As a parent

A few pictures of play:

I considered getting some sort of water table for a split second, then I looked around my house at all the toys.  There are so many I put some in closets and still have a few unopened from Christmas. Head's up family, Isaac wants books and practical gifts for his birthday.  Just saying. :-)

He has as much fun playing with items that serve a double purpose.  He just wanted me to play along, too.

There are some new skills you learn as a parent.  I've decided to make a short list of some of them.

• Memorizing books
• After the 20th time, "Goodnight Moon" just seems to stick
• Pulling songs out of your head that haven't been sung in nearly 15 years while simultaneously creating choreographed moves for little one's entertainment.
• Acting ridiculous just for the giggles from your little one
• Silly faces
• Crazy noises
• Terrible dance moves (see above)
• Figuring out new ways to prepare food
• Such as butterflying a piece of toast since two slices makes the PB sandwich too big; yes it can be done. 
• Sneakily cleaning up while playing so that little one doesn't see you putting a toy away. 
• Acting skills improve
• Being more stern than you really are when little one is naughty even though it is funny
• Acting surprised when you see little one emerge from behind the sofa for the 12th time in a row.
• Seated play
• My sister is master of this: her kids run around while she's taking care of the youngest and go back to her for positive reinforcement, such as a high five or "mommy look at this."
• How to narrate everything and determine what is most important.
• "Here's how to make a good pot of coffee"
• Willing yourself to be well so you can take care of a little one.
• Achy muscles aren't all that important when little one vomits everywhere.
• Priorities change - embrace it and marvel that your body can carry you through

A video for you: