No more bottle

Well, I guess it's official. Our sitter sent all of Natalie's bottles home today. She drinks everything from a sippy now. I just can't hardly believe it. I always imagined this huge struggle to make the switch, but I guess that isn't going to be an issue. The big issue is going to be weaning. I already know it. :( The one year mark is drawing ever closer when she will be able to switch to cow's milk. I have been so blessed emotionally and financially to be able to feed her completely. We haven't purchased one container of formula, and unless the sitter has given her one of the other kids', she wouldn't even know what it tastes like. I have also yet to purchase any baby food. It's so easy to make, and now she is getting to the point where her diet has greatly expanded, she takes biger pieces, and is feeding herself some what. It won't be too long until her diet isn't restricted at all and she can just have what we are having for dinner. So, all you mom's out there, don't let anyone fool you. It is possible, even if you are a working mom like myself. :) That's the biggest news of this week. Depending on the night, she either wakes up around midnight or one or sleeps through the night completely. She is still crawling everywhere, pulling up on everything, and has attempted to stand without holding onto anything several times. It's so weird to walk around the corner and see her standing upright. It's like, "Wait a minute! You were just lying in your bassinet yesterday!" It really has flown by, but at the same time, it's very hard to remember my life before her. That just seems so long ago. Her smile is infectious, and that dimple just about does you in. Here are some pics of the sweetie pie who will be 10 months old on Friday. Fun with the pots and pans What's cuter than a naked baby butt? I can't think of anything either. She now prefers to stand during bath time which really keeps mommy busy. Our good friends, and Natalie's Godparents, came to visit us for labor day. They also brought their dog Hercules who Natalie had a blast with. They pretty much wore each other out. :) Hercules, you are hilarious! Yum. This dog leash is quite tasty. I love you uncie Dave and aunt Sonya! Here is a video of Natalie and Hercules playing together. We just laughed and laughed. They did this for about half an hour. I love how Natalie just dives head first into the dog bed. :)

Natalie would also like to wish her Papa Lubke a very happy 50th birthday this Friday, September 11th. We love you!