Minature Sand Box

After seeing this cool little sandbox by Step 2

I had an idea to make my own cheaper version for Jack. I went to Wal-Mart and bought a shallow Rubbermaid container and filled it with colored play sand. Here's the result:

Jack played in it this evening. Believe it or not, he can actually sit in it. Other than sand in his diaper, he had a good time. I was a bit paranoid at first about him getting sand in his eyes, but then I realized babies all over this world play in the dirt (some even live in dirt floor houses) and they all end up okay. However, I did keep a cup of water handy and brushed off his hands when they became a little too caked with sand for my liking. It was awesome to see him exploring this new texture. He kept grabbing handfuls of sand and watching them slip slowly through his fingers. I'll try to get footage soon.

P.S. I'm also looking for a used cozy coupe and/or push around buggy. If you see one at a consignment shop or garage sale, let me know. I've had no luck on Craigslist lately.

I'm Walkin', Yes Indeed!

Funny Face!

We had my father's 60th birthday dinner at a local steakhouse on Wednesday night. The evening was great. There are 27 people in my immediate family and one on the way. (A new baby niece if you're wondering) All but two made it to dinner. Jack's three year old cousin kept him entertained. She was making faces, and he was cracking up. It was hilarious. I'm so glad he has all these cousins to keep him happy.

Little Golden Books

I've started a new list on the sidebar for Jack's Little Golden Books collection. I thought it would be fun to keep up with. I know he won't be able to look at them without destroying their delicate (cheap) framework for quite some time. I just remember how much I loved the few little golden books I had and would love for him to have a nice little collection by the time he starts reading on his own. I'm really interested in the Classic Series. I love the quality of the illustrations. The super cool thing is Half Price Books sells them for a dollar! Let me know if you had any favorites I just have to find for him!

Too Cute

Jack had his cousin over to play on Wednesday this week. They are ten months apart. Jack loves him so much. He wants to do everything his big boy cousin is doing. We recently brought home a little tikes climber that had been at my mother's. Jack is really wanting to play outside more. Jack's cousin is so sweet and patient with him, which is remarkable for a two-year old. He likes to mimic his big brothers and pat Jack on the head. I was pushing Jack in the swing, and he decided he would help.

Balloon Festival

We went to a local balloon festival last night. Jack had a great time watching the balloon glow and the fireworks. He sat on the blanket, played with his toys, and ate some snacks. Although we got there a bit late and didn't get to see the actual balloon take off, I couldn't have asked for a better behaved boy and a nicer night. Jack and the balloons. We took a picture of the dragon balloon just for Jack's buddy Will.
The balloon glow. Jack was mesmerized.
Jack and his shiny little head watching the fireworks. Again, mesmerized.

It's a start...

First, I have to share that I had my first "Don't eat that bug!" experience. Jack was making a disgusted face and right when I came over to him he spit out a beetle. Thank goodness it wasn't a spider or a biting insect. Don't worry; it wasn't alive (if that makes it better for anyone). I'm glad he didn't enjoy it. Maybe that will keep him from eating more in the future. I somehow doubt it.

Now for more exciting (and less disgusting) news. Jack really hasn't shown much interest in walking. He wants us to do the "hold my hands and walk with me" bit, but he hasn't mustered the courage to do anything on his own. Until today! He walked a few steps to me from the couch. He only was up to doing it a few times. Then he was on to bigger and better things like playing ball with Daddy. I feel like tonight was the breaking point, and he'll be practicing a little more each day from now on.

To me walking represents this dividing line that separates babies from toddlers. I think I'm ready for the change. I'm sure going to miss my little crawler, but I know walking will bring us more adventures. After all, this is Jack we're talking about.

I Just Had To Post This!

Kitty!

Our big, fat cat is too lazy to run away from Jack, so she pretty much lets him beat her up.

Super Why?

Yesterday, Jack and I were in the master bath. He was taking everything out of my bubble bath basket by the tub. He loves being in our room, because I don't let him in there much. For those who know me well, I'm a horrible house keeper, and for Jack's safety certain parts of the house are off limits for now. Well, Jack heard Super Why playing all the on way living room television, and he took off. I couldn't help taking some pictures. Jack has been in love with this show since he was about three months old. I think it's the characters' big, googly eyes. Oh well, if he has to be in love with a television show, I'm glad he chose one about reading. :) The hubby thinks I should come up with a Super Why costume for Halloween. I'm torn; I think I want him to be something fuzzy and round while he's still little. We'll see. Anyway, here's the footage I took of him and a youtube video for those of you unfamiliar with Super Why.

Monster Baby

Jack exchanged growls with Daddy last night for at least ten minutes.