Lucky 13

A part of me was really sad to start saying goodbye to my baby. I wanted to dig in my heels and cuddle him just a little bit longer. But I can say with great exuberance that toddlerhood and having a baby grow into a boy is so much fun. He's active and independent, capable and purposeful. He's fascinated by people and what they do, and how they do it. And he's totally intrigued by the outside world.

Yes, 13 months is pretty great. We can do yard work or be busy outside, and Ian can stay consumed by his own experiences for hours at a time. Having a dog helps, certainly. 

Oh little one, we hope this passion only grows.

Because what more could a little boy want than to be outside in a big backyard, with his dog, and a stick??

Put that away, Mama. We don't need technology right now!! 

Our pine needle-covered driveway...

Our front porch (swept soon after this picture was taken!)

 While I made leaf piles far taller than his head,

He left his tractor from Aunt Phoebe & James working in the leaves....

Ian kept himself busy in the yard. I'll never forget the image of Ian following behind Jim as he mowed. Content to have Papa home and to be his sidekick for the afternoon. Occasionally he'd motion to be picked up and Jim would carry him as he pushed our electric mower (pretty quiet) around the yard.

 He'd also take breaks to play fetch with Leif. Best buddies already.

Oh, sweet Ian Forrester. We love spending time outside with you.

Happy 13 months, darling boy!!!

You love: playing in the yard, singing songs from the book Grumps arranged entitled "If You're Happy and You Know It" (especially when you get to clap your hands and stomp your feet!!), playing with your tongue, cleaning up your high chair when you're done eating, bath time with Papa, attempting to run, out-running the waves at the beach, putting your head on our shoulders and tucking your arms under ours when we pick you up, dumping Leif's bowl of water, pivoting or walking in circles, "helping" cook or clean up or console another baby, and climbing into your own carseat.