Lots of Fun in the Playroom today!

Now that the playroom is pretty much toddler ready we hung out in there for part of the day. He had a blast. The pictures below are from our playtime in his playroom. In the pictures he's giving his 2 favorite stuffed animals some much deserved love. Elmo is from Grandma Nancy and GrandDaddy and the teddy bear is from Rachel and Andy Moore. He LOVES them. The highlight of the day was when Sherry came over during lunch. It was good to see her. He also got to show off his new walking skills for her. He's getting so good at it!

What Sound Does a Duck Make?

We all know Benjamin's favorite word is "Duck". For the first time Benajmin got to hear what a real duck sounds like! Poor little guy has never seen a real duck but he sure knows one when he sees it on the television or in his bath. As I was with him in his playroom today (I had the windows open in the room) I started hearing chirping from what I thought was about 20 birds. Annoyed, I finally looked out the window and outside of his playroom window was about 10 little baby ducks looking for their mom! They were running up along the fence back and forth because the mom was on the other side of the fence and they couldn't figure out how to get back to her. They all finally figured it out but I dealt with that ALL DAY LONG! They would crawl under the fence, get confused on how to get back to mom, then chirp and chirp and chirp, and then finally get back to mom under the fence. I mean this - it happened ALL DAY LONG! Poor little confused baby ducks. Anyway, I took Benjamin outside to finally see some REAL ducks and he was speechless. Yes, Benjamin was speechless when it came to finally seeing a real duck. Got a pic of some of the babies.

Bye Bye Curls!

Benjamin had his first hair cut today. At what salon you ask? Our backyard patio with David being the brave barber! We only cut the back of his head where he was starting to get ringlets. He looks like a little man now. Later we had dinner with Grandma Nancy and GrandDaddy at Main Street Bistro where Benjamin displayed his like for bell peppers for the very first time.

Can you catch me?

He's gotten really good at walking in the last 24 hours. I walked out of the room for about 5 seconds and when I came back in the living room he was walking across the room all by himself. Got some of his wobbly walking on video.

And I Would Walk 500 Miles....

The title of today's blog is an early 90's song that is one of my favorite songs ever. The band is The Proclaimers. They're a total One Hit Wonder. Too bad. Anyway - thought it was fitting for Benjamin's progress with walking today. Benjamin walked about 10 feet today on his own. I have no idea how many steps that is but that's MUCHO progress from yesterday.

Today was very good. Benjamin slept - I worked. Therefore, since I have work out of the way I have more time tonight for chores, catching up on my reading for the book review at church tomorrow night, and more time with hubby. (My favorite part is the more time with hubby). Happy Day.

First Steps!

Yep that's right! Benjamin took his first steps today all by himself! And Daddy was here to witness it. Benjamin walked back and forth to David and me several times (he would take about 3-4 steps each time without any help). Oh Boy! He's also saying "Uh-Oh". Well, more like "Uh-Uh" every time he drops something and then looks at me to pick it up for him. Lil' stinker.

Who's Your Daddy?

Today was much better. I still didn't sleep well but I did decide to not work last night and instead spend some much needed time relaxing with David. (Just means I have to make up my time for work this weekend but so be it). We went to Benjamin's Gymboree class this morning and David got to attend as well! It was great to have him there. He captured lots of pictures of Benjamin crawling and playing in class. It was so amazing how distracted Benjamin was because David was there. He wouldn't participate in any of the songs or games because he kept trying to crawl over to David (who was sitting away from the group). He really does know who his daddy is! So sweet.

Later we went to Leslyn's to drop off my bible study guide for her to use as a reference; then we went to the gym. The ladies in the nursery said he was horrible. Ouch. Usually they call me to come get him when he's extremely fussy. We normally go in the mornings so this afternoon was a different group of caregivers so maybe they just weren't sure what to do. He was crying some major tears when I went to pick him up. As soon as he saw me he was absolutely fine - like nothing was wrong.

What does C-R-A-W-L-I-N-G and T-E-E-T-H-I-N-G spell? Exhaustion....

Kelly's tired. Today was trying. Apparently he's teething again on top of having a runny, stuffy nose. There was a lot of crying in the house today - and no, no, it wasn't me (even though I wanted to). I had a screw in my tire today and that was just the icing on the cake. I'm just tired. David is tired - work is stressful for him - as always - fitting in work has been pretty stressful for me too, now that Benjamin is crawling EVERYWHERE. And what about sleep? My mind races so much that no matter how physically exhausted I am I still don't sleep. That's something I've always had a problem with - that is, obsessing about things. I've always been a worry wart - get that from my Grandma and Mom. Even though the post is negative today, I'm NOT complaining! I love every minute of it and try to treasure each day because one day I'll be longing for these days back. No pictures today. Just tired. Oh! I do have a funny to report on today. Benjamin only took a 30 minute nap today so obviously he was tired once it was bedtime. He actually told us he was ready for bed! At about 7:10pm he kept saying "duck, duck, duck" over and over. He knows "duck" means bathtime which bathtime means bedtime. He was so happy to have his "duck" and be in bed. I wish I could sleep like Benjamin does!

How Long can I Make Momma Stay in the Closet?

That was Benjamin's new game today. I would walk inside his closet to hang clothes and he would follow me and shut the door when I was inside. He then proceeds to sit outside of the closet directly in front of the door so I can't open it. Here's a picture of him shutting the bathroom door on me.

What's Runny, Stuffy, and Crusty all Over?

Benjamin's nose! Looks like we're fighting a cold. We were fighting a little bit of an appetite problem yesterday but the appetite is back today.

I just have to put a picture of the flowers that have bloomed outside our bedroom window. B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L!

Can Someone say Cheese Please?

Benjamin had cheese for the first time today. He actually liked it! We tried a pimento cheese sandwich and he just kept spitting it out. But little strips of cheese were a hit!

We went to the gym this morning, then went grocery shopping, and finally went to Carter's to get him a couple of new pj's. He's grown so much I could hardly snap the buttons on the ones he currently has - and there's good reason I couldn't - he's 11 months old and was still sleeping in 6-9 month pj's. Duh Mom!

He had fun playing with an old pair of sunglasses that we left at Grandma Nancy's and Grand Daddy's. He was excited to have them back!

Return of the Diaper Rash...

Grandma Nancy and GrandDaddy came over for a visit Sunday and Benjamin got to show off his crawling skills. Benjamin had a good time eating Grandma Nancy's hair!

I was called out of our church library duty this morning to get Benjamin out of the nursery. They couldn't calm him down and his diaper rash was back in a BAD way. His skin is so sensitive. Poor thing was in so much pain.

Saturday - It's all about making Fred Head comfy!

Wasn't Saturday the most PERFECT day ever? Beautiful! I was thinking a lot about Laura and the women's retreat from church. Turned out to be just perfect for them. I'm looking forward to going next year. It would've been a great day to take Frederick for a walk but he's on bed rest until the end of next week. Bummer.

Saturday, David left to go on a fishing tournament with Jason Mackie. David caught 2 fish. He said he had a great time! Go figure - fishing is one of his favorite things to do. And with David's sense of humor and Jason's sense of humor I'm sure there were a lot of laughs to be had. I'm so glad he went. He's been in need of a "guys" get-a-way. I spent the day tending to Frederick and making sure he was comfortable. Also, that day I made cookies for Jen's girls and went to their joint birthday party at the gymnastics center (it was Haley and Emily's birthday). It was fun! Got to see Riley (Tom and Melanie's little girl). She's just the prettiest little girl and is DOUBLE JOINTED! Riley is about the same age of Benjamin and can do the splits like it's nothing. In fact, I even saw her sitting like that a couple of times!

Poor Frederick!

Friday turned out to be completely exhausting. It started off great though...we went to Benjamin's music class, Sherry stopped by before lunch for a few minutes, then Benjamin and I headed to Arlington to meet Natalie for lunch. When I got home I couldn't find Frederick anywhere. The last time I remembered seeing him was when I was in the front yard with Sherry. I couldn't remember if he followed me in the house or not. So I ran outside and was screaming for him. I grabbed my cell phone and called David and told him to come home now!!! He told me to calm down - that he had come home for lunch and he took Frederick to the vet. This is no joke - I collapsed right there on the concrete when he told me Frederick wasn't missing. I was a nervous wreck - okay, and yes, maybe just a little bit of a drama queen. I looked up at Benjamin while I was sitting there panting and he was laughing at me. Serves me right. Turns out Frederick has some how hurt his back. He's on muscle relaxers and Prednisolone for the next week. The vet said ABSOLUTELY no stress for him. That means no running, jumping, etc. The vet also pointed to Benjamin and said especially no stress from him. So I'm spending the weekend tending to Frederick and making sure his life is COMPLETELY no stress. He's getting hot dogs as treats now - he's love them - it's the only way he'll eat his medicine because I hide it in the meat. :) He seems to be doing much better today. I think the steroid shot they gave him must have done a lot of good.

Webinar is now OVER!

Thank goodness David can take a breather from preparing for the Webinar. It's OVER! He's so relieved. There's still lots of other work to do, but at least he's got this project behind him.

Benjamin's new favorite thing? Opening and closing doors! Also, his cousin Andrew came over today and he showed Benjamin how to play with the Jack-in-the-Box. Thanks Andrew!

Farewell to Oprah...

After much thought and prayer I've decided to stop recording and watching the Oprah show because of her support of the book "A New Earth". My heart tells me (more like, I feel like God is telling me) that I should not support someone who is obviously leading others down the wrong path. She has clearly stated that she does not believe that Christ is the only way and she is leading others in that way of thinking. I'm sad to say goodbye but I will pray for her and her followers. My heart hurts deeply for her and those misguided. Not that my one little voice will make a difference, but I did send an email to her and state my thoughts and let her know why I'm discontinuing supporting her show. I must be faithful to God and His son Jesus Christ.

On a happier note - David is feeling much better about his upcoming Webinar (sp?). After he came home from work yesterday evening he went back up to work to practice some more. He got home about 11pm. That was just about the same time I was finishing up with my tasks from work. Good timing!

The picture below is an absolutely atrocious picture of me but we just had to take a picture of him on me like this. He had been sleeping for about 15 minutes in that position. It was just the sweetest thing.

Busted!

Caught Benjamin trying to pull the plant over today.....

Watch out David Beckham....

Here comes Miss Abigail Joseph! The highlight of my Saturday was watching my neice play soccer. The very talented Abigail Joseph helped lead her team to a 3-2 victory. It was a beautiful day out. The only downfall was the first few minutes of the last quarter of the game. I had to nervously try to avoid being hit by a penguin randomly falling from the sky. (Yes, I said penguin).

Later that day Benjamin and I went to a shower for my friend Jen. The adoption of her 3 foster kids was finalized last week and the shower was to celebrate! I'm so happy for them! Here's a picture of the kiddos. (Obviously sweet little Haley wasn't too impressed with the mean ol' Easter Bunny).


Today David and I had a sushi lunch after church and then started getting ready for company this evening. Abraham, Laura, Abby, Andrew, Jonathan, Becky, Annette, and James came over for some hot dogs and hamburgers. Because of my laziness and Laura's sweetness, she brought the delicious spinach salad and Becky brought along her incredible Key Lime Pie (which is one of my absolute favorite desserts). We had such a great time! I'm hoping they did as well. The kids all played in the backyard and it appears they had a blast - especially with the new bubble blower Laura brought along!

Slow Day!

The only thing we did today was Benjamin's music class (and of course, stop by McDonald's to get my daily Vanilla Iced Coffee). We met another Benjamin in his class today. This is the first Benjamin we've met (his age). The rest of the time was spent hanging out at the house and playing (with lots of crawling and trying to walk). Nice, quiet day. :) He did start saying something new - JUICE! Although when he says it, it sounds like "soose".

Had a sushi lunch out in Irving with Leslyn yesterday. It was delicious. Benjamin had applesauce - no sushi for him yet! :)

David is doing better today with his stress. I made Pad Thai and steamed broccoli for dinner and for the first time the 2 of us sat in the dining room and had dinner. We've only used that room when we've had guests. It was nice...we lit candles, enjoyed a glass of wine, and had good conversation. Can't beat that!

Failed to Mentioned from Yesterday....

Forgot to mention that Benjamin had cut up bananas for the first time yesterday. He ate a few bites (with a weird look on his face) and ate a few more mixed in with his morning yogurt. I ate the rest of the banana - I love those bananas.

He also has learned how to hold his sippie cup up by himself and drink the entire thing. That has worked out wonderfully these last 36 hours or so. I give him his sippie cup full of part juice and part water and he drinks it all up without me! To some, this is not a big deal...to me, it's HUGE. I still give him the bottle with his formula, but his snacks (with juice) are from a sippie cup now. How groovy is that? Oh my little man.

Since our bible study is over at church, I sat in on a review with my pastor and about 12 other members over the book "Knowing God" at church last night. Carl Anderson (our pastor) is just so amazing to me. He's absolutely brilliant. Everyone had such great input, too - my brilliant sister-in-law Laura included. :) Can I just brag that Carl put her completely on the spot and she defined "anthropomorphic" like it was a word she used every day? I had such a wonderful time hearing everyone's views on the book. I've got so much more to learn and I feel that this church can teach me a lot. I filled out the paper work for Jubilee Junction so Benjamin can start in the fall. I'm so excited and thankful he's going to be part of such an amazing Christian community. Anyway, so the class was one of my highlights for the day. Loved it. Loved it. Loved it.

Listened to a message yesterday from Rachel Moore and her granddaughter thanking me for the Barbie clothes. It was precious. She said they'll call back when I'm home and her granddaughter will talk to me. Mrs. Moore is one of the nicest people I've ever met. I just adore her.

Okay! Those were my highlights from yesterday. Man, I can talk a lot.....

Exhausted...but lovin' it

Fussy baby today. All because he wants to walk, and walk, and walk. If he wasn't walking he was crying. Captured it all in the pictures....

Off to church now...poor ladies in the nursery are going to have their hands full.

Guess who's going to be a big brother...twice!

Ha! April Fool's!

What an INCREDIBLE day! We started off at the gym again, the sweet ladies in the nursery said he scooted from one end of the room to the other. You should see this room. It's huge. No wonder he took such a long nap later that afternoon - that scooting took some energy! When I picked him up he had scooted himself into a corner about 5 miles away from all the other babies. After the gym we went home for a quick snack, (and shower for me),then off to Gymboree class. We had so much fun at Gymboree. Benjamin FINALLY showed off his crawlings skills in class today. I'm so proud (as I pat myself on the back). Just kidding. Then after Gymboree and running some errands (we sent a birthday card and some pics of Mr. Ben to Great Grandma Thelma for her upcoming birthday) Benjamin decided to take a nap at a wonderful time - it allowed me to get an HOUR's worth of work in for my employer! TOTALLY kicked my evening off right with my dear sweet husband. (I still had more work to do that evening, but an hour of work was knocked off from that evening's work). Another happy day. Except for poor David. Poor thing is so stressed out. He had quite an exhausting day today at work. Things are busy. That's usually a good thing; however, not when the customers are so grumpy and take it all out on my husband.

Got some good news about the new bible study I joined. Looks like my sister-in-law Laura and friend Nancy will be able to attend a few sessions! These are two people in my life that I just adore and look up to - they are two strong christians that I can learn a lot from in my walk with Christ.