Ruthie’s 10th month

Ruthie continues to grow, to learn, and to thrive. She is a tenacious girl, full of life and spirit. This month is marked by snow. We had more snow in March than we had all winter, with the first two days of Spring being most significant. The girls all enjoy the snow but truthfully I’m over it (mainly the pile of snow clothes, boots, hats, gloves, and sleds littered by the back door which spreads into the living room).  

Ruth had a great month and continues to make progress in her speech therapy. They are baby steps, but steps nonetheless. For example, when attempting the /f/ we say to bite her lower lip and all the air comes out of her mouth. While she still isn’t making the sound or getting the air out of her mouth, she is finally able to bite her lower lip. Since she has an underbite this has been a huge challenge. See what I mean? Baby steps. 

She loves taking care of all the baby dolls. She’s a good little mommy. 

She’s becoming a whiz at pretending. 

Pattern blocks with Carrie are always fun. 

Ruthie had her first week in Sunday School three weeks ago. We were a little nervous but shouldn’t have been. Where Caroline goes, Ruth is quick to follow. I’m tremendously grateful for these two sisters. Carrie is very devoted to seeing Ruth succeed. 

Proud sisters! Someone mentioned how their mannerisms are similar and it’s true. What a gracious God we serve. While Ruthie may not “look” like her sisters, they do make similar faces and have body language that makes them look alike. 

We developed a pattern of snow, sleep, snow, sleep. She loves playing in the snow but it definitely wipes her out. 

She slept in the toddler bed a few times. We didn’t take the crib out of her room so she has since gone back to just the crib. But, I know when we decide to make the full transition it will be relatively simple. 

Always such a good sleeper!

Ruthie’s first smiley face. She is so proud of the faces she can draw. She had also started adding legs, ears, and arms occasionally. I’m so proud of how she is developing! What a clever little girl she is. 

These two think cleaning is fun. (Sometimes). 

Playing in the woods with sisters at dusk is always a good idea. 

Oh, and more snow. Thanks, mom, for giving us my childhood toboggan. 

Even mom goes sledding sometimes. 

Ruthie’s a brave sledder!

Catching snow. Her face mask is perfect for shielding her eyes while the snow falls into her mouth. 

Snowmobile riding with Daddy! Trent’s Dad often brings his snowmobiles down to our place once a winter if we get enough snow. I think this is the first year he’s come in Spring, though. 

Palm Sunday at church! See how brave she has gotten! 

Waving palm branches and singing, “Hosanna!”

Technically yesterday was 10 months home but as you can see, she was in no mood for a happy picture. 

Even coffee and farm puzzles didn’t help. 

And her nap was short-lived. I think she may be getting a new tooth as she has been chewing on her finger, had the grumps, and occasionally woken in the night. A little Motrin and a good night of sleep worked wonders. 

Happy 10 months home, my love. I don’t know what we would do without you!

Proud of her sticker. 

Oh Ruthie V.! We love you! Thanks for all the joy you bring. We are blessed to have you as our youngest Hess girl.