Andrew is 18 Months!

This is my favorite toddler stage. At 18 months toddlers understand a lot of what is being said, they start to use their own words, they are funny, and so interacive at this stage. Andrew turned 18 months on August 26, 2011. He brings such joy to our family. I know I'm partial because I am his mom, but this kid has a cute and sweet personality and I look forward to getting to know him better as speech comes into the picture.

These pictures were taken on his 18 month old birthday. I didn't remember that it was on the 26th so luckily some pictures were taken that day of our trip to Last Chance Lakes.

At his 18 month old doctor appointment the doctor had some questions about Andrew's development. Does he climb? Like a monkey. Can he crawl onto an adult chair? Yes, and does so regularly. Can he do stairs? Our tri-multi level home gives him tons of practice and he'll do the first stair in the garage without even holding onto anything. Does he point to things he wants? Definitely, and because his mom is a softy he usually gets what he wants. Does he have 6-8 words? Mom, Dad, Ba (Beth), ball, shoes, dog, owie (when he gets hurt), wow, done (after he finishes a meal). And he does the sign for "more". Does he imitate you? Yes, and it's so cute to watch. He covers his mouth when he laughs like I do. Other things that I love about this little guy: He gives me zerberts. He hugs his stuffed animals. He plays peek-a-boo. He gives great hugs around the neck, he's learning to give kisses. He loves his big sister and wonders where she is when she's not around. He'll go around saying "Ba" with his upturned hands that he uses when he's asking a question. He loves shoes and even likes to try on other people's shoes. But, once we get in the car, he loves to take his shoes off.

One thing that is hard for me is he doesn't like being rubbed when he's tired and this is how I usually help babies to calm down. He grabs my hand and pulls it away. Although sometimes when he's really tired and laying next to me he takes my hand and puts it over one of his ears which seems to help him sleep.

I was so nervous to have a boy. During the pregnancy ultrasound when they told me it was a boy I told Kev, "I don't know anything about boys." Even though this is true, I am so grateful Andrew came into my world. Hopefully he'll be patient as I learn how to be his mom. I love him to pieces.