18 months

Max is 18 months old today. A whole year and a half. Where the heck did that time go to? He continues to 'go!' all the time...he never stops. We were at a friend's house last night and he observed "I don't know how you guys do it..."

Max is also talking up a storm. We were in the car, this morning, on the way to school, when Max heard 'cash' on the radio, listening to NPR. He said 'cash, cash, cash' all the way to school. As far as I know, he's never even heard that word before! He also says 'stop' and last night he learned "NOooooo!" from Papa watching football. Papa thought it was funny, but I have a feeling he'll regret it soon enough.

Max is staunchly planted in toddler-hood. He is sometimes very sweet and sometimes willful and determined to get his way. He loves to give hugs, but also thinks he can get out of being in trouble by hugging (just a weeee but manipulative). He is sitting at his own table, now, to eat, but only for about 2 bites at a time. Then we have to chase him down to make him return to the table.

Max has become attached to Clint and I being with him, together. If Clint is not around, I hear "Papa, papa, papa?" But if Papa shows up and I try to leave, it's "Mama, Mama, Mama?!" He's still Papa's boy, though, constantly hugging, kissing, and asking about Papa. When Clint walks into a room, Max goes running for him, arms open.

As challenging as he is, Max is such fun and a joy. I look forward to the next 18 months, 18 years, and beyond, watching him continue to learn, grow, and love.