October 26, 2013

We had some adventures this week. Ben came to my school on Friday evening to participate in our Trunk, Treat, and Read festivals where we give out free candy and books to the kids. It was a lot of fun, and Ben got to act like a big kid and beg for candy. My parents came up to help so we had a great time. 

On Saturday, we traveled to Blue Ridge to ride the scenic railway there. It was Ben's first real train ride, and although it was cold, he had a good time. I've posted some pics of both events. 

2nd Birthday

Here are some pics from Ben's 2nd birthday. We had a small party with family. The theme was Sesame Street since Ben loves Elmo. We played in the park, rode the train, and enjoyed some cake. He got a Big Wheel, some puzzles, 2 train sets, some books, and some games that will help him practice his letters and numbers.

 We tried out the Big Wheel, and I can't emphasize enough how fearless Ben is. He's a little adrenaline junkie! This does not bode well for me since my highest priority is keeping him safe. 

He loves to say, "I do it!" which basically means that although he appreciates the offer, he would rather chew glass than accept your help. Independent? Yes! Stubborn? Yes! Adorable? Yes! I love that he is a leader. He has tenacity and does not give up. Although he plays well with others, he has his own mind and would rather lead than follow. I just love that about him. He does follow directions and respond well to correction (usually). He has started a growling thing this week when he can't have his way. It's hard not to laugh. He knows his limits and doesn't want Mama or Daddy to be upset with him. He always finds a way to "make up" with us if he's been a stinker. This shows me that he has a conscience and a good heart, both attributes that I encourage. When a friend fell down and scraped his knee this weekend, Ben walked over to him and said, "Okay?" to check on him. He event took a tissue to him and patted him on the back. Empathy! Another good sign! 

What can I really say? We thank God every day for Ben. He is truly our miracle, and we couldn't be more proud of him or more in love with him. He is awesome. 

Now for some pics!

In his big boy underpants!

Apparently Ben needs a friend. 

He loves powdered donuts. He calls them "nonuts" - hilarious. 

Riding the train at the park. 

Playing at the big kids' park. 

Sleeping with his menagerie. 

Family portrait taken from the train!

New Portraits

Excuse me, but is he not the most adorable child ever?

9-21-2013

Ben loves to look at the moon every night before bed. This week he is wanting his usual trio of bedtime pals - blankie, panda, and Elmo. But he's asked for some "extras" this week also. One night he wanted the wooden frog in his room. One night it was the Cookie Monster iPod toy, and the next night it was a flashlight. He is going to bed like a big boy, though, so I am counting my blessing. He just gives hugs, kisses, and "rubs noses" with us and then says, "Night night!" Ben loves routines.

Here are some cute things Ben says now: 

When we come home every afternoon, he shouts, "Home!" when we pull in the driveway. 

When I turn the corner in the car, he yells, "Hold on, Mama!"

He likes to jump up and down and flail around while saying, "I crazy!"

He waves at everyone in the grocery store and says, "Hi! How doin'?" But he only talks if he engages them first. If someone speaks to him first, he gets shy. 

Here are some pics from this week:

9-15-2013