Elmo Stories

As I sit down to capture this cute story about John, I can't remember how it all started exactly.... But, I know it was between John and his daddy. 
John's newest thing is "Elmo" - it means he wants a story about Elmo.  When Ryan or I lay with John at night to put him to sleep we used to read books, but now we simply tell him a story.  Ryan tells fast moving stories, ones with a bunches of drama and adventure.  I am surprised sometimes when John falls asleep after hearing them! ;P  
I use my opportunity as a chance to teach John something.  My stories are always about Elmo and his mom.  I pretend I am Elmo's mom and John is Elmo, it makes for a special bond between us as I am telling the story.  I ask John where Elmo will be going or what he will be doing in the story and then I take it from there.  He has all kinds of ideas- the zoo, dentist, doctor, airport, vacation, park, pool, home, nanny's, Target, eating apples etc....  Tonight Elmo went to the doctors.  I try to make my stories about life experiences; Elmo being sick, his mom making an appointment, checking in, talking to the nurse, then the doctor etc.  I think it is a really special learning experience for John, he loves to snuggle at night while I or Ryan tells him a story. 
John, you are such an amazing big brother and son! I can't believe how tall you are getting, how much you are picking up on your manners, and how much I love your laugh!!  :)  I love you little Elmy.

These pictures are oldies but goodies! They are from December 2010. 

John is wearing his Elmo clothes, while putting Elmo to sleep.  :)