Growing so quickly

I feel like the boys, especially Paul, have been growing so quickly right now. Paul has taken several steps in a row. I suspect in a few weeks, he'll really be walking. He could definitely win a crawling race these days. He is so fast, especially when he sees something he wants--namely Benjamin's toys. He'll crawl on any surface, too--driveway, gravel, rock, grass, doesn't matter. He also managed to crawl onto the couch (without the cushions) the other day. Changing his diaper takes a great act of speed and agility. Heaven forbid he has to lay down for longer than two seconds! That also goes for strapping him into his car seat or a stroller. I like how I've read to sing songs, distract him with a toy, etc. while doing these things. Does not work! Food is really the best enticement. When that's not available, he will eventually bend from his "stiff as a board" position.

It's also been fun to listen to Paul try to say more words. He says "go" and he also has a word for car/truck, sounds something like "ca." He really tries to repeat sounds he hears. And it's amazing how much he understands now. He can point to a lot of different objects when you ask him where something is. He's also pointing to things he wants. It's nice to be able to communicate with him more. I really is amazing when you think of how much growth occurs in this first year of life! Speaking of that, Paul turns one on the 21st. I can't believe it!

If Paul is starting to grow out of babyhood, Benjamin is growing out of toddlerhood. I've finished filling out all of the preschool registration forms for the fall--actually it starts in a few weeks. I don't know if I'm ready! Once the school thing starts, we won't be done for many years! I was thinking the other day how these past three years are the only years of my life (beside my first few years) that have not been governed by the school year. As a student, teacher, sem student, it all revolved around school. Not that our lives are going to be run by 3-year-old preschool, but suddenly the school schedule matters again. But, I digress...Benjamin has become such the little athlete. We play a LOT of baseball (laugh it up, Jacob!) with other sports mixed in. Jonathan took the boys to the park today, and they spent all of their time on the baseball field and tennis court. Forget the playground! (Paul, by the way, does a pretty good job of hitting a ball with a golf club or bat already. I'll have to get it on video!) Benjamin still loves to be read to, and has even "read" a book or two on his own. He has been very into his cars and trucks lately, which is nice. It keeps him occupied by himself for awhile. But his latest accomplishment I am most excited about is his first poop on the potty! Yes, most of you are laughing, but this is BIG! The boy has been peeing on the potty for six months now, and this is the first time we've seen #2. I can see a light at the end of the tunnel!

Anyway, just some bragging and updates on the boys! Hope you're having a good week!