newest tricks & 18 months

This week has been great - Ryan has two new tricks that he loves to show off any time he can.

First, he has learned to say "hi." It's awesome. The first time I really noticed it was Tuesday afternoon when I was holding him and we walked by a mirror. He glanced over, saw our reflections, and "hi!" And it's taken off from there. "Hi" to everyone he sees now. It's super cute. Friday was his 18 month checkup and he said "hi" to all the nurses, the other kids, and the doctor too. I love this age; he is so much fun!

The second favorite phase of the week is holding hands. He will grab onto any available finger and walk / drag you all around. He pulls us to the fridge, to the backdoor (he loves the outside, we are ready for the rain to be done so he can play!), and sometimes simply in circles.

Ryan had his 18 month checkup on Friday. The doctor said he's doing great. He's 24 lbs 6 oz, 32.5 inches tall, and his head is still huge - 19.75 inches (96%). He doesn't say quite as many words as he should, but the doctor wasn't worried at all. Ryan impressed her with all his babble, and she said since he's so active and progressing well in general, all's good. She said some babies are more physical first and talk later. And Ryan is certainly an energetic little guy. And of course they all thought he was adorable - probably helps that Coleson had dressed him in the nicest outfit he owns complete with a sweater vest! :)