Troublemaker Deluxe!

So, I'll disclose right off the bat that I don't have any pictures to post today. But, I wanted to write a couple of things down before I forget. I'm getting too old to stash things in a mental file for later....no worky no more.

BUT, I will get some pics and video this weekend because there are a few things I have to capture. But, I'll wait to tell you about those things when they can be accompanied by picture/video proof!

Nolan is becoming quite the little devious one. I think I've previously written about his obsession with throwing clothes and other items either in the bathtub or the trash can. Obviously, the bathtub is a bit more convenient for the removal process. His newest trick is hiding his food. He's never been a big eater, but periodically he gobbles up food like a champ. So, we keep giving him more. Then, come time for us to clean up, we find half of his food shoved underneath the removable top tray on his high chair. What?? Why would the kid keep begging for more food if he's just going to hide it? I don't get it. But, I'm sure it makes perfect sense to a 16 month old baby.

The cutest thing ever is his expanding vocabulary. Now, I admit, it's expanding much more slowly than I expected or would like. I looked back at Bailey's baby book and I have documented that she said 75 words at 16 months. At 18 months, she said phrases like "more milk" or "daddy's cup." Weeeeeeelll, that's not the case with little Nolan. BUT.....he has started saying "uh oh" when he drops things or, well, when he gets a reaction out of us. What's funny about it is that the "uh" is super high pitched, and the "oh" is super low pitched. It sounds so funny and cute.

He also now says "bubbles" (in the bathtub) and his "thank you" has gotten a bit more clear. Most of the time, however, he still relies on pointing and pushing us when he wants something or to go somewhere. I think I've worn out the "Use your words" line over the past month.

Finally, we're a bit worried about him becoming a hitter. He loves to hit us....not hard, but definitely more than a gentle pat. He thinks it's funny. Thus far he's never hit anyone outside of the family, but I'm sure it won't be long if we don't nip it in the bud. We have been careful not to inadvertently encourage the behavior and always stop what's going on, get down on his level, and say, "NO hitting." Sometimes, however, he hits me in the face when I'm admonishing him for hitting. Sigh. That's when I spank his butt. That's the irony of all parenting if you ask me. Believe me, I'm a proponent of spanking. But, spanking to punish hitting seems a little counterintuitive. We'll see.....like other things, I suspect the hitting is sure to be a short-lived phase. At least he's not a biter, right?!

Gotta go....check back for pics.