Benjamin Royal Jackson

I've moved!

2010-02-25T20:23:00.001-08:00

My blog that is... catch up with me at our new family blog:

http://rockintheredvan.blogspot.com

hugs and kisses,
Ben

Goodbye 2009!

2009-12-31T11:30:00.000-08:00

Since the year is almost over I figured I would post one more time, just for 2009. I keep saying life is busy and it just keeps getting busier. The last few months were kind of a blur. October was fun going to Disneyland and trading in our annual trip to the butt farm for a trip to the sunset market in Oceanside for my yearly pony ride. We went trick-or-treating at Sea World and with Dominik and Jackson. We spent most of November getting ready for Grandma and Papa Mac to come home from their mission and then spent December seeing Christmas lights and having fun family time.

Christmas this year was great! I was excited about everything Christmas this year. My favorite thing was seeing Christmas lights. The family at the end of Grandma and Papa's street go ALL OUT! This year was no exception and we even went to the lighting ceremony. They had 2 snow machines and window displays with swimming penguins and the week before Christmas I got a candy cane every time I went. I also liked to watch Christmas movies and sing Christmas songs.

The Tuesday before Christmas my Mom and I were sitting at the kitchen table eating cereal and Mom asked me what kind of cookies I wanted to leave for Santa. I said, "I don't want a strange man in the house." When she told me Santa left presents I decided it was ok for him to come. Santa brought me a drum set and a candy cane. The two things on my list the first time my Mom asked me. The list got longer as the month went on, so my Mom and Dad got me some sports clothes and books and a new basketball. Sofia got me a over-the-door basketball hoop that shouldn't break all the time like my old one. My Grandma and Grandpa Jackson got me lots of hockey stuff including a team Canada hockey jersey that I love! And believe it or not, it is a size 6 and not too big.

Most of my new clothes are size 4/5, which has my Mom amazed because she thought I was kind of done growing for a little while. I will write more next year and post some photos!

Love,
Benjamin

Busy, busy, busy...

2009-09-22T22:09:00.000-07:00

Life is busy. I am pretty used to it, my Mom, not so much.

My life lately pretty much revolves around sports. My favorite is still hockey, which I play at least twice a day. I also love baseball, soccer, tennis, golf, and really anything else that has a ball. My Mom is busy putting together my Halloween costume. I am going to be a hockey player!! We are going to get my jersey tomorrow. I am going to be a duck, like in the mighty ducks. We even found jerseys with the old logo like in The Mighty Ducks 2. I love the Mighty Duck movies, you know the one where the hockey boys play with eggs? I recreated that particular scene in the backyard while my Mom was reading a story to Sofia in my room. I managed to shoot the last 10 eggs all over the patio!

I also found a rat that I named "the great bambino." He was sick though and he is sleeping on the other side of the fence. I go and talk to him throughout the day and tell him to watch me play sports.

Uh, my noodles!!!

2009-07-07T22:36:00.000-07:00

We went out to dinner tonight, and I don't know if I have ever told you this, but my favorite food group is noodles. Oh, and cheese. So the lady brought the salad and I ate my tomato and some lettuce. The plates came and I said, "ooh, noodles." but it was salad. Then a little later she brought some bread because the noodles weren't done yet and I yelled after her, "uh, my noodles!!!" I really do think she forgot to bring them. When they finally came I jumped up and down saying, "noodles, noodles, noodles." I ate one even though it was really hot and said, "mmmm, it's good." I love noodles.

Part fish

2009-07-06T20:34:00.000-07:00

So my Mom and Dad think I am part fish. Mostly because if I could I would spend all of my time playing in the water. We have a small pool that we set up pretty much everyday that our new "big pool" isn't set up. We get about 3 days out of the big pool and by then sister and I have filled it with dirt and grass and my Mom is pretty much done trying to fight us to stay out of it. The part my Mom is jealous of is that my time in the pool has given me an awesome tan. Something she thinks a boy with red hair should never be able to have!

hockey boys

2009-06-05T23:34:00.000-07:00

I spent the evening watching hockey on Youtube. It is safe to say that I am completely obsessed with hockey. Last week I climbed my way through all of the furniture and boxes in the garage and found a "hockey guy". (12 inch tall Wayne Gretzky action figure still in the box) I begged and pleaded and my Mom opened it for me. I like to play with "Gretzky", that's what I call him. He came with a platform of plastic ice and I put my hockey pucks on the "ice" to shoot them around the house. I make Zoey be the goalie and she doesn't like it all the time. My Mom and Dad are going to try and take me skating soon. Especially since the Canadian sales guy at Sport Chalet said he learned to skate when he turned 2. For the first and probably only time ever, my Mom thought about moving to Canada. Then she remembered how cold it got and that went by the wayside.

Life is busy. I play hard everyday and we are going lots of places. We've gone to Disneyland and Sea World a lot lately with trips to the park and beach in between. We are trying to grow grass in the backyard here and are still unpacking toys. But I'm happy and need to go because the laptop battery is dying.

Love you,
Ben

It's been 4 months!

2009-04-22T13:40:00.000-07:00

Really, I thought I posted about the infamous trip to New Mexico when my Grandma broke her leg, but Sofia must have done it. Life just never seems to slow down. I am 2 now! I had the best birthday party - it had a ball theme. We played giant sports games and jumped in the bouncer and ate cupcakes decorated like all kinds of balls. I am still a sports enthusiast. Both of my Grandpa's are feeding my hockey addiction and I like it when Stitch plays goalie for me. When I do well I say "nice." When I mess up I say "oh man," or "I missed." My Mom thinks I am cute but is over the fact that our living room looks like a sporting goods store that was desimated by a tornado.

In other news, we are getting ready to move - which adds to the tornado effect. My Grandma and Papa Mac left on Monday for a temple service mission in Nauvoo. We are moving to their house to take care of Zoey. I tell my Mom all the time that Zoey will be on my team when we live at Papa's house. My Mom has been over there the past few days helping finish with the packing and trying to get things ready for us to move in. I am excited to have my basketball hoop in the backyard and some space for golfing and playing baseball and soccer. Plus, my Uncle Brian's hockey stick is there and the tennis courts are nearby.

Hopefully I'll get to post more soon.

Benji

My parents are crazy.

2008-11-15T21:38:00.000-08:00

Fun, but crazy.

Today was a busy Saturday filled with a trip to the zoo and the coolest dinner I have had in a long time. It wasn't the food that was so great, it was that I got to eat picnic style in the living room and watch a movie with my Mom and Dad and Sofia. We had fun eating and then building forts with our picnic blanket.

It's been a busy few weeks. I caught a cold that scared my Mom. One night she thought I might have had croup because my cough sounded like a barking dog. Luckily though, it was just a bad cough and the humidifier helped.

I've been happy taking lots of field trips... who ever would have thought that we would have 90 degree weather in mid-November, but it makes it nice at the beach. I had a fun time Friday playing soccer at the beach, playing with rocks and getting wet. Hey, these are my favorite things after all.

Good Night, and wish me luck at church tomorrow. I am going to try to get through sacrament meeting without having to get taken out. I hope Mom packs the M&Ms.

Benjamin

Me as "Lighting McQueen" on Halloween

My best shot from our attempted Christmas card photo shoot. We are making an appointment next week so we have more hands to help.

A Few of my Favorite Things... Cool.

2008-10-30T15:09:00.000-07:00

My Mom keeps saying it is fun to watch me grow up. It seems to me sometimes that everyone around me is staying the same and except for Sofia, I am the only one changing. My Mom doesn't really do anything new, neither does my Dad, but everyday I make someone laugh or look confused because they didn't think I could do something I managed to do. So here is a list of the things that are new in my life, including my new favorite things.

1) Balls. This isn't really NEW, but it has gotten worse. I love balls. And really, not just balls. I am obsessed with ALL sports equipment. I like the special shoes, boots, cleats, racquets, bats, mitts, helmets, sticks, clubs and balls that go with every sport. My newest obsession is "boards." I LOVE surfboards and point them out whenever I see them. This apparently got old at the beach yesterday.

2) Cool. I say that cool all the time. Whenever I see one of my favorite things I say cool at the end. "A board... cool." "Birds... cool." I also point at the TV and say cool. Well, there is cool stuff on it, like...

3) Mickey Mouse. I LOVE Mickey Mouse. I call him "Mouse." Everyday I get to watch Mickey Mouse Clubhouse on TV. Mickey is also on my diapers, so it has made it a little easier for Mom to change me because I get distracted by the mouse.

4) Music and musical instruments. I like to dance and my other favorite TV show has lots of music and guitars. (It's Imagination Movers for anyone who is interested) Last night at the ward trunk or treat I had a great time hanging out at the car with all of my young women friends because they were playing music and dancing. They laughed because I just stood in the center and bounced and danced. My favorite musical instrument is a guitar. I can play air guitar now and like to use a drum stick or a tennis racquet to really get into it. I had a hard time leaving Sam's Club the other day because Mom was letting me play a Fender electric guitar. Yes, I cried. I cried a lot.

5) Dairy products. I once ate 4 yogurts in one day. And for anyone who pays attention, Yoplait can be really expensive. My Mom caved and bought the Costco pack. She has also put her foot down and I am allowed 2 a day, max.

6) The fridge. I like to get into the fridge and pick out snacks. All day long. I like yogurt, cheese, milk, yogurt, cottage cheese, celery, yogurt, carrots, whatever dish of fruit my Mom has, yogurt, hot sauce, yogurt and juice - leftover from my birthday party, so you know I don't get it very often. I am a snack-a-holic.

7) The Wii. My favorites are baseball and tennis. But I am starting to get the timing down and that makes it fun for my Mom.

8) Anything soft. I still am a sucker for soft fabrics and stuffed animals. THANK YOU AUNT KATHY for my new Woobie. (And thanks to the movie Mr. Mom that still has my Mom calling blankets woobies.) I love to snuggle my new quilt. And it matches my bed perfectly!

9) Being nude. And I will close with this one. I love to be naked. All the time, anytime. And this is what my Mom thinks makes bath time such a hit. My Mom has been wanting to get cute pictures of me, but I won't leave my clothes on long enough for her to get a good one.

And that is what is new in my life. I am going trick-or-treating tomorrow at Sea World. I am really excited because it was SO much fun last year. I am going to keep my fingers crossed that I get lots of M&Ms. The mini ones are my favorite. OK, so there is one more favorite for you!

Love and Kisses,
Benjamin

Nate's Butt Farm!

2008-10-12T21:22:00.000-07:00

Well, we made our way to Nate's Butt Farm for our annual pumpkin trek. My Mom insisted we visit the far away pumpkin patch because they have pony rides, and I am SO glad that she did. I was in heaven riding the pony. As soon as I got on I was petting her and smiling so big. Because I was the only rider and there wasn't a line, I think I got to go around more than usual and I was so glad for the circumstances.

I also got to visit the petting zoo, which wasn't as cool as the pony ride. And I found the pumpkin I wanted - it probably weighed 50 pounds. I had to get a more reasonable sized pumpkin, so I picked one that weighs less than a pound - just like a ball! We managed to leave with two jack-o-lantern pumpkins, two minis and a squash. Not bad for a days haul.

My Mom has spent the last few days reminiscing over the photos and seeing what a difference a year can make. Here are pics from last year and this year so that you too can see how much I have grown!

Good Night Everyone!
Benjamin

Say No to "Crack"

2008-10-07T21:16:00.000-07:00

Well, my Mom says I have officially outgrown another diaper size. And boy did this happen all of a sudden. We are having something of a heat wave here, so I was allowed to parade around naked after my bath tonight. About an hour later my Mom noticed my diaper seemed REALLY stretched around my middle... then I turned around. Needless to say, laughs ensued and then my Mom got the camera. I have a feeling this is going to follow me around for my whole life.

As for the rest of my life, my Mom and Grandma solved the problem with my height. I measured in at 35 and a half inches tall - and that was using a much more precise measuring style than they use at the doctor's office. So it's back to the usual nicknames for now. Phew, "shrinky dink" was getting old.

I have been enjoying the heat spending time at the beach and Sea World and going to the park a bunch. My Mom and Dad are going to buy me a soccer ball after an unsuccessful attempt to take me to play basketball - I ONLY wanted to soccer balls. I have been told that it will be my special "treat" for trick-or-treating, but I hope I really don't have to wait that long.

Otherwise there isn't much to report. Here is another picture - this time of my face.

Hugs and Kisses,
Benjamin

Not a happy camper!

2008-09-25T19:10:00.001-07:00

Life in general has been great - except for these last few days. Monday, I got shots. Yesterday my Mom started to get sick, and today, I am sick - oh, and I have two new teeth coming in. If it weren't for the runny nose, I think my Mom and Dad would say my crabbiness is from teething, but if the shoe fits...

Otherwise I have been busy running around, making trips to the beach and enjoying "sandal weather." Though if you saw my parents and their sandal wardrobes you would know that almost any day in San Diego has "sandal weather."

My sister moved into my room last week and so far it hasn't been that bad. We woke each other up the first night, but since then we are great roomates. We'll see how we do now that I have a cold.

The doctor gave me my checkup on Monday and the weirdest thing happened! I shrunk a half inch in the last three months. Which probably means someone measured me wrong, but my Mom has been joking and calling me "shrinky dink" since then. Sigh. What will I ever do about my Mom.

Bye, Have Fun!

2008-09-05T22:26:00.000-07:00

So today, my Mommy went to the bathroom and when she told me she was going potty, I told her, "bye, have fun!" She laughed, hard - but I think she made it to the bathroom ok. Today was a fun day. I got my haircut again because I am having my picture taken on Monday and I was starting to look a little like a hippie. After dinner we went down to La Jolla to check out the children's pool and see the harbor seals and birds. We were going to go to Haggen Dazs, but there was a Bentley parked illegally out front and so the traffic around there was crazy. We ended up going on a trip to the grocery store where we toured the produce section and I learned lots of colors and saw TONS of balls. But really, everything round is a ball, right?

Tomorrow I am going to the Greek Festival where hopefully I will get to eat saginaki and ride a pony. I am SO excited!!!

I will post a picture of my new haircut as soon as my Mom takes one.

Good night!
Benjamin

Full of Surprises...

2008-08-31T20:38:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it has been over a month since I last posted. I have been keeping busy, surprising my unsuspecting parents and being too clever for my own good.

I have discovered the universal answer to EVERY question. No. About 95% of the time, this answer will suffice. Just to be safe, once a week or so I will answer with an, "uh huh," which could be No, or it could mean yes. That simple change insures that the questions continue. This is what my Mom says is being to clever for my own good. She told me something along those lines last week and my response was, "No, don't say that." Which led my Mom to believe I am capable of much more intelligent speech. I'm getting really good at getting adults to put on a show for me.

Other than talking a lot more, most of what I say sounds like "ball," I am busy climbing and coloring and reading and throwing balls and trying to learn how to catch. Mostly I let the ball hit me in the chest and then I laugh because it tickles. I like to be tickled and to say, "tickle, tickle, tickle." It makes my Grandma laugh.

I know a lot of animal sounds, Meow, Ruff Ruff, Moo, Baa, Ooh Ooh Aah Aah(a monkey), hiss for snake, Grrr for bear, I snarl at lions and tigers, and I know that a rabbit goes hop hop.

I am going to be busy these next few weeks getting my 18 month pictures taken, shoe shopping, swimming and helping my Aunt Charlotte and Uncle Jeff move back into Cardiff - I am SO excited to finally meet them!

I hope everyone is doing well. I love you all!
Benjamin

Here is a new photo - check out all my teeth!

Five Days Down. I am still alive.

2008-07-25T13:09:00.000-07:00

So today is my 5th day without a binky. I only get them for sleeping. Overall, I've been doing really well. I have moments of misery, and I really don't like "checking out" of the crib. I have to surrender the binky to get out in the morning and after naps. My Mom was convinced she was crazy trying to take me to the zoo on Wednesday - only my second day sans binky. But I did great. Today at church I did remarkably well too. I usually have a hard time because sacrament meeting is during my morning nap time, and we are usually still at church when I should be having my afternoon nap. I even had a bit of a cold this last weekend and I did better than expected. All in all, I think I will hit that two-week mark and be a champ without the binky.

Rescue Me! I am being Tortured!

2008-07-22T21:34:00.001-07:00

Who thought it would be a good idea to take away my binky??? I wanna know who told my Mom that this was a good thing to do. OK, truth be told, I think my Mom just did it. I think she was tired of trying to get me to give it up, so today, she took it away. I am only allowed to have it in my crib, she says. So I got it for my nap this morning, and then had to give it back to get out of the crib. Same thing this afternoon, except I didn't take a very good nap. By 4:00 my Mom said she wanted to cave - but that she is going to be strong. She thinks that in 2 weeks I'll be a pro at no binks. But I am strong too. Strong and stubborn. Have you ever met my parents? MUTINY! That's all I have to say about that.

I'm Stuck, Help Me & a Haircut

2008-07-21T12:57:00.000-07:00

I wanted to show off some new pictures...

My new phrase is "I'm stuck, hep me!" Which means, I'm stuck, help me.

This is me. Stuck in the swing, pleading for help. Cute, no?

This is me with a new haircut. I wouldn't sit still long enough to get the front finished. But it looks AWESOME from the back!

Kisses and Cuddles

2008-07-20T21:26:00.000-07:00

My Mom just adores that I am in an affectionate phase. The Tuesday before she went to camp I finally puckered up for a kiss. Something that until now I turned away from; I was only too happy to oblige with my cheek, but never the lips. Tonight, I just let loose though. Since Tuesday kisses had only been for my Mom, but I gave kisses to Grandma, Grandpa and Daddy tonight. Also, I've been generous with hugs lately too. Grandpa was at our building today for church because he had to give a high council talk and I greeted him with a hug. This is all new for me, but I get lots of encouragement and people seem happy when I do it, so perhaps I'll keep it up. Good night!

O-Wunge

2008-07-16T21:33:00.000-07:00

It's a funny thing. I am starting to talk more and more, and everyday my Mom is trying to teach me new words. Today I REALLY wanted a "ball" off of the kitchen counter. My Mom told me it was called an "Orange." We went back and forth - "ball," "orange." That must have lasted five minutes. Then I said it, O-wunge. But not just orange, "owunge ball!" I threw it around the living room and then decided I should try to eat it. The peel sure was yummy!

Future Rock Star

2008-07-11T12:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Mom and Sofia and I were dancing around the house and singing waiting for Daddy to get home from work. My hair is getting LONG, and since I was wearing my new t-shirt that says "future rock star" on it, Mom decided I needed a rock star hairdo. A little bit of water, some hurried styling and I am rocking the mohawk. The best part was Mom trying to teach me to do air guitar. I was strumming my shoulder and patting my belly. Mom was cracking up!

Yes, I do.

2008-07-10T14:56:00.000-07:00

My Mom cracks me up. She swears she was never going to be one of those Moms who kept tabs on milestones and would be anxious if I hadn't met one. I've met them all, so I don't know why she doubts me. Lately she is nervous that I still take a pacifier. She is afraid that I won't talk, or that I won't say things because I have a plug in my mouth. I can see how this is a realistic fear, but today I proved, AGAIN, that my Mom has nothing to fear.

I woke from my morning nap binky-less. When my Mom came in to get me I was pointing at a binky on the floor. She asked me, "Do you want that binky?" To which I replied, "Yes, I do." For those keeping track, those three words form a complete sentence. With appropriate punctuation. Yes (pause), I do. Sure, it's more of a yesh, but I said it, and my Mom thought I was cute. I got a big hug and a kiss. And then, embarrassingly, my Mom said "yes, I do" over and over and over again. You gotta love her. She is so funny sometimes.

The other sentences that escape every so often are: "What dish?" (What is this?), "What dat?" "Go tee Dok" (Go see Dominik), "I like dish" and "Wii Daddy." So, I like playing Wii with my Daddy and seeing Dominik and Jackson. Lately those are the highlights of my life, though I have been shopping a bunch in the last week - thanks largely to the IRS who finally sent an economic stimulus check, and per my Grandpa's advise, we are having fun with it.

I had a fun 4th of July and LOVE being with my friends and family. It has been so much fun in the last little bit. I don't get out of the house as much as I'd like, but the times I do get out are packed with fun, so I won't complain. I'll write about more adventures soon.

Love,
Ben

Latest Stats

2008-06-23T15:26:00.001-07:00

So, for those keeping track, here are my latest statistics:

Height: 34 inches - 95th percentile

Weight: 24 pounds, 5.25 ounces (they sure are precise) - about the 50th percentile
Head Circumference: 47 centimeters

The doctor told my Mom and Dad to watch out for accidents. Hehe. Like I'll let them know before I am going to get into trouble. My newest phrase, "Uh oh," is sure coming in handy lately.

The Misadventures of Benjamin Royal

2008-06-19T20:25:00.000-07:00

So it has been a busy couple of months. I feel bad about not posting, but I am moving so fast these days I hardly have time. I've been working on new skills like, jumping, spinning, running and CLIMBING! Climbing is one of my favorite things to do. I am fearless and have a bump on my head to prove it! I move objects around the house (or other people's houses) to make stairs that enable me to get places I normally wouldn't be allowed to go - like the tops of cabinets, entertainment centers, or couches. I am also tall enough now to climb the toilet and empty cabinets. Needless to say, my Mom is plenty busy cleaning up after me all day long. She calls me Hurricane Ben because of the trail of debris I leave behind.

I just had a really fun week. I helped to celebrate my Daddy's birthday and he got a Wii, so I haven't put down the remotes since Saturday. I also went to SeaWorld with my cousins and LOVED to play and watch the dolphins and watch the 4-D Sesame Street movie. Today I went up to San Clemente to see my Uncle Steve and have lunch and tomorrow I am going to a wedding. I have only been to two other weddings in my life and I was way too young to eat cake then, so I am really excited.

I wish there was more to report since it has been so long, but really I have just been busy growing and playing. I will try to write again soon.

Love, Ben

MY SISTER IS HERE!

2008-04-09T10:08:00.000-07:00

Well, the biggest update is that my little sister Sofia Katherine Jackson was born on Monday, March 31st, 2008 at 4:07am. I was at home sleeping, but once I woke up Grandpa got me dressed, took me out for breakfast and we went to the hospital so I could meet my "girl." I was SO EXCITED to get to hold her. I kept pointing at her and saying "girl." I can't say her name yet, but I do know who she is and I love her to death. I like to give her hugs and cuddles and kisses, and sometimes I scare my Mom because I squeeze her hard and my pats on her head are a little more like slaps - but she puts up with me.

I am saying more and more words everyday: ball, dog, cat, Mom, milk, Dad, girl, go, down, car... I am also learning how to run, which is a struggle as I sometimes get ahead of myself, but running is really convenient when I have something I shouldn't, like a fist full of cat food or the end of the toilet paper roll. The best part is that I laugh the whole time I run away from my Mom.

Last night was a first. I slept through the night again - something I haven't done since Sofia has been home from the hospital, and my girl slept from 9:30 until 5:00 this morning. Let's hope we both keep up with this schedule so that Mom and Dad can get some good sleeping in at night. Everything is going well with our little family. I am so glad that my Grandma has been coming over this week to help take care of me and my Mom and my Sister. She has been a lifesaver. I think sometimes I wouldn't get lunch if Grandma wasn't here.

I love you all, and will post more about Sofia and how to get to pictures of her soon.

Hugs and Kisses,
Benjamin

Only one week until the big day!

2008-02-28T20:47:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it? Just one more week until my first birthday!

I have been busy mastering walking and getting more teeth. I now have four front teeth on the top and two on the bottom. It is painful, and I have a hard time sleeping when my teeth cut through my gums, but otherwise I am still my happy, giggly self. I don't drink from a bottle anymore - just a sippy cup, and so I've also started drinking milk, which I LOVE. My days pretty much revolve around sleeping, eating, being chased around the house by my Mommy while I get into things like trash cans, the toilet paper roll and my diaper bag. Sometimes my Mom calls me "Hurricane Ben." I leave quite a debris trail, but I love learning about everything and discovering new toys (like my Dad's phone).

Next week I am going to get my picture taken and we are going to work on my birthday party - we have the sandbox, but we need to go and get the sand, so that will be fun. I am also going to a shower for my Mom and my new sister. I love to have a bath or a shower, so it should be fun.

There isn't much left to report. I hope everyone is doing great!

Hugs and Kisses,
Benjamin

Greetings from the world's messiest eater!

2008-02-11T21:39:00.000-08:00

I LOVE to eat! What can I say, I am the product of my Mommy and Daddy. Sometimes, though, I find that it is just as much fun to wear my food as it is to eat it. Take today for example... My Mom was making lunch for Trav and Heather and herself and I was STARVING. So I got to sit in the highchair and eat a nana (banana), some cheese and turkey. The nana is sweet, so I get that down, though I did squeeze a few pieces in my hands, and you can't waste good cheese, but the turkey looked great in my hair. By the end of the meal I had about 6 pieces of turkey placed strategically all over my head. Good thing it wasn't too hard to clean up. I did a real number at dinner though. I got ravioli, cottage cheese, beans and cantalope. By the end of the meal I had ravioli and beans mushed into my hair and covering every speck of my face (including my eyelids). I also managed to get cottage cheese and ravioli down my shirt and in my pants. My Dad ended up carrying my high chair into the bathroom so it would be easier for someone to transfer me into the bathtub. Sure, I am messy, but I am so darned cute that I don't get in trouble for my antics. I thought it was funny that my Mom and Grandma were laughing at Zoey. She stands under my high chair during dinner to catch my crumbs - tonight she had chunks of ravioli and beans in her fur and she couldn't reach to eat them off of herself. I like to feed the "gog" (dog).

Can you believe it?

2008-02-05T20:21:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow I will be 11 months old!!! Life has been busy lately as my Mom and I get ready for my new little sister and my first birthday party. I am getting more and more comfortable walking and am finding that I need the furniture less and less to get around. I have also found some new toys in the house - mainly toilet paper which I like to take off the roll and play with. I am keeping my Mom busy and we are having a good time. I am also starting to talk more and I like to feed Zoey from my highchair at Grandma and Grandpa's house. I announce "dog", then I throw some food and look down to watch her eat it. If it wasn't so cute I would probably get in trouble for doing it.

I wish there was more to report. Time is sure flying by and I am getting excited for my Tonka Truck birthday party. My Mom and Dad keep talking about a sandbox - I think it would be so fun, and maybe I won't eat all of the sand out of it.

Good Night!
Benjamin

I did it!

2008-01-23T09:11:00.000-08:00

The last few weeks have been busy! My Mom and Dad had to return the first video camera because the sound didn't work - so, they have been trying to stop the real progress on walking for a few days, but last night, I did it!!! I was downstairs at Heather and Trav's house and Trav got home from work. I went up to him and stood up holding his leg while everyone talked about how close I was to walking and that I just needed to let go and try, so I did - and I took 2 steps to the toy box. Everyone cheered and was excited for me. I wish my Dad could have been there, but Trav went and got the video camera and using it as a motivator for me (I really wanted to grab it), I walked to my Mom and we have it on tape. Needless to say, Dad ordered the new video camera yesterday. My Dad was sad he missed my steps (by minutes), but thought it was really neat to see it on video. He says it looks like I do the "monster mash." Now everyone wants me to walk everywhere, but I already tried that, and right now crawling is faster.

I've also been working on talking more. I mimic sounds more than words, so I say ma, ma for milk and when I want more. I also started saying ba for bottle and ball. I mostly speak my own language filled with all kinds of weird sounds and versions of yum like n'gum. I love food, so my Mom figures that is why all of my words seem to revolve around eating.

I love peas and carrots and broccoli, green beans aren't my favorite. I liked the baby food version, but the real thing is a little strange. I put the whole bean in my mouth and spit the skin thingy back out. Does anyone know where you can by just the beany insides of green beans??? I pretty much eat people food now, though I do sneak in some cat food every once in a while. My Mom always tells me "yuck." But hey, it is there and it is food, so I will eat it. Maybe I will turn into a cat!

I am my own person!!!

2008-01-07T20:25:00.000-08:00

And don't you forget it! My Mom is sad that I am becoming so independent, but I am my own person now. I like being able to explore and see everything, and when I want to be held, I don't mind it, but otherwise, I will let you know when I want things MY WAY. I am a better eater when I can feed myself, I try to dress myself, and I like to explore the house. (Mom is forever grateful that I have not been too interested in the litter box - but we still have 2 cats available for adoption).

This is really my only update. I am days away from walking on my own - I am getting more comfortable standing up and getting down on my own, and I'll walk holding my Mom or Dad or Grandpa's hand. Our new video camera came in the mail today, so my Mom says I am free to walk now if I want to. Moms! Sheesh! But I am becoming a boy so quickly. What can I say? The new baby isn't far away, so I'm becoming big.

Well, good night everyone!

It has been so long...

2007-12-31T17:32:00.000-08:00

BUT, it is not my fault. Unfortunately, I rely on a typist (my Mom), who claims that she has been too busy caring for me to type the things I want everyone to know. So, I am sorry it has been so long, but I am back to tell you about all of the neat things I've been doing!

I don't remember much about November except that I really started moving. I could pull myself up on EVERYTHING and I starting trying to navigate the house more. I got to go shopping for Christmas presents for people and picked out things to send to our family and friends who live far away. Mainly my Mom and I got ready for our trip to Hawaii at the beginning of December, which meant lots of errands and catching up to make sure we were ready to leave home for awhile.

I went to my 9 month check-up early, just in case I had a weird reaction to any of my shots. They measured me in at 29 inches tall, and 19 pounds 5 ounces. I am now in about the 75th percentile for height and the 30th percentile for weight - which really make me wonder what that kid who is 100% looks like! I am starting to work towards the goals Dr. N set for me, including 3 meals a day and my vocabulary. So far I only have Dada and Mama down. I make all sorts of sounds, but still no other words. I am not behind, it is just our goal.

I LOVED Thanksgiving. I ate turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes and a crescent roll. I didn't get any brussels sprouts because they had nuts in them, but I did get to try the cranberries. I would have gotten pumpkin pie too if I hadn't been asleep. I think it was the chemical in the turkey - it knocked me out!

Soon after Thanksgiving we were in the final countdown to our trip to Hawaii, which was awesome! We left on December 6th and spent 2 days on Oahu. I did great on the flight. I made friends with the people behind us and tried to give them "fives" all the time. The ladies on the plane gave another passenger a different seat so that I could have my own chair between my Mom and Dad. I didn't cry at all, and honestly, I probably didn't even need the juice my Mom gave me, but I liked it, so I won't complain.

On Oahu we went to the commissary and stocked up on baby food and diapers for our cruise, we visited the Polynesian Cultural Center where I was the main attraction for all of the college girls who work there. My Mom says it is inevitable - you take a cute baby to see a bunch of LDS girls who just left Young Women and they will want to hold the baby. I made LOTS of friends and had girls dance with me and sing me songs. The lady in the Samoa area made me a headband and I got to eat a Coconut dumpling. My Dad learned to play the Ukulele and the lady there held me the whole time my Dad sang and played. I also went to my first Luau where I ate all kinds of fancy things I had never had before, including Jell-O, which made quite a mess. Also on Oahu we went to the Pearl Harbor Memorial. We were going to go on the anniversary, but decided we needed the whole day to go to the PCC so we went the day after. I met a survivor who had been on another ship in Pearl Harbor. It was really neat. After Pearl Harbor we went to the North Shore and I got to eat shaved ice from Matsumoto's - they had a picture of Tom Hanks on the wall eating a shaved ice, and a picture of Hurley from LOST. I guess the place is famous for their shaved ice - I know I really liked it. Then we went to a surf shop and got the scoop on the Pipeline Classic and I got some slippers for the rest of the vacation. Then it was back to Waikiki to board the cruise ship.

On the cruise, I got my first tooth, a rash, and some new friends. My Mom thinks there was something on the sheets and towels that gave me the rash - it went away as soon as we got home. Despite the teeth and the rash though, I was a champ about being a tourist. Our first stop was Hilo on the big island of Hawaii. We went to Volcanoes National Park and saw the steam vents and areas of Mauna Loa that had errupted. We wanted to go to Pua'a and see the lava flow but we were told it was impossible to see the day we were there, so we went to lunch and waited FOREVER for food and then went to a Rainforest Zoo. It was a cool day.

Next we went to Maui for two days where my Dad and Grandpa snorkled and I screamed because I thought the water was WAY too cold. I tried, I just couldn't take it. I did discover sand though, and I like to eat it off of my hands - driftwood tastes pretty good too. On Maui my Dad and Grandpa saw a Humuhumunukunukuapua'a. How is that for vocabulary improvement?? My Mom got to take care of some shopping and got a cute dress for my soon-to-be little sister and I got a stuffed teddy bear made out of Hawaiian fabric. I also have to endorse the ABC stores, because they are pretty cool. On our second day in Hawaii we made the mistake of driving to Hana. A three hour car ride with a baby isn't such a good idea. But Mom and Dad went into a natural pool to see a waterfall - they took a picture and that was it. We went to a black sand beach and saw some pretty flowers and rainbows. Now I can say that I have survived the road to Hana, and I don't think I'll be going back.

After Maui we went to the other side of the big island and spent most of the day in Kona at the beach. Mom, Dad and Grandpa snorkled, I played in the sand and got my picture taken for our Christmas card, then we went to lunch and visited a marketplace. We also found the temple in Kona and got some pictures. It was pretty.

My favorite stop on the cruise was Kauai. It is such a pretty island and the tempo is a bit slower. My Mom says it reminds her more of Grand Bahama Island. There is life, it just moves slower - and that makes it relaxing. On the first day in Kauai we took a boat ride up the Wailoa River. My Mom and Dad were married at the Fern Grotto, they joked it was a shotgun wedding, whatever that is. There are TONS of wild chickens in Kauai and one of them almost jumped into the car with us. After the boat ride we went to the burger place my Grandma likes and got some good grub and a smoothie which I must say I LOVED! We ended the first day with a trip to Wal-Mart where I got to see Pierce Brosnan who is my Mom's favorite James Bond. She says he is really good looking, Dad and I really don't see what all of the fuss is about. After stocking up on all manner of goodies at Wal-Mart we headed back to the cruise ship for the night. Our last day in Kauai was a relaxing day of napping and shopping and driving through a tunnel of trees and seeing the beach one last time before we sailed to the Napali Coast and then headed back for Oahu.

It was fun to go, but I missed home and seeing my friends and having my own bed to sleep in. The recovery has been quick for me, but long for Mom and Dad. We only had about a week before Christmas and we frantically went to see Christmas lights, visit with friends, set up our own Christmas tree and have our family traditions. Christmas morning was so much fun. I tried to eat my stocking - but then I discovered it had good stuff inside - a book, a DVD, a ball, and a lion lovey. My Mom and Dad got me a Leap Pad that I played with, and then we all got ready to go to Grandma and Grandpa's house. We had eggs and orange rolls and then opened presents. It was sure a lot of fun, but after awhile I was ready for a nap. Christmas dinner was wonderful, Trav and Heather and Dominik and Jackson came and we ate Prime Rib and Veggies and Potatoes and Rolls. Yum.

Lastly, I celebrated my first New Year's baby style. I went to bed at about 7:30 and my Mom wishes she had joined me. My Dad slept through Pirates of the Caribbean and they ended up making it home at about 11:00. We are not party animals. I have taken my first step in the New Year, I love Elmo and going for walks. I seem to change everyday according to my Mom, but I just know that I am loving life. I promise to update sooner next time. I love you!

Big News!

2007-11-07T21:59:00.001-08:00

Life is going great, though I have to admit that it has been a little too eventful (even for me). I LOVED Halloween! I probably tried to eat my costume more than I should have, but I went to SeaWorld on Halloween to go trick-or-treating. I got to feed dolphins, sit in the soak zone at the Shamu show, meet Clyde the sea lion and spend time with my best friends and my Mom and Dad. You'll have to see my third photo album so you can see pictures of the exciting day.

I went up to San Clemente this week to see my Uncle Steve and have lunch for his birthday. We went to Islands. I always like going there. I got to eat the whipped cream off of Stevie's Kona Pie - it was awesome. Mostly I listened while my Mom and Dad talked, but I got my two cents in and even got to play some. We talked about moving to Florida. It was always up in the air but now is definite. It's exciting, but I know it is finally sinking in for my Mom that she will be leaving her hometown and her family and friends.

As if that wasn't enough for the excitement here, we found out today that I am most-likely getting a little sister! (It is hard to be 100% sure with a girl), but the Dr. said he is pretty convinced. I can't wait! My little sister should be born sometime in early April. Then we'll all pack up and head to Florida about this time next year. Now do you see why I said it is almost too exciting, even for me??

Another First!

2007-10-14T21:47:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I went to LegoLand for the first time! It was a lot of fun. I went with my Aunt Nuria and Uncle Josh and their kids Fulton, Kiefer and Aragon. I didn't get to go on a lot of rides - I am too small still, but I did get to Trick-or-Treat for the first time. I have to say, I feel really gypped by the whole trick-or-treating thing. Here is a break-down of the things I got in my goodie bag and how I got to enjoy them:

1) A package of Organic Oatmeal Raisin Cookies - I didn't get a taste or anything. My Mom and Dad ate them and said something about me choking on them.

2) A Football Card from Upper Deck - I got a peek. Otherwise it has not yet been in my possession. My parents must think I'll try to eat it or something, if it tastes good enough, I just might.

3) Chocolate Laffy Taffy - I got to chew on it in the wrapper. It didn't taste like anything. My Mom and the taffy out of one piece and my Dad ate the other two. It smelled good. I wanted to eat some too. I heard them say something about choking again.

4) A magazine. I haven't gotten to play with it. I'll be honest; If I get it, I will eat it.

5) A fortune cookie. But not just any fortune cookie - the fortune gets me a free kid's meal at Pick Up Stix. I did not get to eat the cookie. It was too hard. Heck, I probably won't get to eat any of the kid's meal either. Maybe I can eat the fortune.

6) An apple. My Mom and Dad ate it. They didn't even share. BUT, I did get to try an apple fry with whipped cream.

7) A coupon for a free messy sundae. That I probably won't get to enjoy.

8) Last but not least, I got an orange Lego with a ghost on it. And I have sucked it and thrown it and it is mine, all mine!

I can't wait to trick-or-treat some more! I get to go to Trunk-or-Treat on the 30th, and I am going to SeaWorld to trick-or-treat on Halloween and I am going to my Grandma's house on Halloween night to scare her with my Nemo costume. It will be so much fun!

Warning - I might start walking soon.

2007-10-03T14:14:00.000-07:00

My new hobby seems to be scaring my Mom and Dad. Mostly by pulling myself up on things and crawling faster than they think I should be able to. Jason told my Dad on Sunday that his oldest son started walking at 8 months. I think I can beat him. I am trying really, really hard by pulling myself up on the furniture and on my Mom. I tried to use my Dad's tool case but it wasn't heavy enough. I've also used the crib and the pack and play - hence the tools being out. So my mattress is lowered and Mom and Dad are busy babyproofing the house. We get to go shopping for a gate this weekend so I can't get to the litterbox. Yeah!

I Can Crawl!

2007-09-24T11:10:00.000-07:00

I've been scooting for a while. I could never quite figure out how to move my arms and legs at the same time, but yesterday I did it! When properly motivated, it was easy. My cats Ozzy and Harley are quick, but I surprised them when I crawled so fast I caught them. Ozzy doesn't really like it when I catch him because I pull out handfuls of his fur. He's going to have to be quicker next time.

Don't Worry, I'm just busy!

2007-09-14T13:40:00.000-07:00

Life is sure busy. My Mom and I have been having lots of fun lately and keeping busy is tiring. I caught another cold and that wasn't any fun. It was hard too because my Dad was is Miami and my Mom was sad that I was all stuffed up and not sleeping well. I'm all better now though!

Last week I went to the doctor for my 6-month check up. I showed off again twisting and moving and scooting around. I also got the ok to eat different foods like yogurt, which I love, and meats. I get to eat table food too, as long as it is soft. I had gelato the other day at Costco - YUM!

My stats are as follows:

Weight: 16 pounds, 12 ounces - 50%
Height: 28 inches - 95%
Head Circumference: 43.5 cm - 50%

I also got more shots, including a flu shot, so Mom and I are keeping our fingers crossed that I stay healthy this winter. But there are more interesting things happening in my life...

1) I can scoot. I kinda crawl, but it is not as coordinated as a crawl. People tell my Mom her life is over now because I can pretty much get anywhere and get into anything.

2) I got pictures taken - and they are really cute. We get them back on the 25th. I can't wait to see them.

3) I am going to be a big brother. Mom is scared, I don't really know what it means, but it is really good news.

I need to eat now, but I will post again really soon!

Long time no post...

2007-08-12T18:19:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I've posted and decided it was time to give everyone an update. Things are going good here but life is sure busy. My Mom and I still do our normal day-to-day stuff including walks and time singing and playing and of course, eating. But I've also been visiting lots of people and getting out more. We try to get to the beach every week and I still love it - I love to get my feet wet and I "talk" to the waves when they wash ashore.

Eating solids is going really well. I eat peas, carrots, avocado, green beans, sweet potato, pears and bananas. I still have to try peaches and squash, and then in a few months I can try more varieties of fruits and veggies. I found out I should be 8 months old before I eat pineapple, so I will get to eat it in Hawaii - yeah!!!

I wish there was more to post, but life has pretty much been the same old thing. I'm sitting up better, eating better and keeping more of my food in my belly - otherwise, not much is happening. Oh, I say wow and woah - but I have no idea what I am saying. Hopefully something interesting will happen soon - at least I will have more to post after my next checkup on Sept. 6th.

I am 20 weeks old today!

2007-07-24T14:07:00.000-07:00

Time sure flies. My Grandma is on vacation and saw a picture of me and wanted to know what happened to me. Everyday I am looking more like a boy and less like a baby. My hair is growing, I am developing more and more of a personality and I am having fun.

I have started eating "solid" foods and while I am not a huge fan of rice cereal I do a good job eating it. I have also tried avocado, which I love, and carrots which I really like. Next on the list are sweet potato and peas. My Mom makes my food which is pretty cool. My Dad gets jealous when it is time to puree the veggies though, so he comes over and takes charge. My Mom thinks it's funny... any kind of "power tool" and my Dad comes running. If only she could convince him that vacuuming is as much fun.

I spend my days doing fun things. I go for a walk just about everyday. I eat food, read stories and dance and sing. I want so much to crawl, but at this point what I do isn't really crawling. I manage to scoot around a little and pull myself short distances, but I am just not quite ready. I am getting much better at sitting up it takes a while before I face plant. I like to sit or stand, I don't care much for just lying around.

Not much else is new in my life. All of my 3-month clothes are finally in storage, as are most of the 3-6-month sized clothes and even a few of the 6-month clothes. We went shopping last weekend and got lots of new stuff that I will fit into eventually and a compact stroller for our trip to Hawaii in December. I think I am going to like Hawaii. Pineapple isn't considered citrus, is it? I will have to Google-it to find out.

Love, hugs and sloppy wet kisses,
Benjamin

I am tall, kinda skinny and I have a normal-sized head

2007-07-10T15:30:00.000-07:00

So I went to the doctor today and got five shots - yup, they poked me 5 times!!! I didn't like it very much, but I did really well considering what was happening to me. Here are my stats:

Height: 27 and a quarter inches - 95th percentile
Weight: 14 pounds, 15 and three-quarter ounces (not quite 15 pounds) - 50th percentile
Head Circumference: 42cm - 46th percentile

Otherwise I am still a good sleeper, I am strong and I reach for things to shove them in my mouth - which is an advanced thing. My gums are swollen, but no teeth yet. I am well on my way, so stay tuned for an update on my teeth.

I can start solid foods tonight, so I am getting excited for my first taste of rice cereal. Yum.

Memo - Mom needs to remember to knock on wood

2007-07-09T21:14:00.000-07:00

So as soon as I mentioned that I don't freak out in the car - I started freaking out again. Today on the way up to San Clemente to see my Dad I took the binky out of my mouth and threw it out of my carseat. My Mom couldn't find it reaching in the back of the truck so she had to pull off the freeway to find it and get it back into my mouth. I still freak out. And while I freak out less than I used to - it is not as rare as I said it was.

Life is going well for me. I go to the doctor tomorrow, Tuesday - not Wednesday like I thought. I sometimes get confused. I am not excited for more shots, but I do want to know how much I weigh and how tall I am. And I am REALLY excited to try new and different foods. My Mom is excited too.

If you haven't yet, click on the newsflash to see lots of pictures of me. The photo page will be updated more frequently than the blog as far as pictures go because it is much easier to load them there. Good night everyone!

My Milestones

2007-07-05T10:01:00.001-07:00

I just wanted to let everyone know that I keep changing and growing. I've had a few firsts and have reached a few milestones in the last few days and wanted everyone to know about them!

First and foremost, I RARELY freak out in the car now! This is the one that has my Mom the most excited because she doesn't feel guilty taking me out anymore.

I went to the library for the first time and read books. The library has a sign on it that says "Cool Zone." This means it is air-conditioned and my Mom likes to be there. I also saw something freaky - but that is another story. The only part that is hard is the walk back up the hill to get home.

I ATE Cool Whip! Well, I pretty much spit it all back out - but after Aunt Alicia gave me strawberry ice cream it was all over. I go to see Dr. N on Wednesday of next week for my 4-month check up and to talk about eating rice cereal. I hope it tastes as good as ice cream and cool whip, but I'm not all that sure it will.

I celebrated my FIRST 4th of July. I went to a pancake breakfast and saw so many of my friends. I liked the music the DJ played and I danced and laughed and slept.

I went to the beach for the first time. Now, I live in Cardiff. I have been to the beach, but not really on the beach or close to the water. I stared at the waves. It was really a cool thing and a great way to spend the 4th of July. Watching the sun set was incredible.

I slept for 11 hours last night!!! I had my dinner at 7:30, went to bed at 8:30 and woke up at 7:30 this morning. My Mom was sure something had happened to me or at least that I would wake up with the world's wettest Hugggie, but all was well.

My 4-month birthday is tomorrow and everyone is just shocked at how fast time flies. I love being alive and learning new things. I will post all of my vitals after the doctor next week. And hopefully you'll get to see pictures of me eating my "first" real foods.

A Quick Update

2007-06-26T22:10:00.000-07:00

I think I will always change... but only for the better. My sleeping patterns are changing again - I take longer naps and want to sleep a lot more than I used to. My Grandpa says it is either because I am tired or because I am growing. He told my Mom to start getting the 9-month clothes ready. My Mom just rolls her eyes because she is already having to move a lot of my clothes into storage because they are too small - including 6-month old clothes!!!

This week has been great so far. I went to my first pool party and went swimming for the first time ever. Hooray! My Mom was beginning to think I would never get to wear my 3 month board shorts. I'm not sure I liked the pool. The water was nice, but it was weird too - kind of like a giant bathtub, but also VERY different. It was neat that my Daddy went with me and a bunch of my friends were in the pool too, but I didn't smile or giggle like my Mom and Dad thought I would. I looked serious the whole time. I am also going swimming next Saturday, so maybe then I will be a little happier about the whole thing.

I spent the night at my Grandma and Grandpa's house on Saturday night so my Mom and Dad could celebrate their 8th wedding anniversary. They went to the temple and to Rubio's. My Mom jokes that it was "romantic." They also caught up on laundry. They sure know how to party when I am away. I liked going to church with Grandma though. We had fun and I shrieked during sacrament. That is my new thing. I let out ear-piercing screams. I am not mad or sad, it just is funny.

I might get to go to the fair on Friday which would be fun. I am getting better about the car - I get to bring friends along now and that makes it better. Today "Tootoot" and I went to Costco. (Tootoot is a stuffed Elephant beanie baby that my Grandma gave me.) Yesterday Quack and I went to the commissary. (Quack is my duck that quacks - I got him for Easter.) Mostly I "chew" on my friends. What can I say? Not much else is happening to me.

Good night everyone - sweet dreams.

I Can Sit Up!!

2007-06-19T21:33:00.000-07:00

So today Jackson and Dominik's favorite Aunt Lisa took my picture and my Mom said that I couldn't sit up on my own. So when she brought me back upstairs and put me down on a blanket with my blocks I decided to prove her wrong. I sat up all by myself. I had my hands on the ground to help keep me up but I was sitting. My Mom was amazed. I'm sure I'll get better at it as time goes on but I just had to share. Also, I didn't pee on you Uncle Steve. Your shirt might have been wrinkled but that is because I sweat... a lot. You will know when I pee on you. :) Good night everyone!

Happy Birthday Daddy

2007-06-18T20:32:00.000-07:00

This last weekend was so much fun! On Friday we celebrated my Daddy's birthday. My Mom and I got him a MediaGate Storage Device. Neither of us really know what it does, but Dad says all of our movies are on the home network now, so we can watch movies on any TV in the house. He also says we can take movies on vacation. I have never been on vacation, but I guess we'll watch movies when we go. I am starting to get excited for my very first vacation in December.

Anyway, Daddy's birthday was great. I spent the night at my Grandma and Grandpa's house and my Mom and Dad went to a movie and to dinner and shopping and miniature golfing. My Mom rocks and was 7 under par. My Dad was 4 over. :) I hope my Mom teaches me how to putt - as long as I am a right-handed golfer I will get to use the Nike Blue Face putter and it is awesome! They had fun but were glad to get me on Saturday.

Sunday was Father's Day and I wore my orange t-shirt that says "My Daddy Rocks" on it. Everyone at church thought it was cool. Then we had a BBQ with Heather and Trav and their families. They were all visiting for my buddy Jackson's blessing. For dinner everyone ate steak and TONS of fresh veggies - I thought the artichokes looked cool. I only got a bottle. I want to eat real food soon. I got my Daddy and my Grandpa books for Father's Day. It will be fun to have them read to me. Story time is my favorite!

I wanted to tell my Daddy that I love him. He gives me my wings so I can fly. I love to play with him and giggle. We learn so much together and even though my Mom doesn't like our TV time we bond and it is fun for both of us. My Daddy is one of my very best friends and I love him so much!

Three months down!

2007-06-12T21:19:00.000-07:00

So I officially turned three months old last week. It was like any other day, but looking back my Mom and Dad can both see how much I have changed since the day I first entered the world.

I am drastically taller – while 5-6” may not seem like a lot, it is 25% of my birth height and has made quite the difference in finding clothes that fit. Most of my jammies are sized for 6 month babies and most of these are becoming small. I weigh more – but I’m not chubby! I am now heavy enough to hurt the strongest of arms making it harder to be carried around all day; but I am also becoming more independent. I like to play on the floor and still like my bouncy seat. Today I played in the Exersaucer for the very first time and LOVED it! I coo and giggle, I smile at everyone, I “talk” to people, and I rolled over for the first time… I am a very different baby than I was three months ago!

Mommy and I are counting down the days until we can spend the day doing fun things like going to Sea World and the Zoo, shopping, going to the beach, swimming and visiting with our friends and family. We are also excited for my Daddy’s birthday which is this Friday. I am excited to go spend the night with my Grandma and Grandpa and Mom and Dad are excited to go out to dinner together and stay out late – secretly Mom is excited to ride in a car without a crying baby.

So that is what is new with me. I hope everyone is doing well. Sending slobbery cyber kisses to all my friends and family.

Still growing strong!

2007-06-02T21:48:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I've written. What can I say? Life has been busy. Things are good. I am still as drooly as ever - still no teeth, but drool dripping down my face like crazy. My newest thing is sucking on my Mom's shoulder and grabbing her knuckles to gnaw on them. I also like to suck on my Dad's arms. My Mom and Dad laugh about it because at any given time one of them is walking around with a giant puddle on their clothes.

This last week was a lot of fun. I had lunch up in Dana Point with my Uncle Steve and we watched the boats in the harbor. He promised to teach me all about girls. My Mom is officially scared. Dad said there needs to be a parent present. :)

Other than getting a bit better about the car and growing like a weed there isn't much to report. I am really happy that in 2 weeks my Mom will be paying attention to only me during the day because she quit working. I will like it because she won't be as tired and she won't have to type all day. It isn't so bad when I am napping, but otherwise I would much rather be playing.

Oh, I got 2 new books this week! "The Story of Ferdinand," which was my Mommy's favorite book when she was little, and "Tumble, Bumble," which makes me laugh. I'll write more later, but I know I will be busy because Mommy and I are working on a Father's Day present for my Dad!

Quick Update

2007-05-11T17:26:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!!!

I got my shots today - I hated them. But it really wasn't all that bad. I cried with the needles, then had a bottle and it was all better. I just had my last dose of Tylenol and hopefully that will be all I need to make a full recovery. I spent some time today at the hospital visiting my new friend Jackson. He is really cute and big. I can't wait until we can play together.

Here are my new stats in case you were wondering:

Height: 24.5 inches tall - 75-90%
Weight: 11 pounds, 14 ounces - 25-50%
Head Circumference: 40.5cm - 25-50%

Dr. N called me a "Champion" today because I am strong and have good balance when I stand. He also told me I was showing off when I did a push up and held my head up. He also told me I can do whatever I want to during the day because I sleep so well at night. Hooray! I love you all and hope to see you soon.

Mom is getting nervous

2007-05-10T21:00:00.000-07:00

So tomorrow morning I go in for my first "real" shots. I'm getting 4 all in one day. I had one shot before, and I cried a little, but my Mom is a little scared that I am getting 4 shots and that I might get sick from them or be cranky. I'm not scared though - I'm tough!

My latest tricks are being pulled to sitting and then standing, I like to take steps once I'm standing and I am now a total pro at holding up my head. I laugh when I sing with my Mom. I like the "Wheels on the Bus" song... especially moving my hands around - I make a sad face when the babies on the bus cry though. I laugh too and "talk" to my Mom when she changes my diaper and gives me a bath and when she plays and sings with me. I say goo and boo and blow raspberries - then I laugh.

I still drool a lot, so I spend the days in tshirts and onesies that are wet all around the neck. Sometimes when my Mom or Dad picks me up, there are huge strings of drool from my toys or my fist. I smile when they get covered in my slobber. And Mom thought she wanted a puppy! =)
I've had lots of fun adventures these past few weeks. My Grandma and Grandpa and Uncle from Canada came down to visit and be with my at my blessing. We also went to the zoo and to Sea World. I slept through another day of feeding the manatees. But I did come face to face with a seal that barked at me and a dolphin that has no teeth. I got to see a beautiful dolphin that is going to have a baby soon. It was really exciting and I'm glad my Uncle Dee shows me cool stuff at Sea World.

Oh yeah, I was blessed at church last Sunday. It was cool. I only cried a little. It was really neat having most of the special men in my life at my blessing.

I'll write more later. It's getting past my bedtime. Wish me luck with my shots!

I've sprung a leak!

2007-04-25T13:54:00.000-07:00

Did you know that baby can begin to "teethe" up to two months before a tooth even comes in?? My Mom didn't either, but she found out when I suddenly started drooling like crazy! I manage to have fun with it though - I blow bubbles and drool on people and then I laugh about it. The bad part is that it makes me spit up more, and it makes it look worse than it is because it is mostly my drool with a little bit of my last meal. I hope that doesn't gross you out. It could be worse, I'm not sitting here describing my poop!

Things are great in my life right now. I have family in town visiting and even though it can be overwhelming I'm having fun. I still like my tummy mat, but lately I have been having a blast in my bouncy seat - it's the best place for a photo op because I am happy and having fun. The books I've been reading this week are: "Not the Hippopotamus," "Moo, Baa, La La La" and "There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly." I always laugh when my Mom reads the part, "What a hog to swallow a dog."

I almost exclusively wear 3 month old clothes now - I grow every day it seems. My feet and hands seem to be growing the fastest. I go to the doctor again on May 10th, so I'll post my stats then. I love you everyone!

I'm a good sleeper

2007-04-15T16:13:00.000-07:00

Among other things, I am now a sleeping champ! I'm sure my Dad is still telling people at work that he has rough nights - I understand, excuses help. I have a bedtime routine that includes a bath, a bottle and lullabies. Then I turn in for the night and sleep about 8 hours in a stretch. I think everyone is enjoying it!

I also had my one month check up last week. I weighed 9 pounds, 11.5 ounces - they say that puts me in the 50th percentile, but Mom says it doesn't matter. I am also 22.5 inches tall and in the 90th percentile for height. More importantly though, I am good at holding my head up and I put weight on my legs, which means I am a strong boy and that makes Mom and Dad happy.

I had my first shot and did pretty well. I cried a little, but I was more upset about being pinned to the table than having a needle in my leg.

I still spend a lot of time sleeping, but I also like to hear Curious George stories and to play on my mat or hang out in my bouncy seat with the vibration on. I am also frequently visited by the mamarazzi - my latest photo is posted.

Achoo!

2007-04-02T21:08:00.000-07:00

I just want everyone to know that I have another FIRST in my baby book - it's either my first cold, or my first attack of allergies. I have been sneezing and have a runny nose and watery eyes, oh and I sometimes cough. The good news is that I don't have a fever and I still have my appetite. I don't like being sick though, and hope that I don't have to go through this very often. My Mom is really worried about me and hopes I sleep ok tonight, I've been pretty fussy tonight so far.

Well, time to try and go to bed. Good night everyone!

I am the cutest baby ever!

2007-04-01T16:26:00.000-07:00

Everyone is always telling me how cute I am, so I guess I'll just have to take your word for it. My Mom is my biggest fan - she LOVES it when I smile and giggle. Most of my laughs come while I'm sleeping, but I like to smile during my play time and when my Daddy makes funny faces at me. Also, I'm ticklish - on my cheeks and neck, behind my arms, on my lower back and on my ankles. I guess it runs in the family too!

Things are going great for me. I spent a lot of time this weekend at my Grandma and Grandpa's house while my Mom and Grandma cooked. I've been promised that Grandma will make we waffles when I am old enough to eat them. It is written here, so I know I won't forget. I also got to hang out with Kelli, Luke, Heather and Travis on Friday to celebrate my Mom's birthday - I am also not old enough to eat Mexican food or cake. When can I start solid foods again?

I told you I was growing!

2007-03-29T19:23:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, my three-week birthday, two nurses came by to check on my Mom and me and to see if we had any questions. I decided not to say anything, but I was all smiles and the nurse told me I was her favorite baby! I am certain she has never ever said that to another baby. Well, I got weighed and I am up to 8 pounds, 14 ounces! And today my Mom told me I am too tall for my dinosaur pj's - I have to agree, I cannot straighten my legs in them very comfortably and it's hard for Mom to get to my diaper, so I guess I will have to start wearing my bigger jammies. I have some really nice ones, so I am not too sad, but I did like the dinosaurs.

Otherwise things are going well. I sometimes take cat naps - my Grandma says Harley and Ozzy taught me this trick. I'm getting better and better about sleeping - as long as I'm not on my back. (Don't tell the pediatrician). I'll sleep on my tummy on anyone's chest and I like to sleep on my side, but not on my back. I get startled and sometimes hit myself in the face with my arms, then I wake up and cry because I am confused and of course, startled. I am trying really hard and I want desperately to let everyone get a good night's sleep so I hope Mom and Dad can hang in there a little longer until I grow up a bit more.

It's almost time for me to have some more dinner, so I will write more later. I love you all!

Benjamin

I'm here!

2007-03-23T19:48:00.000-07:00

I arrived on Tuesday, March 6, 2007 at 2:15pm. I weighed in at 7 pounds, 12 ounces and was 20 inches long. But I am a growing boy.

Lots of visitors came by to see me and my Mom and Dad in the hospital. It was fun, but I'm happy to be home. I have two cats, Harley and Ozzy. The look at me funny when I cry and sometimes I think I make them mad when I wake them up, but they like to watch me play on my tummy mat and they watch me sleep in my bassinet. Life is pretty fun, but I am still new and sometimes I don't like things very much, like sleeping. There is just too much going on that I don't want to miss!

I'll post more about my life later, I just wanted to get this started so that all of my friends and family could see some pictures and read about me.