Benjamin 1 Year

I don't have much time, but thought I would post these pictures. They aren't that great. I think we stopped using the camera after the birthday celebrations. We'll get more, I promise!

Benjamin woke up from his nap the other day crying and feeling upset for some reason. Of course, like most good mothers, I quickly ran to get the camera so I could take a picture of his crazy hair. 

By the way, remember when I spoke about Benjamin trying to eat Ladybird's food, and I said I should just let him do it, and then the thrill would be over? Well, he did it. Four times so far. Unfortunately, it's his favorite snack. He doesn't make a face, doesn't spit it out...he just sucks on it like candy. I really hope he's not gonna be that kid who eats paste.

I'm pretty behind on this update since we were out of town last week.  Let's see....Benjamin's favorite things to do right now are: be read to, play with his soccer ball, listen to music, and play outside. He is really getting into books (especially his touch and feel books, and his peekaboo book), and loves story time. We've been playing with the soccer ball for a couple months now, but he is starting to make up his own games. Yesterday he basically played soccer by himself. This involved him rolling the ball across the room, intently chasing it and saying "babababa." When he got it, he would roll it again. He definitely had a "goal" in mind, and was trying to direct the ball. 

His affinity for music is becoming more obvious. He's always loved to dance, but now when he hears his favorite songs he will try to keep the beat by slapping his hands on the ground, or frantically look around for one of his rhythm instruments. I'm so proud! And as for being outside...what can I say? He is always content to sit in the grass and enjoy the breeze. Being in the yard isn't necessarily playtime for Benjamin, but a chance to feel the sun on his face. 

Benjamin is a very content baby, and I feel so lucky everyday.  He laughs constantly, and is always happy to make a friend. He is pretty calm and collected, and never seems scared of anything. Loud noises never frighten him. I can start the vacuum cleaner, the coffee grinder, or the hairdryer, and he just crawls up to take a closer look.  He deals with change very well. Last week we were in VA visiting Joel's grandmother, and Benjamin had to meet several new people, didn't get regular naps or mealtimes, and was carted off to a new place everyday. He never cried or got upset, but just went with the flow. I guess that's where the "laid back" label becomes pretty obvious. 

When I think back on the NICU stay, then the colic, then the NEVER sleeping through the night until, ummm.....2 months ago, it's all been worth it because of the happy little boy he's become. This is most fun I've ever had!