Almost 10 months old!

My dearest little munchkin,
You are growing by leaps and bounds every day. You are making me and your daddy so very happy with how brave, tough, smart, funny, cuddly and cute you are! We’re working on helping you gain the confidence to walk on your own. You practically run when you have both of my hands in your hands. You do literally run when we put you in your walker. Poor dogs never get a chance to lie down outside on the patio because as soon as they get comfy, you run towards them screaming at the top of your lungs in shear excitement. Some times your run into them, sometimes you stop short. Either way they’ve learned to move out of your way pretty fast. It’s one of my most favorite things to watch.
The other day you were crawling across the living room so fast that you lost your balance and smashed your face right into the floor. I picked you up and cuddled you close and gave you countless kisses as you cried so hard in my arms. It was heartbreaking for me. Less than a minute later you were still sniffling, but giggling at the funny faces I was making at you. So tough. I put you back down and you took off again without any hesitation. So brave.
Last Saturday was the first time you said “Mama”! It was music to my ears. I was walking away from you and you didn’t want me to leave so you started calling for me. “Mama, mama, mama!” I turned around and gave you the biggest bear hug ever. Now I hear my new name whenever you are hungry, tired, scared or just want me. You know I’ll come right to you and make you feel better. So smart. :o)
Mornings are so bittersweet during the week. When you first wake up you are so snuggly and cuddly. I love the way you lay your head on my chest and rub your sleepy face on my shoulder. But I hate that we only get a few minutes together before I bring you to my car, hand you over to daddy and wave goodbye as I pull away from you two; usually with tears in my eyes.
My sweet little, I just love you so much! I'm so excited that I get to watch you grow up, explore the world around you and figure out who you are.