First Step

Just a quick note of excitement. Benji took his first independent step today at Gymboree. He's been cruising furniture and walking while holding onto our hands, but this was a definite first. It was one step in my direction before he fell into my arms. He also did really great pushing and walking behind the air log at Gymboree. I think walking is in our future very soon.

First trip to Disneyland

Benji had his first trip to Disneyland yesterday. It was a spontaneous trip with friends Mel and Theresa. Theresa works for Disney, so she was able to get us into the park for free on her pass. We had a lovely time and Benji spent a lot of the trip just observing everything going on around him. I really was expecting to just walk around the park, but we got to do several things. First, we headed to Sleeping Beauty's Castle where they have opened the ability to walk though and see the story told though pictures. Our first ride was the Merry-go-Round and once we got going Benji had a very serious face on (biting his lower lit). Next, we headed over for some food and then stopped by The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. Benji seemed to really enjoy the ride and looked around at everything. As we got off, we saw a character meet and greet with Pooh and the line was quite short, so we headed over there and Benji got to meet Pooh and Tigger. He wasn't so sure what to do about them.
Our last stop before heading out was Pirates of the Caribbean. Benji was a little clingy on the way to the ride and got a bit scared/unhappy during. He also fell asleep near the end of the ride and then again on the way home. It was very nice, all in all. One last thing on Disneyland for those who have little ones. At the end of main street in Disneyland and near the Tortilla factory in California Adventure they have a baby center. In the baby center are high chairs, baby food and supplies available for sale, a quiet area with rocking chairs for nursing, and very nice changing tables and small people toilets. A definite plus on finding it while there.

Other news/things since our last post: Benji is exploring his surroundings a lot now and goes just about everywhere in the apartment. He is not yet walking but getting more comfortable with his balancing and moving. We had a wonderful visit with my parents (Bubbe and Zayde). Benji enjoyed spending time with them and cuddling with them. We also had fun celebrating Hanukah (a few pictures available on Picasaweb). Benji enjoyed looking at the candles and by the 4th night really had the hang of tearing paper. He didn't care about what was in the paper, but it was fun to tear it off none the less. There is video of that, but I need to upload those when I have a chance. The last thing was Benji and Jeff had a great chance to bond and spend more time together over the holidays as Jeff had off of work for 2 weeks.

I am amazed to think that Benji will be 10 months old this week. I love all the developments, his sense of humor that is developing, his love of music, his observing people and things around him. I still wonder where my baby went. He has grown and changed so much in the short 10 months. Quite amazing.