Happy Birthday Ethan!!

It is absolutely crazy that a year has gone by since I first held that tiny BIG baby in my arms.  As I reflect on this past year, it truly is a whirlwind.  I look at pictures and almost can't remember that little guy because I'm so used to who he is now, but at the same time, it seems like only yesterday when Hannah would ask to hold him every morning on the couch.  It also seems like he hasn't changed much appearance wise  since about 6 months old.  It's definitely true that with your younger kids, you think of them as babies much longer!  He is a super happy little guy that eats well, sleeps well, plays well, and is very good at letting you know what he wants!  He smiles or excitedly grunts at everyone and everything he sees.  He goes crazy over dogs and gets so excited but nervous at the same time.  He feels the same way about the "dragon" outside of the grocery store that kids get to ride for a penny.  His favorite things to do are push toys around, or put any type of toy into any type of container and take it out again.  He dances to music, has a shy face, laughs, and gives you big crocodile tears if you tell him no.  He can climb up the stairs like a champ, but has not quite gotten the hang of coming down.  He wants to be every where his mama and sister are, and is crazy for his daddy.  He loves to be outdoors and can't stand when blinds are down or curtains are closed because he always wants to see outside.  He is still only standing, and has not gained the confidence or daringness to try to walk.  His favorite foods are apples/applesauce, bananas, cheese, potatoes, and raisins. He's not crazy about meat but will eat it.  Black beans are a staple protein around here!  He loves having licks of mommy and daddy's ice cream, and has now begun demanding a cookie when we pass them in the grocery store.  He is nursing 3 times a day but is losing interest.  He loves milk, so I think he will transition off of any nursings soon.  He's got a smile that could melt even the hardest heart and wins people over everywhere we go!!!

At 1 year our little man weighs 26 lbs and is 32 inches tall.  He is still in the 12-18 month size but is mostly wearing 18-24 month clothes.  He is such a little light in our house, and brings us so much joy!  At his baptism, Aunt Catherine gave him a little ceramic wall hanging that says "I thank God every time I think of you" which is from Philippians 1:3, and it is just so true!

I completely forgot the monthly sticker picture, but these first three pictures are of Ethan on his actual birthday.

And these following three pictures are of Ethan at the kids joint birthday party a few weeks later.