Dear Tye,
Happy second birthday, dear daughter! As your second birthday has approached, you've reminded me frequently that you're entering a new phase of your life. You are willing to fight for your independence, whether you're struggling with a challenging puzzle, a frustrating package, or limits that keep you from what you think you want. I admire your persistence and find much joy in watching your hard work reap in rewards, from putting on your own tutu to serving yourself second helpings at dinner. Over the weekend, you taught yourself how to ride your friend's scooter, a skill far beyond your young age and one that clearly pleased you. Some day when someone tells you you're stubborn, be sure to remind them that stubbornness is the same trait as persistence; the attribute's name only depends on whether the other person agrees with you or not. Whichever title it is given, wear it with pride, because it will get you far in life.
You are a little ball of fun right now, Tye. Every evening, as we finish eating dinner together, you start asking Daddy to wrestle. You have a powerful headlock, girl, and you know how to keep the wrestling fun with your emerging humor and nonstop giggling. You love exploring your world, whether it's chasing squirrels at the park or stopping every 20 feet on our walks to investigate a tree or fence post or fallen leaf. I love hearing you talk to me, to your toys, to strangers on the street, and to yourself. When I hear you say, "Thank you, Mommy" every time I hand you a snack or "Bless you" whenever any person in earshot sneezes, your simple phrases fill me with happiness. You make me smile and warm my heart.
Two years. 730 days. And you have filled each one with unimaginable joy. Birthing you was the beginning of living life to a new level of fullness, one that I hope you are blessed to experience yourself one day because words can't describe motherhood's treasures. Two years ago, I was forever changed. The metamorphosis of birth is amazing; I entered the birth tub a pregnant woman and emerged as a mother cradling my babe. During that time, during that one push in which you squirmed from inside to outside body, I felt myself being flooded with love for you in a stronger wave of emotion than I had ever experienced before. Two years later, I am still overwhelmed with that same love for you; how I live the rest of my life in such a state still amazes me.
You are going to be very celebrated today, Tye, and the anniversary of your birth deserves it. As much as you'll love the presents, the gift is you in our lives. Thank you for sharing the best two years of my life. I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you.
Love,
Mama
Since she was born, I've written a letter to Tye on each month's anniversary of her birth, with this being the final monthly letter. You can see the rest here.
Showing posts with label Letters to Tye. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Letters to Tye. Show all posts
Monday, November 14, 2011
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Two Years Ago...
It was a Friday. I was as big as a house. I wore a yellow sweater that barely covered my belly and asked your dad as we walked to dinner at Jerry's if I looked like a school bus. It was a warm evening that smelled like fallen leaves. At Jerry's, I ate hummus and my favorite sandwich (the Baba R- green apple, peanut butter, basil, grilled onions, chipotle chutney- a pregnant woman's dream sandwich), and we laughed with friends for a long time.
When they asked Daddy if he was going to stay out with them after the meal, I told Daddy I didn't think it was a good idea, because I thought it might be "the night." Nothing in particular told me so- but I felt different, and I just knew. We went home and went to bed. I slept deeply and soundly until you woke me early the next morning to let me know you were coming, and the rest of our lives began.
When they asked Daddy if he was going to stay out with them after the meal, I told Daddy I didn't think it was a good idea, because I thought it might be "the night." Nothing in particular told me so- but I felt different, and I just knew. We went home and went to bed. I slept deeply and soundly until you woke me early the next morning to let me know you were coming, and the rest of our lives began.
Friday, October 14, 2011
To Tye, at 23 months
Dear Tye,
What a month you've had! You've grown up so much, even as you've simultaneously adapted to new surroundings. You have a new bedroom in a new house in a new city, and you are continuing to find joy daily in your surroundings here. I am loving watching you play more imaginatively, using your toys to fill the scenes in your mind and talking as you go along. Such a great reminder that play is serious work for you.
You're becoming more interactive with adults in your life and as they pass by. Before we left Chicago, you became adept at enthusiastically greeting friends and family members by name when they entered our home. Listening to you talk on the phone is both hilarious and precious as you rattle off long sentences with a recognizable word here and there. Obviously, what you are saying has great meaning to you. I can't wait to understand more of it. Other adults are understanding more of what you say, too. Earlier this week, as a woman held the door open for us at the bank, you walked through and cheerfully said "'Scuse me," a simple phrase that spread chuckles around the bank lobby. When we walk outside and see our neighbors on the stoop, you love to greet them with a bubbly "Hi guys!" Who wouldn't love that?
Your love for books has taken on a whole new level of interest. You will gladly spend hours at a time opening and looking through the books on the shelves in your room, labeling items and characters and often telling the story as you turn familiar pages. Yesterday morning, you actually fell asleep reading books to yourself (fully decked out in sunglasses and rainboots, might I add).
Recently, you've begun to enjoy when we tell you stories, too, especially familiar ones. How amazing to recognize that your communication comprehension and visualization skills are strong enough to follow along.
Yet another recent acquisition is your interest in emotions in yourself and others. You label happy, sad, and hurt and show great empathy when others are sad or hurt. One day before our move, when you saw me crying, you climbed up to me on the couch and said, "Mommy, what you doing sad?" as you gave me a big hug and kiss. It's hard to stay sad when I have you to cheer me up.
Along the same lines, in the past day or two you've learned how to actually smile for the camera, and you're a little ham. I am cherishing these first photos of your huge grin- you look so much more grown up.
I had worried that our move this month may have been a difficult transition for you, but you proved yourself to be quite resilient and a strong little family member. You still occasionally repeat the phrases we used to explain our move to you: "Mico go to Brooklyn, Daddy go to Brooklyn, Mommy go to Brooklyn, Tye go to Brooklyn." And now when Daddy leaves in the morning, you look to me and say, "Daddy go to train," instead of "Daddy go to airport." The best part, though, is hearing you gasp and exclaim "Daddy home!" when he enters the doors each evening. We've only been here for one full week, but I know already that this move has been well worthwhile.
As we approach your second birthday, I can't help but wonder where the time has gone. Each day with you is new and exciting as you grow up so quickly. I just hope I'm doing all I can to cherish every moment of the present, because the future comes so very quickly. I'm so blessed to share each day with you. I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you.
Love,
Mama
What a month you've had! You've grown up so much, even as you've simultaneously adapted to new surroundings. You have a new bedroom in a new house in a new city, and you are continuing to find joy daily in your surroundings here. I am loving watching you play more imaginatively, using your toys to fill the scenes in your mind and talking as you go along. Such a great reminder that play is serious work for you.
You're becoming more interactive with adults in your life and as they pass by. Before we left Chicago, you became adept at enthusiastically greeting friends and family members by name when they entered our home. Listening to you talk on the phone is both hilarious and precious as you rattle off long sentences with a recognizable word here and there. Obviously, what you are saying has great meaning to you. I can't wait to understand more of it. Other adults are understanding more of what you say, too. Earlier this week, as a woman held the door open for us at the bank, you walked through and cheerfully said "'Scuse me," a simple phrase that spread chuckles around the bank lobby. When we walk outside and see our neighbors on the stoop, you love to greet them with a bubbly "Hi guys!" Who wouldn't love that?
Your love for books has taken on a whole new level of interest. You will gladly spend hours at a time opening and looking through the books on the shelves in your room, labeling items and characters and often telling the story as you turn familiar pages. Yesterday morning, you actually fell asleep reading books to yourself (fully decked out in sunglasses and rainboots, might I add).
Yet another recent acquisition is your interest in emotions in yourself and others. You label happy, sad, and hurt and show great empathy when others are sad or hurt. One day before our move, when you saw me crying, you climbed up to me on the couch and said, "Mommy, what you doing sad?" as you gave me a big hug and kiss. It's hard to stay sad when I have you to cheer me up.
Along the same lines, in the past day or two you've learned how to actually smile for the camera, and you're a little ham. I am cherishing these first photos of your huge grin- you look so much more grown up.
I had worried that our move this month may have been a difficult transition for you, but you proved yourself to be quite resilient and a strong little family member. You still occasionally repeat the phrases we used to explain our move to you: "Mico go to Brooklyn, Daddy go to Brooklyn, Mommy go to Brooklyn, Tye go to Brooklyn." And now when Daddy leaves in the morning, you look to me and say, "Daddy go to train," instead of "Daddy go to airport." The best part, though, is hearing you gasp and exclaim "Daddy home!" when he enters the doors each evening. We've only been here for one full week, but I know already that this move has been well worthwhile.
As we approach your second birthday, I can't help but wonder where the time has gone. Each day with you is new and exciting as you grow up so quickly. I just hope I'm doing all I can to cherish every moment of the present, because the future comes so very quickly. I'm so blessed to share each day with you. I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you.
Love,
Mama
Thursday, September 15, 2011
To Tye, at 22 months
Dear Tye,
Happy 22 Months! Two years is right around the corner! This month has been a really enjoyable one from my point of view, watching you as you learn so much each day. Most of your communication now is two to four (or more) words strung together, giving you more power to convey your comments and requests. A few of your most used phrases include "I do it," "I did it!" and "Want _____, please." One of my personal favorites is hearing you say "Bless you!" to someone after a sneeze. You've begun to sing along to your favorite songs and sing them to yourself later, an incredibly sweet show to watch.
Last week, our friends Talitha and Charlie took us to see a performance of Disney on Ice. Your response to the show was adorable- lots of pointing with mouth open in amazement and saying "Whoooaaa!" I never would have guessed you'd sit through the whole two hour show, especially not recognizing any characters, but you were entranced by the skaters singing and dancing in their intricate costumes.
The show was just one example of how your growing attention span is changing what you enjoy. Last weekend, you wanted to watch the baseball game in the park for a loooong time. Now when we read books, you enjoy stories with more words per page than before, especially I Love You, Little One. This afternoon, you sat at the counter while I made a batch of cookies, enthralled by the mixer and each new ingredient. I think your reward was worthwhile....
This week at our monthly Attachment Parenting group, even more than the toys or your regular best friends, you were interested in sitting and playing with our six month old friend Lily. You laid on your tummy to be at her level and talked to her quietly, even gently patting her head. Seeing you interact so willingly with a younger girl was absolutely precious, and my emotional, hormonal self teared up. You're going to be such a great big sister.
I can't believe these days have totaled up to a month already- they fly by so quickly. Happy 22 months, Tye. I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you.
Love,
Mama
Happy 22 Months! Two years is right around the corner! This month has been a really enjoyable one from my point of view, watching you as you learn so much each day. Most of your communication now is two to four (or more) words strung together, giving you more power to convey your comments and requests. A few of your most used phrases include "I do it," "I did it!" and "Want _____, please." One of my personal favorites is hearing you say "Bless you!" to someone after a sneeze. You've begun to sing along to your favorite songs and sing them to yourself later, an incredibly sweet show to watch.
Last week, our friends Talitha and Charlie took us to see a performance of Disney on Ice. Your response to the show was adorable- lots of pointing with mouth open in amazement and saying "Whoooaaa!" I never would have guessed you'd sit through the whole two hour show, especially not recognizing any characters, but you were entranced by the skaters singing and dancing in their intricate costumes.
I can't believe these days have totaled up to a month already- they fly by so quickly. Happy 22 months, Tye. I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you.
Love,
Mama
Sunday, August 14, 2011
To Tye, at 21 months
Dear Tye,
I can barely believe that you're now closer to two years old than to one and a half! And yet, you send reminders my way every day. You can count to ten now and you're learning more letters in the ABCs every day. You're so hungry for that song, to learn those few missing gaps, that we sing it together practically nonstop. You've grown a couple inches in the past few weeks, too, just in time for the end of summer. Looking at clothes that were huge on you earlier this season and now are too small should be another reminder you're closing in on two.
We had a busy month together, including rides in a "hairpane," taxi, and train, all of which thrilled you. Though you love our outings and play dates, you seem to find the most joy in our simple routine of walking Mico together every morning and evening. You choose a toy or treasured object to hold before we leave the house, and then we hold hands walking down the stairs. You very slowly step out the door onto the sidewalk, and then we walk to the end of the block and back together. Sometimes you run or jump your way through most of the outing, sometimes you find treasures like sticks or rubberbands, and sometimes you pause to pretend your baby or animal that day is walking along with us. We smile and say hi to each passerby, though you receive far more responses than I do. I'm treasuring these walks in the warm weather and hoping we can enjoy them as much when we have to bundle up this fall and winter.
I want you to know that I pause several times each day to savor the moment we're having together, just the two of us. This is such a special time together, and I am grateful to be able to devote all of my attention to you for so much of each day. Though I believe with all my heart that a sibling is the best gift I'll ever give you, I'm cherishing our time now as a mother-daughter pair with you as my little side kick. You make every outing and occasion worthy of celebrating, from your excited expression when we select apples at the grocery store, to the look of amazement on your face as you see the cars whizzing below the overpass, to your beautiful voice singing from the stroller, carrier, or car seat. You and I have a great time together, kiddo.
Happy 21 months, Tye. They've been the best of my life. I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you.
Love,
Mama
I can barely believe that you're now closer to two years old than to one and a half! And yet, you send reminders my way every day. You can count to ten now and you're learning more letters in the ABCs every day. You're so hungry for that song, to learn those few missing gaps, that we sing it together practically nonstop. You've grown a couple inches in the past few weeks, too, just in time for the end of summer. Looking at clothes that were huge on you earlier this season and now are too small should be another reminder you're closing in on two.
We had a busy month together, including rides in a "hairpane," taxi, and train, all of which thrilled you. Though you love our outings and play dates, you seem to find the most joy in our simple routine of walking Mico together every morning and evening. You choose a toy or treasured object to hold before we leave the house, and then we hold hands walking down the stairs. You very slowly step out the door onto the sidewalk, and then we walk to the end of the block and back together. Sometimes you run or jump your way through most of the outing, sometimes you find treasures like sticks or rubberbands, and sometimes you pause to pretend your baby or animal that day is walking along with us. We smile and say hi to each passerby, though you receive far more responses than I do. I'm treasuring these walks in the warm weather and hoping we can enjoy them as much when we have to bundle up this fall and winter.
I want you to know that I pause several times each day to savor the moment we're having together, just the two of us. This is such a special time together, and I am grateful to be able to devote all of my attention to you for so much of each day. Though I believe with all my heart that a sibling is the best gift I'll ever give you, I'm cherishing our time now as a mother-daughter pair with you as my little side kick. You make every outing and occasion worthy of celebrating, from your excited expression when we select apples at the grocery store, to the look of amazement on your face as you see the cars whizzing below the overpass, to your beautiful voice singing from the stroller, carrier, or car seat. You and I have a great time together, kiddo.
Happy 21 months, Tye. They've been the best of my life. I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you.
Love,
Mama
Thursday, July 14, 2011
To Tye, at 20 months
Dear Tye,
Happy 20 months! We got together with some of your friends and their moms the other day, and everyone agreed you had grown over the weekend. Perhaps you knew you were coming up on a big milestone and felt the need to rise to the occasion. Though for me, recognizing your growth often requires changes like loosening your seatbelt straps or realizing you've outgrown another pair of shoes (both of which happened this week), I still have plenty of moments when I just stand in awe of you and how big you've become. The other day, I had one of those moments in front of the bathroom mirror when I glimpsed at how long your body is now in comparison to mine. Do you realize that you're almost 5 times your birth weight now?
Last night, your Uncle Mark and I took you to the playground nearby. You ran all over, your legs moving incredibly quickly as your body rotated side to side with each stride. Though the swings may still be your favorite attraction at the playground, you now spend most of your time on climbing equipment, honing your skills. I trust you with familiar equipment enough that I can sit and watch you from a little distance, giving you freedom to explore. Tonight at the playground, two police officers stood chatting near the entrance to the park for a few minutes. You continued to run around and be your normal jovial self, skipping from one place to another, chattering to yourself and giggling with each new activity. As the officers left, one nodded to you and said, "Thank you. I needed to fill up on some nice."
That's just how you are, Tye. You fill peoples' days with nice. Whether we're at the grocery store or just walking Mico, your bright smile and cheerful "Hi!" coax happy responses from everyone we meet. I appreciate the reminder that even the grimmest-looking passerby may just be waiting for a reason to smile, and that anyone can make another person's morning- even their day- with just a smile and a greeting. Most of all, I'm forever grateful to have your cheer injected into my day. I'm amazed by how a ten minute gigglefest with you can change my perspective on things. Seriously, who knew tickling you could make laundry piles appear smaller and responsibilities seem less daunting?
You amaze me, Tye. You keep me running, guessing, learning, and wondering. I'm so grateful to be on this journey with you. I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you.
Love,
Mama
Happy 20 months! We got together with some of your friends and their moms the other day, and everyone agreed you had grown over the weekend. Perhaps you knew you were coming up on a big milestone and felt the need to rise to the occasion. Though for me, recognizing your growth often requires changes like loosening your seatbelt straps or realizing you've outgrown another pair of shoes (both of which happened this week), I still have plenty of moments when I just stand in awe of you and how big you've become. The other day, I had one of those moments in front of the bathroom mirror when I glimpsed at how long your body is now in comparison to mine. Do you realize that you're almost 5 times your birth weight now?
Last night, your Uncle Mark and I took you to the playground nearby. You ran all over, your legs moving incredibly quickly as your body rotated side to side with each stride. Though the swings may still be your favorite attraction at the playground, you now spend most of your time on climbing equipment, honing your skills. I trust you with familiar equipment enough that I can sit and watch you from a little distance, giving you freedom to explore. Tonight at the playground, two police officers stood chatting near the entrance to the park for a few minutes. You continued to run around and be your normal jovial self, skipping from one place to another, chattering to yourself and giggling with each new activity. As the officers left, one nodded to you and said, "Thank you. I needed to fill up on some nice."
That's just how you are, Tye. You fill peoples' days with nice. Whether we're at the grocery store or just walking Mico, your bright smile and cheerful "Hi!" coax happy responses from everyone we meet. I appreciate the reminder that even the grimmest-looking passerby may just be waiting for a reason to smile, and that anyone can make another person's morning- even their day- with just a smile and a greeting. Most of all, I'm forever grateful to have your cheer injected into my day. I'm amazed by how a ten minute gigglefest with you can change my perspective on things. Seriously, who knew tickling you could make laundry piles appear smaller and responsibilities seem less daunting?
You amaze me, Tye. You keep me running, guessing, learning, and wondering. I'm so grateful to be on this journey with you. I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you.
Love,
Mama
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
To Tye, at 19 months
The number 19 has never sounded so large. I mean, a 19 month old is almost two. Having a daughter who is a year and a half sounds right to me- but having a daughter who is almost two is really blowing my mind. Sometimes, though, I can see the two year old in you showing itself- like when you refuse to let me feed you, insisting that I put down the fork so you can accomplish the entire task of feeding yourself by yourself. Or when you steal an off-limits item from my purse, then run into the bedroom to hide, closing the door behind you.
Much like your avoidance techniques, your play is becoming more sophisticated. One of your favorite games right now is to usher Ziggy into your room, then close the door; then you knock, open the door to see Ziggy staring at you, say brightly, "Hi Ziggy!" and burst into hysterical giggles. You generally repeat this pattern about 20 times before tiring, I imagine because your stomach hurts from laughing so hard for so long. You also love to feed your stuffed animals now, whether you offer them a cracker or water or, your new favorite, hold them up to my breast to nurse.
Over the past month, your canines have grown in, giving you a significantly more grown-up looking smile. Add to that the sweet ringlets on the back of your head, and you look like you could be two already.
As we move into summer, I can't help but remember everything we did together last summer. Just look at how scrumptiously adorable you were exactly one year ago, taking your first bath sitting up. Now I can hardly get you to sit down in the tub. Last year when we went to the playground, you played with the wood chips. This summer, you run from one attraction to the next, requesting activities by name. Just last week, you and I had a gorgeous morning at the Green City Market near the lake. We picked out some delicious, local strawberries, then found shelter from the hot sun in shaded chairs as we listened to the peaceful live flamenco guitar. As we soaked up the beauty of the morning with all our senses, I was sure I was being shown a little glimpse of Heaven. It was one of those moments I want to bottle up and take with me forever.
I'm so looking forward to a wonderfully busy summer exploring Chicago and beyond with you, Tye. You remind me to look at the world with fresh eyes- to look up at every plane and bird and to literally stop to smell every flower, because we never know which ones will amaze us with their sweetness. Most of all, you remind me that love is infinite. Just when I think I can't love you any more, you pucker up to ask for a kiss and I remember that there's no limit to loving you. Thank you for making me a better person every day of your life. And yes, that will even be true when you're nine years old and even nineteen years old. Especially if you pucker up and ask for a kiss then.
Happy 19 month birthday, Tye. I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you.
Love,
Mama
Thursday, May 19, 2011
To Tye, at 18 months
Dear Tye,
Happy half birthday! Or, as you would say (imitating a talking birthday cake toy you have), "Happy, happy, happy.... Happy!" You have so many things to say these days. We understand more of it than ever- you have a vocabulary that grows daily and is now far too long to list- but you also spend a great deal of your time jabbering. Recently, you've been cracking us up with your new facial expressions, like your "shocked" face, with eyebrows raised as high as possible and mouth wide open. As you learn to imitate our expressions more precisely and use them appropriately, your ability to communicate is enhanced. We've been adding more signs, too, which helps, and your attempts to sign banana are precious.
Several weeks ago, our trip to the Lincoln Park Zoo became a turning point for you. We were lucky enough to be able to stand next to the window when the male lion was pacing inches away from us on the other side. After several minutes, he stopped and roared. Suddenly, my repetitive "What does a lion say? Roar!" monologue clicked, and you began roaring back at the lion. For the next 30 minutes, you stood in front of the lion exhibit roaring at the lions. I'm not sure if this convinced you that some animals say something other than "woof," or if you made that connection separately but on the same day, but suddenly we could ask you what a variety of animals say and you would tell us the right sound. Perhaps the cutest is the restraint you use to very quietly meow, especially compared to your loud, breathy roar.
You also have a new bike! You love pushing yourself along with your feet and you've picked up steering incredibly quickly. I think you're also really excited to finally have your own "bi" after admiring Daddy's for so long.
Watching you grow is such a joy, Tye. Hearing you sing, seeing you ride a bike, watching you navigate the playground easily, I can't help but be amazed that my baby is doing such grown up things. You fill each day with so much happiness, from your sleepy morning smiles to your sweet goodnight kisses. Thank you for the best year and a half of my life, Baby Girl. I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you.
Love, Mama
Happy half birthday! Or, as you would say (imitating a talking birthday cake toy you have), "Happy, happy, happy.... Happy!" You have so many things to say these days. We understand more of it than ever- you have a vocabulary that grows daily and is now far too long to list- but you also spend a great deal of your time jabbering. Recently, you've been cracking us up with your new facial expressions, like your "shocked" face, with eyebrows raised as high as possible and mouth wide open. As you learn to imitate our expressions more precisely and use them appropriately, your ability to communicate is enhanced. We've been adding more signs, too, which helps, and your attempts to sign banana are precious.
Several weeks ago, our trip to the Lincoln Park Zoo became a turning point for you. We were lucky enough to be able to stand next to the window when the male lion was pacing inches away from us on the other side. After several minutes, he stopped and roared. Suddenly, my repetitive "What does a lion say? Roar!" monologue clicked, and you began roaring back at the lion. For the next 30 minutes, you stood in front of the lion exhibit roaring at the lions. I'm not sure if this convinced you that some animals say something other than "woof," or if you made that connection separately but on the same day, but suddenly we could ask you what a variety of animals say and you would tell us the right sound. Perhaps the cutest is the restraint you use to very quietly meow, especially compared to your loud, breathy roar.
You also have a new bike! You love pushing yourself along with your feet and you've picked up steering incredibly quickly. I think you're also really excited to finally have your own "bi" after admiring Daddy's for so long.
Love, Mama
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
To Tye, at 15 months
Dear Tye,
Just when I think you can't possibly squeeze more growth into a month, just when I think you can't amaze me any more than now, just when I think you can't possibly get any cuter... You do. What a month! Let me just tell you about you, because even though this will be no big deal by the time you read this, your developments this past month make me so proud I want to shout it from our rooftop. And if I were telling other people, this might be taken as bragging, but I can tell you about you and not worry about that. So just humor me and let me boast a bit about how awesomely wonderful you are.
First of all, you now know the sign for "potty" and use it to ask me to go potty. Um, that's pretty amazing, deary, for 15 months. Recently we've been having pants-free parties around the house (you're the only one pants-less, but still, it's a party), and you'll walk right up to the potty chair and sit down to pee or poop whenever you need to go. When I ask if you're all done, you'll either sign all done and say "aaaah duh," or shake your head "no" insistently. Your little head shake is super cute, too. You want to make sure we understand that you're saying no, so you maintain eye contact as you drop your chin to your chest and sway your head side to side until we acknowledge your denial.
Knowing how to answer yes/no questions opens a whole new world of communication for us. Even if you can't express what you want, now I can ask what it is, 20-questions style, until I finally earn that excited head nod and smile from you that means I've hit the jackpot. Best of all, we've yet to reach the stage in which you tell us "no" for everything (I'm hoping we don't have to endure that, but it may be inescapable). For now, you tell yourself "no" more often than we do- as you walk up to something you know you shouldn't touch, you shake your head "no" as you look at it before walking away. Being able to watch your thought pattern so clearly is pretty amazing. You're good at listening to yourself, too, even if your impulses do sometimes get the better of you- like when someone leaves a glass of water on the table and you just really want a sip.
You look older now, too. Your hair is coming in with wisps curling over your ears and around the nape of your neck. When you laugh, we can see your 9 1/2 teeth, including three molars way back there. All those winter clothes we bought you last fall are barely fitting you now, though that makes it easier for you to lift up your shirt and show off your belly in hopes that someone will tickle it.
Do you know what else has been so much fun recently? Taking walks- because you now walk right along with us. If we drop the pace a bit, you love nothing more than walking down the street by our side and saying your excited high-pitched "Hi!" to each passerby. You have such a drive for independence that you'll walk by yourself seemingly forever. We've yet to find your tiring point. Watching you bravely explore new places is at once both thrilling and saddening- you're so grown up. When did that happen? When did you grow so tall that when I hold you, you are now half my own body length? When did you realize you're such a big girl that you can explore the world without holding my hand? As you continue to grow and venture out on your own, remember that there will always be a hug here for you, ready and waiting. Baby Girl, I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you.
Love,
Mama
Friday, January 14, 2011
To Tye, at 14 months
Dear Tye,
You've reached a point in your young life when you're growing so fast, I can hardly keep up. And I love it. Two days before Christmas, you used your first sign to communicate by signing "all done" when you finished on the potty. All of the sudden, the simple signs we've been using just clicked, as if a light bulb went on and showed you that you could communicate. Since then, you're signing all done, more, eat, water, and milk (to nurse). Combined with pointing , you're able to gesture to communicate what you want most of the time. When you can't, you become frustrated, understandably. That motivation will keep you learning.
A couple of days after we returned from our family trip to Palm Beach, I discovered something shiny, white, and hard in the back of your mouth- your upper molars, just beginning to push through your gums. You poor thing- you had a blood blister over one of them, and they've been giving you a hard time. If we adults were the ones with sharp new teeth pushing through our gums, being heavily medicated would be the social norm. True, we're flying through our homeopathic gels and drops for you. I just wish there was something else I could do to ease your pain.
Fortunately, nursing seems to take off the edge at night when it's worst. You're so busy exploring during the day, you only nurse about 4 times a day now. It may make these recent all-night nursing sessions easier for me, because I look forward to cuddling with you in bed each night so much that I don't mind. Still, I'll survive when you decide to sleep longer chunks of the night again, so feel free to move that direction whenever those teeth ease up.
This past month included Christmas, which you just loved. Christmas Eve brought a huge snowstorm, and you laughed and laughed as we carried you around the yard. By Christmas morning, you were a present-unwrapping professional, even if you did have a hard time knowing whether the box or the contents were the real gift. Candy canes were a real hit with you this year (thanks to Daddy), as were the neighborhood Christmas lights. You also enjoyed the red wooden bead garland on the tree, which you pulled off the branches to drape around your neck like a necklace every opportunity you found.
Sometimes when I look at you, I am absolutely amazed by the little person you've become. As you walk from place to place, interacting with people, animals, and objects along the way, I'm in awe of the huge personality in your tiny body. Watching you grow brings me so much joy. It is happening so fast, I find myself afraid to blink for fear I may miss it. I'll just keep working on treasuring every day, no matter what it brings.
Happy 14 months, Tye. I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you.
Love, Mama
You've reached a point in your young life when you're growing so fast, I can hardly keep up. And I love it. Two days before Christmas, you used your first sign to communicate by signing "all done" when you finished on the potty. All of the sudden, the simple signs we've been using just clicked, as if a light bulb went on and showed you that you could communicate. Since then, you're signing all done, more, eat, water, and milk (to nurse). Combined with pointing , you're able to gesture to communicate what you want most of the time. When you can't, you become frustrated, understandably. That motivation will keep you learning.
A couple of days after we returned from our family trip to Palm Beach, I discovered something shiny, white, and hard in the back of your mouth- your upper molars, just beginning to push through your gums. You poor thing- you had a blood blister over one of them, and they've been giving you a hard time. If we adults were the ones with sharp new teeth pushing through our gums, being heavily medicated would be the social norm. True, we're flying through our homeopathic gels and drops for you. I just wish there was something else I could do to ease your pain.
Fortunately, nursing seems to take off the edge at night when it's worst. You're so busy exploring during the day, you only nurse about 4 times a day now. It may make these recent all-night nursing sessions easier for me, because I look forward to cuddling with you in bed each night so much that I don't mind. Still, I'll survive when you decide to sleep longer chunks of the night again, so feel free to move that direction whenever those teeth ease up.
This past month included Christmas, which you just loved. Christmas Eve brought a huge snowstorm, and you laughed and laughed as we carried you around the yard. By Christmas morning, you were a present-unwrapping professional, even if you did have a hard time knowing whether the box or the contents were the real gift. Candy canes were a real hit with you this year (thanks to Daddy), as were the neighborhood Christmas lights. You also enjoyed the red wooden bead garland on the tree, which you pulled off the branches to drape around your neck like a necklace every opportunity you found.
Sometimes when I look at you, I am absolutely amazed by the little person you've become. As you walk from place to place, interacting with people, animals, and objects along the way, I'm in awe of the huge personality in your tiny body. Watching you grow brings me so much joy. It is happening so fast, I find myself afraid to blink for fear I may miss it. I'll just keep working on treasuring every day, no matter what it brings.
Happy 14 months, Tye. I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you.
Love, Mama
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
To Tye, at 13 months
Dear Tye,
How can you be 13 months already?!? I can't believe we're celebrating a birthday beyond your first already. And yet you've grown up so much in the past month, I can't believe all these new skills popped up in just 30 short days.
Although you took your first steps starting a week before your first birthday, you started putting steps together a week after your birthday and walked across the room for the first time on November 27, the Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend. As soon as you learned you could do that, you were all about it.
When we flew to Seattle this month, you had the greatest time just walking around the airport, either tightly grasping my finger or completely on your own. You found such joy in walking that as soon as you took those first steps, you let out a high-pitched cackle that sounded like a horse whinnying and made everyone in the airport laugh. All that joy, spreading contagiously, just from walking.
As you explore your world, you remind me daily what a beautiful, magical place it is. Watching you grasp at dust dancing in the sunlight, delight in snow falling out of the sky continuously, or lean backwards in the Ergo to watch the birds fly above us reminds me to stop and appreciate those same experiences.
When strangers watch you moving and laughing, they often ask me, "Is she always like this? Is she always this happy?" to which I respond truthfully, "Yes, just about." Already you see the sippy cup as half full, and you reach out to fully enjoy every sip in that half cup. The world could learn from you, my wise daughter.
Just so you know, I, for one, am taking notes. You've reminded me that a smile and wave hello will melt the frostiest of hearts, and that nothing should keep me from sharing that gift with everyone. The too-cool hipster at the L stop, the busy barista at the coffee shop, the cantankerous-looking old woman in Walgreens, the bearded homeless man in the park- everyone appreciates a hello and a smile.
You're teaching me to slow down, reminding me that life is in the journey, not the destination. With a little music and frequent dance breaks, chores are enjoyable. Every time we walk Mico, it's a little adventure, and it's especially fun if we stop to look at the Christmas lights. Food is for sharing, sometimes with multiple people. Baths and showers can become the highlight of the day if we just stop to enjoy the sensation of water on our skin. When our surroundings become overwhelming, a deep breath- or a quick nursing session- to slow our bodies and minds lets us re-approach the situation with renewed energy. Thank you for the reminders, Tye. I hope we both hold on to their lessons in our future.
Last night, as I sat in the tub with you and held your slippery body to nurse you, I was brought back to the evening you were born 13 months ago. I know you were far tinier then, but holding your body against mine felt exactly the same; those big eyes staring, though now blue, held the same soul inside. Time will continue to fly, and you'll continue to grow, but you'll always be my Baby Girl. I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you.
Love,
Mama
How can you be 13 months already?!? I can't believe we're celebrating a birthday beyond your first already. And yet you've grown up so much in the past month, I can't believe all these new skills popped up in just 30 short days.
Although you took your first steps starting a week before your first birthday, you started putting steps together a week after your birthday and walked across the room for the first time on November 27, the Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend. As soon as you learned you could do that, you were all about it.
When we flew to Seattle this month, you had the greatest time just walking around the airport, either tightly grasping my finger or completely on your own. You found such joy in walking that as soon as you took those first steps, you let out a high-pitched cackle that sounded like a horse whinnying and made everyone in the airport laugh. All that joy, spreading contagiously, just from walking.
As you explore your world, you remind me daily what a beautiful, magical place it is. Watching you grasp at dust dancing in the sunlight, delight in snow falling out of the sky continuously, or lean backwards in the Ergo to watch the birds fly above us reminds me to stop and appreciate those same experiences.
When strangers watch you moving and laughing, they often ask me, "Is she always like this? Is she always this happy?" to which I respond truthfully, "Yes, just about." Already you see the sippy cup as half full, and you reach out to fully enjoy every sip in that half cup. The world could learn from you, my wise daughter.
Just so you know, I, for one, am taking notes. You've reminded me that a smile and wave hello will melt the frostiest of hearts, and that nothing should keep me from sharing that gift with everyone. The too-cool hipster at the L stop, the busy barista at the coffee shop, the cantankerous-looking old woman in Walgreens, the bearded homeless man in the park- everyone appreciates a hello and a smile.
You're teaching me to slow down, reminding me that life is in the journey, not the destination. With a little music and frequent dance breaks, chores are enjoyable. Every time we walk Mico, it's a little adventure, and it's especially fun if we stop to look at the Christmas lights. Food is for sharing, sometimes with multiple people. Baths and showers can become the highlight of the day if we just stop to enjoy the sensation of water on our skin. When our surroundings become overwhelming, a deep breath- or a quick nursing session- to slow our bodies and minds lets us re-approach the situation with renewed energy. Thank you for the reminders, Tye. I hope we both hold on to their lessons in our future.
Last night, as I sat in the tub with you and held your slippery body to nurse you, I was brought back to the evening you were born 13 months ago. I know you were far tinier then, but holding your body against mine felt exactly the same; those big eyes staring, though now blue, held the same soul inside. Time will continue to fly, and you'll continue to grow, but you'll always be my Baby Girl. I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you.
Love,
Mama
Monday, November 15, 2010
To Tye, at 1 Year
Dear Tye,
Happy first birthday, dear daughter! You've had a weekend full of celebration- a party with your dad's family yesterday, complete with gifts galore and tons of attention; a party with friends yesterday, including singing and a cupcake and a beautiful party dress and even a nap for a sleepy birthday girl; birthday brunch today with Mama and Daddy; and a party with my family today, with more singing and cupcakes. Everyone was excited to celebrate you and your first year of life.
Celebrating you felt very selfish yesterday- after all, you're only one. You won't remember the celebration, and as much as you enjoy the gifts, you also enjoy the wrapping and packaging. But this year was a big one for us, too. We became parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, aunt and uncles. I feel as if it was the first year of my own life, not just as a mother, but as a person. Because of you, I have a sense of balance and completeness that I've never known before. My eyes have been opened to a new depth to life that only a mother can comprehend.
One year ago, I underwent a physical event that was simultaneously equally spiritual and emotional. With one final push, as you moved from my body to the outside world, my entire body was flooded with emotions. In that magical moment, I was changed. Everything changed. It was an experience unlike any other, as if I had suddenly been transported to a new realm. Holding you felt surreal, with your tiny body and miniature features, but one thing was certain: I was a new person. That night, the three of us laid in bed together. Daddy slept, worn out from a long, emotional day, and you entered your sleepy state, well deserved after all you endured. Despite feeling as though I'd just finished a marathon, I had trouble drifting off those first few hours. I sat awake, watching you breathe, feeling your warmth on my skin, utterly in awe of you and the power you held over me.
As party decorations, I matted and strung together into a banner photos of you from your first year. Each photo holds so many memories and emotions that looking at them all together was overwhelming. I don't know how all those memories fit into one year. How is it possible? This has been the longest year of my life in the best way possible. The days didn't blend into one another- rather, each day was special in its own way. There were only 365 days? Really? Haven't I known you my whole life? And then I think of that number...
How can it have been 365 days already?!? You can't be a year already! You, my babe, can't already be one. I look at you as you nurse and see the same tiny being that nursed from me right after you were born. And then you stop nursing to smile at me, those four perfectly centered teeth peeking out from your gums. I look down your body- at your waist, bent at the edge of my own body, and then at your feet, hanging over the arm of the rocking chair. You used those feet to take your first step on Monday, and another on Friday, though you're mostly still clinging to furniture and walls as you walk.
On the anniversary of your birth, I can't help but think of how your life has changed mine. You are a miracle, Tye, and the gift of your life is worthy of celebration. I am forever grateful for you. I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you.
Love,
Mama
The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never. A mother is something absolutely new. ~Rajneesh
Happy first birthday, dear daughter! You've had a weekend full of celebration- a party with your dad's family yesterday, complete with gifts galore and tons of attention; a party with friends yesterday, including singing and a cupcake and a beautiful party dress and even a nap for a sleepy birthday girl; birthday brunch today with Mama and Daddy; and a party with my family today, with more singing and cupcakes. Everyone was excited to celebrate you and your first year of life.
Celebrating you felt very selfish yesterday- after all, you're only one. You won't remember the celebration, and as much as you enjoy the gifts, you also enjoy the wrapping and packaging. But this year was a big one for us, too. We became parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, aunt and uncles. I feel as if it was the first year of my own life, not just as a mother, but as a person. Because of you, I have a sense of balance and completeness that I've never known before. My eyes have been opened to a new depth to life that only a mother can comprehend.
One year ago, I underwent a physical event that was simultaneously equally spiritual and emotional. With one final push, as you moved from my body to the outside world, my entire body was flooded with emotions. In that magical moment, I was changed. Everything changed. It was an experience unlike any other, as if I had suddenly been transported to a new realm. Holding you felt surreal, with your tiny body and miniature features, but one thing was certain: I was a new person. That night, the three of us laid in bed together. Daddy slept, worn out from a long, emotional day, and you entered your sleepy state, well deserved after all you endured. Despite feeling as though I'd just finished a marathon, I had trouble drifting off those first few hours. I sat awake, watching you breathe, feeling your warmth on my skin, utterly in awe of you and the power you held over me.
As party decorations, I matted and strung together into a banner photos of you from your first year. Each photo holds so many memories and emotions that looking at them all together was overwhelming. I don't know how all those memories fit into one year. How is it possible? This has been the longest year of my life in the best way possible. The days didn't blend into one another- rather, each day was special in its own way. There were only 365 days? Really? Haven't I known you my whole life? And then I think of that number...
How can it have been 365 days already?!? You can't be a year already! You, my babe, can't already be one. I look at you as you nurse and see the same tiny being that nursed from me right after you were born. And then you stop nursing to smile at me, those four perfectly centered teeth peeking out from your gums. I look down your body- at your waist, bent at the edge of my own body, and then at your feet, hanging over the arm of the rocking chair. You used those feet to take your first step on Monday, and another on Friday, though you're mostly still clinging to furniture and walls as you walk.
On the anniversary of your birth, I can't help but think of how your life has changed mine. You are a miracle, Tye, and the gift of your life is worthy of celebration. I am forever grateful for you. I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you.
Love,
Mama
The moment a child is born, the mother is also born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother, never. A mother is something absolutely new. ~Rajneesh
Thursday, October 14, 2010
To Tye, at 11 months
Dear Tye,
You crack me up. On a daily basis. You know how to make me laugh and you do those things over and over just to make me laugh. Of course, I will do anything to make you laugh, too- games of peek-a-boo, dancing around the house, silly noises and tickle times. Now when you giggle, I can see teeth on top and bottom. You have the perfect little jack-o-lantern smile.
Along with those teeth, you have these scrumptious-looking chubby body parts now that I could just eat right up. After spending the first few months of your life on the skinny side, you now have thick limbs, fat fingers, and kissably chubby cheeks. It could be all the food you're eating... You eat like it's going to disappear, especially sweet potatoes, scrambled eggs, and freeze-dried banana. When you see us eating something that looks tasty to you, you look at us and smack your mouth loudly until it has been filled. Smart girl already.
We arranged your bedroom this past month, complete with a bed (or mattress on the floor) for you. I feel good because I know it's the safest place for you to sleep without me, but every time I leave you there asleep, my heart breaks a little. You can't be growing up this fast. The mixed emotions remind me of feeding you solids the first time you ate a real meal. All I could think of was the La Leche League explanation that weaning starts when the baby is fed anything other than breastmilk. Thinking of you weaning made my heart ache, just as it aches when I see you in your own bed. I am so happy to see you grow, but so sad to see some of these phases begin to end. As I laid in bed the other night, sprawled out on my back with you asleep on top of me, your head square in the middle of my chest, my only thought was, This is what comfortable feels like.
I can't believe you're almost a year old. One year ago, I was almost finished with my bed rest. How my life has changed in the past 11 months. You're an amazing little force, Baby Girl. I love, love, love, love you.
Love,
Mama
You crack me up. On a daily basis. You know how to make me laugh and you do those things over and over just to make me laugh. Of course, I will do anything to make you laugh, too- games of peek-a-boo, dancing around the house, silly noises and tickle times. Now when you giggle, I can see teeth on top and bottom. You have the perfect little jack-o-lantern smile.
Along with those teeth, you have these scrumptious-looking chubby body parts now that I could just eat right up. After spending the first few months of your life on the skinny side, you now have thick limbs, fat fingers, and kissably chubby cheeks. It could be all the food you're eating... You eat like it's going to disappear, especially sweet potatoes, scrambled eggs, and freeze-dried banana. When you see us eating something that looks tasty to you, you look at us and smack your mouth loudly until it has been filled. Smart girl already.
We arranged your bedroom this past month, complete with a bed (or mattress on the floor) for you. I feel good because I know it's the safest place for you to sleep without me, but every time I leave you there asleep, my heart breaks a little. You can't be growing up this fast. The mixed emotions remind me of feeding you solids the first time you ate a real meal. All I could think of was the La Leche League explanation that weaning starts when the baby is fed anything other than breastmilk. Thinking of you weaning made my heart ache, just as it aches when I see you in your own bed. I am so happy to see you grow, but so sad to see some of these phases begin to end. As I laid in bed the other night, sprawled out on my back with you asleep on top of me, your head square in the middle of my chest, my only thought was, This is what comfortable feels like.
I can't believe you're almost a year old. One year ago, I was almost finished with my bed rest. How my life has changed in the past 11 months. You're an amazing little force, Baby Girl. I love, love, love, love you.
Love,
Mama
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
To Tye, at 10 months
Dear Tye,
Ten months. I've now known you longer as a human, your own person, than I knew you within my belly. Every day, I love getting to know you better. Last night, you and I ate dinner at Whole Foods together while we were there shopping. It felt like a date, just you and me, spending our time together. We shared food, laughed at each other, and even sang along to the music a little bit. You are quite a fun girl, little lady.
I love watching you express your preferences now, whether it is for food, toys, people, or activities. You are trying hard to communicate with us, and for the most part, you do quite well for yourself even though you only have a few well-used words- right now, "da da," "ma ma," and "na na" for nursing. You're imitating sounds well, though, and I know it won't be long before you're saying Ziggy and Mico and a whole collection of words.
You're just so much fun right now. I love playing with you, making you laugh, watching you try to make me laugh (it works every time). Your fascination with the world is inspiring- I am amazed that you can empty the same drawers every day without losing enthusiasm for the game. You are much more of an active companion now, which makes everything more fun, whether it's running errands or walking Mico.
You have taught me a whole new level of happiness. Thank you for the joy you bring to my life each day, Tye. I love, love, love, love you.
Love,
Mama
Ten months. I've now known you longer as a human, your own person, than I knew you within my belly. Every day, I love getting to know you better. Last night, you and I ate dinner at Whole Foods together while we were there shopping. It felt like a date, just you and me, spending our time together. We shared food, laughed at each other, and even sang along to the music a little bit. You are quite a fun girl, little lady.
I love watching you express your preferences now, whether it is for food, toys, people, or activities. You are trying hard to communicate with us, and for the most part, you do quite well for yourself even though you only have a few well-used words- right now, "da da," "ma ma," and "na na" for nursing. You're imitating sounds well, though, and I know it won't be long before you're saying Ziggy and Mico and a whole collection of words.
You're just so much fun right now. I love playing with you, making you laugh, watching you try to make me laugh (it works every time). Your fascination with the world is inspiring- I am amazed that you can empty the same drawers every day without losing enthusiasm for the game. You are much more of an active companion now, which makes everything more fun, whether it's running errands or walking Mico.
You have taught me a whole new level of happiness. Thank you for the joy you bring to my life each day, Tye. I love, love, love, love you.
Love,
Mama
Tye this morning at the fountain at Wicker Park, where she could have watched the water for hours.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
To Tye at 9 Months
Dear Tye,
When I learned I was pregnant with you, I longed for you so much I thought I couldn't possibly wait nine whole months to hold you. As much as I treasured the time when you were safely growly in my belly and the physical connection we shared, waiting nine months to hold you felt like forever. I enjoyed every day- even the ones when I was so sick I barely left bed- because I knew it was a day that was bringing me closer to you. That nine months felt, in many ways, like nine years.
Then you made your debut and changed my understanding of everything in the world- priorities, time, love, anything I thought I knew. The past nine months have felt like a flash in the pan, like each day barely lasted a second, even though I can barely remember my life without you. When you were born, so was a new me.
Your growth is such a miracle. You were born so tiny- a skinny thing at 6 pounds 13 ounces, about nine months after your conception. In the past nine months, you've about tripled that weight. Those dark little eyes that opened and stared into mine in the tub are now huge, blue saucers that dart about as you take in the world. Your tight fists have opened and learned how to grasp forcefully, pet gently, and maneuver food into your tiny mouth- which, by the way, has one full tooth and a second breaking through the gums as we speak.
Every day, you learn something new and amaze me. I keep thinking about something I heard recently- a new parent was explaining to a non-parent what having a child felt like. He said, "It's a cross between falling in love again and getting a brand new toy, but even better." With a lot of emphasis on the "even better" part, that is so true. I love, love, love, love you.
Love,
Mama
When I learned I was pregnant with you, I longed for you so much I thought I couldn't possibly wait nine whole months to hold you. As much as I treasured the time when you were safely growly in my belly and the physical connection we shared, waiting nine months to hold you felt like forever. I enjoyed every day- even the ones when I was so sick I barely left bed- because I knew it was a day that was bringing me closer to you. That nine months felt, in many ways, like nine years.
Then you made your debut and changed my understanding of everything in the world- priorities, time, love, anything I thought I knew. The past nine months have felt like a flash in the pan, like each day barely lasted a second, even though I can barely remember my life without you. When you were born, so was a new me.
Your growth is such a miracle. You were born so tiny- a skinny thing at 6 pounds 13 ounces, about nine months after your conception. In the past nine months, you've about tripled that weight. Those dark little eyes that opened and stared into mine in the tub are now huge, blue saucers that dart about as you take in the world. Your tight fists have opened and learned how to grasp forcefully, pet gently, and maneuver food into your tiny mouth- which, by the way, has one full tooth and a second breaking through the gums as we speak.
Every day, you learn something new and amaze me. I keep thinking about something I heard recently- a new parent was explaining to a non-parent what having a child felt like. He said, "It's a cross between falling in love again and getting a brand new toy, but even better." With a lot of emphasis on the "even better" part, that is so true. I love, love, love, love you.
Love,
Mama
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
To Tye, at 8 months
One month ago, I shared a video of you splashing in your bathtub. That feels like forever ago. I actually went back and double checked to make sure I didn't miss a month. Since then, you've been moving and growing and learning nonstop. Sitting up has opened a whole new world to you. I love to watch you sit on a blanket and play with your toys, picking one up, turning it carefully in your hands, then dropping it as you spot another toy and reach for it instead. You move easily from sitting forward to all fours, and you'll scoot around on your tummy, but you aren't quite crawling yet.
In the past month, you attended two weddings, participated in your first 4th of July celebration (even if it did consist of mostly you sleeping on a raft in the pool, guarded closely by your grandpa), and flew to Los Angeles and Dallas. Together, we survived your first fever, your first cold, and your first public poop blowout- all of which were probably bigger events for me than you, and I'm glad they're all over with now. You're eating more food, but your favorite is whatever is on my plate, so I'll often share bits with you, like the avocado from my sandwich tonight. You grasp the spoon tightly and shove it into your mouth as if you're ravenous, then make silly faces as you mash it with your gums and swallow it.
Although, you now have your first tooth. It came in while we were away on our trip. I'm still adjusting to you having a little weapon in your mouth. Last night, while we were at dinner with Daddy, I handed you a sugar packet to play with while I prepared your food, as I have so many times before. Except this time, when I looked down seconds later, half the paper packet was in your mouth and the other half in your little fists. Sugar crystals covered your dress. Oops.
You are such a happy baby. Everywhere we go, people are amazed at how easily you smile and how easygoing you are. Even on our trip, when you were in a strange new place every time you woke up in addition to getting over a nasty cold and teething, you were consistently a genuinely happy baby. The morning of her wedding, Jackie kept asking me to hold you because you brought her such a sense of calm. I could be wrong, but I don't think most babies instill calm quite like that.
To know you now, Tye, and to remember that you are the baby who emerged from me nine months ago, is to understand a miracle. Happy 8 month birthday, Tye. I love, love, love, love you.
Love,
Mama
Monday, June 14, 2010
To Tye, at 7 months
As each week passes, you grow so much. Just this past week, you almost mastered sitting up on your own, which allows you to engage in the world around you in all new ways. You're reaching further for things, and as you figure out how to move towards those toys that are out of your reach, you'll be crawling before we know it.
The past month was full of firsts for you- your first trip to the zoo, where you loved the jaguar and flamingos, but the other kids most; your first visit to the aquarium, where you watched the fish swim through the water, but were most excited by other children; your first swimming lesson with GG in her pool; your first babbled consonants, strings of b's and d's and g's; your first jog in the stroller; your first street festival with Mama and Daddy. You have such a relaxed, easy-going personality that you accept all these new experiences with a smile, as if you've done this all before. So often, the big "first" is actually ours, as we celebrate our first time doing something old with our new family, through new eyes.
Today was another first, just in time to celebrate your 7 month birthday. You took your first bath sitting up. With your new motor skills and core strength, you splashed away, hitting the water with your open hands and kicking your legs back and forth. You are truly a water baby.
When I hold you, you still feel tiny and fragile in my arms, and yet you take up a great deal more space now than ever before. I promised myself once that I wouldn't forget what it was like to hold a newborn, as other moms exclaim they have when they see a tiny baby. I wouldn't say I've forgotten, but you still feel so tiny to me that I have a new understanding of that phrase. How can you be so small, but have been so much smaller in the past?
These have been the best seven months of my life. I love you, love you, love you, love you.
Love,
Mama
Today was another first, just in time to celebrate your 7 month birthday. You took your first bath sitting up. With your new motor skills and core strength, you splashed away, hitting the water with your open hands and kicking your legs back and forth. You are truly a water baby.
When I hold you, you still feel tiny and fragile in my arms, and yet you take up a great deal more space now than ever before. I promised myself once that I wouldn't forget what it was like to hold a newborn, as other moms exclaim they have when they see a tiny baby. I wouldn't say I've forgotten, but you still feel so tiny to me that I have a new understanding of that phrase. How can you be so small, but have been so much smaller in the past?
These have been the best seven months of my life. I love you, love you, love you, love you.
Love,
Mama
Friday, May 14, 2010
To Tye, at 6 Months
Dear Tye,
You're six months old today. Time has taken on an entirely new form for me since you were born, passing at once more quickly than ever and infinitely slowly.
At six months old, you are such a happy baby. You smile easily and almost constantly at me, at your dad, at Mico and Ziggy, at strangers we meet, at your Jumparoo, at my breast when you see it heading towards your hungry mouth. You laugh when we sing to you and play games like peek-a-boo or the Itsy Bitsy Spider. I'm relishing in every moment we cuddle now, knowing that all too soon, you'll be moving on your own and wanting to spend your time exploring your world. Already, you're sitting on your own for short stretches and showing us that you're trying to figure out how to go about the whole crawling process. As much as I look forward to those developments, I never want to leave these moments we have now.
All my trusted friends with children insist that as their children grow, parenthood just keeps getting better by the day. How is that possible? How could anything be better than what I have already? It's beyond the scope of my imagination, and yet I see that truth in you every day as our relationship deepens. If our future together is going to be getting even better, bring it on.
I love you, I love you, I love you, I love you. Happy half birthday, Tye.
Love,
Mama
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
To Tye, at 5 months
Dear Tye,
Today, you are five months old. You are such a happy baby. I'm treasuring these times while you're smiling and giggling easily, interacting with us and holding parent-baby conversations, and not yet overcome with teething discomfort. It's such a wonderful time.
One of your favorite new activities is petting Mico and Ziggy, our dog and cat. Both love you and the attention you give them. Mico would lick your face every time he saw you if we let him, and you smile that gummy smile of yours when you see him. When we go on walks, you lean over the edge of the carrier to watch him trot below us. Ziggy loves to curl up with you while you sleep. I can't count how many times I've woken up to find you sandwiched between Ziggy and me. You love to pet her, and you're very gentle with her, so she lays in front of you or rubs up against you whenever she can. You're like new best friends.
Speaking of new best friends, you have a real one now. You and Marquise have taken to each other quickly. You smile at him more than any other baby we've ever seen, and the two of you seem to try to hug each other every chance you have. The two of you are so similar, with identical mannerisms and voices, that we joke about you being the boy and girl versions of each other. We celebrated your 5 month birthday today while you were sharing a swing with Marquise at the little park near his house.
You're becoming much more attached- literally. At night, you fall asleep nursing with one hand on my breast and at least one leg draped over my body. When you stir, that top arm flails about until it hits me and comes to a quiet rest, usually clutching whatever part of me it feels. If it doesn't detect me, you wake up. When that happens and I'm near you, even as whiney and tired as you are, you look for me and upon seeing me, your face lights up with a huge smile. It's as if you're saying, "Oh, well hi, there, friend!" Then I let you nurse back to sleep, your hand on my breast again. I treasure every night I get to sleep with you, afraid you'll grow out of our bed too soon. I have a feeling I'll think it's too soon whether it's at 9 months or 9 years.
You've grown so much, Baby Girl. As I type this with your head resting on my left forearm, your hips are resting on the outside of my hips, your legs wrapped around my side and and your feet resting completely on the couch. You used to be smaller than your torso alone is now! You are becoming such a beautiful young girl, with a gorgeous smile you'll share with anyone, a gentle manner, and an easygoing spirit. You've brought us so much joy already, Tye. I can't believe so much happiness has fit itself into five short months. I love you.
Love,
Mama
Today, you are five months old. You are such a happy baby. I'm treasuring these times while you're smiling and giggling easily, interacting with us and holding parent-baby conversations, and not yet overcome with teething discomfort. It's such a wonderful time.
One of your favorite new activities is petting Mico and Ziggy, our dog and cat. Both love you and the attention you give them. Mico would lick your face every time he saw you if we let him, and you smile that gummy smile of yours when you see him. When we go on walks, you lean over the edge of the carrier to watch him trot below us. Ziggy loves to curl up with you while you sleep. I can't count how many times I've woken up to find you sandwiched between Ziggy and me. You love to pet her, and you're very gentle with her, so she lays in front of you or rubs up against you whenever she can. You're like new best friends.
Speaking of new best friends, you have a real one now. You and Marquise have taken to each other quickly. You smile at him more than any other baby we've ever seen, and the two of you seem to try to hug each other every chance you have. The two of you are so similar, with identical mannerisms and voices, that we joke about you being the boy and girl versions of each other. We celebrated your 5 month birthday today while you were sharing a swing with Marquise at the little park near his house.
You're becoming much more attached- literally. At night, you fall asleep nursing with one hand on my breast and at least one leg draped over my body. When you stir, that top arm flails about until it hits me and comes to a quiet rest, usually clutching whatever part of me it feels. If it doesn't detect me, you wake up. When that happens and I'm near you, even as whiney and tired as you are, you look for me and upon seeing me, your face lights up with a huge smile. It's as if you're saying, "Oh, well hi, there, friend!" Then I let you nurse back to sleep, your hand on my breast again. I treasure every night I get to sleep with you, afraid you'll grow out of our bed too soon. I have a feeling I'll think it's too soon whether it's at 9 months or 9 years.
You've grown so much, Baby Girl. As I type this with your head resting on my left forearm, your hips are resting on the outside of my hips, your legs wrapped around my side and and your feet resting completely on the couch. You used to be smaller than your torso alone is now! You are becoming such a beautiful young girl, with a gorgeous smile you'll share with anyone, a gentle manner, and an easygoing spirit. You've brought us so much joy already, Tye. I can't believe so much happiness has fit itself into five short months. I love you.
Love,
Mama
Sunday, March 14, 2010
To Tye, at 4 Months
Dear Tye,
You've grown so much in the past month, even the past week. You are grabbing things in your tiny fists now, like my hair and my necklace and the string on my sweatshirt. When you sit on my lap at dinner, you reach for the plate and placemat. It's just a matter of time before I'll have to keep my food at arm's length (but it will be worth it to have you in my arms.) Now, when I hold you, you hold on to me, too, like a baby monkey clinging to her mama. It's the sweetest feeling to feel my grasp reciprocated, like the first hug you're able to give to me. When you're sleepy, you burrow your head into my chest as if you can't get it deep enough into me, and I melt with warm love for you.
You are all smiles these days, and you have started to laugh a real laugh just this week. For the longest time, you tried to laugh but all that came out was a single smiley cough. Now you've added your voice to the laugh and you're combining several, and it finally sounds like a real laugh. When you chuckle, it makes me laugh, sometimes so hard that it startles you and you stare at me with a serious, furrowed brow.
You love to chew on your hands (an activity I expect you to continue to enjoy), and you've figured out how to fit all 8 fingers in your mouth simultaneously. You're just starting to chew other objects, too, though you aren't very discerning. Whatever is in your hand, be it a toy or clothing or my fingers, you'll try to pull it towards your mouth for a taste. Speaking of taste, the way your eyes light up and you smile when you see my breast ready for a meal is adorable, like you're the happiest girl in the world.
I love every day with you, Tye. I love watching you grow and learn and change, and I love the new depth to our relationship. My favorite moments of the day are waking next to you and waiting for you to open you eyes and smile at me, and seeing you look up from my breast with a huge smile just for me. You make every day wonderful. Happy 4th Month, Tye. I love you more than anything.
Love,
Mama
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