17 Months and Growing Up Fast

David is definitely not a baby anymore. He has entered full on toddler mode and things are pretty much David's way or the highway. It's not all bad; he is so adorable and mostly sweet but he does like things his way. He has smacked Drew a few times recently which has earned him a couple of time outs. Drew doesn't mind David's light smacks and usually laughs. The funny thing is I think David's new attitude has calmed Drew down a bit. I have rarely seen Drew bully David recently. Go David! David knows what he wants to eat and drink and will make it clear by climbing the fridge shelves or pounding the pantry door. He says "All done." and puts his hands out palms up when he's finished eating. He loves to put things away and distribute loveys, drinks and other items to each of us. It's so cute to watch him find Drew's cup, shoe or platty and immediately find Drew and deliver it with a grin. Drew is always thankful and kisses David sweetly on the head while saying, "Mom, watch how soft I kiss David." It's been 17 months and looks like that request may finally be sinking in with Drew. Just in time for David to get rough and rowdy! He loves to climb, tumble, tickle and get loud. He was "talking" so loudly at a birthday party on Sunday that George and I looked at each other and busted out laughing with the "Yeah, that's my kid." look on our faces. All of the adults were chatting while the kids were playing and all of a sudden David just started rambling. The loud sounds were flying out of his mouth and it was obvious he had something important to say although I have no idea what it was. I mentioned in the Christmas blog that Drew got a few Nerf guns. David is all over that game! Drew and I planned to attack George when he got home the other day and while we were discussing where to hide, David caught on and quickly settled into a great spot (gun in hand). He doesn't miss a beat and loves to imitate! He cleans if I'm cleaning, brushes his teeth when I brush mine, washes his hands every time Drew does and knows Bailey's routine so well that I am positive he could care for her all by himself. Here's some recent pictures of our little guy.

First time out. So pitiful. Sweet Drew joined him moments later because he said he was sad for David.

David loves hanging out in Bailey's bed.

Bailey attacks him with kisses!

This cracked Cristie and I up. Drew and Whitley were watching a Tumblebook online. David didn't want to be left out so he pushed a kitchen chair over to the computer desk and climbed up to join them.

He will sit still long enough to watch some TV! I'm sure it's terrible to be happy about that but sometimes you just need a little TV time for the kiddos. The boys and I were watching Star Wars in this picture. Drew is blocking his face with the DVD case. He has to hold the case for movies while he watches them.

There he is! He was trying to sneak up the stairs but paused long enough for a quick pic.