My little 1-year old

Gracie-Bear,

Remember when I'd write to you when you were still in my belly? Those Baby Bear Diaries are some of my favorites to look back on. We have come so far since those days. A whole year! You have gone from being a helpless little newborn babe to a mobile, opinionated, intelligent little girl. So I wanted to write you a little note about all the wonderful things you are doing these days.

• You received a baby doll for your birthday. It took no time for you to learn how to "feed" your baby. With the doll's bottle, you will put it up to her mouth, but then it always goes to your mouth too! You obviously are a big believer in sharing.
• You are practicing putting rings on pegs/sticks. You are getting much better at your coordination, and it's incredible to see your thought process as you try and fail and try again until you succeed.
• You and Cali are building a pretty cute relationship. Although you don't appreciate it when she accidentally whips your face with her tail, you do love to grab her soft fur or stick your inquisitive pointer finger in her mouth. You also love to give things to the dog (whether you are allowed to or not): food from your plate, receipts, your own toys, dog toys. You squeal with joy when Cali takes the things you offer.
• You love pulling things out of boxes or bags and then putting them back in again. Hopefully these "cleaning" habits will stick around through your toddler and teen aged years.
• You love making all sorts of noises. Growling, clicking with your tongue, "dada", and making other fun sounds. There is even one phrase you use while pointing to things that sounds exactly like you are saying "What's this?"
• You're a walker! (Kinda) Grammy bought you a walker for your birthday, and you love using it to help you travel around the living room. While you can't steer very well, you definitely feel empowered being on your own two feet instead of crawling on your knees.
• You are still are obsessed with soft things. Ever since you were a little baby, you'd cover up your face with any soft blanket or stuffed animal. It's still the same now. Your favorite fluffy elephant blanket stays with you in your crib and you sigh as your cuddle up to it.
• Speaking of snuggling, you have become my little cuddle buddy. While naps and night time can be difficult because you don't like to be left alone, getting ready for those naps is the best! You lean into my chest and put your head on my shoulder, and it seems that everything is right in the world. When I read to you, you will sit in my lap and lay back against me. Then, with a blanket over us we will read a stack of books until you get tired.
• You like to suck from a straw. Sippy cups still evade you, but you do love drinking your morning milk from a straw rather than from a bottle.
• You love to imitate things you see Mommy and Daddy doing. You've recently become a fan of brushing your teeth, combing your hair, and cleaning up the table/floor in front of you with a towel.

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