Update at 10 months

Elliott – now 75 cm tall and weighing nearly 11kgs – is starting to show a bit of temperament! He objects loudly and kicks madly when being laid down to have his nappy changed (but smiles as being rid of the contents), he is really frustrated at not yet being able to crawl (why am I only going backwards??) and wants up, up and walk, walk all the time. Janet and Mamma take turns walking him around the house while Pappa makes very elaborate attempts at demonstrating crawling techniques. Taking away objects such as Elliott’s beloved water cup or favourite toy (plastic rings on plastic cone which fit really nicely in the mouth) can lead to a loud cry. But he is warm and fun-loving too – he still smiles and laughs all the time, he gives Mamma real kisses (albeit with an open mouth, but definitely not intended as a bite) and he giggles without end when Pappa tickles his tummy after the nighttime bath. Elliott is getting really vocal – dada, nana, lala, gaga and so on from sun-up to sun-down – those who were worried about his being silent can lay their worries to rest! The best part is the singing – something like the BeeGees on a high. A few times he has copied words like lamp, door, again, Elliott, mamma, but not yet with articulation or meaning. But then he has three languages to deal with! Elliott eats everything with great pleasure. Porridge, fruits, veg, chicken, fish, bread, pasta, and so on. He is getting quite good at chewing and eating manageable chunks by himself, but table manners are so-so – anything left in front of him will be turned upside down or thrown on the floor. Not yet weaned, he is fully addicted to water as his mealtime drink and drinks with a delightful gulping that will make anyone enjoy a glass of water! Elliott takes a stroll in his pram most every day, to visit friends with Janet or to get some fresh air with Mamma. Pappa and Mamma also take him outside to enjoy the flowers, birds and the occasional monkey in the garden. The dogs, Sammy and Moussour, try their best to look after Elliott too but are brushed off since they jump and lick too much! Still missing Mormor and Morfar since they left one month ago, Mamma and Pappa have started looking forward to and plan for Elliott’s one-year party on 10 October, since we will have a dignitary guest from Australia – Granny May! Further update to follow…