being a 9-month old, well-child

Yesterday morning we saw our pediatrician for Marion Piper's 9 month well-child check-up.  Despite her seeming healthy and happy on a day to day basis, it is extra comforting to hear a medical professional tell us that our daughter is "great", "advanced", and that she gives her "no cause for concern" as far as development goes.  The little one charmed us with her smiles and laughs, showed off some of her tricks, and gave Dr. Amanda a small taste of the temper tantrums that we've been seeing.  I guess even showing her willfulness is a sign of her growing up...

So at 9 months and some change

• Piper is 16 lbs 15 oz, and in the 25th percentile for weight.
• Her head circumference is 43 centimeters, which remains in the 50th percentile.
• And her length has evened out in the 50th percentile at 27 and 3/4 inches tall.
• Sweet P is still just that:  Sweet.  She is a very happy baby who still enjoys interacting with people and the world around her.
• Piper loves to clap and wave, and has just started giving "high-fives".  
• She now has 2 teeth on top and 3, make that 4, on the bottom. 
• We have introduced all manner of fruits, vegetables, and some meat.  And she has started to figure out how to use those chompers to chew.
• The biggest change is baby girl's mobility--crawling everywhere and pulling up on anything she can find.
• Like I said, we are starting to see a few temper tantrums here and there, and prayerfully learning to deal with them.  So far, ignoring the fits, refusing to give in to them, and trying to focus her attention on something else has done the trick.  Lord help us when we have a teenage girl on our hands.
• I can't forget to mention that she is still totally a Daddy's girl!  

Zach and I are so blessed to parent this little girl, and praise God for the opportunity to see her grow in His image.  We pray often that the Lord would do a saving work in her heart, and use her mightily for His glory.

I certainly can not believe that we are already thinking about a first birthday party right around the corner!

Look for this fun post tomorrow!