Eight Months!

It's hard to believe we welcomed him into the world 8 months ago! It's also hard to believe all the changes that have happened since. Even with a degree in Early Childhood, it amazes me how quickly Fletcher is developing. All sorts of thoughts go through my head. Am I doing this right? Is this okay? Everything's a guessing game. Always a trial and error around every corner.

I have to admit that the kid has it pretty good. I look at him and think of the parents I have encountered over the years at work. Of course, I also think of the children I have taught over the years too. Each comes with a different history and different abilities. As teachers, we are tasked to "cookie cut" them in means of standards and expectations. Our education teaches us to utilize their strengths and build their weaknesses. But real education starts at home. And the effects of the home life are hard to alter.

I wish more parents were able to provide stimulation and educational opportunities at home. The product for the future society would be so much better. It doesn't take much. Just undivided attention each day. Reading a book, having a conversation, or just playing. Even with an eight month old. I don't think it's the question of IF parents are able or not. I think it's if they DO it or not. Parents are the first and lifelong teachers. Even when a child enters school.

More thoughts that enter my mind are: Will my child be stimulated enough when he enters public school where I feel that there's quite the "dummying down" and "control" of curriculum? and I'm so happy that we're off to a good start. Is it a good start by today's standards? I want to do right by him. Doing so brings many questions and constantly I'm found reassuring myself, that yes. I am doing right by him if he's thriving, growing, and learning. If he's safe, interactive, and happy. Even at eight months old, these are easy standards to strive for.

Happy 8 months, Buddy! Dad and I love you more than you'll ever know!

Now, on to the pictures which is what you're probably here for anyway! Not my deep thoughts. The picture shoot was quick this morning. I managed to capture a couple of decent ones by the infamous animals.

He kept wanted to go forward and get down off the couch.

And, yesterday he cut his first tooth which you can see here. Well, maybe. It's in the middle, on the bottom. His right. Your left. Sorry if you can't see it.

You can also see all the little tooth bumps below the gums, so hopefully he'll just pop a bunch of teeth. The quicker the better. I'd rather have that than a long drawn out teething process. But, I know. I know. Some things you can't control! Happy biting and chewing, Big Guy!