A Ben-centric Week

It has been a busy week full of new adventures for Ben. Monday was his birthday. He was not happy about having to go to school. His argument: “But it’s my birthday and I can do whatever I want”. We made him go anyway. He got to take cool, star-shaped donuts, and that seemed to soften the blow. After school, he played the Indiana Jones Lego game on the Wii for four or five hours, only taking breaks to open presents, go to McDonalds, and eat some cake. He didn’t want the day to be over and when it was time for bed we got lots more of the “but it’s my birthday and I can do whatever I want” argument. Much to his displeasure, we didn’t go for it that time either.

On Tuesday, we attended our first pack meeting. Ben looked sharp in his new uniform and had fun playing games with the other boys. He got his Bobcat patch during the awards. He has fabulous leaders and we are excited about starting this new chapter in Ben’s life.

Thursday was Ben’s first piano recital. His music teacher let him choose whatever song he wanted to play and he picked the theme from Star Wars (what a shock). We were a little nervous about how he would do in front of a big group, but he played it perfectly. Phew! He’s already thinking about playing the Raider’s March for his next recital. Who needs Beethoven when you have John Williams and Lucas Films?

The kids were out of school on Friday, so we used the day for Ben’s birthday activity with the family. He chose to go to the Living Planet Aquarium in Sandy. It was a cool place. The kids were pretty fascinated with the fish/sea creatures. It was fun to hear Ben and Emily spouting off a few random science facts as we were walking along. The coolest part for the kids was the petting pools. Ben was soaking wet by the time we left from reaching in up to his shoulder to touch the rays. The girls were happier with the little four inch deep pools with starfish and sea urchins.

Today was another busy day for Ben. He had his interview with the bishop before church and his Primary teachers came over after church to talk to him about his baptism. It is a little crazy to think that he is old enough to be baptized, but it’s been fun to hear him talk about it and answer the questions from the bishop and his teachers. His understanding and readiness have grown by leaps and bounds in these past few months.