Name Calling

There's an interesting thing about Detroiters that I've noticed lately. Henry and I walk around a lot, and people here are friendly and often say hi. The difference between Detroit and anywhere else I've lived is that people call you what they think you are. For example, I have heard pretty, baby, beautiful, mama, girl. That last one may sound like stating the obvious, but there's something about the way they stretch it out into "giiiirrrrrl" that makes it sound more descriptive than it actually is.

The level of creepiness varies on the person saying it (as well as their tone of voice). I'm actually surprised by how many young men have said "Hey baby" to me and not creeped me out. I honestly think they're just being polite. But still, it often catches me off guard. And what should I respond to that? Good afternoon youth. Hello hoodlum. Good day wrinkly old man.

Food, birthdays, bedrooms

Well, our baby is now 9th months old. He's stopped growing quite so much, which has a lot to do with how mobile he is. He burns calories like nobody's business. The best part about him being 9 months is the wide array of foods he can now eat. We're talking lasagna, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, beef stroganoff. And boy does he love food.

Ben's birthday was this past week. His main birthday present was going to a Boise State game in August, but we had a few festivities here. My present to him was a martini glass full of gummy bears. Why? Because we saw a martini glass full of gummy bears on tv and he said, I want that. So I delivered.

I have also been extremely motivated in my housework lately. I'm hoping it's not just a passing phase. I've been slowly cleaning out Henry's room out since we have lived here. I've finally finished up, rearranged it, and hung all of the things I've made for him. I'm quite proud, and I feel very crafty.

Giggles

This kid is great. He obviously loves his dad. Lately, every time Ben walks into a room, Henry squeals in delight. No matter how long they've been apart, whether it's been all day or 2 minutes.