Jack is just crazy, lol. He's so squirmy and he's getting so big. I mean, just substantial... hefty. Thick. LOL, just getting big and he's losing his neck!

He still has no teeth and isn't really crawling but, he gets around scooting. He still gets frustrated and I think prefers to stand and will support himself against our chest when we hold him standing up on our laps. He is eating two "real" food meals a day and so far likes everythig okay except peas... and, meat dishes have not gone over well, either. He gags! He also really likes bananas and mashed potatoes.

Okay, here's what my email says about the punkin this week... these emails are interesting but, they seem to be way ahead of Jack in lots of things. I don't think we're close to mama or dada... but, what do I know?

Your New Baby

For his next trick, Jackson Edward may soon attempt a furniture-assisted standing position! Pulling himself up on a cupboard door or sofa may be the exciting part of the trick for Jackson Edward, but the second half of the trick is sitting back down. It may seem obvious to you that he need only to bend his knees, but it's not that simple for Jackson Edward. He may get stuck standing up and become upset. He may also take a few tumbles as he simply falls over to sit down. Don't worry, he'll get the hang of it soon.

As Jackson Edward becomes more active and mobile, and develops more opinions (and the ability to make them known) you have probably been repeating the word "no" more and more. As a result, your baby is starting to learn the word and knows that he isn't supposed to do whatever he is doing when you say it. However, that doesn't mean he will always obey. He has his own opinions now and he will be sure to let you know what he does and doesn't like. Although it might be unnerving, to say the least, bear in mind that he's experimenting with his emotions and learning how to control his environment.

Playtime may take on a whole new meaning as your little explorer learns the joys of "in" and "out." He will figure out that small cups fit inside larger ones and will enjoy placing small items inside containers. Try showing him how to fill a cup with water while in the bath tub and watch his joy as he learns to dump it back out.

Jackson Edward is starting to combine syllables and soon you'll hear that adorable little voice address you by name. Jackson Edward may utter "mama" and "dada" soon - although it may take some more time before he addresses you by the correct word. Be sure to record these first words on the day they're first spoken. You'll treasure these memories for life.

Here's a picture from today:

I also thought this was interesting:

Hi Sarah! Are you stereotyping your child? Many parents do without even realizing it. They automatically buy trucks for boys, and dolls for girls. Here are five things you can do to avoid stereotyping Jackson Edward.
- Offer Jackson Edward a variety of different toys. A girl may like a truck and a boy may like a doll. Let Jackson Edward choose.
- Set an example. Sharing duties with Jon will help to lessen gender specific roles in Jackson Edward's eyes.
- Don't overprotect little girls.
- Cuddle little boys more.
- Accept Jackson Edward as he is. Get to know and understand his temperament, likes, dislikes, and interests, and accept your child unconditionally.

Always good to be reminded about stuff like this. Makes me want to get Jack a doll for Christams :)