Why this is my favorite age

No, not my age (though I will say my 30's have been so much better than my 20's) I'm talking about Hunters age. I'll be honest I've enjoyed pretty much every age and stage so far, there are great things about each but so far, right now, this 16 month old stage is probably my favorite. Here are just a few reasons why:

-He's sleeping SO much better. Yes he will still have one quick wake-up most nights but it's usually early before we go to bed and all he needs is to be tucked back in. Unless he's sick or teething he sleeps through the night without any issues. So much nicer than those first few months of waking up every few hours.

-I don't have to carry him around as much. He still loves to be held and carried around (especially by daddy since he's tall) but he's able to go up and down the stairs (with supervision) and can walk places while holding our hand. Since he's pushing 30 pounds this is a big relief for me, carrying him around has always been a workout.

-He's FUNNY. Seriously, this kid makes me laugh on a daily basis and the best part is that he does it on purpose. Usually while in his highchair eating dinner, he makes funny faces or sounds specifically to make us laugh and when we do he will just keep performing. He's such a little ham.

-He's a little lovebug. Even though he's becoming more and more independent he loves to gives hugs and will usually come running to give one when asked. He also will immediately sit in our laps if we're on the floor to read a book or play with a toy.

-He can follow directions. It amazes me that this little creature who only a year ago couldn't really do anything on his own can now do so much. He can follow almost any direction I give him which is incredibly helpful especially when asking him to bring me something or to put something away.

-He's so curious. He's fascinated by the smallest things and it's so cute watching his little eyes focus on something new and exciting. It's also an amazing feeling when you know that you've taught him something new.

All of this isn't to say that there aren't frustrating moments. Obviously he still has tantrums and can act like a pain in the butt but I know it's nothing compared to what we're probably in store for when he's 2 and 3 years old so I don't let it bother me too much. To me this is the "fun" toddler stage, not the ohmygodiwanttopullmyhairout toddler stage. So I'm going to enjoy it as long as it lasts.