months 7 & 8

Tripp Bear,

Isn't that such a silly name? We've been calling you a handful of variations of "Bear" since you were born. Buddy Bear, Baby Bear, Little Bear, Bear Bear, and the list goes on. When we went in for your two-month check-up the pediatrician asked us if you recognized your name yet and we realized then that we had barely been using your real name and had mainly been calling you Buddy Bear! Ha! We took the hint and have since been using Tripp more often. I am interested to see if the nickname sticks.

What a whirlwind these last two months have been. You decided at the beginning of month 7 that you were ready to move and you haven't stopped since! It's been truly amazing to watch your little body develop and change. You are an expert "army-crawler." So far, that is your preferred mode of transportation. I've been waiting to see if you would pick up those knees and do a traditional crawl, but for the most part you are content to use your strong arms to get around. You sit up very well and have become really proficient at going back and forth between sitting and crawling.

Your determination continues to amaze us. Once you set your mind to something you do not take no for an answer. You decided one day, during month 8, that you were ready to stand. In less than 2 days you taught yourself to pull up on things and get yourself in standing position. Every waking moment in those two days was spent teaching yourself this new skill. It is truly amazing to see both your physical development and what we hope will be an ingrained part of your character. I pray your determination will grow into a conviction of perseverance as you grow up.

So needless to say, with all these new physical skills, you have turned into quite the busy little man. It's hard to keep up with you most days! We can already tell you are going to be a man on the go! You continue to be independent and you fear nothing. You are not afraid of falling or getting hurt yet at all, and because of this you will try anything. Your spirit is far from timid! I have a feeling Momma and Daddy will be spending some time with you at the emergency room over the course of your childhood!

You had a long bout with sickness between month 7 and 8. A cold, two ear infections and a stomach bug later you are finally fully healthy again! Your appetite tapered off some while you were sick, but has begun to come back with a vengeance.

You love to be outside, it doesn't matter what we're doing. You can be a cranky bear inside but as soon as we walk out you completely relax. The wonderful spring weather could not have been more timely. You love to stroll, play in the grass, and hang out with Daddy while he does yard work. This has been a sweet relief for all of us after a cold winter.

We are so grateful for your happy heart. You enjoy life to the fullest and you are helping us remember to do the same every day. You love to laugh and you give smiles generously. We are enjoying that you recognize us as your Momma and Daddy and that you love to be with us so much. We love you so much little man and we enjoy you more each and every day!

Love, Momma & Daddy