I'm a week late on the 8 month blog. It was a busy month with all the Holiday activities! Emily's first Christmas was a lot of fun. She loves all of her new clothes, toys and gear! We've had several milestones this month. She cut her first tooth a couple of weeks ago and a second tooth followed a few days later. She now has both bottom, front teeth. They are still just peeking through but soon as I can get a good shot I will post a picture. Emily is also improving her balance and motor skills. She is now table surfing and maneuvering around all the furniture in the house. She stands on her own for very brief periods of time, but she usually grabs hold of something soon as she realizes that she is free standing. If you hold her arms she will walk with you, but she has not taken any steps on her own yet. She now crawls with purpose and speed. If she is crawling to something that is off limits, I will reach down to get her and she will speed up before I can grab her. She clearly understands that when I grab her she will not be able to do what she wants to do. Her crawl is pretty efficient, but not quick enough to escape my grasp! Here are some pictures of Emily enjoying the Holidays. [nggallery id=33] For Emily, It was such a joy to celebrate our first Christmas together. It was a lot of fun picking out presents for you this year, but I can't wait for the years to come when you are old enough to request gifts. I wonder what things you will want... 5, 10, 15, 30,40 years from now?? It is fascinating for me to ponder the types of interests you will have in the future. Unfortunately we won't be able to give you everything you ever want, but know that we will always provide anything you need. Love, Mom