Five Months Old

My dearest little Lucy,

You turned five months old last week! In these few months, you have already brought our home so much laughter and joy. And each day brings out a little more of your precious personality.

You are definitely "Daddy's little girl." Each evening, when Daddy gets home from work, you give him the biggest welcome home grin you can manage (even if you were grumpy for Mommy just moments before!). I think the feeling is mutual, because Daddy's face lights up just as much when he sees you. :)

You have recently discovered how to "vocalize" and you love the sounds you can make. You seem to enjoy screeching most when other people are talking... or when Mommy and Daddy are trying to watch TV. Sometimes, this behavior strikes us as one of the funniest things in the world, and other times, we cringe a little as we're rushing you outside the quiet restaurant... We still need to work on what an "inside voice" is.

You have also recently discovered you feet! While we think this is absolutely adorable, it does present some new challenges when changing your diaper. :)

You are becoming much more adept in reaching for all sorts of things, from your toys to people's faces. I just melt when you stretch out your arm and touch my face... and then wince as you pinch my lip with your strong little fingers. We also need to work on what "gentle" means.

You're getting so strong! You love to plant your two little feet on the ground, or a table, or a lap, and stand up tall and study the world around you. You're still working on balance, and you make us smile as you "hula dance" with your hips while we hold you upright. You're also oh-so-close to sitting all on your own. You can sit by yourself, but I'm not sure you understand the consequences of suddenly flinging yourself backwards. :)

There are so many things that make us smile, little Lucy. But this last month has brought a couple of challenges, too. You are so curious about the world around you. While we love to see how alert you are to everything going on, this has created some challenges when it comes time to nap. No longer are you the super-portable, sleep-anywhere baby. We are learning to be more intentional about creating (and safe-guarding) nap time, making everyone happier at the end of the day.

Among the many things that have captured your attention recently is "big people food." You watch us so intently while we eat and drink. Soon, we'll get to start introducing you to new tastes!

We love you so much, dear one. We pray each night as we put you to bed that God will grant us wisdom in raising you, and grow you into a woman who loves Him.