Derek is loving and snuggly and falls asleep as soon as his head hits the pillow (or the book he was trying to stay awake to read). He is wildly imaginative and curious and is the family tinkerer, taking things apart and trying to put them back together, and bringing them to mom to superglue when that fails. His teacher couldn't praise him enough for being an example for the rest of the kids and who she could always call on to find the right answer.
Derek loves all of the toys and all of the playing--he received a garbage truck for his birthday and announced he had been waiting for it for his entire life!--and is a natural at legos, puzzles, and models. He is always down for any new adventure and can find the fun in any activity (even chores!). He loves to be naked, dirty, wet, soapy, slippery, and sandy, and bring all sorts of natural treasures home in his pockets and backpack. He loves donuts, candy, cucumbers, peas, all berries, peppers, cereal, ice cream, and cheese, and would eat fried chicken in all of its forms every day of the week if we would let him. He loves music and singing and can remember lyrics and tunes better than anyone.
Derek is a natural peacemaker and friend-maker, loves to be included and include everyone else, and likes to have a companion for everything (including the bathroom). We love our big five-year-old cheetah/babysaurus/puppy/baby boy!
