Stand

R.E.M. has a song called "Stand" that was recorded years ago, but it played all through my head today as my sweet Tyler celebrated his 8th month in the world. I can hardly believe eight months have gone by...

All of Ty's new tricks and all his new-found mobility have made for some interesting adventures around here lately: unplugging a lamp and replugging it in his mouth, dumping an entire bowl of water on the kitchen floor (not the dog's bowl), pushing a standing fan to a grounded position, attempting to leap/flip off the changing table, trying to scale the walls of the bathtub, having an all-out raging fit when something is taken from him or he is told "no," and I could go on and on.

Today, Tyler spent the majority of his time showing me how very little fun his toys are and how exciting it was to pull up on things all over the house. Had I not been within two feet, he would have pulled a bookshelf on top of himself this afternoon. I tell you, I live in a constant panic these days. Boys are just boys, I suppose.

Here's a look at what he's mastered in the last 24 hours:

In his original outfit of the day (we were supposed to go to Little Gym, so he was ready for tumbling), he learned to pull up behind his chair in the kitchen. He then learned to push the chair back and forth so it would squeak on the tile...like nails on a chalkboard.

This outfit lasted until the bowl of water was dumped on the floor and began spreading throughout the kitchen. At that point, I decided Little Gym was a lost cause, and I changed his soaking wet clothes.

Tyler's second successful pull-up of the day came at the t.v. table. I can't say I'm surprised. He gets a better view of Blue's Clues that way.

Then, he began to wonder how he would get down.

He decided to ease on one knee and then lean back into a sitting position.

Once sitting, he decided that sitting was way over-rated these days. All the cool kids stand.

So, he began his quest again.

The t.v. standing and sitting routine went on for about 30 minutes. There was no need for the television; Tyler was all the entertainment I could handle.

When Micah came over for a visit this evening, Tyler became very interested in Micah's stuffed gorilla, so he pulled up on his toy box for a better view.

In short, it's clear that my son has an adventurous spirit. I'm never going to allow him to drive.

Happy 8 months, Baby Ty! I sure do adore you, and, while you are running me a little ragged these days, I wouldn't trade a second with you for all the world. It's hard to fathom that we'll be celebrating your first birthday in just four months. Wow! I guess calling you "Baby Ty" is about to be out of the question...

Nah, you'll always be my "Baby Ty." I love you!