Benjamin has never been the most affectionate of our children. And that’s fine, I suppose. Compared to the other two, he’s a little stingy with his affections. We’ve grown accustomed to this, except Claire, who takes it quite personally. Every few days, he will give an unsolicited, enthusiastic squeeze, and when you get one, you feel like a million bucks for a couple hours at least.

But a kiss is a very rare thing from the Benny. IF you can get close (and lucky) enough to get/give one, he immediately and innocently wipes it off. Not to be mean! There is no malice in his eyes when he does this. He just doesn’t like the kissy stuff apparently. He’s done this for ages. But I’m happy to say that recently, he’s started responding to reverse psychology. The other night, I actually hit the jackpot. I told him I absolutely did not want any “squeaky kisses,” to which he delightfully responded by smothering me with them! Oh the joy!! Claire and Adam have caught on too, and are currently enjoying an unprecedented level of affection from Ben upon (reverse) demand. I’m not sure how long this will last, but I’m gonna ride it out.

About an hour ago, he dragged me into the livingroom to watch his favorite show with him (Superwhy!), but then he wouldn’t even sit by me, or even sit on the same couch. Indignant, I inquired,

“Now why in the world would I want to watch a cartoon if you’re not even gonna sit on the same couch as me and cuddle?”

Yes, I actually asked this question to a 3 year-old. To which he responded,

“Mom, I just can’t. It’s too hard for me.”