2.22.2011

Dear Nathanael (10 months)

My dearest Nathanael,

You are ten months old! We celebrate your exuberant and always active life. You bring us such joy, son!

Our estimates for your weight and height are around 21 pounds (45-50th percentile) and 29 inches (50-55th percentile). You love your independence and would prefer to eat everything on your own (though we spoon feed you a lot right now). Interestingly though, you are still trying to learn new food textures associated with finger foods, and they're often not to your liking (unless it's a fruit or starch or grain). You continue to nurse four times a day, though you simply hate lying still and would much rather be exploring. Still no teeth!

We flew to Michigan this month, and though you traveled well, you also managed to pick up the roseola illness which made your transition quite difficult. We enjoyed the extra cuddles that came with you not feeling well, but the high fever and rash were definitely scary for us first-time parents! After recovering, you quickly warmed up to Grandmom and Granddaddy and have been thoroughly enjoying the few weeks you have to steal their hearts again.

Your biggest development this month was taking your first steps! You want to walk so badly but haven't figured out how to sustain your movements past a step or two. You are able to stand on your own for as long as nine seconds. You cruise around furniture and walls, climb over objects, and dance (bounce and sway) when you hear music. You are always moving, moving, moving. Despite your crazy activity, we continue to marvel at your long nights of sleep, and so far, to our delight, you haven't shown any desire to drop your morning nap.

You finally added "mama" to your repertoire, though "dada" is still more often heard. You imitate sounds and words constantly and are extremely aware of all the noises around (a train whistle, dog barking, doors closing, water running). We had a few surprise warmer days in January and were able to enjoy the outdoors, including John Deere wagon rides and stroller walks. We are excited to explore the outdoors with you in a few months! Until then, we have a ton of fun during our evening family dance parties; you laugh and giggle and dance along to your heart's contentment! Your friendship with the cat continues to grow, and you've now progressed to kissing/licking her. The dog, thankfully, is learning not to kiss/lick you. You really miss your pet friends here in Michigan.

Nathanael Alim, we sure love being your parents! God has given us such a gift in you, and we are excited to watch as He forms you into a man for His glory. Happy ten months, son!

Lovingly,
your daddy and mommy

Your 10 month pictures will be a week or so late. Mr. Bear is stuck in Kansas.

Until then, here you are this morning showing off your ability to stand...

And your cute little wave

2 comments:

angie said...

OH my goodness! He's almost walking!! Amazing Nathanael! It's really fun to see my little nephew in these photos at my parents home -- where Greg and I used to chase each other around! Next time we see Nathanael, I'll be able to chase him around!

Kim said...

I'm so bummed we missed you while you were in Michigan (since I'm assuming you'll be gone or close to it when we get back downstate). It would have been so great to see you! Looks like you are doing well! Your little guy is so adorable. 10 months already? Time really flies!