Daniel - 11 Months

Yes, that's right 11 months! A first birthday is lurking right around the corner, I just can't believe it! Despite the fact that Daniel has had a fever the past three days he is doing great. No need to worry, I took him to the doctor this morning, no ear infection, no eye infection, no sinus infection (which I found out they can't even get at that age), just a little sore throat. Let's cross our fingers it doesn't turn into something worse. So onto better things...in terms of physical development, Daniel enjoys furniture walking and walking with anything that he can hold onto (a stroller, his push walker, a stepstool, the dog). He's still not able to stand on is own yet but he's getting there. I have a feeling we will see that during the next month. He's making more sounds and often cries out "mama" when he's fussy. I can't wait to hear him say it with a happy face!

Since I took Daniel to the doctor this morning I know that he is 18lbs. That's about what Allison was at this age. He certainly loves his big sister and she loves him just as much. When Allison was sick last week, the only thing that would really make her smile was to see Daniel and play with him. He loves it when she tries to "chase" him and he giggles like crazy. He still loves to pull her hair which drives her nuts but he's getting better about it and I think he's starting to understand the word "no". At least he doesn't look at me with a smile and giggle when I tell him "no". Our house is much more baby-proofed now so it makes things much easier for me. Although, he still does try to play with the dogs food and water, so i really have to keep my out for that.

Daniel is becoming a little more picky about what he eats (maybe because he's tasted yummy foods like ice cream and cookies) but is still a great eater. He is a fruit fanatic - will eat ANY fruit I give him which is great. I think his favorite is bananas but he's awfully fond of grapes too. He also loves chicken nuggets. I tried to fool him and give him veggie nuggets but he was onto that game.

He still has separation anxiety but it's getting a little better (i think). There are times when he will play in the play area and allow me to be in the kitchen. It helps if Allison is with him, but then of course that always ends with one of them fussing, because, after all, he is the destructive little brother.

So I look forward to what the next month has to bring. Will the crawling days soon be over? We'll have to wait and see. Until then, I will enjoy the last month of having an "under-1-year-old". Happy 11 months Daniel!