Just the Beginning

Before I was even pregnant, I came across this teddy bear and immediately bought it for Ben.

Is this not the most quintessential Teddy Bear of all time?
I adore it.
Ben thinks it's okay. He doesn't mind when I add it to the crib. After he's sleeping.

As a shower present, Ben got Lyle.

Yes, he's as soft as he looks.
Ben gives him a kiss from time to time, if I shove Lyle in his face for one.
But he hasn't committed to any particular stuffed toy.
His blanket is non-negotiable. But I can't help but feel a little lonely for Ben without a special friend.
Especially since my parents have recently sprung Michelle and the twins from their plastic captivity in the basement for the grandkids to enjoy.

Who's Michelle?

My Cabbage Patch Kid.
Duh.
You haven't met?
She's just great.... so many memories...

Where was I?

Oh yeah.
I was at the sidewalk sales in Holland last week.
And I was startled by Ben squealing and lunging at a table.
For this.

Googly-eyed ol' Cookie Monster.
And yes, he's as mangy as he looks.

Don't get me wrong - I'm fond of CM (we even have nicknames for each other - we must be friends).
But if I'm going to be lugging a "friend" around for Ben for the next five years, couldn't he at least be soft?
And wear a satin bow?

I pretty much always have "C is for Cookie" in my head already thanks to Pampers.
Now we sing it even more times a day.

But the truth is, Ben seems to really love him.
Maybe it's because he has eye BALLS. Or because he's so stinking bright.
Or because he's just plain silly.
But I certainly can't ignore all the hugs.

Or the kisses.

Sorry Teddy. Sorry Lyle.
It's probably not the last time Ben will come up with his own ideas about things...