Scarlett the Starlet: Nineteen Months Old! (August 21, 2011)

Over the last month, Scarlett had lots of visits from grandparents, got her cast off, and finally got to spend some time at the pool again. Chris and I both traveled separately without her (me to Napa for fun, and Chris to Chile for work). I came back from my trip to a complete Daddy's girl. We'll see if the pendulum swings in the other direction now that's he's gone for a few days (but based on the constant inquiries about her Daddy and pointing out his things -- "Daddy's clothes," "Daddy's shoes," "Daddy's car," "Daddy's books" -- I have my doubts).

Scarlett had her belated 18-month appointment with Dr. Curry last week. Looks like our big girl is slowing down a wee bit on the growth charts: 28 pounds 6 ounces (90%) and 33 3/4 inches tall (90%). She's still up there, but the WNBA might not be headed to Kessler Park to recruit her after all.

Scarlett insists on feeding herself now. Not a big deal if she's eating a grilled cheese sandwich or something else she can eat with her hands; a potential disaster if she's eating yogurt or anything else that requires a spoon. She also loves to dip her food -- hot sauce, ranch dressing, queso, the black bean dip at Gloria's, you name it. If she sees you using any "dip," she wants to do it, too. (And Lord help you if you don't let her; there will be screeching ... lots of screeching. When at a restaurant presented with the option of a screeching toddler and a queso-covered toddler, I choose queso-covered toddler. Not surprisingly, we don't order much queso these days.)

Here she is using a spoon all by herself. Unfortunately, this attire is only appropriate pool-side and if you're under two years old. Chuy's on a Friday night -- not so much.