Dear Mommy: I am growing fast and learning fast. You are probably amazed at all my new skills and how fast I am growing. Most likely I have been sleeping through the night for some time. But do not be alarmed if I suddenly start waking up again. Some of us babies start getting new teeth for the first time. Some of us are going through a growth spurt and have trouble sleeping. And some of us babies still aren't sleeping through the night. For the most part, most of us don't need a bottle or to be nursed during the night. But the occasional baby still needs that. Most likely I will not have a checkup or need those awful shots again until next month. My little brain is growing and learning by leaps and bounds. My physical development is making great strides. You probably can't believe I am the same baby you brought home 5 months ago. I have most likely doubled my birth weight.

I can most likely roll over from my back to my front to my back and take great pride in this. Although sometimes the first time scares me. But once I get the hang of it, I love to do this and tummy time is a thing of the past for the most part, because I love practicing my new skill over and over.

I love those things on the end of my legs call feet and can grab my toes. This amazes me that those things BELONG to me. Wow that is so cool.

My hands and fingers are also a favorite play toy and they taste so good.

I can wiggle forward on the floor and may be able to wiggle around in a circle. I may shock you one day when you put me in one place walk away and you come back to find me in another. We babies love this trick.

I can transfer objects from one hand to another. Although sometimes I still get tired and just drop them.

I also can now reach with a pretty good aim. So watch out when you have coffee or soda in your hand I might just grab it.

I may be able to sit for a short time without support. I can sit well with support.

I am fascinated by color. It amazes me to see all that color in my world. There are so many colorful things to look at.

I show objection to things like having my nose wiped and will push away your hand. I do not like it and will object mightily. I am learning I can control my hands and show you I don't like something.

I am beginning to shows signs of decision making. For example, if you put two toys on the floor I will pick the one I want to play with. This is no longer just a whatever I happen to touch kind of thing. I know what I want and will go after it.

I am beginning to learn to calm myself whether by sucking my hand or a pacifier. I may also begin forming an attachment to a blanket or stuffed animal.

I am beginning to like banging and shaking toys and may do so incessantly. I am learning cause and effect. A fun game I would like is give me a rattle, place me in my high chair and put an aluminum pie tin on my tray and watch what I do. I can make music. Of course, you will be nearby, watching and supervising, so I don't chew on it too much or give it back when I throw it on the floor.

I am beginning to babble and make all sorts of sounds like (baaaaa baaaa) and other such interesting sounds. It amazes me that I can do this and I may do so incessantly.

I try to copy sounds, even if unsuccessful I am trying.

I turn my head to see who is talking and watch the converstation.

I am so fascinated by people's mouths.

This may be the time I begin to really show interest in food and eating. I may grab at your spoon and try to copy your mouth when you eat by smacking my lips.

I am also becoming aware of who takes care of me and who is a stranger. I like mommy and daddy and those who care for me most. I may cry when others approach. Just tell them to take their time and I will be alright.

Remember to enjoy me and play games with me because my favorite toy is still you. Also remember all babies develop at a different rate. If you have any concerns talk to my doctor.