Darla turns one

Our precious little girl has turned one year old!!! Friday the 13th was the official day. What fun that she and I both are born on the 13th of the month. I love that little connection with my girl. We just had her one year appointment today, and she's right on track. She measured in at 29 1/2 inches tall and 21 lbs. The Doctor said her growth has slowed down a little bit since her last appointment, and we suspect that is due to her flat refusal to eat anything off of a spoon. For months now, even if it's something we know she likes, she won't touch it if presented on a spoon or fork. So, I'm getting re-familiarized with finger foods. But, she's still in the 75% for weight, so I'm not worried.

We recently upgraded Derick to a booster car seat so we could move Darla into his convertible seat. It fits her much better than the infant seat and will continue to grow with her. I think they both like the change. Jeremy and I feel better about it too.

Darla's personality is starting to really shine through. She is such a clown when she's with people she knows.....she loves to play peek-a-boo and chase games. Usually, I only get to actually chase her for a couple of steps before she turns around and heads right back at me, giggling the whole way. Just in the last two weeks, she is starting to show affection too. She gave her cousin Cooper a BIG hug the other night, and he didn't even know it was happening until it was over. She will also lean in for kisses, and gave a big one to Derick this morning without prompting from either of us. I almost cried, I was so touched. I love watching Derick and Darla interact.

Darla is not walking, yet. But it's coming so very soon. We catch her standing without holding something frequently, and as soon as she realizes it, she drops to the floor. Once she gets her confidence going, there will be no stopping her! She is a master at cruising, though, and can get around really fast when she wants.

She's been growing teeth like crazy.....3 new ones in the last month. She now has 7 total; 4 on top and 3 on the bottom. Needless to say, we've been going through the Motrin like it's water.

In my earlier posts, I mentioned her new found love for books. And that continues to grow. She received some really great books for her birthday and is totally enjoying them. It's alot of fun to sit with her and read now. I'm so glad that both of my children enjoy books, as I do.

Jeremy, Derick and I are really enjoying our little lady. One year has passed since she joined our family and I don't think we could imagine our lives without her now. Happy Birthday, Darla!