Boy Wonders: Monkey See, Monkey Do

In the old expression Monkey see, monkey do, Alex is the monkey. And I mean that in only the most loving and affectionate way possible, of course. Now that I think about it, Monkey is actually a somewhat fitting nickname. Not only does he mimic everything he sees, he also climbs like a monkey and has a similar high-pitched squeal. It's a squealing noise that rivals those made famous by Mariah Carey and Michael Jackson. It's also a little monkey-ish. It's a sound that is hard to describe in words. Only those readers fortunate(?) enough to hear it in person can nod their heads in agreement with my comparisons.

Anything Jacob does, Alex will follow suit. Jacob is his best friend and hero. I'm reminded of the times when Jacob used to copy every single thing his older cousin, Daniel, did. These little boys look up to their older counterparts. Every stunt performed by their idol looks amazing and just begs to be copied. Food they're holding looks better than what's in their own hand, even if it's the same. But it's not only Jacob Alex likes to mimic. Really, my little Monkey will copy just about everything he sees. Of course, by copying, he has also learned the absolutely adorable game of Peek-a-boo and is tied with Jacob for first place in the Best Hugs category. There are some advantages to his mimicry.

Granted, he also makes up some of his own adventures. For instance, this morning, he splashed around in toilet water when I was busy washing my hands...an incident that could have been avoided if I ever received privacy in the bathroom. I know he hasn't seen anyone do that before. I'm also fairly certain none of us carry our cups around upside down, watching behind us as we leave a telltale trail of milk or juice droplets.

Everything we are holding or doing must look fascinating to Alex.
I imagine his thoughts must go a little like this...

Hmm, Mommy carries Hailey's water bowl, so I can too. One of these days, maybe I'll figure out how she walks more than 4 steps without spilling it.

People throw things in the trash, so I can too. I think cups usually go in that dishwasher, but it's probably OK for it to go in here too. I don't see any other cups, though...but what's that?! That half eaten waffle looks delicious. I haven't seen anyone eat from the trash can, but I don't mind being the first.

Jacob has a cup! He's drinking! I must be thirsty too!

Whoa, are you eating?! I'm hungry too! Either share your food or I will continue to tug and climb on you with my mouth wide open.

I see you walking up & down the steps, so I will too. Don't try to carry me. Hmm, I just realized that I am slightly smaller than you...so maybe hold my hand while I do this.

Jacob splashes in the tub, so it's only fair for me to return the favor.

Jacob and Mommy are hugging...that reminds me, I need a hug too. Group hug!

What? Jacob's on Daddy's lap? Make room for me on the other leg, guys.

Jacob pees on the potty! What a coincidence. My bladder also feels full! I'd better grunt and tug on the front of my diaper so it's clear I'd like a turn too. It's fun to sit on the potty and grunt. Sometimes pee comes out, but so far, only for Grandmom. I like teasing Mommy & Daddy.

People turn the bath water on with this handle, so I can too. I can take it a step further and rinse shirts, shoes, or anything else I might be holding.

People stand on the table, so I can too. Well, maybe they only sit at the table, but they WOULD climb on it if they were as small as I am.

When Jacob runs, I run. There must be something exciting going on.

When Jacob shouts playfully, I shriek. I like the loud noise it makes. I can't tell if Mommy and Daddy like it, but I know Jacob does.

If Jacob is crying, I am concerned. Sometimes I like to visit him when he's in Time Out. I can't wait to be in Time Out one day!

When Jacob shakes his head no, I shake my head no for 3 minutes.

I've seen Jacob chase Hailey, so now I like to do it too. It's fun listening to her bark echo throughout the house.

Hailey lays under the table, so I do too. She looks like she needs company.

Mommy & Daddy wear these big shoes, so I can too. I think they look cuter on me than on Mommy.

When people laugh, I smile.

I've seen people talk on the phone, so I do too. "Ehh, ehh, ehh."

People pick up that remote thingy and point it at the TV, so I can do that too. It's fun to change channels and make menus come up while my brother is watching a show.

Daddy & Jacob cut the grass, so I can help too.