3 years, 9 months & 1 year, 6 months

Mom and Dad figured it out this month by giving us a fun photo location: My mattress on the floor. We sat still and even smiled!

John's communication skills have taken a leap this month. He repeats many words and uses his sign language quite a bit. Favorite words this month: Bye bye, thank you and foul ball. The foul ball words are typically said along with hand motions like a baseball umpire.

He does (or tries to do) everything I do. That cannot be understated. He's like a shadow and I'm often able to help Mom and Dad keep him occupied by asking him to come play with me. Unfortunately, there are a few big kid activities that I like to do and John doesn't understand why he is excluded (Play Doh and games with small parts, for example).

He loves to play with (or on) Keillor. Several times this past month we've turned around to see John sitting on him. It won't be long until John figures out how to ride him like a pony. 

John has also discovered a taste for dog food and treats. He loves to help feed Keillor in the mornings, but recently he's tried to sneak a piece or two for himself. When we leave for school each morning it's John's job to give Keillor two small treats. Most mornings he gives Keillor the first one and then tries to sneak the second one for himself.

My physical activity has made some advancements this month, as well. I asked to go straight to the playground after school on Monday and Dad thought that sounded fun. While he occupied John, I did about 15 trips down the slide on my own. In the recent past, I've always waited for a parent to meet me at the bottom of the slide. No help needed any longer! And I love to run. After putting my shoes on each morning, I like to take a few laps around the house. Same thing when I get to school (as long as the hallway is empty!). 

I am very excited for the Olympics and at least once a day I ask Dad if it's August yet. I'm most interested in watching the diving!

Monthly questions: 

Favorite sports team: Badgers

Favorite Twins player: Joe Mauer

Favorite dessert: Apple pie

Best friend: Reese (who moved to California last month)

John's best friend: Keillor

Favorite letter: T

Favorite book: The Book With No Pictures (by B.J. Novak)

Favorite lunch at home: Peanut butter tortilla

Favorite lunch at school: Sack lunch (a special treat on Fridays in the summer)