Benson at church

This little Benson is such a funny character. He is just sweet, even as a two-year-old. In fact, I often forget he's a two-year-old at all, except that he does try and test his boundaries. The thing is, his "fits" are all just an act. It's a bit like watching a play with bad actors, actors so bad that you feel they're reading you the script verbatim  That's Benson. He tries to get angry when he doesn't get his way. He stomps his foot and puts his hands on his hips. He will even shout, "No", "Can't do it", or "Nevo, evo, evo" (Never ever ever)--all statements that speak defiance. Recently he actually shouted, "I ate yo" (which we think was "I hate you" and don't worry, he got in big trouble for saying that) but underneath his frown is always a smile.

Last Sunday our family was visiting my parents church where BJ and I were singing a musical number. My parents congregation consists entirely of older families and empty-nesters, so when our family visits we are SO disruptive. Benson does not understand the concept of whispering at all, so every statement of his is at full volume. That, combined with the clamor of toys and snacks makes for, I'm afraid, a rather disturbing din.

So, there we were, making our usual clamor amid an otherwise silent sacrament service. At the appointed time BJ and I performed our number and then headed back to sit with the boys and my parents. As we sat back down next to Benson, he looked up at us and shouted in the silent meeting, "Oh no, not YOU gain!" Guess he was relieved to finally be rid of us and was quite disappointed when we returned.

On that note, McKay had a similar incident the other day. We were visiting my parents and McKay and Papa were deep in a game of Legos when BJ walked over to see what they were playing. When McKay saw BJ approach he said, "Go away, Dad!"
BJ replied: "It hurts my feelings when you say that to me, McKay."
McKay reflected momentarily then said, "Please go away Dad".

Problem solved.