Yes it's true, Jake is eight months old. He is growing by leaps and bounds, and already weighs 20 lbs (and 1 ounce) and is 29 inches long. How can it be? Well one might guess that the endless amounts of food that he eats might be a big factor. And since Jake has not yet started to crawl, he isn't working off those extra calories. But soon enough. We are in no big hurry for Jake to start crawling (or walking) since it means that there might not be anymore peaceful sitting and reading or knitting episodes while Jake plays happily nearby. Once they start moving, they are off and running. So no big hurry for that Little Dude. Jake is able to get around with his series of rolling over and spinning manoeuvres, so he is happy with his access to toys.
One element that is noticeable in this past month, is Jake's ability now to sit by himself for extended periods (say 15 minutes) and maintain his balance, and interest in playing. He can bend forward when sitting and pick up toys. He seems to enjoy his independence in that regard.
Actually, another notable development is his ability to stand by himself steadying himself with something, like the couch or the window. He can only do it for a few seconds, but it shows that he is getting stronger and stronger, has a good sense of balance, and that being on the move might just be around the corner. Yikes!
Jake is still a very good natured, calm, friendly and happy baby. At baby groups, he tends to sit attentively, soaking in all of the songs, stories, and other people. He seems to recognize his friends, and is always happy to seem them. He offers people a ready smile, and easily laughs along with people. He loves songs, and claps his hands in happiness. He likes to be bounced and cuddled.
So for some milestones:
- sits alone for 10-15 minutes
- leans forward to pick up toys
- stretches out to grab things
- vision attentive, very attentive
- great pincer grasp
- looks in the correct direction for failing toys
- shouts, babbles, vocalizes
- distinguishes strangers from familiars
- imitates
- claps hands and blocks together
