James Benjamin - 5 1/2 Years Old!

And, the last half birthday of the month: JB!  As of March 29th, he's now 5 and a half (and quick to emphasize the "half" now, too, when people ask his age).  I absolutely adore this age.  Or maybe it's just that we lucked out and have the best five year old ever (which is quite possible).  He's so fantastic.

Some things we love about JB right now, if I can brag a bit a lot:

• He's super polite and has nailed the "yes sir" and "yes ma'am" concept.  Adults are always impressed with how he responds to them. He has greater confidence, looks them in the eye, happy to answer questions.  Quite mature.

• He's got all his letters down pat.  Upper case, lower case, sounds, etc. At the advice and counsel of our Gia, who I consider a true expert when it comes to reading education, we'll start working through Teach Your Child to Read in 100 Easy Lessons.  I have not doubt he'll pick it up quick - and I can't wait to see what doors this opens for him once he can read!  This kid loooooooves books.

• JB's math skills impress us all the time.  He can count by 10s, 5s, and is working on 2s.  We've been working through the basic addition tables, and he's started to memorize those, too.  

• He is supernaturally good at Rocks, Paper, Scissors. Like, legit beats us every single time.  

• Our little theologian, JB asks very complex spiritual questions and is very concerned with how we share the Gospel with others. We pray together quite frequently, at his request, and he continues to memorize bible verses and use them in context. He's nearly memorized all the books of the bible - even the Old Testament!  What's more important than his spiritual knowledge is his spiritual soul.  JB is one of the kindest, most considerate kids, and he seeks out ways he can serve others.  Of all the glowing things that his teacher told me at P/T Conference, his kind, servant heart is what made me the most proud!

• Just so you don't think I'm blind to some of his faults, JB is terrible about tooting in public and laughing about it.  It's one of his favorite activities. Makes us crazy!!!!!!!!  And, have mercy, this boy can pout.  While his Sis is quick to move on, JB will dramatically show his displeasure and stretch out a grievance for as long as he can milk it.  He routinely reminds me of disappointments or hurts that happened over a year ago, with the saddest puppy dog eyes you've ever seen. 

• JB is very serious about fishing and golfing, and loves to do both with his Daddy. He is also looking forward to when he can hunt (Mama and Daddy may not agree on when this will be...)  He'd be outdoors all the time.

• He's turning into the best eater - shocking considering that he arrived in this world as the worst little eater!!  He doesn't turn his nose up at much these days, is willing to try anything, and cleans his plate more often than not.  You can see it, too, in his recent jump in height.

• Other things he loves: legos; games; video games (but respects our imposed time limits); movies; super heroes; Ninjago, Odd Squad, Wild Kratts; puzzles; Crocs and Natives; wearing "sports clothes" (i.e. work out gear); quesadillas and grilled cheese; warm milk (still!!!)

• Things he does not like: button up shirts.  He'll wear them to church, but flat out refuses the other 6 days (no matter the occasion) 

JB, I could go on and on about how special and wonderful you are, in your own unique way.  You're growing up so quickly, but maturing in a way that makes us proud and excited for what's to come.

Halfway to SIX!!