My son turned into a curious 16-month-old four days ago and before I knew it, I was already running after his tiny and agile form across the room. Yes, Daniel is now a full-fledged walker who freely trots in and out of my room, reducing the whole house into his own version of a mulch-less park.

Now, I completely understand my mother when she said that I won’t be able to rest when my son starts to walk. Good thing I still manage to take some [cat] naps–thanks to our yaya who relieves me from my motherly duties a few hours a day. No doubt, with a little help, motherhood has become so much enjoyable when I get to spend time with Daniel and, at the same time, enjoy some “me” time: 3x a week massage, facials, manicure and pedicure, and a dose of reality TV.

Daniel’s progress has been pretty remarkable: he continues to surprise me with new things and words that only he could understand. He does things that totally amaze me. Just recently, he wanted me read his favorite bedtime story book, Toodler’s Action Bible and walk him through the colorful pictures on every page. He listened attentively– as if to process every word in his mind– and pointed at photos that he liked. I know that he can understand and comprehend better than he can speak so I make sure that I explain everything slowly and as animatedly as possible to allow him to connect my actions to the story. I know that his mind absorbs like a sponge.

I am proud of my son and what he has achieved in a short period of time. Here are his 16-month milestones:

• He shakes his booty to his favorite TV commercials and songs
• Points at things, food, or drink when he wants them
• Picks up the phone, dials a random number, and pretends to talk to an imaginary friend on the other end of the line
• Walks freely (and fast) on his own
• Is most happy when watching his Brainy Baby videos—he responds by clapping his hands, smiling and laughing, jumping on the bed, shouting, and dancing
• Directs my hand to pick up something if he wants it
• Can differentiate milk from orange juice and water
• Brushes his teeth all by himself
• Attempts to comb his hair (he must have seen it from mommy)
• Automatically puts my cellphone on his ear and pretend to talk to someone
• Understands the meaning of “no” and “don’t do that”
• Loves “reading” books
• Can drink from a cup all by himself
• Communicates using jumbled words and actions
• Has always been fascinated with gadgets like cellphones, computers, and remote controls
• Loves to watch cooking shows with mommy
• Is extremely joyful when he’s with dad and mom
• Can put on his sunglasses all by himself

What he’s eating and drinking at 16-months:

• Rice
• Beef
• Squash
• Potatoes
• Carrots
• Banana (his favorite)
• Broccoli
• Veggies
• Mango
• Apple
• Orange juice
• Bread (biscuits)
• Fish
• Skinless chicken
• Flavored yogurt

Favorite nursery rhymes:

• Baa Baa Black Sheep
• Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star
• My Toes, My Knees
• My Bonnie Lies Over the Ocean
• On Top of Spaghetti
• Three Blind Mice

Favorite bedtime songs:

• You by Carpenters
• Close to You by Carpenters
• Lullaby
• Rainbow Connection
• Rock-a-bye Baby

If you enjoyed this post, make sure you subscribe to my RSS feed!