Ryan -- 14 Months

Dear Playful, Sweet Son, 

Big things happened this month! You went from tottering around to walking to learning to walk faster! And you got 2 top teeth! Well, the teeth are still working their way out/down, but you can definitely see both pearly whites peeking through. I think you've already started using them to help you chew your food. When we are in the kitchen you LOVE to help mama and daddy out by letting us know if the toast has popped or the oven timer is beeping; you do this with very empathetic pointing and body language and then are delighted when we understand what you're pointing at and thank you. Too cute. Also every night before we start eating dinner you sign "thank you" to remind us to say grace before our meal. 

This month you've really moved away from toys to... the kitchen drawers. It's really nice that they keep you happily entertained but boy do you like to make a mess, especially with my storage bags drawer. But that's okay, I know you won't be doing that forever. The baking supplies, pots and pans, and bags of herbs are also fun to play with.

You've finally shown an interest in reading books. Now you will sit in our laps and actually tolerate reading a book for more than 2 pages. It helps if we talk about the pictures rather than reading the words (you would think I'd never done this before). 

It's so cute when we see you grab a book and find a place to settle and read it.

Playtime with your brother and Daddy is always awesome.

Now that you can walk, it is so much more fun to be outside! 

This month Aunt Jeanie came twice to take care of you (and Jake) so mama could work. You had a fabulous time going down to the village in the stroller, playing on the swings, eating Thai food, and visiting the shops.

More playing with Daddy.

Jake got a new booster seat as an early Christmas present. You think sitting in it is the bee's knees!

It's been such an exciting month. You discovered that your favorite way to sleep is on your belly, with your butt in the air. Adorable. For some reason you love socks and often will carry one around the house. It doesn't matter who the sock belongs to, but your own socks are your favorite for bringing into the shower (!) to play with.

You also gained a greater awareness of yourself this month. While looking into a mirror, you pointed to your reflection and then pointed to yourself. It was so amazing to see that self-awareness come to you! Now you point to things that you want and then point to yourself. Couldn't be any clearer!

We love you, Ryan, it's so much fun to see you grow.
xox