Working in yard with grandma

Minnesota Summertime

We are back in Minnesota for some summer fun, and Alex's favorite part so far has been "Ga-Ga" - the word both for his tigers, any stuffed animal, and in this case, the resident dog Cundrie. Cundrie isn't sure about all the attention and has been known to sneak down to the basement.

We also think Alex's word for Ben is "BA!" usually shouted - and he also says "Ga-Goo" which is an imitation of thank you.

Alex has been experiencing a bit of separation anxiety and has really wanted mommy time both daytime and night - I think a new place combined with new independence skills has made the adjustment hard. But today he had a great time at the playground with Grandma Zannah and Grandpa Chuck while mommy went to hang out with her friend Saebra so all was good!

Walk in st. Paul

Stacking and Talking

Alex, with the walking now mastered, has moved onto other fun stuff!

Yesterday while playing with Daddy he stacked four little wooden blocks one on top of another. He's also got lots of words now, including:

- Agua
- Mama, Dada
- Patos (Zapatos)
- eeyougo (Here you Go)
- bye, bye
- truck (with vigorous pointing)
- duck
- cracker
- "mas" (more of a hand signal)

Locomoting!

Alex has been busy working on walking, and now in a matter of a couple of weeks, can manuever with speed. One day he worked on walking and turning - into the kitchen from the hallway was a favorite - and the next day, walking and getting started without having to hold onto something for support.

Walking!

A few days after his first birthday, Alex took his first 3 unassisted steps - and spent the rest of the day walking between Grandpa & Grandma Himan and Uncle Sly Dog - lurching into their arms SO excited.

Shoes!

One of your favorite things for months has been to crawl over to the closet with the shoes, and pull shoes in and out of the mesh drawers.

Today you took one of Ben's sandals, looked at it, and were very clearly trying to put it on your feet. I took some baby sandals that are still too big for you, and put them on, and walked you around by the hands around the living room. You giggled and giggled and were so pleased!

For the past few weeks all you have wanted to do is practice walking around, holding mommy or daddy's two hands (or other friends who come over, you just grab them and lead them where you want to go).