21 months and counting

Oh how time flies! Just one year ago, I had this sweet baby boy draped over my shoulder, peacefully sleeping (multiple times per day) in a milk coma. 

His chubby cheeks and long eye lashes snuggled up against my neck as he rested his sleepy head. 

And here we are now, just 12 months later, he is a busy, talkative, happy toddler! Each day he is learning new words and makes our hearts full with his sweet demeanor. He is determined to make a good husband someday, and is in excellent training. I love that he is right there to 'help' me at every turn. Whether it's cooking, cleaning or yard work, he wants to 'help. And it makes me so happy to have him next to me! 

Of course we have a lot left to learn in the grand scheme of using tools appropriately. But that isn't stopping him from trying to rake the driveway :) 

He adores his sisters as much as they love him. At any given moment, I can hear him playing with one of them (or driving them crazy by getting into their barbies!), and to see moments like this melt my heart. 

He really does help us unload the dishwasher. And like he watches us, he dries off all the excess water before placing the item on the counter near the appropriate cupboard. It's quite impressive, especially for a 21 month old! Now if he does this when he's 21 years old, we'll be in good shape! 

He is happy, 

 and silly,

determined, 

and oh so sweet! 

At 21 months, he is:
* about 27 lbs and into size 18-24 mo clothing
* naps about 3.5 hours in the afternoon and 10 hours overnight
* running around like crazy, climbing onto couches and chairs and even up into his high chair!
* getting brave and learning to walk (versus scoot on his bottom) down the stairs...this gives me a heart attack.
* adores riding on toys, in toys and playing outside. Loves, loves, loves outside. I'm already dreading 6 months from now when I'll be sitting outside in -10 weather while he plays until Ryan gets home.
* has been very safe around the pool, never darting in or jumping in unless a parent is ready. I tell people, he may accidentally fall in, but he won't jump in.
* his allergies are under great control thanks to a lot of homework on our part and complete elimination of allergens. we use words like "safe foods" and have scaled back eating out (sniff, sniff) because it is proving difficult and not worth the risk. But he's healthy!
* is just starting to show some interest in Elmo and Mickey Mouse. His preference still is to watch a video of himself on my phone, but sometimes I need 10 minutes and so Elmo is the choice. Too bad he can't stand Mr. Noodle and whines until Elmo returns.... :(
* although he can't say "sorry", he knows when he's done something wrong (biting lately), and will snuggle in for a hug to apologize.
* is our sweet 'baby' boy and we are so in love with him!

Happy 21 months buddy! 

~we love you!~