And yes, I can figure out how to make anything into a tribute to him. Neener.

Today’s Photohunt Theme is “Four”

A Braden burrito, one hand sticking out
Just four days old… fuzzy head, little pout
Sleeping so soundly, a thief in the night
Stealing our hearts while we put up no fight

After four weeks of learning, he pursed his lips well
And our stolen hearts continued to swell
Just beginning the journey of parenthood
Much already learned, much still not understood

In four short months time it became very clear
Nothing else had ever been so very dear
Or so frustrating right in the very same minute
Your patience is tested and pushed to the limit!

We have not yet gotten to the next four in line
only half-way there, but there’s plenty of time
No need to rush things or hope time would move fast
I’d rather cling and make each moment last

But by now we’ve learned that it never ends
The journey of parents just stretches and bends
Every challenge is met, then a new one appears
Little victories fade, and there will be new tears

But for every moment that passes a new wonder is born
Your spirit is lifted even as it is torn
The child will bring joy, laughter and mirth
To each piece of your life, every day after birth.

For all the fours had so far
And those still to come
I am blessed and happy
That he is my son.

Meal Time Memory Lane

First he ate like this,
through good times and bad, so close…
extension of me.

It did not work out.
His condition dictated
he would “bottle it.”

Wonder formula -
Nutramigen, Liquid Gold -
helped his insides heal.

Cereal was next.
Greedily, he devoured it.
That’s my little man!

Then add in green beans.
Mmmm, that’s good stuff, isn’t it?
Loved bananas, too.

First sippy cup use!
Soon after, snubbed it for months.
Such a little tease.

Loved variety…
Sweet ‘taters a favorite.
Looked good on his face.

He scarfed, and soon he
was quite the roly-poly,
little chub-muffin!

Prunes were oh-so-loved!
Meat, however, was abhorred!
Not a “texture fan.”

Cute, little booger
loved to gnaw a piece of fruit
in his safety mesh.

And look at the face
made with the first popsicle!
“Mommy! It’s so COLD!”

First time, own spoon/plate…
but just play, not serious.
Cute and happy, though!

Sippy cup returned,
though the bottle hung around
for a few more months.

Finally willing
to pick up “smooshie things” like
this banana piece!

Real attempts were made
at eating with utensils!
Determination.

He’s such a cup tease.
At 12 Months, used a real cup.
(He now refuses.)

His first whole apple!
I was so beside myself.
Such a “big boy” thing.

He even dined with
The Mexican, on the deck.
Had a lovely meal.

Successful spoon use!
Thus he was dubbed, “Spoon Master.”
Such odd, proud moments.

Many face messes.
I have loved his face through all
manner of dried foods.

Moved from sips to straws.
Helps to develop language.
Wish he’d use a cup!

All of a sudden,
A horrible thing happened.
Stopped liking veggies.

It’s okay, we still
offer them to him, and he
will eat them again.

Anyway, sometimes,
wearing your food is much more
fun than eating it.

Utensil use still
continues to improve, and
we are still so proud.

He even had his
first cereal with milk and
spoon, the other day.

Funny how you can
tell the story of growth in
so many ways, eh?

Close with video…
a photo progression of
eating applesauce.

[feed readers: there is a video here]

Uses his spoon well..
but still young enough to know
it’s fun to use hands!