15 months

On Tuesday, Zachary had his 15 month well visit.  We are happy to report that he is a healthy boy and reaching his milestones appropriately.  He weighed in at 24 lbs 8 oz (50th%) and 32 inches (78th%).  This kid has not gained a single ounce in the past 3 months! The nurse practitioner seemed slightly worried and had several questions about his appetite.  With as little sarcasm as possible, I informed her that most days, Zachary eats twice as much as his sister at each meal, drinks at least 15 ounces of whole milk daily, and begs to try any food that is in sight.  I don't believe food is the issue, it just might be that since Zach started walking (mostly running) over 5 months ago, he has commonly been referred to as the "tornado"...he's fast and furious.

His vocabulary is just exploding.  Everyday it seems he learns a new word.  He loves making animal sounds and continues to dance to anything that has a beat.  This picture captures one of Zach's new fascinations.  

Anytime he sees a camera or someone takes a picture, you hear him say "CHEEEEEESE".  It's too cute!

The tantrums are increasing, and the independence and stubbornness are emerging.  He likes to hold his own spoon and feed himself.  When he's done with his food, he has a bad habit of throwing everything on the floor, and then shoots you a mischievous grin.  Discipline is definitely working itself into our daily routine. 

Most days he takes 1 nap, around noon, but every so often we have to sneak in a morning cat nap to catch up on some lost sleep.  To keep all of us from going stir crazy, we spend lots of time out of the house. He loves to be outside and within minutes, he's at the sandbox or in a pile of dirt.  At the mall, he flirts with every girl/woman he sees.  People stop in their tracks to talk to him once he flashes them his big girn.  He's just all boy, and we love him to pieces!

And Helaina is our proud big sister.  We've reached a good point with her, and we're enjoying every day because we know, at this age, how fleeting it can be.  Today, she had a play date with her classmate, DeLaney.  They played toys, baked cupcakes, and frosted them.  I was very proud of her good manners and ability to share.  She helps me throughout the day with house chores and tries to keep her brother entertained.  She reminds us to pray before dinner at night and loves to "tell" stories at bedtime.  All she can think about is her upcoming trip to New York.  With her help, we've already planned outfits and matching shoes.  Our days together are very special as we see her changing everyday.

On another note, our prayers have been answered.  My brother's girlfriend, MaKayla, has been waiting patiently to hear from a couple dental schools about admittance for the 2012 fall semester.  Yesterday, she received a call from University of Detroit Dental School to inform her that she had been accepted and will begin their program in just a few short weeks.  Great news...she'll be living less than 20 minutes from our home which will likely mean more time with her and my brother.  Hopefully Randy and his colleagues can be a good resource for her as she enters this new chapter of her life.  Great Job MaKayla! We are so proud of you!