While she can’t pull herself into a sitting position, Sophie can now sit up unassisted. She’s a little wobbly but it’s wonderful to see her sitting and playing with her toys. She looks more like a little girl instead of my baby. She doesn’t like to be held much anymore. She would rather explore the world around her. She doesn’t crawl but we really don’t think she will. She likes to roll and army crawl to her destination. Every time we look up, she’s somewhere she’s not supposed to be. Under the Jumperoo, the swing, lying under the futon like a mechanic, etc. She loves the TV cabinet with the glass doors. She seems to be trying to get to the things in the cabinet but doesn’t understand the concept of glass. She babbles ALL THE LIVE LONG DAY.

Since she was born early, I’ve always wondered when she would hit her milestones. She’s been early in some regards and late in others. I think some of it is her personality. She likes to do things in her own time. She doesn’t like to be pushed into things. I’ve learned how to balance encouragement with letting her find her way. It’s hard to watch her get frustrated but I keep myself back so she can work it out. I can step in when I see a meltdown coming but she gets even more frustrated when I try to do things for her. Sometimes just a smile and a funny face can encourage her to keep trying.

Every month brings new understanding about motherhood. I relish each new stage and look forward to more. It’s hard to give up some things, like cuddling her to sleep, but I love watching her grow.