The Decider

It will be interesting to look back on this post in a couple of years when we know Shira and her personality a little better to see how her baby personality translates into a walking, talking girl, but so far, Shira is a decision maker. She has strong desires and doesn't seem to have much trouble communicating those desires, despite her nonverbal language limitations (hint, scream and point until you get what you want).
One of the places that Shira's desires is most apparent is at mealtime. Shira is very clear about what food she wants to eat and what she is not interested in.

This girl is a big fan of food, but she also has very particular tastes, something we did not experience with Samuel. Samuel would eat pretty much anything you offered him (except tomatoes), though he wasn't interested in eating much.

Shira, on the other hand, loves to eat, but only what appeals to her. Everything else, doesn't even deserve a spot on her placemat. Unwanted food gets thrown over the back of her chair. And you never know what whim the day will bring. Even strawberries got thrown over the side this morning, despite their usually starring role.

Tonight, Shira was happily eating butternut squash hummus and some whole chickpeas before the rest of us sat down for dinner. As soon as I placed Steve's plate on the table, she began to yell. Steve offered her more chickpeas. She continued to scream. As soon as Steve brought his plate toward her, she instantly became quiet.

She wanted to make sure she got a taste of whatever we were eating. She then proceeded to ignore the collards, throw the potatoes on the floor, and scream until we offered her some of the eggs.

I guess watching Samuel eat three eggs a day for the past couple of days (the newest fad is hard boiled in our household), Shira was feeling left out. It's a month and a half early for the egg allergen, but we're living dangerously. Watch out peanut butter! Here we come.