Julia || 19 Months

Another month - 19, to be exact! - and another little update.

Julia's personality continues to strengthen and shine. Her spunk and sass are evident and becoming stronger by the day. Someone tossed out the word, "spirited," but often times I lovingly refer to her as rotten. And, I mean that in the most motherly way possible. I adore the little lady, but I have no doubt she is going to give us a run for our money.

This is truly one of the best ages, a sweet spot, no doubt. As communication becomes stronger the guessing game is lessened as to what Julia wants and needs, which makes things easier for everyone.

Height: 33 inches (totally guessing)

Weight: 22 pounds (another guess)

Teeth: 16

Loves

Marcus, depending on the situation.

Dancing.

Going to Gymboree.
Reading books, Ten Busy Buzzy Bugs is the current favorite.

Fishies; the aquarium is a fan favorite.

Splashing in the tub.

Being outside.
Picking flowers.

Wearing shoes, particularly her rain boots and snow boots. I have to hide them otherwise she won't wear any other pair.

Snacks, particularly cheese sticks and slices.

Fruit.
Asparagus.

Trying to keep up with big kids.

Being chased by mommy or daddy.

Going down the slides at any park.

Mickey and Minnie Mouse, though she's never sat still long enough to watch a complete episode of MMCH.
Bubble Guppies. But, really, just the opening and closing songs (she just wants to dance). The rest of the show doesn't really hold her interest.
Making an "oh" face (see several photos below) as well as sticking out her tongue (again reference photos below).

Dislikes

Marcus, depending on the situation.
Putting tights on (but once on she has no qualms).

Being told no.

Most diaper changes.

All other veggies besides asparagus.

Swinging at the park.

I should also mention Julia doesn't wake well, and hasn't ever really done so. She's not one to wake up smiling and laughing. It's more crying and clinging on to whom ever gets her from her crib. 

Words
We've noticed Julia's vocabulary seems to have really expanded this last month. Thanks to all the rain, "puddle" was added - though it sounds a lot like bubble. "Yes," sounds a lot like "yeah," or "yep." "Up," "down," "pretty," are all in constant use. As of late we've really been working on "please," and "thank you." I'm guessing a majority of people wouldn't be able to translate most of her words, but there's progress.

Other Notable Moments

Animal noises are a big hit. Current favorites are mooing, quacking, meowing, and woofing.
We've begun working on color identification, though she seems to think all colors are blue at this point.
As of today eyes, nose, mouth, ears, belly button, toes, and fingers can all be identified on other people as well as Julia herself.
Lately, I've been working with Julia to undress herself. So far she can only get her pants about half way down her legs, but it's a start. She also loves to try and put on her shoes on her own, and attempts to put my shoes on my feet.
I feel like we've forever been in the transition stage of two naps down to one. We had a few days where one nap was all Julia needed. However, thanks to our early mornings (5am is cause for "sleep in" celebrations), most days require two naps.
If Julia is too rough and I ask for her to be nice, she'll give a kiss to smooth things over.

And just like that, another month is in the books. 

Here's to 19, and onward to 20!