#RG is 9 Months!

Dear Riley Girl,

You're right.  You are getting SO BIG.  Seriously, like, so big.  Like, "where did my baby go?" big.  " I guess I should have another baby so that I have a little baby around" big.  Ha.  I jest.  But really, you're big.  And darling.  And funny and sweet and roly-poly.  Basically, you're my favorite  baby girl ever.

The clapping, which is your newest trick, is one of my most favorite.  You seem to do it at the slightest provocation, sometimes at the weirdest times.  But it makes your whole face light up, and for that, I'll listen to applause all day long.  Not to mention it feels like I'm finally being appreciated :)

You've nailed down standing, that's for certain.  And sleeping at night.  My gosh, you're a champion night-sleeper.  I hoped and dreamed and prayed and payed good solid dollars in order for you to be a good night-sleeper, but its surprising all the same.  And smiling.  If I were to guess, I'd say that smiling is your favorite.

You don't yet crawl, even though I know you want to.  You're biding your time, and I know that I should be thankful.  Mobile babies are, apparently, more difficult to wrangle, than immobile babies.  Still, you want to be able to move independently, and I want that for you.  Even as my chest grips and I miss my little lump of a newborn, I want these new things for you.  I pray that you grow up brave and kind, full of love and grace, wisdom and laughter.  That you come to know the great God who created you, both early and well.  You are my most precious girl, a gift, and I love being your mama.

Now please take your nap today.  Just one is all I'm asking for.

<3 M.