14

Dear Claire,
There is so much to tell you. Of all of your ages, this has been my favorite. There are moments when I miss the delicate cuddle monkey that you once were, curled up on my chest after nursing, but you at 14 months are so much fun. Your drink of choice is goat's milk, and if an uninformed grandma thinks she's going to feed it to you, you let her know that you can handle it yourself. You're a big girl like that.

You had so many firsts at 14 months. You walked. You climbed to the top of your slide and slid down unassisted. You had your first little scraped knees and your first injury involving blood. (We both cried). You also discovered that cribs make excellent climbing structures. And that ottomans sometimes hide treasures.

Of all of the firsts, my favorite has been watching you dance. I'm not sure where you picked up your moves, or who showed you reruns of SNL, but as soon as there is background music, you are rocking. I have to tell you girlie, you're not a great dancer. My first thought when I saw you dancing, was, did she learn that from me? You get this dead serious, maniacal expression and full-force head bob. It is hilarious. We'll need to work on dance moves before you hit junior high. Thankfully, we have tons of time.

Love,
Mama