James' Monthly Photo Project: Eight Months Old

Eight months ago today we were at INOVA Fair Oaks Women's Center awaiting the arrival of our baby boy.  We were filled with all sorts of emotions - excitement, nerves, exhilaration and fear.  He was an unknown factor for 9 long months and the time to meet him was upon us.  Our OB was late so our 9:30 am c-section appointment turned into an 11:09 am birth time.  But you know what, he was worth the wait.  :)

So here we are, 8 months old and a TON of milestones to report.

• James is officially crawling and doing a really, REALLY good job at it!  He is all over the place exploring every nook and cranny of our main level.  And not only is he crawling, but he is pulling up on anything that will hold him and some things that won't.  We haven't had any major falls yet.  And I stress yet because it is coming!

• As of October 29th, James is now a student in the Infant II class at Willowcreek Academy.  Because he can crawl, he graduated out of Infant I and into the bigger kids' class.  It's the same room, but a different side of the all important divider.  Apparently he was bugging all the smaller babies as he cruised around the room so it was time for him to graduate and play with the bigger kids.

• Because of all the crawling and pulling up, James' crib mattress is now at the lowest point that it can go.  It's not uncommon for us to find him standing in his crib each morning and after naps.  Because of this, Ed purchased some crib teething covers to protect the wood.  Our little wood chuck was able to chomp on the rails for a day or so, but we are now protected.

• Life has changed in the way of the food he eats.  He's now down to 4 bottles a day and up to 3 solid meals a day.  Breakfast begins with oatmeal and fruit (favs are pears, peaches, apricots and prunes) followed by a veggie/fruit lunch.  Dinner consists of more oatmeal, veggies and a fruit.  He is a big fan of carrots, butternut squash, sweet potatoes and broccoli.  We have started introducing finger foods like Cheerios and Gerber Puffs, but so far he's not so interested.  When he puts one in his mouth, typically he gags, but we are going to keep trying until he gets the hang of it.

• James has sprouted 2 more teeth to join in on the fun.  His 2 top front teeth have made an appearance and are causing some pain for the little man.  EVERYTHING is in his mouth to help ease the pain.  His favorites - Sophie (of course!), a cold wet wash cloth, his fingers.

• This kid is GROWING!  We don't have an official weight, but he has to be close to 20 pounds.  He is now wearing size 3 diapers so we know that he is putting on the weight - in a good way.

Happy 8 Month Birthday James!!!