An update at 17 months

It has been a good, long while since I actually posted on update on the blog. Apparently, today is the day that streak ends. I had hoped to post a family picture today - celebrating Owen's 17 month "birthday"... but we all got too busy and never got around to taking a picture.

So, here's a bit of an update - in no particular order:

* Owen is growing into an adventurous young boy. He would spend every moment of the day (and probably the night too since he really never does want to sleep) outside. He loves playing with balls and sticks. He also loves playing with Rocco. Sometimes the two clash a bit when they both want the ball, but Rocco is gentle and gracious with Owen (although sometimes he may inadvertently knock Owen down... Owen usually doesn’t care since that means he probably got the ball).

* Owen's love of the outdoors and spirit of adventure leave him with many bumps, bruises and skinned knees... and a pretty good tan. Just the other day, he gave himself a good black and blue on his chin after sliding down the slide on him tummy and then crashing at the bottom. Oh but for the thrill of the slide, he got up, brushed himself off and went back down again.

* The four of us (me, Scott, Owen and Rocco) have been exploring the parks of NoVA. Every Sunday we go to a different park and explore what there is to be had in this area. We have been to quite a few places now - some better than others. We had been taking the jogging stroller, but last week tried the hiking backpack. I think we'll try the backpack again next week and try to work that out. (Also, Father's Day may bring some other options for our weekly field trips. Tune in later for more...)

* Owen has outwitted most of our childproofing. He has mastered all the stairs so the gates are useless. He hasn't quite figured out the drawer latches, but just loves to get into the drawers and "rearrange" things.

* Owen eats well - and often. He has become quite the "grazer" - wanting to snack throughout the day. He still loves beans the most and is becoming a bit more accepting of poultry. He also loves cheese and spinach. Of course, he loves nothing more than some momma's milk, although I am sure that is just for comfort, not so much nutrition.

* Owen still has quite a hard time sleeping. He typically wakes 1-2 times a night, but usually gets himself back to sleep. He wakes up around 6am most days and then wants to come and nurse in bed with Momma for another hour (although, the other day he did that and we both wound up sleeping until 10 am!). Apparently his sleep "disorder" is directly linked to my proximity. I had to go away the other night for business and that night he slept soundly through the night for his Dad.

* He is starting to communicate with us. When he is hungry he opens his mouth and points at his tongue. If you ask him if he is hungry or thirsty, he'll answer that way too. He also will take your finger and lead you to wherever he wants to go. Sometimes it is just to walk around and see things, but most of the time he has a specific goal and will take you there. Feeling him hold your finger is so precious that you'll go anywhere he takes you.

* The very best development is that Owen gives us hugs. Without a doubt in my mind, the very best feeling in the whole world is when he wraps his arms around me and nuzzles his head into my neck. I could just melt away right then and I would feel completely satisfied (although missing him and more opportunities to hug).

I am sure there is so much more I can say about the O-man. He makes us very happy - even on the tired days. We are looking forward to seeing his grow more and more every day.