Patrick at 2.5

Somehow (yes, this is cliche), Patrick is 2 and a half. It's so funny to have Patrick as the baby of the family because when Graham was 2.5, Patrick was already 9 months old!

Graham at 2.5 and Patrick at 9 months:

What better day to talk about Patrick than St. Patrick's Day! (Yes, we named him after St. Patrick, missionary to Ireland). We still lovingly call him Patch most of the time.

Having Graham in preschool has allowed to me to spend extra time alone with Patrick. He's such a smart kid. At 2.5, Patrick is speaking in full sentences. He's sleeping in a toddler bed very well at night, although he's unfortunately forfeited naptime since we took his binkie away a few weeks ago. It was time for him to give it up, but I think he planned his revenge in giving up naps. (He still naps sometimes, especially when we're in the car).  Patrick is our carnivore (as Graham is our vegetarian) and eats some fruits and veggies well, but he has gotten pickier in the past months. And I wouldn't be writing an honest post if I didn't also mention that 2.5 had brought on those extra whines and grumpiness that 2 year old seem to enjoy :)

Patrick's ability to occupy himself in pretend, independent play amazes me. He will happily play "trash truck," do puzzles, mow the lawn, or play with his kitchen without prompting from me. I know it's not fair to compare kids...they each have great strengths..but G has never enjoyed alone play time. It so fun to see him play and pretend. He does play so well with Graham (and fights with him as well). I'm glad they have each other. Patrick also loves books, stories, and knows his colors.

In the next few months, we are hoping for potty training and moving him to Graham's room. We actually started potty training this week and he hasn't used the bathroom yet but is now telling me right when he feels the urge- which I think is a key skill. All of these things make Patrick seem so grown up. But he's still the baby of the family with the baby cheeks.