For some reason I feel like I have been avoiding a new post about Johanna. I guess part of me feels like if I write about how much she is growing up, then it will be real. For the first time I am beginning to understand why parents always say that time flies. I've had people tell me not to blink cuz if I do she will be graduating from high school. The crazy thing is that tears are streaming down my face as I write this. Am I still allowed to claim hormones??

At the same time, seeing her grow and develop brings immeasurable joy! She never ceases to amaze me and has developed quite a little personality. She has been throwing toys on the floor for awhile now. Brian and I are trying to teach her that we are not going to always be her personal toy fetchers. So, our rule is that we will pick it up and give it back once. If she throws it again, tough luck sista! Well, one day about three weeks ago she was sitting in her high chair playing with a set of links. She immediately threw them to the floor and looked at me like "okay mommy, I know you are going to get those for me cuz I am sooooooo cute!" I gave them back to her after I told her that if she dropped them again I wasn't going to pick them up. I know it sounds crazy, but I'm positive that she knows what I mean when I say this to her! So... as soon as I give them back to her she throws her arm to the side so the toy is hanging over the edge (very dramatically I might add). She kept her eyes on me the whole time. I reiterated to her that I wasn't going to pick it up again. While still looking at me she let go of it except for her pinky (also very dramatic). She proceeded to smile at me for about five seconds and then she released her pinky allowing the toy to fall to the floor. I looked at her still smiling face and said "mommy is not picking it up." Then I proceeded to barely be able to stifle my laugh as I headed in to the kitchen. Lord help me because my child is going to be like me.

She is getting more and more hair everyday (finally). She has been crawling backwards for awhile (on all fours) but can make some forward motion. She likes to scoot around in circles and LOVES getting herself back to a sitting position from on her tummy or crawling. Thank heavens we lowered the crib awhile ago. I went in to get her after a nap a few weeks ago, and she was sitting up!! Now that she is quite mobile, she has discovered plenty of things to get into. Needless to say, the DVD towers were quickly removed from our living room. She still wants to try and touch "no-no's" like remotes, the stereo, or other electronic equipment, but is quickly learning what is off limits and is exhibiting some early self-control.

She is still saying "mama," but has officially added "dada" to her repertoire. I usually only here "mama" when she wants something or when I am taking to long to start feeding her (it only takes about 5 seconds after I lay her on the nursing pillow, but I guess she learned about patience from me!).

I have been spending some time going through old clothes (she has pretty much outgrown the 6-9 months stuff and is in 12 months clothes). I can't believe how big she has gotten, but I also can't believe how small she used to be. I remember when she only used to sleep when one of us was touching or holding her (for the first six weeks of her life). Now she'll only sleep if we leave her alone in the crib or a pack-n-play if not at home. I would love to just be able to snuggle her again as she drifts off to sleep. She will still give some snuggles, but mostly she wants to play or be put down to explore. She is the love of our lives and she is growing up too fast. I am learning to enjoy every second and not be anticipating the next milestone. I want to enjoy her where she is. She is perfect. So beautiful and precious.

Mommy and Daddy will always love you more than you'll ever know- no matter what. Always remember that

** The pic with a bunch of kids in it is my friend Erika and her three kids (all one and under!). Johanna is on my lap (in the browns outfit) checking out baby Vaughn next to her. He is less than two months older than her, has a great family, hmm... definite potential there!! All of these were taken in September. I have some cute videos too, but I can't figure that out. If someone knows, please tell me!!!