Bri's 10 months already!

How time flies! This must be the most oft sprouted phrase when it comes to little ones. They really seem to make time fly. Even though I have been the one looking after her, I still feel that the time has really sped by. I often think back to the time when she had just appeared to say hi to the world. The joy, the pain, the miracle..... Now, at 10 months plus, she is still my bundle of joy, just not so little already!
She can do so many things now. I have this tendency to keep comparing her to Brandon. He was such a sweet natured baby whereas she's a little spitfire. Brandon was relaxed and sedate; she is easily bored. Bran could sit and play by himself for a long time while Bri needs constant attention. Bran always sat quietly in the car seat and pram; Bri puts up a fight almost every time. Bran's motor skills developed quite late; Bri could switch toys from hand to hand at 5months! Bran didn't really speak clearly till almost 16months; Bri can already call Mama, Papa, "mum mum" (eat) Ah Ma. Bran didn't really understand commands till about 13 months; Bri can already point, ask for things, shake head for no and nod for yes, babble and reply when you talk to her, move her hands away, and a whole lot more.
I'm constantly surprised at the progress she has made. Her level of understanding is just simply beyond that of a 10 month old baby. Most of my commands, even the more complicated ones, she can comprehend and follow. Actually, at about 7months, she could already understand simple commands like nod and shake head. Bump heads. Dance dance. Move move. No no. Yes yes. Does she really understand? I ask myself. So test after test is done on her. Get her to do this, get her to move that.... And again, she surprises the hair off my head!
I have learnt not to underestimate the innate intelligences of very young children. She is a very special child, just like every child out there, and as her mother, I have to make sure that this innate intelligence is carefully and lovingly nurtured.
Have a great week ahead one and all and remember to have a smile for the young baby, child that you meet! Dont forget the mother too!!