First Big Snowfall

Yahoo! I am finally able to post a video!! I had 2 videos I wanted to post but they haven't worked. I think they were just too long. Guess I will have to keep the videos short from here on out.

We had our first big snow storm last week. I think we got about 6 inches, but some areas around us got 12! So I took Ben out to experience a true Wisconsin Winter! He didn't have too much of a reaction which seems to be the norm when he experiences something new. I guess I expect him to scream or get really excited which isn't the case unless Daddy is chasing him around the house! Needless to say, I had a fun time watching him and building a snowman. He was struggling to walk in the heavy, wet, snow with all of his winter gear on, and seemed to get frustrated trying to get up. We were out about 15 minutes when he started to whine and want me to carry him. While I was carrying him I picked up some snow and put it in my hand so he could have a better look. Surprisingly he started to karate chop the snow. The same thing he does when I try to offer him food he doesn't want. So I guess he takes after his mom in not being very fond of the cold!

The other day I figured I better start brushing his teeth since he has 8 in the front and is starting to get some molars. I got his little baby toothbrush out and let him play with it. To my surprise he new exactly what to do with it. He put it in his mouth and started moving his head back and forth (as you can see in the video). I was so proud of him! He must have learned that from watching me brush my teeth. Babies really are little sponges of knowledge!

Ben and I are going to be heading to Michigan earlier than expected. My parents are picking us up half way on Saturday. Phil will come and join us on Christmas Eve morning. I am excited that we get to spend a little extra time with our family and friends!

We hope you all have a wonderful and safe Christmas and New Years! We are excited to be seeing many of you in Michigan! Merry Christmas!!

Brushing my teeth

Happy Thanksgiving!

The 6th annual trip to St. Louis for Thanksgiving was once again a success. My parents, Whitney and the Flora's all stay at my Aunt and Uncle's house. It is something we look forward to all year because hardly ever are we all together. The weekend was filled with family and lots of food! The girls did a little shopping and went to see New Moon (Yes, it is worth all the hype). Phil, Steve, my Dad and Uncle Randy went to a Red Wings/Blue's hockey game. They had seats 3 rows back from the penalty box and saw a great game! The Red Wings won in a shoot out!! Ben had a great time hanging out with his cousins and getting so much attention from everyone. However, we learned he is NOT a fan of the family road trip! He cried/whined the majority of the way down there and back. But all in all the trip was great. We have so much to be thankful for!

Ben is getting bigger by the second! He is into climbing now. The other day I was emptying the dishwasher, I turned around to put something away, and when I turned back there he was sitting on the dishwasher door! He has also thrown a few tantrums. Yesterday he was mad because I wouldn't let him push his highchair down the stairs. So he proceeded to arch his back, scream and roll on the floor. I guess we better get used to it. Also he loves to unroll toilet paper and likes to see if he can get it into his mouth before mom catches him. I know these are all the joys of raising a child and I wouldn't change it for the world! I am so fortunate that I have a wonderful husband to help me through!

GREAT idea mom!
Yeah, paint does not taste very well
Before mom's great idea for a Christmas project

Making ice cream

Hanging out with my cousin, Slade

I am FULL!

Happy Thanksgiving!
Thanksgiving dinner!

Breakfast with my cousins!
Thanks for the Thanksgiving card Emma!