Stay-At-Home Teacher: Nicholas at 22 months

Nicholas is rapidly approaching his 2nd birthday. It's hard to believe that time has gone so quickly. He's really becoming a "little boy", and doesn't much resemble a baby in anyway. His motor skills are quite good (well, I'm no expert, but I think they are!). He's a pro at climbing up anything (including our ladder...watch out Jeff!), uses a fork and spoon to eat (not always successfully), can grip a crayon very well, and even likes to kick a soccer ball across our lawn (Jeff's happy about that one!). His language skills are improving too. In the past few weeks we've noticed an incredible increase in his speech. He tries to say everything, but it doesn't always come out right. Nicholas has even begun to use the potty. Nothing serious, but he gets very excited when we make a big deal about "peeing in the potty".

Some of Nicholas' favorite things to do are: color (anything and everything...including the ottoman in his room!), play with stickers, endlessly move his train around it's track, go down slides, read (and read and read and read) his books, take apart puzzles and put them back together, watch Cars and Monsters Inc., and flip our couch cushions over so he can hide underneath them.

His personality has shaped up to be quite dynamic. Nicholas is definitely a "spirited" child. Those of you who have met him in person can attest to that. He doesn't do anything halfway. He's either very high or very low. It makes for an interesting ride as a parent. We've initiated time-outs in our house, and he's very good about going to his corner and staying. We've noticed a positive outcome from our consistent discipline (must be the teacher in me coming out!). He is a riot though, and can charm the pants off of almost anyone. He has an infectious laugh and an all-around lovable demeanor. There is never a dull moment with Nicholas Patrick Daems!

Here are some pictures I took today. We went to the Lindsay Wildlife Museum in Walnut Creek for a morning of animal fun!

Being goofy on the floor (he was trying to do a somersault!)