I realized I share quite a few pictures, but not a lot of stories. So here's a glimpse into Ben's world.

A few Saturdays ago we were working outside. Pam suggested to Brian that we grill hot dogs on the grill for lunch, since we were all having a nice time outside. Next thing we know, Ben heads into the house. We assumed he was tired of playing outside and had gone inside to find something new to do. Then, suddenly, we heard knocking at the door (from the inside). There stood Benjamin with a package of hot dogs in his hands. He had gone inside, found the hot dogs in the refirgerator and brought them to Papa to cook.

He went to the doctor today and did so well I promised him his favorite food, french fries. He then sat in the back seat the whole way home saying "french fries" over and over. Every McDonald's we passed, he would get very excited, then quickly disappointed as we passed. Fianlly when we stopped he was very happy to be getting his french fries.

He loves giving and getting kisses and hugs. With any owie, he comes and asks for a kiss and a hug. Kissing a finger or toe isn't too hard, but hugging a finger can be a bit of a challenge.

Benjamin has a new puppy he named Applesauce. He loves to play with "Appiedoggie" as he calls her. They run and chase and lick each other. Ben likes to pick up her toys in his mouth just like her. It's a bit crazy with them both crawling around on all fours with toys in their mouths. Applesauce is doing well on being house trained. Almost better than Ben is on potty training. Ben is catching on, but easily forgets. We continue to work with him.

We take Ben to the YMCA to swim every once in awhile. To the point that now, everytime we drive by the Y, Ben points and hollers that he wants to go swimming. I am amazed he knows the building. Similarly, he knows Target and Wal-Mart and he doesn't like them as well. He is not a shopper and will protest when we pull into the parking lot of the stores. He gets over it pretty quick, especially if Papa buys a Icee. That's a favorite of Papa's and is now a favorite of Benjamin's.

Benjamin is such a joy. He laughs easily and tickles people he meets with his charm.