neuf.

Dear Claire,
Today you turned nine months old. How did that happen? To celebrate, we went to storytime at the library and I picked yellowing scales out of your scalp. You enjoyed both of these activities immensely. I discovered that you still had cradle cap hiding under your hair, so I did some online investigating. I felt a tiny bit better about my mothering skills, when I read a letter from a mom with a four-year old with the stuff. Anyway, I found a few remedies, and I'm pretty sure your scalp is now clean. You seemed pleased that you were able to have 2 baths today.

There is so much to tell you about your nine-month old self. You have a great laugh. This morning, we were playing together and you started laughing for no reason at all. It's a deep belly laugh that reminds me a little of an old man. You love Bob Marley, you love being around other kids (even just watching them), you love food. Since the introduction of certain vegetables, your diapers have gotten wild. Naps are improving, you no longer need to be rocked into a coma to fall asleep (thank you, Jesus). And my favorite: you say dadadadada and mamamamama when you want us. It's amazing.

A few weeks ago, I left you in the nursery at church during the whole service. This was a big step for me. Usually, I keep you with me for at least part of it. I tell the nursery people that it's for you, but it's really for me. I haven't been ready. When I went to pick you up at the end of the service, the nursery people went on and on about how wonderful you are. I thought my heart would feel a little sad, knowing that you did fine and that you didn't need me. Instead, it felt full. You are becoming more and more separate from me. It doesn't have to hurt. This is the way it is supposed to be. You take tiny steps away from our nest, knowing for sure that we'll come as soon as we hear mamamamama or dadadadada.

I love you, Clairegirl.

Love,
Mama