Today, Ezra turns 4 years old!
And he is also debuting a new nickname: Mr. Maniac.
Over the past month, Ezra has become a climber.
He scales up conventional climbing tools like this ladder to the top bunk.
It did not take long before Ezra was testing his emerging skills at every possible opportunity.
I began discovering Ezra perched on high places all around the house.
He really enjoyed the location of this side table. He would use the rocking horse to climb up and then pivot around so he was reclined. This was the best position to check out the ceiling fan.
Ezra would turn the ceiling fan on and off with his toes at the wall switch....of course.
Sometimes I would discover him practicing headstands in his crib.
Every day a new summit was attempted and conquored.
And then came the realization that he could drag chairs around to facilitate out of reach platforms.
All this activity has introduced a parenting dilemma---we are thrilled by Ezra's developmental leap and are so excited for him....but we don't want him to think that standing on the dining table or kitchen counter will earn him a round of applause....or, at least, not every time!
Jesse and I see a reflection of our own personalities in him as he finds joy in exploration. We recognize his persistence and inquisitive nature are utilized for creative problem solving. A lot of Ezra's physical limitations make his methodology seem a little odd. But where a typical child would rely on strength to muscle through some of these climbing challenges, Ezra is very thoughtful, careful and in many cases, makes smarter use of balance and leverage.
It's also really fun to see his sly smile as he admires his accomplishments.
His climbing abilities allow him to explore areas of the house which were previously less intriguing.
Ezra's new favorite hiding spot is inside the drum of our washing machine....when I can't find him, that's where he is playing.
In addition to climbing UP Ezra has been experimenting with balancing on unstable surfaces like soft cushions and skateboards.
Well, Mr. Maniac, you have earned that title.
A year ago, Ezra was just starting to walk independently. And before that, Ezra could only walk with maximum assistance or a supportive device.
And now he's figuring out center of gravity.
We are so proud of you Ezra! Happy Birthday.
I'll leave you with a short video of Ezra playing at the park....he's come a long way!
