17 months old!

Our baby girl turned 17 months old today! She has been enjoying her vertical vantage point for the last six weeks (or so) and is getting nearer to running each day. She's a climber and a dancer (she bobs her head to the music) and loves to go down the big slides at the park. Emmy's proven to be a friendly little monkey, calling out "hi" to whomever is in ear shot. She repeats herself until she is heard and responded to in kind. She blows lots of kisses, which has led to a few talks about not giving her precious kisses away for free.

She has so much to say. I am overjoyed that she most clearly articulates the word "happy." Other favorite words are: "Mama," "Dada," "Emmy," "Mol-Mol," "Darda," "ball," "cheese," "bye," and "baby." She loves to sing songs, and claps appropriately when we finish. She now likes to wipe her face with a napkin at meal time and blows on her food to ensure it's cool before consumption, even if it wasn't heated. The meals that she is most likely to finish is homemade chicken soup and black beans and rice. She's usually far more interested in what's on my plate than what's on her own (even if it's the same meal.)

Unfortunately, we are beginning to get a taste of the tantrum phase. She gets frustrated when we don't understand her "words" (even with her clapping, pointing, and increasing volume) or if we take away whatever inappropriate object has caught her fancy. Luckily, she is easily distractible and can be quickly calmed with a song or offering an alternative play toy. I have a hunch it wont be this easy forever, I am bracing myself now! We have enjoyed small victories lately, though, as she has begun to respond to our lessons on manners. In the last couple of days, I have noticed a recognizable "pee" (for please) and "tae-tu" (for thank you). Hallejuah!!!!

I caught it on "film"! Her "up to no good look!"

She is sabotaging my best efforts to keep my flowers alive!