Every Day A New Amazement

She's just so amazing. Every single day E does something that makes me marvel at how incredibly fast she is growing up.

Recently it's reading books. She sits on the floor with them, turning the pages, babbling about the things on each page. She can entertain herself for quite a while, seemingly in her own little world.
We are now at the stage of reading books to her, over, and over. And over. I do love these times, when she'll bring a book, scoot herself into a loving Mama or Daddy lap, and wait for the book to be read. I swear I've even heard her say "ree" for read.
Sometimes, when she's in a hurry, she'll turn the pages herself. Sometimes she is happy as a clam to relax in your lap and just listen and watch.

I am kind of relieved that we're experiencing this phase. When E was a young baby, up until a couple or so months ago, she never seemed to have time to sit still for a book. She was always working on her coordination, crawling, exploring the world. It's like now her imagination is kicking in and she wants to learn about the beautiful things in stories.

We are also officially in the boundary testing phase! You know, where toddlers do that one-thing-you-dont-want-them-to to see if you are going to be consistent in your reaction. I now understand the frustration. I get it, Mom. I'm sorry! :)
It's not that E is even being "naughty" (I hate that word by the way,) but I hear and see myself repeating a lot of guidances these days. "Please don't climb in the dishwasher. I don't want you to get hurt." "That chair is for sitting in, not safe to climb." "Mama doesn't want you to play in the fridge. Too cold for you."
I do try to always give her another option to choose, but this is one determined girl! Hey, perseverance is a good character quality, I'll take it!

I find myself wishing more and more that I didn't go to work every day. I feel like I'm missing out on lots of fun memories. If it weren't for Mom being "nanny" I just couldn't do it. These days are too precious and fleeting.