At almost 17-months-old, Baby Cianna is learning new concepts at an incredible rate. For example, she can point out hot things (pot on stove, noodles) vs cold things (outside). One of the unusual habits she has is picking up tiny bits of dust or paper (1) to hand to us with an "ooooh." I hope this doesn't mean she'll grow up to be anal retentive or a neat freak. Maybe she'll be a microbiologist. She is also learning how to work a toothbrush (2) on her seven teeth. She likes the interesting mouthfeel of the bristles along with the minty sensation of toothpaste residue. Scariest is the fact that she can reach doorknobs (3), but can't turn them yet. Time to add another round of babyproofing.

- mike lee - langley park, md