December, Christmas, Year in Review

(Mom's note: I think this picture really captures how Christmas was for him. He was careful but curious, awestruck and excited, and every experience was hands-on!)

Today's post will be written by Mama because Will is too busy eating "Bird Cereal" (Fruit Loops) and watching "Little Einsteins." My how my little boy has grown! I watched our video tape from last Christmas and I suddenly appreciated the many things he has learned or grown into this year. He is taller & more muscular now. He still has a "baby belly" but it is smaller. :) His eyes are wide with discovery & confidence. He can recite several books, has precious routines and has picked up some cute mannerisms. He enjoys saying prayers and if I leave someone out he will make sure we "goh bless" them. And sometimes I think that certain people must need the honest prayers of a little child because every so often he won't let someone go with one "goh bless." It's over and over and over again: "Goh Bless Great Papa U?" Yes, God bless Grandpa U. "Goh Bless Gramma U?" Yes, God bless Grandma U. "Goh bless Great Papa U?" Yes..... Sometimes it's Aunt Manders, or TyTy. Sometimes it's Daddy. He gives everyone a kiss on the cheek if he asked or at bedtime. The other night we had finished our bedtime routine but I wasn't quite ready to go. He looked at me & said "go house, Mama." Do you want me to go? "Yes, ni'night Mama!"

He had a wonderful Christmas. He thought all presents were for him, but if they weren't for him, he would bring it to you and help you unwrap it. A few things have been a big hit: "Bob the Builder" DVD, John Deere cell phone, the Canyon Road Table (above) and Baby Einstein Puppets. A lot of other things he has been enjoying (books, coloring books, cars, bath toys, stuffed animals) and all the clothes fit pretty well. Only 1 thing was a 4T but I think I will just save it because he'll wear that size next fall!

He slept in a regular twin-size bed at my parents and fell out one night. After that we put a rail on and he was fine. Actually he seemed to sleep better & longer than he does at home. That's all I can handle writing right now... Happy New Year Buddy Will!