7 Months Old

Dear Justin,

I know I say this every month, but I really can't believe that you are already 7 months old. You have been out in the world for almost as long as you were growing in my tummy. Your biggest accomplishment in the last month has been sleeping through the night. Just a couple days before your 7 month birthday you started sleeping a good 12 hours straight, and we couldn't be happier! We are so proud of you. We don't know if it's because we started giving you your solid foods in the evening or because after waking up 4 times in the period of an hour one night we let you "cry it out" or because you were just ready to start sleeping- but no matter what the reason, we love it! During the day, you still aren't much of a consistent nap taker, especially in the afternoons- but I'll take that if you'll keep sleeping through the night. You are happy as ever and more and more energetic. You smile at absolutely everyone. When we go on errands, you attract a lot of attention, and you love every minute of it. People are constantly commenting on your big baby blues and your infectious smile that fills your whole face. One woman told me, "He is beautiful. You have to say that all babies are, even if they're not, but your baby REALLY IS beautiful!" Another woman decided to serenade you in the grocery store and then continued in the check out line, and you thought that was just perfect....I, on the other hand, wasn't so sure! Recently, when you want to be extra charming, you tilt your head to one side and give a coy little grin. It pretty much melts anyone who is looking your way. While you smile for everyone, no one can get you to laugh quite like Mom and Dad which makes us feel pretty special. You still love to jump only now you can push yourself up and down even when we're holding you on our hips or you're sitting on our laps. Dr. Ho says she won't be surprised if you skip crawling all together since you like to be up on those strong legs of yours so much. You're eating solid foods now and your favorites so far are carrots, spinach & carrots, and apple combinations. You didn't care for rice cereal, but we are having much more success with oatmeal. You are communicating very clearly too. For example, you DO NOT like your face being washed. How do we know? You hold your breath making your face turn bright red, clench your fists, and angrily grunt at us whenever that washcloth comes near you. You roll across the room with ease, and we have spotted you pushing yourself around on your tummy when you really want something. You are also saying more and more consonants and have said your first word..."MommmMommmmMommmm!" (I think it counts!)

Anyway- you keep us very busy and entertained. Love you lots and lots!