Annabelle's Thirteen-month Update

Well, it hasn't been too long since my last Annabelle update, so this will be brief.  In the past two weeks, Annabelle has continued to hone her rolling and sitting skills.  At therapy last week, she was able to sit completely independently for thirteen seconds.  It doesn't sound like much, but it's a starting point.  I was also thrilled that during her thirteen-month photo session, she was able to sit for a short time propped up in the Boppy pillow, which she hasn't been able to do before.

Yay, Annabelle!

I think Annabelle's understanding of the world is improving.  Mom and I have both noticed that she is "helping" when we get her dressed now.  She straightens her arms to put them through her sleeves, Mom said she pulled a sleeve down yesterday, and I could have sworn she pulled her onesie down off her face this afternoon.  She shakes her head yes and no all the time, sometimes at appropriate times in the conversation, although that may be chance.  And tonight, before eating, Mom signed "eat" (putting your hand to your mouth), and Annabelle put her hand to her mouth in imitation!  Annabelle's first sign!  Also, she has been turning pages in her board books.  I get it started for her, and then when she is able to get her little fist under the page, she pushes it over to get to the next page.

Eating is still a struggle.  Anything with a texture lumpier than applesauce is highly suspect to Annabelle, and sucking things off the spoon is the preferred method of eating.  But she seems to enjoy eating a great deal and always smiles excitedly when we sign eat and show her the spoon.  I'm really hoping that some oral skills will click with her in the next couple months.