Bennetch Family Traditions

How do you define a family tradition? Is there a minimum required for it to count? Well, you have only been in our lives for a little over 2 months and already we’ve started having our own family traditions! For example, I am a firm believer that you ONLY like to spit up while I am holding you. This is quite a task to the point you once even managed to spit up in my mouth. Another family tradition, for now, you and your mother are best of friends. I am very much a distant second! You smile, laugh, and are captivated by her! It warms my heart to see how deeply in love both of you are already (because, of course, by now I’ve become your favorite).

Another family tradition was started by your Papa Charlie. At the time, I am not sure he knew that one day it would be a tradition but, alas, here we are. When I was born, your Papa went out and bought my first stuffed animal, Woofer (I later found out to be named after a speaker). Shortly after leaving the hospital, your Papa put him in the shirt they gave me after I was born and laid him beside me. For years, Woofer was the very best friend I had. I took him EVERYWHERE and, if he wasn’t around, I couldn’t sleep. Woofer was so beloved that his head managed to fall off several times but, as luck would have it, your Diva was a nurse and could magically sow him all better. Woofer at night, along with your Papa, read me stories, assured me that the bullies in school wouldn’t be as mean tomorrow, and taught me how to pray. I would be lying to you, even as I grew up, if I said Woofer didn’t still play a role in my life. When I was scared, heart broken, or lost he managed to find a way from the closet to my arms. Until I met your mother, he was my most prized possession.

So, with Woofer in mind, I wanted to be the one that was a part of giving you your very first best friend. You are only two months old but already you’ve showed us you’re too cool for a teddy bear, too cool for a princess doll, so what could I possibly give you? It’s with that thought I found the perfect present – Cecilia the Sloth!

 

Cecilia is silly and speaks with a lisp. She loves to swing on cradles, sing silly songs, and give special kisses. She can’t wait for bed time stories to be read to you both by your dad, laughing with you at your favorite cartoons, and singing her favorite song, “Cecilia” by Simon and Garfunkel (especially since you WILL grow up to love Classic Rock!).  She’ll be with you to protect you from monsters under the bed and MANY, MANY, MANY years from now will keep your best kept secrets about what boy you adore.

Above all, she can’t wait to grow up to be your best friend just like my Woofer was for me.

No matter the days you manage to spit up on me or not, just know that every day with you is pure joy and that I, your mom, and even your stuffed animal Cecelia love you more with every new day! You already are one of our best friends and we promise not to tell who you will always love the most (ahem…me)!

p.s. being your dad is awesome!