Emma's 1st Birthday!

Emma had her first birthday at the end of last month! Nana and Papa were in town for the occasion, so it was extra special. We had a little party with just family on her birthday, and then a friends party the Saturday after. Nana bought her a birthday cupcake to have on her special day, and Emma wasn't impressed. She enjoyed making a bit of a mess out of it, but turned her nose up to it once she tasted the icing. She got a lot of gifts that she loves to play with, when her sister allows her to. Emma had her one-year well-check the day after her birthday. She was not happy to see her doctor at all, even though she isn't afraid of strangers. I think she remembers him from past visits (and shots). She weighs 20lbs 14oz, and is 29 inches long. She got four shots and was super cranky all weekend from them. She cut another tooth over that weekend too, giving her six! Four on top and two beneath. She crawls with lightning speed everywhere, and has brief moments of standing alone. When she catches herself standing without holding on, she starts laughing and then squats to the floor. Emma loves Lilah from a distance. She follows her everywhere, but does not like the attention Lilah gives her most of the time. Emma just prefers to do things by herself and to be left alone. Since she gave up her bottle several weeks ago, she is finally drinking water/apple juice but still won't touch milk. The pediatrician suggested we not give her anything to drink except milk, and she will eventually cave. So I asked, well, what about in a few days when she hasn't had anything to drink and still refuses milk? He said, she'll give in. Well, maybe it was my weakness too, but three days later, I couldn't wait any longer for her to discover her love for milk. With every sip, she was gagging and throwing the cup across the room. When I tried to hand it back, she would just scream and shake her head no. (Which she is getting really good at). So, water and apple juice it is.

She says Mama, Dada, Lilah, Nana, no, go, and kitty cat very well. She loves to walk around while holding your hands and is into everything. She is still a great sleeper, and is even taking after Lilah with her ability to play for long periods of time in her crib. Emma played for 90 minutes before going to bed tonight. And she only had a tiny doll and blanket in her bed. Way to go, Emma! I can't believe a year has passed!