We're Having a Ball: 16 Months

Noah is now 16 months old...going on 16 years! He is far too grown up! Being a second child, he is exposed to things (from sugary sweets to adventurous outings) so much earlier than O was. His level of comprehension concerning whatever we are doing at the moment amazes me! For example, we were on a walk yesterday when I pointed out a fuzzy caterpillar to O. Noah casually glanced over to see what we were examining and then spent the next few minutes hunting for caterpillars of his own, coming across quite a few, bringing them to our attention as we walked.

Scooter easily follows two-step commands (when he is in the mood!) and communicates well through signs and grunting. He did learn two words this month: "goggie" (doggie, which is rather odd since we at The House of Halpin usually refer to our four-footed friends as "puppies") and "tee" ("tree"). He says both with great volume and enthusiasm, which I am learning is how No-nos lives life: loudly and enthusiastically.

This past month has been a month of terrible teething for poor Nosy. He has only managed to pop through one more tooth (grand total is now 7), but a few more are on the verge. He has had such a miserable time with his tiny pearly whites. The whole process results in great angst, many tears, and sleepless nights for everyone. Poor Guy!

Noah has two great passions in life: "goggies" or any other kind of animal and balls. The Boy loves animals and will squeal, bounce up and down, yelp, point with such vigor that I am worried his arm will become dislocated, and sometimes be moved to actual tears at the sight of any furry friend. Even mice and a hairy tarantula at the museum evoke such strong ardor. As for balls, his habit of late has been to attach himself to his ball of choice first thing in the morning and love, love that ball all day long, to the point of requiring its presence with him at all times: in his crib, in the car, etc. Oddly, the most favored ball is different nearly every day. If, at any time, a family member is found to be sitting on the floor, Noah takes that as an open invitation to play roll the ball, throw the ball or kick the ball. His ball skills are quickly becoming sharpened! He can throw a mean fast ball, kick a rolling ball, make a soccer goal requiring multiple kicks, and play hockey with a golf club. Interestingly, he appears to be a lefty like his Daddy!

How are the fits progressing, you may be wondering. Well, let me tell you: Noah is definitely perseverant. Most fits involve clothes/diaper changing or being strapped into the car seat, at which points there is much screaming, flailing, and stiffening. Thankfully, Noah responds quickly to discipline. He may still cry, but he reluctantly cooperates.

Something most entertaining that has evolved this month: Noah mimics O in sound and deed. It is hilarious to watch them play, Owie going about his important business, No-nos tagging along, copying motions and sounds. If Owie notices, he will stop what he is doing to play a little game of follow the leader with Nosy. A favorite is always the high pitched squealing that increases in volume as the game progresses, usually accompanied by a crazy, gyrating dance. It really is quite lovely and calming to Mommy's nerves.

Nosy-Posy, we are having a ball with you! You are growing up so super-fast, and I miss Baby Noah already. But Toddler Noah is even more fun, crazier, brighter and more delightful than I ever would have thought possible. You bless me immeasurably, Son.