Grammy and Papa (my parents) bought Claire this fantastic toy, the Ball Popper, as part of her Christmas present. It is entertaining for all. The thing blows balls into the air and they eventually fly all over the place. Who doesn't enjoy flying balls?? Ok, don't read into that. I look forward to the day when Claire can retrieve the balls herself because, quite frankly, it is exhausting. However, her participation at this point is pure enjoyment and fascination at how the balls can do that. In other news, I had read an article on the importance of teaching your child to self-soothe. We co-sleep. Not because of preference, necessarily, but moreso convenience. It is tough waking up several times a night and still managing to have enough energy to do your professional job well. BUT.....Claire is finally on the mend and sleeping for longer periods of time, so decided to give this self-soothing thing a try by letting her cry it out in her own bed to begin each night. AND...We have l...