My Precious Mila,
February 30, 2024

Today you turned 9 months old.
  16 lbs 10 oz
  2' 3.047" (68.7 cm)

Nine months have breezed by in the blink of an eye, each moment with you more precious than the last. You are starting to grow and learn new things almost on a daily basis.

The month began with you battling Covid, marking your encounter with the trio of viruses: Flu, RSV, and Covid. Watching you confront each illness and emerge stronger has been truly inspiring, showcasing your remarkable resilience and growing strength. There have been moments when your mom and I questioned whether daycare was the right choice, given the inevitable exposure to these illnesses. Seeing you unwell and not being able to offer much relief has been incredibly tough on us. Yet, we recognize that facing and overcoming these challenges is part of growing up, and each one strengthens your immunity and resilience.

An unexpected silver lining came out of you getting Covid was your sudden independence from the pacifier. With the congestion making it difficult for you to breathe, we seized the moment to wean you off it. Surprisingly, you adapted quickly, showing us once again how adaptable and brave you can be, even at such a tender age.

Your new form of expression these days is learning to scream, albeit adorably so, whenever excitement bubbles up inside you. Whether it's the anticipation of a meal, the sight of your favorite toy, or simply the joy of discovering something new, your cute screams fill our home with laughter and warmth, marking the delightful curiosity that drives you.

Perhaps the most thrilling development has been watching you learn to pull up and stand. With determined eyes and shaky legs, you've discovered the joy of vertical exploration. Each attempt, successful or not, is a celebration of your burgeoning independence and a preview of the walking, running, and adventuring yet to come.

Lastly, you now have two bottom teeth! This new milestone, marking more smiles and adventures in eating, brings us immense happiness. Your resilience shines brightly with each new tooth, reminding us of the beautiful journey ahead.

Mila, at nine months old, you continue to amaze us with your resilience, your rapid development, and your endless capacity for joy. Each challenge you face and milestone you achieve is a story of its own, woven into the fabric of our family's journey. Here's to you, our dear daughter, and the many adventures that lie ahead. May we continue to navigate the highs and lows with the same courage, love, and laughter that you bring into our lives.

With all the love in the world,

Your Papa