A connoisseur of fine literature.

Going, going, going!

Quite a lot has changed for Otis and our family since our last post. Otis has been walking (and running) for several weeks now, and he's going from the moment he wakes up until he ends his day by escaping the bathroom after his bath and taking a few naked laps around the house. Otis is interested in everything these days. His love of cats and dogs has deepened, and now he is equally enthralled by trucks and tractors. He loves to read and still brings us book after book to read to him. He is getting better at solo play, which is nice for times when we need to unload the dishwasher or use the bathroom. Otis is saying a handful of words now, or at least making consistent attempts. He says dada, mama, dog, ball, shoes, down, truck, baa (for the sound a sheep makes), moo (for the sound a cow makes). He signs "more" and "all done" at mealtime. He recognizes most common animals and objects and will point to them correctly in books when we quiz him. He also is learning his body parts and can follow basic commands like "Rub your tummy!" or "Pat your head!" Particularly cute is his attempt to flex his muscles. Even though he's a busy, busy boy, he's still lovey toward his mom and dad. He gives lots of kisses, and while I'm rocking him before his naps he scoots down, lifts my shirt, lays his head right on my belly, and falls asleep within a minute.

He's just an all-around sweetcuteloveysmartboy. Steve and I still sit around at night and talk about how much we love him and can't believe he's ours. (This will probably be hilarous when the "terrible twos" set in!)

I made the switch to being a full-time mama when I quit my job at Sequoia Riverlands Trust at the end of July. I was nervous about the decision, but it has been wonderful for all three of us. I'm still working part-time from home on certain projects when they come up--now I'm writing and designing the fall newsletter.

There are newly-uploaded photos at our photo site, http://tootlefam.shutterfly.com.

First haircut at Mom's Salon


The look of the season: shades and slobber.


A visit to the pumpkin patch this morning.