Table Manners in Graceland

Grace has been moving right along in the world of solid foods. We now offer an a la carte menu of rice cereal, avocados, apples, pears, sweet potatoes or, if you're the gambling (and patient) type, sweet peas...and we are excitedly awaiting the addition of winter squash and bananas this week.

We're grateful that she's getting the hang of this whole eating thing, but we're a little concerned about her etiquette. Her physical therapist helped us create a snug seating setup in her car seat so that she is fully supported and doesn't have to exert any other effort other than the energy required to eat. The Gracer laughs at this support and prefers eating while doing a V sit-up.

She now has learned to open her mouth as the spoon comes anywhere in her zip code, which we are immensely proud of, but she doesn't do this halfway. It's a full opening and with complete tongue protrusion, with total view of the last three bites slowly making their way to the back of her throat.

She gets most of the food in, but we do have the occasional spillage, especially the rice cereal, which she enjoys combining with practicing her raspberries (picture a volcano with mashed potato lava).

And humility? Not a chance. A little praise is met with a huge, dribbling smile. This one loves the compliments.

Does anyone know of a good Finishing School for this age group?