Remember the Alamo! (and an 18 mos update)

First, how cute is lil Davie Crockett in his coon skin cap?

Ok, now that we are all in agreement that he is precious.... let's get down to the business of his 18 month recap.  (or you can totally quit reading, but I have to document this or it will go right out the window)

Luke,

WOW.  18 months.  You're getting so big.  You are definitely a "toddler" now I'm sure, and between running and discovering new things and trying to test boundries, you are non-stop action.  And while I'd love to sit here and tell you what a joy you've been to be around, honestly, between your one year molars finally showing up (all together and a little late to the party!) and the temper tantrums, we've all kind of been struggling the last week or three.  Although it's not been all glitter and rainbows, you definitely impress me with your focus -- when you want something, you want it and you want stop until you get it.  And you are so strong willed (no, baby, that's NOT code for brat.  I promise.).  Both of these qualities will be such a blessing when you are a little older but right now it seems like it's "your way or the floor that you throw yourself on screaming and kicking highway".

The good news is that you are a healthy, active boy just like I always pray(ed) you would be.  You are accomplishing so much and your daddy and I truly believe once you can communicate even more, you won't be quite so frustrated and in turn, we won't be so frustrated!  Here's your big stats:

Weight:     23 pounds, 4 oz      (15th percentile)
Height:      31 inches                (10th percentile)
Head:        18.5 inches             (25th percentile)

Gross motor skills ---- you are running, walking (you can even walk backwards!), climbing, trying to jump, you kick the ball, throw the ball and you are just overall a strong lil fella! 

Fine motor skills ---  we love to watch you work your little fingers.  You pick up small things and stack and sort so well.  Your favorite thing right now is your Uncle Jay's Nerf gun and you load the "darts" in so carefully.  I can't even figure out how to use the darn thing but you've got it nailed.  Please don't start shooting at people (even if it is Nerf, you will give this mama a nervous breakdown)

Body parts you know---  eyes, head, nose (your favorite), ears, mouth (you stick your tongue out!), teeth, belly, boobies (your's, not mine), toes, feet, arms

Words you are using ---  mama (over and over and over), dada, annabelle, doggy, "baaaaah" (with a sweet wave and a southern drawl, this is my favorite), hi, nnnnas (nose), mmmm (when something is yummy), "ba" (bottle, which  you have successfully said bye to, congrats big boy!), boom!, pow!, ball, no, fish, bird, "shs" (shoes), "turk" (truck), "cah" (car), "nahnah" (nana), "pahpah" (papa), Jay, Pop...  There may actually be more that I'm forgetting, but the point is your Dr. girlfriend was way impressed with your verbal development. 

Your dad and I are so proud of you and can NOT believe you are now closer to 2 than 1.  Seriously, who said you could grow up so fast?!?!?!  We love you lil man!