7 months old . . .

To my sweet Vince,

Seven months? Really?! Let's call this past month of your life the "er" month. You are louder, bigger, longer, fuller, and in turn we must be goofier and quicker to keep up with you. My arms are getting buffer, my neck is getting tighter, because you are incredibly heavier. You're 24 or so pounds now, and we love every inch of you. You are starting to pick up on what's "funny" in your surroundings.

There are so many moments I wish I could take a still frame and keep it forever. Your gaping smiles, and your gummy drooling grin that rarely leaves your face. How you put your arm around my neck as I hold you, twirling your fingers in my hair. The face you make right before you cry is a huge smile, like you want us to be sure that it will only be a moment before you're happy again. You take the time to try and communicate before you get frustrated. You will stare down any toy or shiny thing that catches your eye - without a blink - until we see it too, and hand it to you. It's always okay to cry, but life is sure easier because you rarely do.

There is a part of me that will always want to hold onto you, to keep you close, to grasp onto the babyhood you are rapidly leaving behind. At the end of the day, it's kind of nice to know you want to hold onto me, as well.

Life is good with you in it, we love you to the moon!

The world is yours, Vince.

Love,
Mom