Brighton hits 18 months and Daddy hits...

...348 months (you might need to double check the English major's math!) Last Wednesday we celebrated Jon's birthday with a homemade banner, balloons, wine, and a delicious Italian meal. The kids had a good time waiting for Daddy to get home from work, so he could see all of the surprises we had prepared for him. I spent quite a bit of outside time with them that day, so they wouldn't mess up the clean house! Although our back yard is very small, we have a good-sized side yard and a nice, shaded front yard. There was an old playhouse in the side yard, and Jon spent hours fixing it up, so that both kids can climb safely. He even added a little climbing wall for Will and extra steps for Brighton. They both love it, and it is a true testament to how much Jon loves his kids. He is a great Daddy, and we are happy to celebrate him!!!

We are also celebrating our little girl turning 18 months today. Brighton is the most hilarious little girl I have ever met. She is talking very well and never utters a word without a big helping of attitude. She bosses her brother, the dog, Daddy and even Mommy! She also gets into her fair share of trouble now too. I realize sometimes that I am not as hard on her as I was with Will because I still think of her as such a baby. She's such a big girl now though, and I can tell she understands so much more than I giver her credit for. Brighton is already exhibiting a Mommy's little helper personality. She wants to clean, feed her baby, cook, wipe herself, feed herself (I have given up trying to hold the spoon), and even put herself down for a nap. I think if she could climb into her bed by herself she would. She loves to grab the phone and have conversations with her Grandma and Nana. And she has become quite the computer hog while Skyping. Brighton is very affectionate and loves to hug, kiss, and snuggle with all of us. She is especially sweet with "Woool" (her word for Will). We are happy to have such a beautiful 18-month-old girl!