We're having so much fun at the Tjarks household! We've been keeping busy with medical school, show choir, and life with a very exciting sixteen month old. It feels as though things are coming to an end here in Vermillion, SD. Joel is in his last month of school, with finals just around the corner. We're definitely feeling the tension and stress that accompanies this time of year! I'm beginning competition season with my group, Music in Motion, which marks the end of our time together. We have our last three shows in the next month and we're working hard in preparation. The month of March will bring some changes to our life. Joel will leave for a six week-long rural internship in Parkston, SD, leaving Benjamin and me home to hold down the fort! He is really excited for this opportunity. It will be a great "intro to rotations" and he should be able to see and do a large variety of procedures under the tutelage of the local family doctor. We're excited and nervous for the changes to come!
Well, Benjamin is having fun every single day. He is such a silly little guy. He's definitely done some growing in the past month, both physically and developmentally. He's filled out a bit, which is good to see! He's been doing a great job eating, and has learned to use a fork and spoon, which has broadened his food options. He's really loving scrambled eggs, peas, strawberries, yogurt, and spaghetti right now!
Just chillin on the couch... with a chocolate mustache
Helping out Mom in the kitchen... (Don't worry, the burner's not on and the pot is empty!)
Showing Mom how to stir like a pro
One of the most exciting new developments is his speech! I'm pretty sure he says a new word every day. It's so fun to hear that sweet, soft little voice. I especially love hearing him try out words for the first time - he whispers them so quietly. He can say quite a few new words, now. Some new ones are "yellow, Nana, Papa, Grandma, giggle, e-i-e-i-o, car, clock, dog, oo (supposed to be moo), duck, quack, hi, bye-bye, outside, and all done." He loves that he can talk. :)
Learning about football on Superbowl Sunday
The hand off!
Touchdown!
Having some fun with his buddy, Alexander
He's gotten one new tooth this month - a little one on the bottom that's just beginning to come up through the gum. I love his crooked little smile! He also knows how to fold his arms before we say prayers. That might be my favorite little thing, even if he doesn't keep them folded for long! He's gotten really good at climbing up and down stairs, to the point that we've just taken down the gate. He's so funny... he knows to turn around and go on his tummy, but he always starts WAY ahead of where the stairs begin. His favorite thing these days is going outside to play. The weather has been unusually nice, so we've been spending a lot of time running outside, going to the mailbox, drawing with chalk on the sidewalks, and playing with rocks. Benjamin also loves playing with his friends at storytime and playgroup. He sort of has a girlfriend... Her name is Madison, she's two, and she really likes Benjamin. A lot. It is adorable, especially because Benjamin doesn't seem to be phased by her affections. He just wants to play and Madison kind of gets in the way. :)
Well, it's been another fun month. We're looking forward to the changes to come in the next month!
Lounging. What a guy.
Love this sweet face and beautiful eyes!
