150 percent

Jack's all about sports. And he says there's no excuse for not staying sharp on your game. So he seizes every opportunity to practice his skills, even in the tub.

Lonesome nights

Jack said he no longer needs a babysitter when we're away, insisting that he is quite capable of taking care of himself. So last night, the opportunity arose and we gave it a whirl, leaving Jack on his own. In the morning, Jack said he had a grand time, entertaining himself and completely forgetting that he was all alone.

Hmmm....

Headshots

Jack cooked up a few new looks that he wanted documented for posterity.

On patrol

Fearing for the family's safety, Jack teamed up with the dogs to form a neighborhood watch. The organization thus far has proven its worth. Not a single break-in is on record since it went live.

Jack and Jazzeppi stay vigilant in the backyard.

Failing to announce one's presence and intentions usually results in an uncomfortable ambush.

Fixing the Cubs' woes

Tired of the Cubs' lackluster post-season play, Jack's put together a little baseball primer that displays the key steps to success on the sandlot. Jack insisted a Cliff's Notes version be posted here so the Cubs roster can get a jump start on next season.

First, stretch them hammies.

Wave to the cuties in the stands.

Don't forget to mug for the TV cameras.

Exchange surreptitious smack-talk about the opposing team with fellow outfielders.

When victory arrives, make believe like you didn't see it coming.

Runny nose mirror time

Jack says it doesn't get any better than this.

Parking it

Jack knew he was heading to the neighborhood park on a sunny day, yet he still donned his trusty frog sweater. He said you never know: the weather could change at any moment, and he wasn't ready to throw in the big towel just yet.

Crazy about the front yard

Jack spends way too much time in the front yard, the doctors informed us. If he doesn't rein in his front-yard ways, the doc said, he's gonna go crackers.

"Wait...what's this?" the doc said, giving one final assessment of Jack's demented grin. "Nope. We're too late. He's gone."

Welcome news

Jack was happy to learn today that he gained a new cousin in baby Per, born to his aunt Jacinta and uncle Thore. Jack said he'll remain by his cell phone in case Per wants to chat or maybe exchange notes on the early months.

Bumbo no more

It recently dawned on Jack that his trusty Bumbo companion might be viewed by his infant peers as something of a crutch. So this week, Jack gave the Bumbo its walking papers and has begun making it a habit to set out on his front lawn excursions on his own.

Liquid diet no more

Jack's been dropping subtle hints that that weak Simulac Advance gruel just ain't cuttin it no more when it comes to fueling his heroic exploits. A few 3 a.m. wailings got the message out loud and clear. Now, thanks to his handiwork, when he comes home from a hard day at the day care center, he's greeted by something more befitting his expanding stature: Simulac Advance mixed with rice cereal (with no preservatives, thank you). The first meal went something like this:

Introductions made.

Partnership cemented.

Contents plastered.

Bottle nightcapped.

Pacifier sought.

Beth's birthday gift

Jack's allowance doesn't amount to much, so he had to resort to a fashion shoot for mom this year.