The Strong-Willed Child

This boy has a very strong will and can be quite stubborn. Here he is digging through the diaper bag and pulling everything out. If I pick him up and place him somewhere else, he usually will go right back to where he was getting into trouble in the first place.

Yesterday I went to feed Eli lunch and he was being really demanding (as is often the case). I usually stick him in his booster seat at the table (which is in our living room since the kitchen is tiny - not the most convenient thing) and give him a few cheerios or something to tide him over until I can bring more food. I did this and then walked into the kitchen to get some things, and Eli was not impressed.

He was objecting in a loud way, and I called to him from the other room, "Eli?" and he yelled back in a frustrated tone, "Aarah?" (translation: Sarah?) I think you had to be there to experience it, but it was pretty funny to have him respond like that.

"Aarahhhhh"

It's official. For now, my name is "Aarah" to my sweet little boy.

Eli was saying "ma" sounds a few months ago, but more recently was constantly saying "da da da da" and it was clear he knew that was Ben. At the same time, he was making a lot of "AH!" sounds that were practicing the final result - Aarah! Ben and I thought we thought him saying Aarah for the last week or so, but it's so hard to tell if that's what they really mean.

But this morning at the lovely hour of 5:45 a.m., we could hear him saying "Da da?" and then "Aarah?" over and over from his room. I think it's so funny (but hope he'll call me ma ma someday).

I've been busy getting ready for a trip this week, so I haven't taken any pictures!! Shocking, I know. :) Here is a picture of Eli at two weeks old. I can't believe that was almost a year ago!