Stephen Champlain Jones

I have to brag about my new nephew! Josh and Bekah are in the process of adopting this adorable little 15-mo old boy. Currently, they are his foster family, and the adoption should go through later this year. Little Stephen loves to give "kisses" but he can't really pucker up yet! He just gets close to your cheek with his open mouth and then grins. Once while he was sitting on my lap and I was trying to entertain him, I remembered a rhyme from my days of doing Storytime programs at the library. We did this nonsense rhyme together and he really picked up on it. Although he couldn't repeat the words, he knew the actions and could remember what came next. He is so smart! After Sam and I left Illinois, Mom showed him a picture of us and he immediately did the motions for the rhyme! His Mama will be sick and tired of "Ram Sam Sam" after a bit, I'm sure! In case you are interested, here are the words and actions. If you have or know of a 1 yr - 3 yr old child, they will love this--
Ram Sam Sam
(On Ram Sam Sam hit one fist on top of the other.)
A Ram Sam Sam
A Ram Sam Sam
Goolie Goolie Goolie
(Roll hands)
And a Ram Sam Sam
(hit fists again)
A Raffy A Raffy
(Lift arms)
Goolie Goolie Goolie
(Roll hands again)
And A Ram Sam Sam
(Hit fists again)

Here are some snapshots of Stephen for your enjoyment!

Stephen with his Christmas present from Uncle Sam and Aunt Rebekah--a special lion from Jungle Stuffers (like Build-a-Bear)

Grandma helps Stephen discover the baby in the mirror. Of course, he had to "kiss" the baby!

The poor dear was so patient with his crazy family as they dressed him up in the Christmas tree skirt, a black hat and a couple bears. He looked like a cross between a magician and a matador!