Wicked Smart

OK, I know all parents think their child is more intelligent than most, but in Henry's case it is true! Well, I will admit it could be his age-- at 9-10 months, they learn so much so fast that you can't help but think your child is a genius. Everyday there is something that he couldn't do or didn't understand the day before that now he has mysteriously mastered. Two weeks ago I was having coffee with my mom's group and one mom was playing with a finger puppet with Henry. He watched a little bit, then took the puppet and put it on his own finger. OK- if you don't have a 9 month old, you may not think this is smart, you may even think it is obvious, but I am telling you we were stunned! So smart! Another example, happened last week when he was feeding himself some little corn puffs that are shaped like x's. Some of them were at the top of the tray that he couldn't reach, so he started banging on the tray to get them to rattle and move towards him so he could reach. Again, I couldn't help from saying, "so smart"! Three weeks ago he started using the sign language sign for milk when he wants a bottle. We think he is also understanding and doing the sign for "more" although that sometimes seems like clapping with his fists. We are working on that one and "eat". I also think he is also saying Ma Ma and Da Da discriminately between Jim and I, although Jim is not as convinced. Regardless, I am telling you, our boy is wicked smart!

Physically, he is also moving forward quickly, a little too quickly for me. He is crawling everywhere and is pulling up and standing on his own. He isn't quite comfortable enough to take steps on his own yet, but he is gaining confidence everyday. Teeth are another matter. He is almost 10 months old and has no teeth! I think it will happen soon though, we can feel one on the bottom ready to pierce through. "They" say late teeth are good teeth, but I think that is something that they make up to make mothers feel better that their 1-year old child doesn't have teeth!

This age is also highlighting a really sweet disposition in Henry. He loves smiling at everyone and laughs all the time. Of course, he would not be our child if he didn't also have a temper, that we are just starting to see. It is especially apparent when you have to tell him no about something like chewing on a paper towel roll. He screams and stomps his feet-- but it is very short lived- usually just a few seconds. For the most part, he is a sweet and contemplative little boy, who I just want to kiss incessantly!