Ad Hoc Child Rearing

These days, when not sleeping, you like to be a part of the action. The notion of laying you down and walking away to take care of our own things is, more and more, becoming an idea that you disagree with. Not only are you interested in what we're up to, you also like to be a first-hand participant in the activity.
This eagerness on your part translates into cries for attention and love the moment we put you down and turn around. We test your resolve by quietly sneaking away, listening intently for any change in your voice. Sometimes a few whimpers are all you muster. Other times, your whimper turns into an all out wail. It is these times that we turn around, and pick you up. Your response is immediate, like turning off the lights. Your cry subsides, you giggle and smile, and nestle happily into our chest while telepathically asking us, "So... what were WE going to do now?"
Catering to your newfound gregarious nature, we try to make you part of our meals. While celebrating the Fourth of July on July 5th with your Grandparents yesterday you wanted to join us at the dinner table. Where just a moment ago, your prime spot on the couch was heaven now that your family had moved to the dining room, it no longer felt so good. We were happy to have you join us for dinner, but how? There were no chairs safe for you, no room on the table, and no high chairs around. An impromptu solution quickly showed itself in a decorative storage stand. Before we knew it, you were at the table with us and even had your own Rai-sized plate of food. Hey, your ad hoc seat had a bar that was a little close to your head maybe, but, on the bright side, you had something to reach for and grab, right?