bennett boo's boo-boo

Today I had lunch with my mom, and our lifelong friends, Faye and Lori (also a mother and daughter), and Bennett was supposed to join us. But when I drove into the driveway, Dad and Andrew greeted us and informed me, "Bennett Boo is staying with us." Bennett's response of excited, delightful squeals and arms reaching for the two of them let me know clearly what he preferred to do. So, I didn't argue, and I enjoyed a nice, relaxing lunch.

When I returned, Andrew and Bennett were on the back deck. Dad was following behind, but I could tell that Bennett was really trying to run ahead of them, so I cautioned him, "Be careful, Bennett. I don't want you to fall down the steps." Andrew so sweetly said, "It's okay, Hoddy. I look after him. He not get a boo-boo. Don't worry." He took Bennett's hand and started walking with him across the back yard. What a kind big cousin! I was so proud.

I'm sure Andrew did look after Bennett, for a minute or two, but it wasn't long before Bennett did get a boo boo. He touched the manifold on the four-wheeler and burned his finger. That wasn't Andrew's fault, of course. Who really leaves a 17-month old in the care of a three year old anyway?! Seriously, Granddaddy was watching the boys. He just did it when Granddaddy's eyes were not on Bennett, and at this age, you pretty much have to keep them glued on Bennett in order to keep him from harm. That's not an easy thing to do, I know. I thought he was following me down the hall this morning, and when I realized he wasn't behind me, I went searching for him and found him standing on my toilet (thank the Lord the seat was down!)! I had to pick Anderson and Will up from school not long after the incident, so needless to say, it was not an easy ride to school. Bennett kept his finger in a cup of water for most of the ride and almost fell asleep, but then he decided that he wanted to drink the water in the cup. He was then left with no relief for his finger, so I had to stop at a convenient store to get some more. He cried off and on until 3:30 when he fell asleep for a second nap. I'm happy to report that his finger hasn't bothered him since he woke up from his nap around 5 o'clock.

On an entirely different note, we began our Bible study tonight with Kim and Jimmy who work with Paul. We had such a good time just eating, talking, and sharing with them. I am really looking forward to our times together each Monday evening and studying the book of John. A special thanks to Anderson for looking after his brother tonight so Paul and I could enjoy some adult time.