Miss Independence

Riley is becoming more independent with each passing day. She loves to play together, but she also likes having time to herself too. It is the perfect combination...because if we had to choose, you know we would choose playtime, anytime over household chores! But, since Riley does like some quieter time to herself, it allows JD and I to conquer the less desirable laundry, dusting, ironing, etc. Now that Riley is sitting up mostly on her own
and rolling over,

there is more of a variety of activities that she can do on her own.

We try to have a little exersaucer time each day. This time comes in handy when I am washing bottles and prepping dinner, or taking care of an email or two.

Crib time is just perfect when I am folding laundry, since the laundry room is next door to Riley's room.


Riley is very active when she is awake, if not playing, then observing everything going on around her.

This has the tendency to wear herself out. So, about every 2-3 hours, she is due for a nap...and a night doesn't pass, when the clock strikes 9:00 p.m., or very close to, she is out like a light bulb! Over the past two weeks, we have been experimenting with putting Riley to bed before she is completely sacked out! And...yes, she has even put herself to sleep on a few occasions. We will watch from afar via the video monitor...it's neat to see her self soothe, by tossing her head from side to side, and using her fingers to suck just a little. Because she will sometimes curl her legs up and down, we often have to sneak back into her room to put her blanket back in place.

Other nights, we just have to keep a hand on her chest and rub her head and she will cave after just a few minutes. Then other nights, we have to go through the usual rocking/walking routine...which I can't say we mind one bit...because before we know it...she will be more independent than ever!