Jacob Andrew and William Colin: February 2012

Well, Mommy turned 30 this month and that seemed to be a big deal. I really wanted to top her milestone with one of my own, so I started planning something big for my 8 month birthday. I'd been getting on all fours and rocking for a while. This caused Mommy and Daddy to get really excited, so I knew there was something to this. I thought and thought about what this could mean. I would wake up in the middle of the night and experiment. Then, finally, on February 15, it just hit me. If there was a toy that I wanted and it was out of my reach, I could crawl to get it. I like an audience, so I waited until Mommy and Daddy were both home and focused on me. Then, I went for it. It was exhilarating! I can crawl! I haven't stopped since. I crawl across the room to explore such objects as: the dogs' toys, Mommy's and Daddy's shoes, cords, DVDS on shelves, books on shelves, really anything on shelves. (Don't worry, Mommy and Daddy are watching me and keeping me safe.) This is glorious! I am experiencing true freedom. Mommy and Daddy have started this process called "baby proofing." They think that will make my exploring safer, but little do they know that I'm constantly watching how things work and I'm sure I'll find a way around the roadblocks they set up for me. I can also pull up from sitting to standing with the help of furniture. Do you know what's scary? Tile. It's cold, slippery, and unknown. I'm slowly getting over my fear of this flooring and venturing farther and farther out into the kitchen. Oh, the fun is just beginning! Even when I get into a bit of mischief, Mommy and Daddy seem so proud of me and love watching me explore and discover.

Due to my new exercise options, I'm having to expand my diet for more energy. I have added both yogurt and chicken to my menu. They are both pretty gross (which I clearly express with my face), but I eat them anyway. I love to eat puffs, crunchies, and yogurt melts too! I am a master at the sippy cup and gulp my water down.

I currently weigh in at about 19 pounds. I am wearing 9 month clothing, but Mommy has been pulling out the 12 month items. She says she gives me another month before I've outgrown my current wardrobe.

I'm an active sleeper. I roll over and sleep on my side or tummy, often curled up in a ball. I like to practice crawling in my crib before I pass out from exhaustion.

If I do say so myself, I'm kind of hilarious. I get the giggles a lot, especially when Daddy plays with me, Opa bounces me, or GP makes goofy faces at me. My new laughing style sounds like I'm gasping for air because I'm so tickled. I continue to get spoiled by Oma and GM too, not to mention the rest of my family.

Lately, I've been very into my Fisher Price racetrack from GM and GP. I know all the ways to turn it on and off and I really enjoy the cars. Opa really enjoyed it too when he played with me. Maybe I should get him one for his birthday.

To update you on my teething progress: There is none. No teeth.

I keep a busy calendar with weekly coffee dates with my 3 year old friend, Harm. Actually, we just hang out and eat puffs while our mommies drink coffee. I also get to see my friends Tyson and Harrison. They have been a huge inspiration to me and the reason I finally got the courage to crawl.

I am such a happy boy and I am loving life with family and friends. I wonder what I'll be up to in the next month. Stay tuned...

Love,

Jake