Benjamin's 1st Birthday

What a good natured little guy our sweet Bene is.
It's really fascinating and fun to watch the dynamics of a big family with little babies. He loves to be toted around by his siblings and hates when they go out to play without him (or don't get up as early as him.) He's happiest when surrounded by his people.
Alex has been home now for about a month. It's amazing how quickly Benjamin took to him. He just immediately knew that Alex was one of the gang and he's been delighted by his presence ever since.
Some little things to remember about this sweet one year old.
He says Mama and Dada and is constantly trying to say things like bear, pumpkin, Paul, juice, up (uh, uh with his hands thrown straight up in the air at you,) as well as hot (hah, hah! as he makes his little hot sound with his hand.) No one but his family would have any clue what he's saying but in context it's usually very clear what he's trying to say.
He loves lions and bears and anything that makes a "raaah" sound. He can also make a rather amusing elephant sound by pressing his lips together.
Unfortunately, he's no longer nursing but he eats really well and takes a sippy cup without issue. When he's hungry and he sees food he'll say, "mmmmm"
He's taken to pushing things around the house- a sort of do-it-yourself walker for himself.
He loves to stand with no help, hands straight in the air, and look around grinning to make sure everyone sees how awesome he is.
One year old is such a sweet age. Completely baby still, but so fun and full of personality.
We're pretty taken with him. :)

A couple extras for myself.
He now has 8 teeth.
He's sleeping well through the night but gets up pretty darn early (5-6) If I can sneak out of the room he'll keep himself occupied til 6:30 or 7.
He got his first little haircut in the bath last week.