Ben Update

Ben is now 17 months old and is quite the busy little guy! He's tall enough to reach door handles and loves pulling on them. Ben is quite an eater, but doesn't like most meats. His favorite foods are french fries, rice (fried or white), egg rolls, apple jacks, bananas and gold fish. He isn't drinking out of bottles anymore and is a master of the sippy cup. This boy loves his milk! He will also drink out of a straw with assistance from one of his parents. Ben's favorite toy is his stuffed poodle (we have two thank God just in case), his wind up musical clock (the boy LOVES clocks), balls and blocks. At this point he understands more words then he can speak like milk, snack, close the door, paci and night night, but he does say words like Dada, dog, clock, tree, duck and sometimes Mama (usually when he is upset or wants something). He has funny little quirks like pulling fuzz off anything fuzzy rather it be soft clothing items, stuffed animals, carpet, etc., and loves feeling the fuzz on his face. He often hands over fuzz for his parents or to other people he likes. At least he shares! Ben also LOVES books. He really likes the ones that are touch and feel. He especially likes if there is something soft in the book like fake fur or yarn since he thinks that is new fuzz to try out on his face. He will sit with you at any time (has to be in the lap) to look over a book. Sometimes he isn't patient and wants to turn the page before you have a chance to read everything. His favorite books are B is for Bear, Catholic Prayers, Brown Bear Brown Bear and his picture animal book. Ben is also getting into Elmo. Every time he sees an Elmo book, towel (we have bath towels), toy, etc., he points to him. He doesn't do that for all things, so I am guessing that is his favorite character. He recently (this week actually) started using his little Caps hockey stick to hit balls. At first he tried to hit his stick with the basketball, but decided that was too heavy, then used a medium sized ball, which was too heavy and finally decided a tennis ball was practical for hockey. His Dad and I looked on smiling and wondered if someday he'll have as much love for the game as we do.

Since it is the Christmas season, Ben has a new love for Christmas trees. I think he tries to say tree at times. Any time he sees a tree he will point to it and want to see it. He's very good about being gentle with trees. At his home, he will point to the tree, clap and often go up and touch it. I was a little worried that he might try to pull on it but he is quite gentle. Often times when we tell him "nice", he will pet the tree (in his own toddler way) as if he is petting a dog.

Ben is just a delight to his family. He is a busy guy and full of energy. He is a happy guy that loves to laugh, be tickled and play. His Mom and Dad feel very blessed to have this little miracle in our lives. I love you Benny!