Dearest Claire Elaine,

At 15 months, you…

…still have red hair (although it may be getting a bit lighter in the back). You haven’t had a haircut yet, but it’s finally growing long enough to tuck behind your ears. We may try playing with pigtails in the new year. (We’ll see!)

…love snuggling — Mama, Dada, cow, doggie, Pinot, toys, etc. You’re old enough to have blankets and “lovies” in your crib, and you have a tendency to stack them all up and plop on top.

…still adore animals, especially puppies. In fact, we couldn’t think of a more appropriate Halloween costume!

…chat, chat, chat. “Uh oh” was your first official word, but you’re thisclose to saying “shoes” — and we are fairly certain you’ve tossed out “yeah” or “yep” a few times too.

…understand quite a bit of our dialogue and will follow some commands — “get your ball,” “let’s go to bed,” “where are your shoes,” etc. pretty well!

…still have a wonderful appetite, although you avoid eggs at all cost. You have no interest in toddler-size utensils, and want to do everything on your own. (This was Greek yogurt with chia seeds and bananas.) You’re still using a sippy cup, but beg to drink from our glasses (that has about a 50% success rate, and usually you end up drenched).

…love books and will “read” on your own (ADORABLE)! Your favorites include a series of nursery rhyme board books — “Pat-a-Cake,” “If You’re Happy and You Know It,” “This Little Piggy” and more.

…have started to dance a bit when you hear music. It’s basically just bouncing up and down, but it’s progress.

…have a sassy side. (Just look at that smirk!)

…still love to clap, and will burst out in applause if you hear others on the television or radio.

…still take two naps (8:30 to 10 a.m. and then 2 to 4 p.m.) daily. Whoo hoo!

…love stomping on leaves! (Fall has been fun.)

…are favoring your right hand — a fact that baffles your left-handed parents.

…are loved and adored more than you’ll ever know!