And just like that, Michael is ten months old. Over the past month, it seems as though he’s grown in leaps and bounds.

This week he said his first intentional word: “bye bye”, complete with adorable little wave. He’s done it several times since, but we haven’t been able to catch it on camera.

He also clapped his hands for the first time, and is very shy about repeating the action (though I’ve seen him clapping to himself a few times while playing). He occasions stands by himself without any support, but he seems content to crawl for the time being.

He is hardly ever still: he is intensely curious and wants to figure everything out. Pulling books from the bookshelves is one of his favorite past times, as is chewing on them.

He loves climbing things and has figured out how to scale our stairs, couch, chairs, and even how to pull up on the oven. He hasn’t quite figured out how to get down without going bonk, so my days are quite busy and a little frazzled.

He loves chicken and pasta and bananas, and anything else he can thoughtfully squish between his fingers.

Sleep is still his nemesis. I look forward to the day he realizes sleep is his friend.

One of his favorite things to do is throw the ball for the dogs with grandpa and sit outside by the fire pit. Grandpa is Michael’s best friend, and I love their special relationship.

The joys of motherhood greatly outshine the numerous difficulties. I love watching as Michael begins to interact with the world more and more.

Happy ten months, my son. We love you.