so what about mason?

i feel like i don't post enough about mason because he is usually just along for a ride in his stroller. so here is a post about what's been going on with him.

- is walking almost 100% of the time now. he doesn't just crawl when he falls either; he just gets right back up. even when he had a growth spurt last week and suddenly couldn't keep his balance. he fell almost every other step, but he would not go back to crawling.

- he has started climbing up more and more. i still wouldn't call him a "climber" - especially given how much madelyn climbed at his age. but he steps up on low items and managed to get into the laundry basket to recline and watch me load the washer.

- got his upper, left eyetooth on june 23. there are several teeth giving him trouble on his top jaw. i was really glad to see one finally break through and give him a little relief.

- he is getting good at following commands like, "bring it to mommy", "put it in the trash can", and "go get..."

- mason instinctively sits "criss-cross, applesauce" (that is what they call it here now that the old-school, politically incorrect "indian style" is no longer acceptable) when he sits down. it is so cute!

- he tries to use his fork at meals. he hasn't quite figured it out yet but he enjoys trying every much.

- he can now turn and open some of the door knobs in the house.

- mason seems to have a sixth sense about outside doors being open and toilets being accessible. he just comes a running whenever he senses an opportunity.

- there is not a thirstier boy around! this kid drinks more fluids than any child i have ever seen and it doesn't result in wet diapers either. he must get it from me because i am always dehydrated. but it still blows me away. he is constantly bringing me his empty water cup. just like with madelyn i leave his water cup on the table all day so that he can help himself when he gets thirsty and he can often be found making a bee-line for the table.

- he is definitely a dancer! madelyn liked a good beat, but mason stops to bust a move at any hint of music. even if it is just madelyn and i singing.

- tossing balls has become a common occurrence without any encouragement from us. in fact, i am trying to teach him not to throw things in the house.

- he knows the names of all the rooms in the house and can go wherever we instruct him without assistance (as long as the door is open for him)

- suddenly he is sleeping until 7:30am in the morning and it has been heaven! especially because madelyn is sleeping that late or later! if only matt and i could sleep in too...

i know that there is more but this covers the notes i had. and i will try to get more video and pictures of him soon. love.