10th month

Unfortunately this month got away from me and I wasn't as on top of my game with photos and "new discoveries" as usual!

This month you learned to stand without pulling up on something. You just stand right up in the middle of the floor with those strong legs of yours. You can stand for a few minutes, keeping your balance quite well before you plop back down on your butt.

You are now taking 5-6 steps before you fall, and ah, so exciting! Each day your walking skills seem to improve more and more.

You are so so mischievous. We have been practicing "no" when we see you move towards things you shouldn't have your paws on. You definitely understand, and it stops you in your tracks. I have to bite my lip so not to laugh at your adorable smirk.

We continue to introduce new foods, some of which have included cheese, yogurt, strawberries, potatoes and other finger foods. We've also been practicing using the straw to sip water and you're getting the hang of it!

I say "Where's baby?" and you look and reach for the photos of you in our living room.

Your latest obsession is with doors. You've discovered how to push them open, and while you understand that pulling them opens them as well, you can't quite figure out how to do it.

Balls are a favorite toy. You could seriously chase one around for hours. Sometimes I actually let you do just that.

You are such a silly thing. You love to play. You love when daddy chases you, and you usually tease him so that he will. You love to look at photos of yourself and other babies. Sometimes you smoosh mommy's cheeks between your two miniature hands and bring my face close to yours, putting your mouth onto mine or my nose. And my heart melts.

Goofy girl we love you. 

Cinnamon Sweet Potato & Chickpea Salad

Lately the Evster is learning to pick up foods and feed herself.  Blueberries, apples, squash, corn, potatoes....she won't cram just anything in her mouth, but she does enjoy the independence of self-feeding. This is great because I don't have to bother with the spoon and all the puree crap, but on the other hand, it does require a bit more planning and preparation on my end.

I'm learning that by selecting healthier foods that the whole family can enjoy, Evie can simply have what Ryan and I are having, just cut into smaller pieces. This eliminates the need to create two separate dishes and it encourages Ryan and I to eat healthier. Win for everyone!

Here's a lunch/snack type recipe I made the other day. Evie and I were both able to enjoy it for lunch. Yummy and easy, it's a keeper.


What you need:
1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped into 1/2 inch pieces
1 can chickpeas
1 small white onion, peeled and chopped
Cinnamon and sea salt to taste
1 tbsp coconut oil

Directions: Preheat oven to 425. Line baking sheet with parchment paper.  In a large bowl, mix together chickpeas, uncooked chopped sweet potato, chopped onion, cinnamon, salt, and 1/2 tbsp coconut oil. Mix well. Spread onto baking sheet and place in the oven for about 40 minutes. Remove from oven and plan into large bowl. Add remaining 1/2 tbsp coconut oil and stir well to coat. Add additional sea salt and cinnamon if preferred.

And it made our house smell heavenly!

Enjoy!