Wednesday, April 25, 2007

Hard-Headed Kid

Dear Samuel,

You didn't go through any real biting phase, but you have discovered the used of your head as a weapon. Last night you head-butted me on my cheekbone and made me cry. You've also injured your dad's nose and chest as well as injuring your own nose on his shoulderblade. All in all, you are a total boy and tough as anything. We are very proud of you and all the new words you are learning, like "more" and "doo dow". The last word is Chinese for throw away, and you love to help us throw away your diapers. You'll even crumple up clean ones to throw away. Now only if we can get you to say "Larry".

Love,
Mom

Monday, April 23, 2007

Tickles and Trucks

Dear Samuel,

Today was a special day to me. We went on a normal evening walk, but halfway around your Mommy found a long grass weed that has a wheat-looking head on the end. We pulled several out of the ground and started poking each other. The were very tickly on the end, so we poked your neck and ears and made you squinch up to protect yourself. You had this cute little smile on your face, and we all had a wonderful evening. Daddy is learning to enjoy this journey and the simple daily time with you better, but tonight it was easy to do.

Seems like your favorite thing to do these days is play in the truck. About 6 weeks ago when it was still pretty cold out 1 night, you started putting all your clothes on and bringing your shoes over for me to put on. Since you couldn't talk, I put your shoes on to see what you were up to. You went over and tried to grab the front door, indicating that you wanted me to open it for you. Then you grabbed me by the hand, led me down the stairs, into the parking lot, and next thing I knew, we were standing beside the truck and you were begging to get in. Since that night your favorite afternoon past time is to go hang out in the truck with the radio on, pushing every button you can find in the front seats. I just put on the emergency brake and lay the seat back to rest while you play. You have proven that there is a gene in the Hawkins family for the love of automobiles. It's scary. I keep seeing more of myself in you everyday, and it is a little frightening to realize what I must have been like for my parents to raise.