Sept. 18, 2015

Dear Olive,

We just barely started to sleep train you. Which, loosely translated, is sticking you in your crib in a reassuring, loving way...but then letting you stay there until you fall asleep. Which entails plenty of crying. And mama heartbreak. The other night, I was feeling sad but I looked at the baby monitor and you were sitting up, silently, trying to fight to stay awake. You kept dozing off, but were determined to stay awake. You were staring at the door and waiting for me or your papa to come and pick you up. You kept doing this for probably 25 minutes. I wanted to go in and help you lay down...but that would've just made you sad that I left you. It was too cute how determined and focused you were in what you wanted. Even though you were so, so tired. I hope that is how you always will be! but you're doing so well at learning how to soothe yourself.

and you are getting so big. you can stand by yourself for over 10 seconds and your balance is incredible! it's just taking some time for you to figure out how to step and start walking. but i feel like walking is coming soon!