16 months

This last month, Kumi went through a tremendous mental growth spurt, babbling new words at a furious rate. She understands so much more now (like when I hand her a paper towel, she'll start cleaning as seen above). It's been a lot more interactive and communicative, adding a whole new dimension of fun.

Her favorite words are "ball," "choo-choo" (train), "no-no", "sushi" and "mo-mo" (more). She even says "I love you" though it sounds more like "I lowve doo". We play hide-and-seek on a regular basis and when she can't find me, she lets out a plaintive "Mama?"

Thanksgiving was quiet and unfortunately, Kumi and I came down with a stomach bug. There was much puking and other unhappy side effects of the illness. Mine was a 24 hour deal, but Kumi suffered some traumatic nights filled with runny poops and chunky vomits for over a week. She was a trooper though, and when she finally got over the bug, she was the happiest baby on the block.

Christmas is fast approaching and I have a crazy long list of things I want to do/make. Only 24 more days to go -- better get crackin'...