great grandparents and attended Mommy's cousin Thomas' wedding. This was your longest road trip and your first experience staying in a hotel. It will be our last for a while, as you did not sleep well. You thrive on routines, My Love. We'll just leave it at that ;)
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Your personality is shining now. You are very smart. You are energetic and silly. You are very curious about everything. You are a people watcher. You love to "talk". You are also extremely independent. You like to do everything your way and in your timing. We love the little girl that you are becoming, Angel. You are perfect.
