11 Months

Elliott is 11 months old today. I feel like he is now in the last month of being a "baby". This is hard for me, as much as it is exciting. I can't believe a year has almost flown by since that first day when I held him in my arms. He has grown so much and changed so much...and yet...he is still my Elliott. His personality is shining. He loves to giggle at everything. Today he giggled as I chased him through my parent's kitchen. He giggled when Grandpa burped. He giggles when I wiggle my toes and when he climbs on me and I say, "Who's gettin me??" I've noticed lately that his understanding of language has really increased. He can follow simple directions like if I say "Let's read your new book" he will go over to the new book, or if I suggest playing with his piano, he will go towards the piano. He looks at grandma when I say, "Where's Grandma?" He responds when I ask him questions with a simple sigh, and a little noise. His way of saying "yes".  He still gagagagagagagag gagag agagas and points to things, but his speech is definitely more specific and directed. He has two new teeth starting to show on top and he is still working hard to learn to walk. I can hold his hand and lead him as he walks down the hall to his room, but he isn't quite ready to do it on his own yet. I don't want to rush anything. I want him to do things on his own time. He amazes me every day. I am watching him grow into a little boy every day. It is happening right before my eyes. We mailed his 1st birthday party invitations out yesterday and in exactly one month from today, we will celebrate his 1st year. I am excited and anxious. I am reflecting and looking ahead. Most of all...I am in love.