Cupie Doll, Corkscrew and Mister Man

At some point, I expect we will finally accept Jack's constant state of change as the simple reality of life, but in the meantime, we are regularly surprised and impressed by our little guy. As you know, Jen's "Cupie," as she endearingly refers to Jack, turned on the social charm just in time for Christmas. Lately, he's been working on bursts of babbling. This is entertaining stuff, especially when he slows down long enough to throw a "Ma Ma" out there with just enough of a pause to melt Jen's heart.

My "Corkscrew" has always preferred facing out when he is carried, but now that he's becoming aware of his limbs, he actively pushes and twists his way around rather than simply fussing about being held inward.

This past Sunday was a social day for "Mister Man" (another popular nickname). Josh and Jenn brought Austin in for breakfast down at Mancini's-- a lovely walk to and fro and great grub. Austin and Jack hadn't seen each other since December, but they picked it up just like old times. You know, old times-- like when they were 5 months old.

That same evening, neighbors Jeff & Kathleen brought Ellie over for dinner. Another 6 month old, Ellie is already very athletic and is rocking back-and-forth on her hands and knees. Meanwhile, Jack showed off his block-building skills. (Dad helped a little.)

We're lucky to have so many friends with young ones. It gives us the chance to commisserate about the challenges of parenthood and celebrate the small triumphs that, quite frankly, would bore the socks off anybody who wasn't in "new parent" mode.