James at 18 Months

James at 18 Months: May 30th 2014

James is a whole year and a half old (and has been for a month now actually) can you believe it! I personally am not sure that I can. James however, has no problem believing this whatsoever and thinks that he should be allowed to do everything himself and decide all of his activities on his own thankyouverymuch.

As of the 18 month mark James could say about 25 words and knew 10 different animal sounds. James loves his water table and the park as well as taking Pippin on walks around the block (to go on longer walks where James is required to sit in the strolled he usually requires a bribe). He also adores his books, balls, puzzle, blocks, and his toy cars and trucks - those are his go to toys, but he can play with just about anything if given the chance. He has recently been more interested in coloring - especially since he got a little James sized table that he can sit at and draw. James does not like having to take a nap (though he usually settles down really quickly once he's in his crib), having his diaper changed, or not being able to "help".

As mentioned above, James has become more and more independent. Don't misunderstand, he still wants someone to sit and actively play with him, but now he knows what he wants to play with and how long he wants to play with it - no more easily redirecting him to a new activity.

James is a sweetheart who gives lots of hugs and kisses, but that adorableness is tempered by the messes he makes and the tantrums he throws when he doesn't get to play with knives or whatever other fun activity he is excluded from.

As you can see below James is also not as keen on his little growing up photo-shoots anymore, or at least not as interested in actually sitting still long enough for a picture. He would much rather ...

play with his monster ...

 put his monster on his head ...

rescue his monster from Pippin ...

run screaming with his monster ...

give his monster kisses ...

or just be adorable while not looking at the camera.

Perfect model or not, we sure love this adorable little toddler!