18 months old

Dear Staci,



Staci and her friend Dylan.  photo credit: Elaine Lentz



You are 18 months old, growing like a weed and sharing new vocabulary with us every day.  You will frequently say words that end in 'k', but replace the 'k' at the end with a 'p'.  So, for example, the word 'book' is now lovingly called 'boop' in our house.  You love to go on 'waps' with us and our dog, Shania.  That is, until yesterday, when you said 'wal-KEH' and grinned.  Daddy and I asked you to repeat it a few times just so we could marvel in your awesome pronunciation.

Your mommy is told quite frequently that you are one of the most adorable little girls anyone has ever seen.  I have to agree with them! Your olive skin, deep brown eyes, gorgeous lashes and dimples have got me hooked.

You have a best friend, her name is Bella.  You call her 'Dede' and get so excited when she comes over you can hardly contain yourself.  The last time she walked in our door, you squealed, danced, spun in circles and then fell down.  I am pretty sure it's a mutual feeling, as I'm told Bella frequently asks to come and see Staci.

I'm often surprised by your perceptiveness and intelligence.  You make new leaps and bounds every day, while to me I think you will always be my baby girl.  I'm trying my best to keep up!  The other day you brought me a hat and I said, "this is a hat," and put it on my head.  I gave it to you, and you repeated, "hat" and put it on your head.  I was shocked at how quickly you learned what a hat was and that hats go on heads. 

One of your favorite games to play is 'hide and seek and chase'.  You and your daddy made this one up.  Daddy runs and hides, you come and find him, then turn around and try to run to 'base' (Shania's dog bed) before he can catch you--giggling as Daddy exclaims "I'm gonna get you!"  This game could go on forever as far as you are concerned!  Mommy loves watching and participating as well. 

You still love to jump, and one of your favorite things to do is jump up and sweep your feet forward so that when you land, you land in a sitting position.  Lots of 'WOOAAH's" and giggles follow.

--You are still wearing your 18 month clothing.  It depends on the brand, as some fit you just right and others are beginning to get too short.  It will be time to get out 18-24 month clothes in a month or so I'm betting.

--I keep trying to tell you there is a baby in my belly.  I ask you where the baby is and you say, "Dadi!" but I don't think you understand you're going to be a big sister yet.  That's ok, we have plenty of time to discuss it over the next 5 months

--You are still nursing.  Some days, like yesterday, you will only nurse one time.  Others, you nurse more frequently.  Today you have already nursed 3 times.  I am glad you are still nursing, because I know it is so good for you. and I swear some days the only solid food I can get you to eat is cheerios ("Cheecho's!!") and yogurt ("ya-ya!!")

--You know most body parts and attempt to say many of them

--You love shoes, and especially love to try to wear Mommy and Daddy's shoes.  I see a little girl who loves to play dress up in my future.

--Your mommy is very excited for Halloween this year.  I think we will take you trick or treating but probably not let you eat much of the candy.  Your little body just doesn't need all that sugar QUITE yet.  Maybe next year. Maybe.