What Was Life Like 2 Years Ago?
….because I don’t remember, since 2 years ago, a little miracle came into our lives.
My little Benjamin turns 2 today, it’s hard to believe that he’s two whole years old. I know I don’t talk a lot about him on here, though I DO post a lot of pictures of him. He just keeps me so busy I don’t really have time to post things. I had planned on posting all sorts of milestones and cute, little quirky stories of him growing up, but those plans had the same outcome as all my other plans - out the window.
My life is very interesting now - not that it wasn’t interesting when I was single and traveling all over the country - but now it’s interesting in a very different kind of way. My days are completely full - if I’m not working, then I’m taking care of Ben. I rarely go out without Ben, and life has become more centered around my family and my home. I am constantly in wonder of this little person who has taken our lives hostage.
When I was pregnant with Ben, people gave all sorts of advice, to the point where I was like, “Yeah, ok, right”. But the thing is, in the end, they were all right. I would never had known it at the time or really fathomed what they were all talking about, but those common phrases that people said that really ring true for my life right now:
“They Grow Up So Fast!”
Man, Benjamin learns something new every day. It seems like just yesterday that he was crawling around on the floor and just spouting gibberish. Now he’s walking, running, climbing, jumping and he talks. Not full sentences, but enough that we understand what he’s asking for, like his favorite words - “Cookie!” “Ice Cream!” and “Cars!” It’s incredible to watch him grow up. The kid is a sponge, and his ability to figure things out is uncanny. It’s so cool to see his personality emerge - he’s a little mama’s boy, with a bratty temper, a love of music and dancing, who loves giving kisses and gives great baby hugs.
“It’s incredible how much you’ll love them”
I’m married, so I’ve got an idea of what love is. But the love I have for Ben is something completely different. It’s so strong, unconditional and easy. I love to watch him sleeping, to silently sit in awe, watching this being that I gave life to. This little bundle of energy that adores me and wants to spend every minute with me. I may have given him life, but he has made my life so much better.
“It’s the toughest job you’ll love”
It’s not all perfect. He sometimes has tantrums. I discovered that I became that mom whose kid throws himself on the ground when he didn’t get what he wants. Did you see a french fry fly in front of you in the restaurant? Yeah, that could have been my kid. The kid who doesn’t share at gymboree? Mine. The kid clapping and saying “Yay” after someone sings at a funeral? Yep, that one would be long to me. Who’s the kid that’s crawling all over me when I’m trying to get some late night work done? Ben. Even with all these little quirks, I love it. I love it all.
He’s only been here for 2 years, but it’s so hard to imagine my life without him. I can’t lie and say that I don’t sometimes envy the lives of the people I know who don’t have kids - there’s a freedom that you have that you no longer have once you become a parent. I can’t go out and party like I used to love doing. Can’t stay up all night playing video games. All vacations have to be planned, no more spur of the moment trips. But that’s all right. I’m perfectly happy hanging out at home with my family, having Ben jump around on the bed or watching him watch his favorite movies.
So happy birthday, my little boy. You are loved by so many people, and you have brought such a joy to our lives that I can’t even put it into words.
Here’s a look at the last year of Ben’s life - it’s a little sloppy since I’ve been swamped, but it’s the thought that counts:
happy birthday ben! although i’ve never met the little guy, i still can’t believe he’s two. i still remember you mentioning how you were prego like a minute ago. hope all is well in the chi. please send my regards to fatima
Happy Birthday Ben! It’s amazing watching him grow through your blog, Yano…
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BEN!!!
What a great video/slideshow! You captured his cuteness and personality! I can’t believe that little guy throws tantrums!!
Fortunately, he hasn’t had too many crazy all-out tantrums. But he’s been known to throw himself on the floor of the Disney store when we’ve taken away a toy. Not a big deal - every other kid in there is doing the same thing!
Your video made me cry….
Happy Birthday Ben!!!
happy birthday, little man! yano…i know you already do this, but soak up every minute you can. it kind of reminds me of a song my neighbor really likes….
“let them be little” - dean billy
I can remember when you fit in the palm of my hand.
You felt so good in it; no bigger than a minute.
How it amazes me you’re changin’ with every blink.
Faster than a flower blooms, they grow up all too soon.
So let them be little,
‘Cause they’re only that way for a while.
Give ‘em hope, give them praise,
Give them love every day.
Let ‘em cry, let ‘em giggle,
Let ‘em sleep in the middle,
Oh, but let them be little.
I never felt so much in one little tender touch.
I live for those kisses, your prayers an’ your wishes.
An’ now you’re teachin’ me how only a child can see.
Tonight, while we’re on our knees, all I ask is:
Please, let them be little,
‘Cause they’re only that way for a while.
Give them hope, give them praise,
Give them love every day.
Let ‘em cry, let ‘em giggle,
Let ‘em sleep in the middle,
Oh, but let them be little.
The so innocent, precious soul:
You turn around, an’ it’s time to let them go.
So let them be little,
‘Cause they’re only that way for a while.
Give them hope, give ‘em praise,
Give them love every day.
Let ‘em cry, let ‘em giggle,
Let them sleep in the middle,
Oh, but let them be little.
Let them be little.
awwww… that’s an awesome video. i especially like the part when dave was sleeping and ben was standing on his back. hahah… silly kid… your mom would be proud that you’re raising such a great kid… Happy Birthday Little Man! *hugs*
what a precious video! i hope you continue to make more of these so you can give it to Ben when he’s older. that was just darling. Happy Birthday, Ben!
Happy Birthday to my good friend Ben! Hope you have a great day.
Hugs and Kisses….
- Jayden, Aunt Rachel and Uncle Manny
Happy Birthday Ben!
Wow, I can’t believe how fast time has flown. It seems like yesterday we first met and now 6 years later, we’re in different places in our lives. The video of Ben was so cute! I especially like the ending when he’s getting his groove on, hehe.
oh my,, girlie,, you made me cry. Beautiful video,, loved it.
wow, that was really cool. that will def. be a treasured memento of Ben’s growing years. He’ll be able to look back when he’s an adult and say “Mom, did you have to follow me around with a camera 24/7???”
j/k, yano, it was really really nice.
Happy B-Day Ben! Maybe one day I’ll see you, probably when you’re fully grown already.
Awwwww…that was so adorable!
It’s obvious that you treasure every moment with him, which is so great.
Give Ben a belated Happy Birthday hug for me!
Awww what a lovely post, reflection, and video. Happy Birthday again to Ben!
Wow! I remember when you posted his cute little image for the first time. Happy belated birthday!
alright…i’m super, dee, duper late in wishing Benjamin a Happy 2nd Birthday!
but…better late than never!
Happy Birthday to You!
Happy Birthday to You!
Happy Birthday dear Benjamin,
Happy Birthday to You!
Wishing you many more to come!
thanks Christine for sharing your video with us. although we’ve never met, your blogs and comments certainly make me feel like we know one another.
so here’s the big question…when’s baby #2 coming? tee hee hee