Our Little Helper

Yesterday our latest purchase, a Learning Tower, arrived. I'd heard about these, and we finally gave in and bought one for Ben (they're not cheap).

Lately Ben has become fussier when we cook, do dishes, or do anything that he can't be a part of and see what's going on. This tower is a way for him to be up at the counter--or table--and HELP, safely. It's pretty great... very sturdy, attractive, and adjustable. The customer reviews are universally positive, and I can see why, even after less than a day.

This morning I was doing the dishes, and Ben started pulling on my knees to get my attention. I put the tower in front of the sink, filled up one side with soapy water and spoons for him to *wash*, gave him his own sponge, and he was instantly happy working along side mommy. It was really fun!

Chicken Wee-kka

I know this is a blog devoted to life with Ben... but I have to brag about the amazing dinner I just cooked and ate. I found this recipe for Chicken Wee-kka with Cucumber Mint Raita at my new favorite blog, Weelicious, a site devoted to food for kids. I also made a couscous salad to with it, also from the same site. (The photo is from Weelicious, though I will say that the food I made looked just as good!)

The funny part is that Ben, Mr. Picky Eater, didn't like the food (no surprise) but Jonathan and I did... I can't wait to try some other recipes from the site. Even if our "wee one" doesn't like the food, the "big ones" in this house certainly do!

LOTS of new pictures...

We have been busy during the last couple of weeks, so I've posted a bunch of new photos... Enjoy!

Ben's Breakfast

Who knew purple crayons were so delicious?!?

Picnic Day!

Every spring, UC Davis hosts a huge festival called Picnic Day. Yesterday was this year's Picnic Day. The campus sets up booths with all kinds of activities and crafts, there are bands playing, a parade goes through campus and downtown, and there are exhibits of all kinds. Thousands of people attend. We wanted to take Ben after his nap yesterday but, of course, he didn't nap in the morning. So we just put him in the bike trailer and headed downtown. He fell asleep on the way and then slept for about an hour in the backpack (he missed the parade!). But once he woke up, he had a GREAT time! We watched some music, ate, and visited the petting zoo... Mommy and Daddy also had fun, and walked a lot, which was good too. Here are some of the highlights:

Arriving downtown with a sleeping baby (he did have a helmet on during the ride):

Snoozing while we walked to campus:


Awake and ready for some music!

As usual, Ben seeks and finds a new doggie friend!

Lunch break for Daddy and Ben.


First look at the petting zoo:Ben tries to grab the goat's tail:



Ben's first Picnic Day was a huge success!!

Ben's Slide

I found a slide for Ben on Craigslist... it's proven to be the best $40 I've spent in a long time! Check him out. The first video is from about a week ago. The second is from today. Enjoy!

Farmer's Market Fun

Yesterday we went to the farmer's market. On Wednesday evenings there is music in the park, and it's a great time for families with kids... it's cool to be part of *that* crowd now! Ben had a blast, and danced, ran around, and made friends with a pug puppy, among other activities. Here are some of the highlights.




You may notice here that Ben has had his first haircut! I did it myself a couple of nights ago, and it seems ok (his bangs are a bit crooked, but not too noticeable).

More Lawn Mowing!

Ben may be destined for a career in landscaping. The kid LOVES mowing the lawn (and pulling my veggie seedlings out of their pots, but that's a different post!). Here are some photos from last week of Ben helping Daddy, and then some from last evening when he helped me mow the backyard. Enjoy!

Look What I Found!

Months ago, I promised to post photos from our visit with Grammy, Grandpa, and Auntie Amanda. Then I lost the cd of photos Grammy sent me!! Guess what turned up the other day?!? Here are some of the highlights from their trip to Davis in late December and early January!

Jonathan gave Amanda his first official box, made in his workshop in the garage...


Grammy had a wonderful time with Ben!


As always, Grandpa and Ben have a special connection...


Fun in the toy store!


Ben loved (and still does) to read!


Look how young he seems just a couple of months ago!


My cute boy!


Daddy and Ben...


Ben loves Aunt Amanda!!


Ben reading in the bookstore!




Better late than never, right?!?