Sweet Baby Cailin,
I think we need to stop calling you Baby. In fact, if asked, "Are you a baby?" you've learned to reply "NOOO!". You are a full year and a half and look more like a little girl than a little baby.
-You took your first steps around 15 months and became a solid walker about a month later. You still have the toddler strut but you are beginning to run. Recently, you've been walking with your hands clasped behind your back as though you were a cheerleader shaking pompoms on the way to a pep rally.
-You talk and talk and talk. You are able to express anything and everything using your words. Some popular words include: Sister, Teddy, Blankee, Milk!, Nana (banana), Papi, Vovo, MINES!, Bubble, Shoes, Bag, Jacket, and Candy.
-You have entered the "do it by self" phase. Charlotte yelled those words when we tried to help her around this time. Currently, you're just yelling, so we're working on adding some vocabulary to the tantrum. You insist on feeding yourself (yogurt included), you climb playground structures unassisted, and you can even put on your clothes (sometimes even the right way).
-You have become much more bold since learning to walk. Previously, if strangers smiled at you, you immediately turned away and began to cry. I worried early on that you'd have a social anxiety disorder (stinks having a mom with a special ed background, huh). But thankfully, you're healthy. And confident. You greet strangers with your southern "Haaiiiii" and bid everyone farewell with "Baaaayyyyeeeeee". And you smile at everyone. All day long.
-You seemed to overcome the dairy allergy for a few months. Then it came back. Which probably means it'd never really left in the first place. You love soy/almond milk and all of the ice cream replacements are acceptable in your book. Eating out is tricky but thankfully you're quite carnivorous so we're always able to find something you'll enjoy. You're favorite foods include noodles (with pesto or marinara), cereal, and meat. Chicken wings are a true fan favorite for you and Big Sis. You're also allergic to egg but so is Charlotte, so we tend to avoid them already.
-You are a very girly girl. You love accessories. You are often carrying a purse and wearing someone else's shoes. Jackets are a true delight. Headbands and hats are a must.
-In true girly fashion, your favorite toy is the baby stroller. You are very careful to buckle Baby in correctly. You then load the stroller up with a cup, a bag, and a snack. You've learned well.
-You have a mischievous side we never really saw in Charlotte. It keeps us on our toes and challenges my role as Mama. It is very difficult to keep a straight face when you giggle through your disobedience. This is just a simple reminder that you are you. And not your sister. And we are so thankful for you.
-Charlotte Grace is your favorite little person. And this makes my heart swell. After Charlotte's one hour dance class, you charge through her classmates and scream and squeal upon being reunited with Big Sister. She is equally excited to greet you when the classroom door opens.
This past year and a half has made me so excited for the many, many years we'll get to spend getting to know you and your awesomeness. We love you Toddler Hope. ..Nah, Baby Hope just sounds better.
Love,
Mama
