9 Months

Dear Grayson,

Today you turn nine months old and seem to be changing more and more quickly before our very eyes.

These days you're more likely to wear a t-shirt and shorts than a onesie, making you seem even more like a little boy instead of a baby. You're not a fan of shoes, though, and manage to pull them off in record time no matter the style.

We did get your black dress shoes on long enough to capture a few wedding pictures over the weekend. You were so adorable in your little slacks, shirt, tie and vest. I can't wait to get the photos back from the photographer.

You've started initiating when you want affection which, of course, your parents are happy to oblige. My heart melts every time you pull me in for a hug or you cuddle up for a quick snuggle. The truth is, you're just so lovable and I hope you continue to be outgoing and expressive.

You're still quite the Chatty Cathy and continue to be incredibly vocal. You love babbling and blowing raspberries non-stop, but have yet to really say mama or dada. It's becoming apparent that you understand certain words, it's just going to take a little longer for you to say them yourself. I have a feeling that once you start talking you won't stop (I think that's some of my DNA finally surfacing).

We may have to break a few pacifier habits in the near future because you seem to enjoy having one paci in your mouth while holding one (or two) in your hand. Luckily, we've confined this behavior to your crib for now. While sleeping, you also enjoy being up on your knees with your butt in the air. I'm not sure if you're dreaming about crawling or practicing it in your sleep, but you rarely sleep lying all the way down.

Music is one of your favorite things, particularly classical songs that your toys sing. You also love playing on your baby piano or anything that can make for a temporary drum.

The teeth on top are starting to surface and you've quickly gone from gummy smiles to a few small chiclet teeth. There are two on the bottom and four along the top breaking through.

So many changes in just one month. Your father and I see the boy in you more every day as the baby starts fading away. It's exciting and heartbreaking all at the same time. We love you and are so proud to be your parents. How did we ever live without your ear-to-ear smiles and silly belly laughs?

Love always,
Mom