Mason is 1 Year Old!!

It is hard to believe that Mason turned 1 year old on May 4th.  A common question around our house these days is "Where has the time gone?" Such is life with 2 VERY active toddlers! Mason transitioned from fast efficient crawling to fully walking between his 11 month and 12-month milestones.  In fact, within a week or so of having established his walking skills, Mason was found dribbling a soccer ball around the family room all on his own!!! He can also be found wrapping his arms around Hunter and tackling him to the ground on any given day.  He obviously has been paying close attention to games Hunter and Daddy play and wants to be in the mix.  Mason is growing at a rapid rate.  At his 1-year check-up he weighed in at 22 lbs 5 oz and was 30 inches tall.  He's also starting to navigate stairs.  Going up doesn't seem to be much of a problem, but getting down has its challenges as with most things he likes to dive right in head first.  We've been practicing though and he is starting to turn around and go down feet first on his belly.
Mason is eating very well - and is completely off the bottle now and taking all table food - often eating more that his big brother.  He likes just about everything so far, with the exception of fresh blueberries.
He continues to sleep about 11 hrs every night.  He soothes himself when he is sleepy by sucking his thumb which he has done pretty much since birth.  And, of course, he likes to have his favorite soft blankie too.
Mason is a very confident and vocal little man.  He is never ashamed of challenging Hunter for a toy and there is no question about what he wants.  He plays very independently, loves books, cars, and his soccer ball.  He and Hunter are getting along better by the day and often share food, drinks, hugs and kisses (toys are another matter though).  It is probably safe to say though that Mason's favorite person in the house is Jack the Cat (aka The Dude).  Every time he sees Jack he squeals and laughs and runs up to touch and pet him.  Honestly, we're pretty sure the neighbors 5 houses away know every time Mason sees Jack!!  He is a real joy to be around, is establishing his own personality, and still has an amazing smile with that one big dimple.  We're all looking forward to the next year in his development, which will probably go by in the blink of an eye.  Below are some pictures of his last month and the birthday party we had for him on May 6th.