8 months

I can't believe another month has zipped right by. Could Ari and I possibly be parents to an eight month-old? The answer is fortunately yes as we continue to enjoy Claire more with each passing day. She clearly is getting physically bigger. I think the biggest change has been that people no longer look at me quizically when I tell them how old she is. They used to say, "Really? But she is so small." Then I would have to explain that she was 9 1/2 weeks early. Now that just tell me how cute she is, which as her mom I already know! Her personality is becoming more and more apparent and I am glad to report that she seems to be laid back and fun loving just like her daddy; no hints of mommy's type A personality traits yet. Developmentally, she sits without us worrying about support anymore. She is making efforts to crawl but usually just scoots backwards or turns 360 degrees. Her dexterity is much improved and she is starting to learn "tricks." When I say "spirit fingers" she will reach to touch my wiggling fingers and laugh. She will also give Ari "five" most of the time. She will take little steps when you hold her hands and can sit up from nearly lying on her back. She is also starting to be a performer. She will do something she knows excites you and look at you waiting for applause; that is a riot! All and all I would say I am certainly blessed to be her mom!