Homecoming Parade

Friday we went to the Homecoming parade in Michael's hometown. Let's face it, the only reason to go to a parade where you know no one is to make your kids happy. We came prepared with a bag to fill with candy. It was a beautiful day. No jackets needed. I am amazed by the amazing fall weather we are enjoying this year. I just can't get enough.

Simon was a little overwhelmed at first. The band was really loud when you were that close. He stayed close by me looking for reassurance. Once he figured out that candy was being thrown, he was so excited. Miriam remembered what to do from last year; look cute and wave then candy will be thrown right to you.

Simon couldn't wait to open some candy and have a taste. Even though it was a short little hometown parade, I think the kids had fun. We got plenty of candy.

 

Later that night we left the kids at home with Grandma. Michael and I went on a date in anticipation of his busy season. We had a nice time together. We are grateful that Michael's Mom is close enough to watch the kids every once in a while. Maybe we should take advantage more often!

at the doctor

Simon went in for his 18 month appointment today. He weighed in at 25 pounds (25-50%) and measured 34 inches (75-90%). No surprises. Typical for my children... tall and skinny. The doctor commented on his easy going personality. She said that it seems like I am doing a fine job, always nice to hear a compliment on my mothering skills.

Simon "officially" started nursery on Sunday. I say officially because he has been going full-time for about the past month (and on and off since we got home from Utah). Michael serves in nursery and with my calling keeping me busy each Sunday he has taken Simon in with him to help me out. Sunday was the first time I didn't feel guilty having him in there since he was officially eighteen months old. I asked Michael to snap some pictures of him on his first day of nursery. He said it was hard to get Simon to stand still because he was so excited to in and play. I guess we won't have a hard transition this time around.

I think I mentioned this in his 18 month post, but Simon loves to hide. Here is picture proof that he will find anywhere to hide.

mid-week outing to the farm

Apple Picking

eighteen months

Simon is eighteen months old today. We are so extremely blessed to have this little boy in our family. Everyday I find myself thanking my Heavenly Father for the wonderful, beautiful children he sent to us. Simon is a fun, playful little boy. He loves all things boy; cars, balls, airplanes, trains, etc. Simon is a talker. He is really great at communicating. I rarely find myself at a loss for what he is saying. If I don't understand, I tell him to show me and he will take me where he needs something.

Although Simon is the sweetest boy, he is starting to perfect the tantrum throwing. He is such a momma's boy and prefers me to everyone else. Sometimes his cuteness is hard to say no to.

Simon tantrum from Vanessa Bishop on Vimeo.

Some other fun things about Simon:

*He loves to hide. Especially if you are telling him to come get dressed or change his diaper. He will run and hide anywhere he can find.

*He loves Dora (which is so funny because Miriam loved Diego at his age).

*The first thing he says/signs in the morning is "hungry".

*Simon loves to help with the laundry. He pushes the baskets and put the clothes in the washer.

*He is actually really sensitive. He doesn't like to get in trouble or have his feelings hurt.

*The first thing he asks for in the car is "dance". Simon loves music. He is particularly a fan of "Call Me Maybe" by Carly Rae Jepsen and "Drive By" by Train.

Little Helpers

Yesterday I decided to make cookies with Miriam and Simon. Miriam has been asking about making cookies for a while now, so I decided to try making some oatmeal chocolate chip cookies. Simon has to be where ever Miriam is, so of course he climbed right up on the chair to help. Did you know that making cookies with two kids "helping" you takes two times longer? Making cookies after nap time probably wasn't the best idea because it cut into dinner time. It was a good thing Michael was working late and I had only planned to heat up leftovers.

I am pretty sure a lot of cookie dough was eaten.

I got the recipe off the oatmeal canister. Probably a bad idea. The first batch was way overdone due to instructions to cook for 15 minutes. I didn't even think, but this is way too long for a cookie. Anyway, I adjusted and I think they turned out okay... even if it took 2 hours to make them.