Monday marks the beginning of our school year as students return and life resumes its regular pace. Summer has been delicious this year as it was our first in four that neither Bryan nor I had classes or other major obligations. We enjoyed spending so much time with Mitchell, who continues to grow and amaze us each day. His vocabulary is so much fun as he learns to express himself, communicate about his world, and make his wants known more clearly. His 2-year appointment showed him still in the 80-90th percentile for height and weight, coming in at 30lbs and 3 feet tall. He loves to go for walks, play in his car and wagon, work with his tools, read, do puzzles, swim, swing, pet Poly, look at pictures and watch WoodyBuzz. Life is good and, while we are loathe to bid summer adieu, the autumn will be lovely, too.
There was new and fresh signage for the event. Yep, Johnson-O'Brien Stadium is the name.
Aunties and cousins watching the opening ceremonies.
Mitch thinks the field is his personal playground and each tractor is also his. He was a big help getting the field ready, as was profiled in the local newspaper.
After the picture ran (and despite its glaring "Stayton" typo), Mitch was a mini-celebrity at the field getting hellos and high-fives as he cruised his territory. 
He had a good time opening gifts - a very spoiled little man! After each gift, he wanted to play with it, but was urged to keep opening. A strange dynamic.
Cousins Jack and Haylee were very good observers and were happy to help and play when encouraged.
Lunch was full of Mitch's favorites: hot dogs, watermelon and chips!
Monkey cupcakes were his cake while Grandpa Dave got an ice cream baseball.
Post-nap Mitch got another "monkey cake" which was a huge hit!
