last can of formula, first pair of shoes

I think that I may have bought Daniel's last can of formula today! Once he hits the one year mark, he will transition to whole milk. From $23.99 for 96 oz. to $2.99 for 128 oz., I am pumped!

We also bought his first pair of real shoes today. I got a little choked up in the shoe store because I realized that I was due exactly one year ago today, and here I was with my almost one year old as he toddled around the store. Wow! Time really flies. Daniel is so good with people. He did not complain at all as the salesperson measured his feet. We went to this little store in DC that has been here for 25 years. Excellent service, for the same price as a chain Stride Rite. I love independent places.

Daniel is just brilliant, to use a term from one of the South African au pairs in my group. He is so much fun and is learning so much. He can mimic just about everything now. He will brush my hair with his brush after his bath. In the morning, while he watches me brush my teeth, he grunts for my toothbrush and puts it in my mouth for me. I taught him how to touch me gently as opposed to whacking me in the face, and yesterday, he actually did it on his own!! It occurred to me that I am a teacher, and it makes sense to apply the concept of teaching him not to hit me as opposed to just saying, "gentle" 46 times like so many other moms I run into. Duh, right?

The big party for Daniel's one year mark is next Saturday, and I am tring to get lots of projects finished up around the house. Having people over is good motivation. Who knew window treatment could make such a difference? My living room looks much more pulled together now. World Market came through for me again!

Will post pics of Daniel in his new kicks tomorrow.