twelve months old.

I get these emails from babycenter.com.

I signed up for them when I was pregnant.

I've never actually read one, but they give weekly updates on your baby's development.

The subject heading always says "Your Baby: 4 months and 2 weeks", or however old.

The one I got this week? "Your Toddler: 1 year".

I'm sorry, did you say "toddler"?

Carly, at 12 months old you . . .

*are a walkin' pro. You took several steps before our trip to Idaho, but once you got to the wide open spaces of Grandma and Grandpa's house, you took off. If you were cute before, you are even cuter walking around with your tiny self.

*speaking of your tiny self, at your 12 month appointment you were 19 lbs 1.5 oz (19%). I was shocked. You feel so heavy to me, I was ready to see that scale at around 30. But you are healthy and so strong. People always comment on how strong you are.

*completely quit baby food. Cold turkey. Your favorite foods these days? Yogurt, Gerber meat sticks (eww), strawberries, and avocado. You still don't show a particular fondness for eating, but we stuff food in your mouth whenever we get the chance.

*officially say your first word (other than "dada"). It is . . . "Hi!". You're so friendly, and you will give a big wave and say 'Hi!'. I have been trying to get you to say 'mama', but you just smile and say "dada!". Daddy's girl.

*have lots of energy. You are very busy, always carrying things around and moving them and putting things in things and taking things out. I always say you have so much to do, and not enough time to do it.

*are getting so interactive. You and daddy play chase, where he will chase you and then you will turn around and chase him. You squeal and giggle like crazy. You also assert your will more and more, demanding more food or pointing where you want to go.

*love to be the center of attention. You like lots of people watching you. You also get a bit jealous of others stealing the show. When little Eliza came over the other night, you would go over to whoever was holding her and demand to be held by that person. Bodes well for when you're a big sister . . .

*are so so funny and sassy. You like to dance and play and make funny noises with your mouth. And then you giggle at how awesome you are. Because you are totally awesome.

*have made the last year the absolute best year of our lives. We sure love you, Shmar.

Happy twelve months, Car. We're glad you joined us.