It is magnificent to watch Joe get into things.

Look here! Between the couch and the end table. Aahh! The exact moment a boy realizes he is stuck.

And what’s this? Caught like Sasquatch, carrying two remote controls toward the bathroom.

That’s classic Joe – picking things up and putting them down someplace else.

Remotes, phones, alarm clocks. His favorite are bright colored star blocks. Dozens start each day in a bucket. By nightfall, they’re everywhere – plastic rainbow breadcrumbs of Joe’s travels.

The playground near us had it’s grand opening today – and Joe cut the ribbon!

Thanks to the many people – including many of you reading this – who rallied around Joe (and Lia!), all new equipment was installed this week. Team Joe raised more than $2,000, and over the past few months Joe has become the face of the project. Fittingly, the city’s Parks & Rec department gave him the honor of officially opening the place.

Joe cutting the ribbon with a little help from his folks and some neighborhood kids.

A plaque at the entrance recognizing major sponsors, including Team Joe.

Joe reflecting on his contribution to his community.

A big final thanks to every member of Team Joe! The playground was bumping tonight, so your support has already been well worth it. You’re all invited to join Joe on the swings. Thanks!

Joe learned through the grapevine that he’s mutual fans with a member of the band Motion City Soundtrack. Yes, you read that right. And yes, that’s kind of a big deal.

He got to meet incredi-bassist Matthew Taylor over pizza the other night. Things got electric. No deals were signed or anything, but you could tell both of these guys came away from the session greater than they went in.

If you found this post through anything Motion City Soundtrack, welcome!

Joe is legendary along the East Coast. He’s got dozens of views on YouTube, and at five is already a favorite for prom king. He knows good music, and isn’t afraid to tell you your fly’s down. Think the Dos Equis guy with a side of Bill Brasky. Throw in a little Justin Timberlake (Sexy Back, not ramen hair). Shrink that and put glasses on it. Bam! You got Joe.

Check out some of his videos.

Here’s a pic of Joe rocking out to some tasty tunes. See more Joe on his Flickr.

Some videos for those too lazy to click the link.

The Cannon

Teubits

Joe had a terrific first day back to school. He left and returned with a big smile and was giggling and chatty right up until he fell asleep.

A big thanks to all the people that make his school days so great!

He’s always happy to see his bus chums.

After school we went to Carytown to have dinner with some rock star friends. We had to drag Joe away from a crazy mirror in front of a toy store.

Another great weekend here. Saturday we went to the Three Lakes Park & Nature Center for lunch and turtles, then to the Poe Museum.

The park has a center with lots of turtles, fish and bugs. It also has a very nice playground.

The Poe Museum was more for us adults, with terrific 19th century history and literature on display.

Also, Joe wore this shirt today.

After five years of encouragement from parents, grandparents, teachers and therapists, Joe has started to shovel his own food in.

That’s my boy!

Joe spent some time last weekend at the annual Arc of Virginia Convention.

That boy can work a room.

First on the dance floor.

What’s up?

How you doing?

How’s everyone on drinks?

Let’s dance!

Can I get your number?

Joe and I made a trip north to visit his grandparents last weekend. We had great hosts, ideal weather and lots of local flavor. It was perfect.

We went to the Glenn Curtiss Museum in Hammondsport. A Hammondsport native, Curtiss is one of the most important men in early aviation.

We also went to Prattsburgh’s summer festival, where we listened to some good live music and marveled at the massive tractor show. Grandpa took this great photo.

Speaking of Grandpa, he’s really good at his job.

On the way home we stopped to pay respect to a very important place. Avoca Central School – K-6 downstairs, 7-12 upstairs.

My favorite view – West Creek valley in Wheeler from the top of the hill. I grew up at the bottom of this dirt road.