Hi Liesa-
I've got a spirited 14 mo son- He's my only one, and I couldn't help resenting my friends/family just a little who had quieter/easier kids, or who didn't get how much work he is....
That being said, I'm convinced that spirited kids are a lot more FUN in the long run!
Nick was walking well at 10 mos and running well by 11 mos. Now that he's 14 mos, he's settled down a bit and things are easier. I feel for you, it is HARD to have a spirited/mobile little one who has definite opinions! I too felt like 99% of my day was racing after him to keep him from killing himself in new and creative ways....
This summer I went to the beach, there was a boy 4 mos older than Nick standing by the edge of the water calmly, just cautiously regarding the beach. Meanwhile, my LO was racing up and down, chasing the gulls, JUMPING off of the rocks into the water recklessly, and running headlong into the waves as my DH and I desperately tried to keep him safe. i have to admit, I was proud and slightly smug that my 12 mo DS was so fearless and clearly joyfully active.
I guess my point is, I've accepted who he is, what his strengths/weaknesses are, and put a positive spin on everything. I really try to celebrate how busy he is and remember that he will be independent before long.
Have hope- things definitely will get easier for you in the coming months once the novelty of moving and getting into things wears off.
I've needed to be consistent and firm, but he respects my boundaries because of this. Tantrum behavior is starting to taper off now that his language is coming along.
Good luck, and know that you are NEVER alone! There are a lot of us going through the same thing.