Joshua has been spoiled rotten with attention the last couple of weeks.  Aunt Vanessa seems to enjoy playing with her favorite nephew as much as he’s enjoying playing with her.  We’ve done lots of fun things while she’s been here—we checked out the International Spy Museum in DC, went to a couple of parks, played in the snow (although it really seems that Joshua hates the snow, but I’m sure Vanessa made it a little more tolerable), saw a couple of movies, & even went to a traveling petting zoo!  It’s been great having a second set of hands to keep up with this active little guy, even though I couldn’t get her to change any dirty diapers when I’ve been around (hey, I’ll take what help I can get!).  Joshua has had fun when Vanessa’s babysat him while Erick & I actually got to go on a date, & when I’ve gone to a couple appointments & errands.

Poor Vanessa’s been abused by her brother & sister-in-law, as she’s played cook for us many times.  We’ve been spoiled by her as well & Erick’s going to have to get used to plain meals when she leaves & I have to resume the cooking duties.  I love having family members who enjoy cooking, because it’s so hard to do anything with Joshua at my side.  Josh is still in his clingy phase & hates playing by himself when I leave the room.  It’s getting a little better, but not enough.  He’s usually more content sitting in his highchair watching me in the kitchen, so that’s what we’ve been doing when we’re alone.  Tooth #8 came in after several painful days of teething. Now if those bottom teeth will only come in, he’ll be pretty much caught up with other kids his age.  But I love his little gummy smile so the rest of the teeth can take their time!

Vanessa leaves tomorrow & we’ll miss her lots.  I’m going to get plane tickets soon for the first part of our west coast adventure, so it’s nice that our travel plans are finally becoming a reality…