Eight Months Old!

Oops, we passed the eight-month mark a couple of days ago... As you can tell from this picture, changing diapers has been, well, interesting lately. Benjamin likes to roll like an alligator while on the changing table, and he stiffens his arms when we try to change his clothes. Oh, he also likes to turn and smack the wall. Because he can.

Do you see a pattern? Here he rolled himself over Mike's leg. So proud of himself.

It's a good thing Mike has those bendy glasses. Too bad I don't. Mike washes his lenses several times a day now.

Huh, this picture is sideways, oh well... Mike couldn't wait until he's older to introduce him to the ball. Benjamin grabbed it (and gummed it) as soon as he saw it.

Please, Mom? Just one sip. Dad always gets beer and I never get any!

Benjamin's cold is on its way out. He's sleeping much better (well, except for the morning nap he refused to take today). His breathing and hoarseness are getting much better. But that didn't keep him from crying or fussing for most of today. His eating is pretty much back to normal, too. I would love to take him outside more now that he's getting better, but the rain lately has been very erratic - just when the sun comes out and we can see blue sky, there's a huge downpour. I'm grateful for whatever rain we get, though. Poor Mike spent a good part of yesterday and today cleaning up yard debris, including some pretty hefty tree branches that broke off. He even got out the chainsaw today, which made me a little nervous but I had no reason to worry.

I can't remember if I've written about this yet or not... Benjamin is fascinated by our stereo. He loves the colorful flashing display, and he has figured out how to work the volume dial. Of course, he likes turning it up the best. But he has startled himself quite a few times, and once even made himself cry. Lately he is also startled by the vacuum cleaner. He never used to care, but the last couple of times that I put him in the jumper so I could sweep, he started screaming and crying. On the other hand, he now really likes his pack & play. A few times I've set it up in the living room for when I need to do chores & can't risk him rolling all over creation when I turn my back. I put a few toys in there, and he's happy as a clam. For a little while, anyway.