The Ongoing Adventures of Parker Ryan and his family.

April 21, 1999

It's hard to imagine that it was nearly a year ago that Parker was still gestating, waiting out his last three weeks marking time in mom's womb.

And now he is almost 1. Crawling, almost walking, four teeth, opinionated, stubborn and a joy to behold. Here is his school (okay, daycare) photo from a couple weeks ago. As you can tell, he doesn't look a thing like either of us.

Originally disappointed that he wouldn't smile for the camera, we actually like this reflective pose. He looks so old here. Of course, compared to this time last year, I guess he is.

We hope to have the photo of him with the big mook (Jasper) in another week. He is addicted to the dog and is constantly trying to lay with him in the dog's bed. Ah, a boy and his dog. Can it get much better.

Yes it can, actually! Parker's had a bit of a cold and bronchitis this week so sleep for either Sharon or I was spotty to say the least. But things are returning to normal - or as normal as it can get with a one year old (almost).

By the way, to any parents - cheese filled hot dogs are one of the greatest inventions on earth. Lightly nuke 'em and serve. PR can eat a whole one plus a jar of veggies at mealtime. And formula, thankfully, is a thing of the past.