In a rut

We've been in a rut, and I haven't had much to blog about.  We're good, Stephen's good... he has a bit of a cold right now, but he's on the mend.  Our weather here has been crazy these past few weeks, but that's pretty normal for this time of year.  Stephen is enjoying school and swimming... we've had a few exciting milestones that I don't have pictures of, but I can share anyways.  In Stephen's classroom, the teacher's aide brings the lunch trays directly to the classroom (for those who do not bring their lunches), but when they are all in 1st grade next year, they will have to carry their own trays (I didn't REALLY pay attention to the exact logistics, since Stephen is on the gluten-free diet and will continue to bring his lunch).  SO, they are all working on carrying a tray.  I just smile when I think about those 6 little boys and one little girl, practicing carrying empty lunch trays up and down the hallway.  At any rate, Stephen is well on his way to accomplishing this particular goal for the school year, and this skill has translated into a few other areas at home.  He carries his snack bowl from his table to the couch (even when he's not supposed to snack there) without spilling, and I expect that this increased hand strength is behind his ability to hold on to the kickboard so well.  The newest activity that comes from this skill, is his ability and desire to carry his iPad all over the house.  He takes it up and down the stairs (he holds it on his lap and butt-bumps down the stairs), and into various rooms to play games and watch YouTube.  He loves to lay on his new bean bag chair and watch videos, while holding tightly on to the letter "U"  (upper AND lowercase), because of course, U = YOUTube!  Stephen's teacher also reported during his last conference that she is quite pleased with how well he has been playing at school, not just with his friends, but with toys.  She is very impressed with the improvement he is making with his social and play skills, and we are THRILLED!

Before Stephen got sick this week, we spent some time at a park with a new friend who was visiting from Tulsa.  Stephen had a great time, and wasn't very excited to take time away from his play to take a picture.