In the first few months of life, your baby relies on crying and other nonverbal communication to tell you what she wants and needs. At about three months, she may start "playing" with sound by gurgling, cooing and babbling...
More

Holiday shopping with a toddler doesn't have to be stressful. Try these tips: Go in the morning when she's less likely to be cranky. Give her regular breaks from the stroller or shopping cart to let off steam. Bring water and healthy snacks like nuts, raisins or granola bars to keep her energy up, and disposable wipes for cleaning hands. Tell her the store rules and enforce them. Remind her to use her soft "public" voice when she needs something.

Sources: “Ten Tips for All Day Shopping with a Toddler,” http://www.thingamababy.com/baby/ 2006/05/ten_tips_for_al.html;
“How to Take a Toddler Shopping,” by Rose Halas, http://www.essortment.com/family/ howtaketoddler_saao.htm

You usually know instinctively if your baby is healthy, but comparing her growth to "normal" guidelines is a good way to help put your mind at ease. Many babies grow a half inch to an inch per month between birth and six months. In that same period, babies can gain five to seven ounces per week. Between six months and a year, she'll probably grow about three-eighths inch per month and gain three to five ounces per week. It's normal for her to double her birth height and triple her birth weight by her first birthday.

Source: “Infant and Toddler Health,” http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/ infant-and-toddler-health/MY00362