We’re only two weeks away from Jack’s first birthday!!

We’re planning his party and will have a lot of family and friends in from out of town, not to mention our new friends and family here in Tennessee over to celebrate Jack’s birthday. Keep your fingers crossed for good weather!

This week, we had a good week. Jack is getting much more moody. He has been more whiney and clingy and he has definitely discovered we respond when he’s angry and voices his opinion. He’s gone to time out in his pack n play a few times, too, when he touches things he knows he’s not supposed to.

We bought two pairs of shoes this week and played outside... the weather is beautiful lately and, I love taking him outside.

Here’s what my email said about babies Jack’s age:

Week 50 - Your New Baby

Jackson Edward is discovering his voice and learning that he can yell to get attention and express anger. Did you think temper tantrums would start so soon? When you feel the tension building, try reading a book, listening to music, or going outside.

Now that your baby is eating solid foods, it’s important that you know how many calories she needs each day to grow strong and healthy without over-feeding her. A one-year-old child needs approximately 1200 to 1300 calories each day, or about 40 calories for each inch of height. There are so many empty calorie foods on the market today and childhood obesity is rampant in the United States, so it’s important to establish a healthy diet early.

If your baby develops a "food jag" where she only wants to eat a certain food, don’t worry. These ruts are normal and usually short-lived. Continue to offer your baby small portions of a variety of foods and praise her for trying any new ones.

Your little one may keep you guessing from one minute to the next whether she will let you pick her up, or squirm away from you in a burst of independence. As these things usually work, she will only become clingy and needy when you are trying to get stuff done around the house and unable to pay attention. But the second you stop working and decide to play with her, she will be too busy with her own games. If she is demanding your attention while you are cooking or cleaning, try to involve her in your activity as much as you can, and as much as it is safe. If you can’t involve her, at least talk to her and describe everything you are doing to make her feel part of your world.

Many babies can say a handful of words by now; but if your baby isn’t talking much, or at all, don’t worry. Remember, Einstein didn’t begin speaking until he was three years old. Your little Einstein will talk when she is ready. However, if you notice other developmental delays, check with your pediatrician.

This week, Jack had mis-match day at school. Dad did a good job making sure Jack participated!