16 months

Last week, Zach hit the 16 month mark. His first years are flying by us. Each day, more of his personality shines through. Lately, this personality seems to be very much on the "do it myself or not at all" kick. He is very, VERY opinionated. He also really hates to be told what to do anymore... I knew that was coming, but so soon? We fight about going down for naps or bedtime, we fight about hitting the dog, or climbing on the dog, or pulling on the dog (or cats), or feeding the dog our dinner.... like I said, he's very opinionated.

Teeth have been our other big issue lately. Zach is currently cutting no less than 6 teeth (but it might be 8!), four of which are molars, and they sure are taking their sweet time. He doesn't let me feel his teeth very often, but occasionally I get a finger in there to check. Each time I feel one more corner of a molar, but those teeth are SLOW.

New words include banana (nah-nana), candy (nan-nee), please (eeeeeese, which is also coupled with the sign for please), and that. Please has become kind of a thorn in Mommy and Daddy's sides, since he usually assumes that whatever he's asking for he will get no matter what, as long as he says please. If we say no, for any reason, it's usually met with a longer, louder please, with a more vigorous sign motion too. We have to work on that.

Walking is a no-brainer anymore and we constantly get compliments about how sure he is of his footing. Going up and down stairs have gotten far easier too, as long as there is something or someone to hold onto. He has also discovered walking backwards and on tippie-toes.



The picture above is from our trip to Cincinnati to meet some of Zach's favorite television characters, Barney and Chica the chicken from the Sprout channel. Zach liked petting Barney and holding his hand (which of course he stopped doing for the picture!), and he was in awe of Chica, which was adorable. Mommy was a little starstruck with Sean (one of the morning show hosts), sad to say! It was fun and Zach had a blast seeing his favorite TV pals in person. Here's a picture of him with Sean and Chica...