Reaching for the Stars

We have recently learned never to leave one's bowl of cereal near the counter's edge. "Why?" you may ask? There is a toddler on the loose at the Wooderson household and he wants to explore everything...at all times...everyday...

His parents were quite impressed to see him actually reach light switches and make lay-ups (with a toddler-size basketball hoop) this week. The week before, Avery normally knocked the hoop down from standing position so that he could push the ball through the net while it was lying on the floor. Now, he prefers the hoop standing so that he can make a basket all by himself. We knew Avery's reach was growing, but are often suprised by how much in just a short amount of time. Meanwhile, his father, a basketball lover himself, stands by watching while pride radiates from his smile.

At the Park

After having a rainy/stormy week, yesterday's weather was about perfect. We decided to take a family trip to the park and see how Avery does playing on the "big kid" playground equipment. Avery was more interested in interacting with the parents and children than the slides and swings. He did seem to make a new friend, as you can see in the picture.

A few weeks ago we noticed a bottom left molar had cut through in Avery's mouth. Yesterday, we discovered the corresponding top left molar is now through too. That might explain why Avery has been napping much better and is not as clingy to his mommy. Keep those teeth coming kiddo!

Avery's latest interest is turning the lights on and off and dropping random objects in the kitchen sink. It must be getting more exciting for him now that he is taller and has access to many more interesting things. "Mr. Independent" wants to do everything for himself now. He has been able to climb up steps by himself for a week now. However, he still has trouble getting the coordination to climb down them. He still looks to his mommy for help with that.

Grandpa's visit

Grandpa came to visit Avery this past weekend and all of us had so much fun. Grandpa brought Avery a new wagon and we took several walks in it. He also took Avery on his first visit to the zoo in Springfield, MO. Avery seemed more interested in watching the people than the animals, however. We grilled porkburgers, played the Wii, ate at Braum's, went to the park, walked around an art exhibit downtown and had fun playing with the box the wagon came in. The last day Grandpa was here, he treated us to Subway. Much to his mommy's surprise, Avery showed Grandpa how he could drink through a juice box straw. After Grandpa left, we found out that he had taught Avery some new tricks. Most notably, the phrase "uh,...oohhh" to announce that he has or is about to do something naughty. He also puckers his lips to make the "ooohh" sound, such as "home" from his "10 Little Ladybugs" book. Thanks for the fun time, Grandpa!

Clint, Wee-clint, and the Wii

Here is a shot of Clint playing Wii baseball while Avery watches in fascination. Avery has also been fascinated this week every since he discovered his belly button.