Discovering Things

There's no denying that we have a quick learner on our hands. He doesn't easily forget things (such as a toy purchased but not given right away), and he seems to pick up on how things work faster than we'd sometimes like. 

As most kids his age are doing, he's also busy discovering. Yesterday Oliver discovered that he can put things in his pocket (there goes easy laundry sorting!). Today he discovered climbing things, such as our baker's rack in the kitchen and our door with slats in the top. Uh oh!

In other news, I am incredibly happy that our temps are above zero and the sun is setting later each day. I hope the large tunnel leading to our house melts soon!

Now for a couple of photos:

He loves licking the beater. He kept going after it tongue first. He's a good helper in the kitchen, too!

Enjoying an afternoon ice cream treat. This boy loves ice cream -- and takes huge bites! So cute. 

Busy Busy!

Things here are busy, as expected. Between Oliver, adoption paperwork and appointments, and everyday life we've been all-consumed lately. Oliver is still doing well and the attachment continues to progress. We are still have major struggles with his sleep schedule and his aggression (mostly toward me, which I am struggling with quite a bit). Other things are getting easier or better. 

This week we have a dentist appointment and a well child exam, so hopefully he doesn't hate me by the end of Friday!

Oliver has a great imagination, lots of "phone calls" during the day, enjoys crashing/destroying everything he can , and LOVES kimchi! Some of his favorite English words right now include: bubbles, tickle tickle, wheel, pizza and oh no. He also likes his play vacuum and play cart. 

I've also gotten unasked for hugs and kisses. Amazing!

Here are a few recent pictures. Better get back to the play-doh!

Yes, that's what happens while mom does dishes. Nearly a full box of lotion Kleenex under that cute chin. 

Multi tasking!

Creative way to get a little pre-lunch drumming in. 

A Day Away

Today I spent about 7 hours away from home to attend a family baby shower for Tony's cousin. Since taking custody just over three weeks ago, that is the longest I have been away (even overnight, since I've gotten up at least once with Oliver each night). Honestly, the time away was nice but a little too long! I really missed my guys. While I was away, Tony sent me these pictures -- and in this order:

The shower was great and I had a terrific time catching up with everyone. While I was out, one of our small group friends came by with two of her kids for a quick visit (I hear Oliver got a little overly friendly, so I hope he didn't scare them off), and blessed us with treats and a couple fun gifts for the little guy. 

When I got home a good friend of mine stopped by to bring us meals, treats, gifts and a chance to catch up. Since she left, Oliver has been very attached to the play tool set their family gave him! He is "fixing" all sorts of things. So cute! Here he is opening his pretend food with his pretend pliers. 

Now if he would just go to bed before midnight...

His First Library Card!

This morning Oliver and I visited our local library. He enjoyed checking out the kids computers more than the kids books, of course. This kid loves all screens, electronics, remotes and buttons. Before we left the library we got Oliver his very own library card! We didn't check anything out today as we still have books here that he hasn't read. I would have snapped a photo but he wouldn't stay still or listen, so we just headed out to the grocery store for our second stop. 

Oliver does pretty well in a cart, so the store visit was pretty fun. This afternoon a gift arrived for him from one of Tony's friends, and Oliver has clearly learned how to open presents. He oohed and aahed at each item, and all three have been played with this afternoon. Here is a photo of him opening a Lego pull cart, checking it out (he's making zoom noises!), opening the book and then the puzzle.  

In General Tony and I are feeling absolutely blessed by our friends and family. I don't think we've eaten this well in a long time -- everyone keeps brining us delicious meals! With no chance to work out (we still can't get Oliver on any kind o schedule), and all of the yummy food, I'm glad I can wear stretchy pants a home! LOL. 

And Oliver has been given so many thoughtful and fun gifts. Yesterday we went to he local korean restaurant (he really enjoyed the meal) and then the korean market, so he's also stocked with a few of his favorite snacks. Things here continue to progress, and I'm even going to try to make it to book club tonight. Life here is crazy, but I think we are getting the hang of it a little!