Ryan -- 18 Months

Dear Ryan, 

You are 18 months. That is a year and a half old. I am so amazed and grateful every day that you are here with us and I am your mama. You are ADORABLE.

 And a bit mischievous.

 And also physically active. You can run! You can climb things that mama doesn't want you to climb! You LOVE playgrounds and have recently become pretty skilled at navigating them alone! And as a result of all this, you had many bruises on your face for a few weeks. :(

 You LOVE to rock, and you rock really hard.

 But sometimes, you need a break from all that exploration and action and just want to snuggle, especially in a carrier.

 And speaking of carriers, one day you took your sling and decided to use it for Baby.

 And try to kiss me while I'm taking a picture.

 So sweet!

You have also discovered you LOVE to use markers to draw on your body, any part of it. 

 You spend quite a bit of time reading to yourself each day.

 We still read aloud with you, but sometimes the quiet time is nice.

One of the things that you did quite a bit this month was to use your hair as a napkin. Yes, take messy, sticky hands that have been grabbing your dinner and rub it into your hair. This has resulted in quite a few unplanned baths, but it is looking like this phase may soon be over, thankfully

You are declaring a bit of your personhood more by being demanding, such as when you want to nurse NOW and cannot be dissuaded. Or when you want to be outside. Or pet the cat.

You've only been with us for a year and a half, yet it seems like you've always been part of this family. xox