How sad am I. It's been 4 months since I last gave any kind of update. That is just sad. So...sit back, relax and grab a cold one, this may take awhile.
I believe I was supposed to give a recap of our first family vacation to Sea.world. May 4-6th we travelled to San Antonio. I was very excited and I think you were to but really didn't know it at the time.
We arrived and checked into our room and headed to the River.walk where we walked, tried to keep you from going for a swim and had dinner at the Rain.forest cafe. At the restaurant every half hour a 'thunderstorm' would take place and you wanted nothing to do with that! We ate and got out of there a fast as possible only to end up at mar.ble slab. YUM-O. You had cotton candy flavored ice cream with M&.M's and sprinkles...I could put sprinkles on lima beans and I believe you would eat them. Hmmm....
We made it home and you crashed. You slept in your own bed which made me and daddy very happy. We had big plans the next day at Sea.world.
Saturday we had breakfast at the hotel and headed off on our adventure. We rented a little cart which was priceless and a must. We were off like a heard of turtles. The day was overcast thankfully and kept the temps down and made the entire day very tolerable. Our first stop was the water skier show. Around the corner just before the entrance to the show you spot a colorful bird that is talking up a storm. "Look Mom, a Macaw." I had to look around and make sure that came from you and not a 5 year old standing next to me. No, not a bird, a Macaw. Yes, you were right. During the water ski show you didn't take your eyes off the performers and they were as big as silver dollars.
Next stop was the childrens climbing area. You and Dad had fun climbing the ropes and walking across the wonky bridge. You and dad also rode on a mini, very mini ferris wheel. Nothing but smiles and laughing as you took it all in.
After lunch we went to feed the dolphins. A nice lady gave you a couple of fishes. You let mommy take the lead on that one. You loved looking at the dolphins but were not so much interested in them mistaking your hand for fish food.
Last but not least was the ultimate, the reason we were there, the end all be all...SHA.MU! Yes, we went to a show. You were fading fast but you managed to keep your wits about you as you sat on your dad's lap and watch the whales swim, dance and splash water all over the unsuspecting victims in the lower rows. That was it, that was all we had in us. Our day at Sea.world came to a close. It was great and fun was had by all of us.
On our way home we stopped and had dinner at Olive Gar.den, not gourmet but it was filling. No one had any trouble falling asleep that night.
Sunday we packed up and begin our trip home. The plan was to stop by Splash.town and have some fun at the waterpark. Of course the thought process was it is May and summers in Texas are notorious for being hot...who would have expected to be rainy and cold. Well...it is Texas so anything is possible.
Mom and Dad decided to brave the drizzle and we did the waterpark anyway. Hindsight it was a mistake. You ended up getting tonsilitis and we felt bad we kept you out in the rain cold and wet. But...to tell you truth mom and dad had fun being kids again, if only for a few minutes. A couple of days and you were back on your feet.
That concludes the first annual Wayne family vacation. Your dad and I absolutely love to see the joy and excitement of your new experiences. We are so blessed.
That's all for now. I'll recap the rest of the summer tomorrow.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Monday, April 9, 2007
Potty Training 101
My baby isn’t a baby anymore. This weekend we began the potty training that took mom 6 months to prepare for both emotionally and physically. I was all gung ho after my friend bought the Boy a potty chair for his 2nd birthday and I knew his school was going to start training as well. So…I purchased a “Potty Training in One Day” book and started my “to do list”. Good grief was I overwhelmed. Plus I can honestly admit I was becoming lazy about it all. Pull ups are so convenient…or so I thought AND the fear of my baby not being a baby anymore.
I finally decided Good Friday would be the day. The boy’s school was closed and hubby had to work. I was sort of prepared back from my initial crack at preparations so I would get my list back out and figure out a plan. Of course I am an uber anal person about planning and everything had to be perfect and go just as the book explained. The anatomically correct potty doll, the bathroom turned into a boardwalk and beach, streamers, presents galore, treats, potty books and potty videos, planned activities related to the beach all day long. I’m tired just thinking about it. Thank goodness I’m done. So…here is how the day went.
Friday morning the boy gets out of bed about an hour earlier than I had planned. This was ok since the hubby and I stayed up the previous night decorating and put the finishing touches on preparation. The hubby was great. After working extra long hours he came home and helped me and added his own “Daddy touches”.
As the book suggested the morning was going to focus on Paul (the doll) and teaching him how to use the potty. Whatever…the boy wanted about 5 seconds of that. The good thing about waiting this long was the boy was familiar with the potty and he has used it on several occasions but just not consistently. So…plans changed and mom almost had a nervous breakdown. Instead of focusing on Paul we focused on the Boy…about four hours earlier than planned.
As the book suggested I wrapped everything; Paul, the potty chair, undies, a couple of special gifts, all to generate excitement about it all. He wasn’t to keen on putting on the undies at first. I had to put them on him and reassure they were fun. He didn’t put up much of a fight once they were on. He opened his brand new potty chair that I went ahead and jumped to the 3rd step and put just the potty seat on the big toilet so he would go ahead and get used to the big potty. We were making progress and it was only 9:30.
We made hats, waves, watched videos, make cookies, read books and put stickers on his chart and a treat always followed. He did great. I couldn’t imagine potty training going so smoothly…after I figured out and accepted Paul wasn’t needed.
Friday night when Dad came home from work and we went to Ch.uck E. Che.ese to celebrate…with our big boy undies on! It was great…he even used the big boy potty. He was a little apprehensive at first but seemed to accept his fate and went like a champ. We only had one accident today…we still need to work on BMs.
Saturday came and went with no accidents and he had a BM in his upstairs potty. YES! We even went to IHOP and Costco.
Sunday I was all but out of commission all day and Dad took care of him. YAY…Dad is trained now too. Today is his first day at school and I told him he had big boy undies and to spend a bit more time with him today. I hope it goes well.
I mentioned that the Boy wouldn’t be a baby anymore and it is true. It is like he grew up over the weekend. He is much wiser to the world with his potty endeavors. I guess that solves it…we gotta have another one. See babe…I wrote it so it’s official.
I finally decided Good Friday would be the day. The boy’s school was closed and hubby had to work. I was sort of prepared back from my initial crack at preparations so I would get my list back out and figure out a plan. Of course I am an uber anal person about planning and everything had to be perfect and go just as the book explained. The anatomically correct potty doll, the bathroom turned into a boardwalk and beach, streamers, presents galore, treats, potty books and potty videos, planned activities related to the beach all day long. I’m tired just thinking about it. Thank goodness I’m done. So…here is how the day went.
Friday morning the boy gets out of bed about an hour earlier than I had planned. This was ok since the hubby and I stayed up the previous night decorating and put the finishing touches on preparation. The hubby was great. After working extra long hours he came home and helped me and added his own “Daddy touches”.
As the book suggested the morning was going to focus on Paul (the doll) and teaching him how to use the potty. Whatever…the boy wanted about 5 seconds of that. The good thing about waiting this long was the boy was familiar with the potty and he has used it on several occasions but just not consistently. So…plans changed and mom almost had a nervous breakdown. Instead of focusing on Paul we focused on the Boy…about four hours earlier than planned.
As the book suggested I wrapped everything; Paul, the potty chair, undies, a couple of special gifts, all to generate excitement about it all. He wasn’t to keen on putting on the undies at first. I had to put them on him and reassure they were fun. He didn’t put up much of a fight once they were on. He opened his brand new potty chair that I went ahead and jumped to the 3rd step and put just the potty seat on the big toilet so he would go ahead and get used to the big potty. We were making progress and it was only 9:30.
We made hats, waves, watched videos, make cookies, read books and put stickers on his chart and a treat always followed. He did great. I couldn’t imagine potty training going so smoothly…after I figured out and accepted Paul wasn’t needed.
Friday night when Dad came home from work and we went to Ch.uck E. Che.ese to celebrate…with our big boy undies on! It was great…he even used the big boy potty. He was a little apprehensive at first but seemed to accept his fate and went like a champ. We only had one accident today…we still need to work on BMs.
Saturday came and went with no accidents and he had a BM in his upstairs potty. YES! We even went to IHOP and Costco.
Sunday I was all but out of commission all day and Dad took care of him. YAY…Dad is trained now too. Today is his first day at school and I told him he had big boy undies and to spend a bit more time with him today. I hope it goes well.
I mentioned that the Boy wouldn’t be a baby anymore and it is true. It is like he grew up over the weekend. He is much wiser to the world with his potty endeavors. I guess that solves it…we gotta have another one. See babe…I wrote it so it’s official.
Friday, March 30, 2007
33 Months and 4 Days
Hello son-
Mom here…This last month has been a flurry of activity and few changes that surprised myself and dear old dad…not that he’s old…just a figure of speech.
I’ll start with the good and end with the challenging…yeah…we’ll call it challenging.
Last weekend you accompanied me to “Miss Nicole’s” house to help Miss Nicole with getting ready to put her house up for sale. Nic’s has two big dogs and you’re not used to being around dogs so you did not leave my lap. By your reaction I can only imagine you thought those doggies were ready to take a limb or your entire head at any given moment. You never took your eyes from them…just in case.
We went upstairs to work in a bedroom and created a much appreciated barrier from the dogs and you proceeded to be mom’s big helper by lining up the socket wrench attachments (part of your OCD) and amusing yourself with playing hide and seek in the closet. Miss Jodie and I were taking furniture out of the room and you were my little shadow…not letting me out of your site. I’m sure it was from fear the dogs would show up at any given moment and off with your arm.
Miss Jodie took a wrong step down the stairs and ended up hurting (spraining) her ankle. So every time you and I continued up and down the stairs you would tell me to be careful so I won’t hurt my ankle like Miss Jodie; Compassion from a 2.5 yr old.
Later on you found a car in Miss Nicole’s office and you wouldn’t put it down…she ended up letting you have the car and you still haven’t put it down…it makes it really difficult at bath time.
The weekend before that you went with me to a race. Mom was not racing in this race however we went to cheer on Miss Jodie and her family in a marathon relay. I got you up really…really early and I was anticipating a “challenge”. You were golden.
We made our way down to Seabrook (about 45 minutes from home). Thankfully, the park had a very nice skateboard park where we set up camp. There was about 8-15 of us at any given time. Well…you loved it. The half pipes were calling you. You figured out how to crawl up by yourself and slide down on your bottom. I caught you testing your limits by trying to go head first…thankfully I thwarted that attempt. I am trying to minimize the number of emergency room visits that I know are in our future.
After you got bored with sliding down yourself you decided it would be fun to see how the fire engine held up to the half pipe rigor. You thought it was so funny when the truck would sail through the legs of several unsuspecting people. Yeah…not so much…mean ole mom took away the fire engine.
You then had your sights set on a stick…not any old stick…the stick. The stick that made it’s way all the way back home to your house. Announcement…For those that wish to purchase birthday and Christmas presents for the next year…just send sticks…not the little puny ones…the big walking kind and just wrap random boxes in paper…nothing in them…just paper. I digress…
Back to the stick; you found a stick and everything in your path was fair game. After warning and removing small children and the elderly I let you have it. Coke cans, grass…dirt…other people drinks, water were not safe. That is…until the skateboarders came out and started doing their thing. You thought it would be fun to see what happens when you throw your big ole stick in the path of the skateboarders.
Not Cool…and because you are my son and I saw you looking at your stick then at the skateboarders and begin to take a step in the direction of said skateboarders I knew what you were thinking and again…avoided a trip to the emergency room to pay for the damage you may have done to some unsuspecting skateboarder.
Shortly after…it was time to head home. You didn’t make it 15 minutes and you were wiped.
The weekend before that we went to your friend Taylor’s 4 yr birthday party at Chu.ck E. Che.ese. Of course you had a great time…crawling around the hamster trails…playing video games and eating pizza and birthday cake too. A funny thing happened…you wouldn’t remember but when you were a baby you went to a school in the Woodlands. One of your classmates was Vishnu. Everyone knew Vishnu as he cried A LOT. Vishnu happened to be having his 3rd birthday party on the same day. What are the odds…he’s still just a little guy. Odds are, when you are both adults you will either go to college together or end up working together, funny.
That about sums up the month of weekends…tomorrow we have Landon’s 1st birthday party where you will attend your first crawfish boil. I am sure I will not able to wait a month to write about that one.
Now for the challenges that have ensued…you have figured out on the weekends you do not have to wait until Mom or Dad comes in to get you in the mornings…you get out of your bed on your own. Thankfully it is still around 9a so it’s not that challenging…yet; however, your Dad and I really…really need to convert your bed into a toddler bed for your safety.
Tantrums…boy…you had a 45 minute temper tantrum last night because 1. your school bag blanket was left at school. (Your blanket always stays at school). 2. Mom took your shoes off because they had mud on them. (How could I) 3. We would let you watch your new movie (i.e. Ic.e A.ge…the Meltdown) What horrible parents we are.
We finally had to put you in your room and close the door until you were finished with your fit. When you finally quieted down I found you lying on the floor on your blanket. When I asked if you wanted to come eat dinner you said “NO” as only a 2.5 year old can. So…I left you in your room. Dad went up a bit later to talk with you and tell you that we would enjoy it if you came and had dinner you still refused. Dad left your door open when he left the room and you promptly got up and shut it…as only a 2.5 year old can. Your Dad and I had to smile at that one.
Finally you decided you had had enough and you joined us for dinner. You stubborn little man…you are definitely my son.
Tantrums have been your theme lately. You’ve about sent Dad over the edge in the mornings to the point where he has had to ask me for help. So…in order to alleviate such challenges as picking the right shirt/pants/shorts you have worn the same pair of shorts for a week now…your black comfy shorts with white strips on the side. I let you pick out your own shirt and that seems to have helped a bit in the clothing department.
This morning I made the mistake of “opening” your banana (which you asked me do to before quickly changing your mind right after I “opened” it. The mouth opened…the eyes squeezed shut and I reminded you to use your words and talk to me. All you had to do was ask to switch bananas with me. You understood so the crying was short lived.
Mom and Dad have quite a challenge with you and us. It seems we have reached a point where your independence and we doing things for you has reached crossroads. Understanding this makes it a bit easier…but somedays (like yesterday) there is not an easy button and you just have to push through.
You are a good boy and bring us so much joy…I know we will all get through it together.
Oh…you said y’all the other day…your dad almost fell over out of shock. Me…not so surprised as you live in Texas and I say it frequently. I am trying however not to say “fixin” when you are in the room.
This was a long one but a good one. You still grow up every day. You are 37lbs and 39 inches tall.
In the month to come we will tackle potty training…stay tuned for those trials and tribulations.
Keep growing, keep laughing and keep learning.
Love,
Mom
Mom here…This last month has been a flurry of activity and few changes that surprised myself and dear old dad…not that he’s old…just a figure of speech.
I’ll start with the good and end with the challenging…yeah…we’ll call it challenging.
Last weekend you accompanied me to “Miss Nicole’s” house to help Miss Nicole with getting ready to put her house up for sale. Nic’s has two big dogs and you’re not used to being around dogs so you did not leave my lap. By your reaction I can only imagine you thought those doggies were ready to take a limb or your entire head at any given moment. You never took your eyes from them…just in case.
We went upstairs to work in a bedroom and created a much appreciated barrier from the dogs and you proceeded to be mom’s big helper by lining up the socket wrench attachments (part of your OCD) and amusing yourself with playing hide and seek in the closet. Miss Jodie and I were taking furniture out of the room and you were my little shadow…not letting me out of your site. I’m sure it was from fear the dogs would show up at any given moment and off with your arm.
Miss Jodie took a wrong step down the stairs and ended up hurting (spraining) her ankle. So every time you and I continued up and down the stairs you would tell me to be careful so I won’t hurt my ankle like Miss Jodie; Compassion from a 2.5 yr old.
Later on you found a car in Miss Nicole’s office and you wouldn’t put it down…she ended up letting you have the car and you still haven’t put it down…it makes it really difficult at bath time.
The weekend before that you went with me to a race. Mom was not racing in this race however we went to cheer on Miss Jodie and her family in a marathon relay. I got you up really…really early and I was anticipating a “challenge”. You were golden.
We made our way down to Seabrook (about 45 minutes from home). Thankfully, the park had a very nice skateboard park where we set up camp. There was about 8-15 of us at any given time. Well…you loved it. The half pipes were calling you. You figured out how to crawl up by yourself and slide down on your bottom. I caught you testing your limits by trying to go head first…thankfully I thwarted that attempt. I am trying to minimize the number of emergency room visits that I know are in our future.
After you got bored with sliding down yourself you decided it would be fun to see how the fire engine held up to the half pipe rigor. You thought it was so funny when the truck would sail through the legs of several unsuspecting people. Yeah…not so much…mean ole mom took away the fire engine.
You then had your sights set on a stick…not any old stick…the stick. The stick that made it’s way all the way back home to your house. Announcement…For those that wish to purchase birthday and Christmas presents for the next year…just send sticks…not the little puny ones…the big walking kind and just wrap random boxes in paper…nothing in them…just paper. I digress…
Back to the stick; you found a stick and everything in your path was fair game. After warning and removing small children and the elderly I let you have it. Coke cans, grass…dirt…other people drinks, water were not safe. That is…until the skateboarders came out and started doing their thing. You thought it would be fun to see what happens when you throw your big ole stick in the path of the skateboarders.
Not Cool…and because you are my son and I saw you looking at your stick then at the skateboarders and begin to take a step in the direction of said skateboarders I knew what you were thinking and again…avoided a trip to the emergency room to pay for the damage you may have done to some unsuspecting skateboarder.
Shortly after…it was time to head home. You didn’t make it 15 minutes and you were wiped.
The weekend before that we went to your friend Taylor’s 4 yr birthday party at Chu.ck E. Che.ese. Of course you had a great time…crawling around the hamster trails…playing video games and eating pizza and birthday cake too. A funny thing happened…you wouldn’t remember but when you were a baby you went to a school in the Woodlands. One of your classmates was Vishnu. Everyone knew Vishnu as he cried A LOT. Vishnu happened to be having his 3rd birthday party on the same day. What are the odds…he’s still just a little guy. Odds are, when you are both adults you will either go to college together or end up working together, funny.
That about sums up the month of weekends…tomorrow we have Landon’s 1st birthday party where you will attend your first crawfish boil. I am sure I will not able to wait a month to write about that one.
Now for the challenges that have ensued…you have figured out on the weekends you do not have to wait until Mom or Dad comes in to get you in the mornings…you get out of your bed on your own. Thankfully it is still around 9a so it’s not that challenging…yet; however, your Dad and I really…really need to convert your bed into a toddler bed for your safety.
Tantrums…boy…you had a 45 minute temper tantrum last night because 1. your school bag blanket was left at school. (Your blanket always stays at school). 2. Mom took your shoes off because they had mud on them. (How could I) 3. We would let you watch your new movie (i.e. Ic.e A.ge…the Meltdown) What horrible parents we are.
We finally had to put you in your room and close the door until you were finished with your fit. When you finally quieted down I found you lying on the floor on your blanket. When I asked if you wanted to come eat dinner you said “NO” as only a 2.5 year old can. So…I left you in your room. Dad went up a bit later to talk with you and tell you that we would enjoy it if you came and had dinner you still refused. Dad left your door open when he left the room and you promptly got up and shut it…as only a 2.5 year old can. Your Dad and I had to smile at that one.
Finally you decided you had had enough and you joined us for dinner. You stubborn little man…you are definitely my son.
Tantrums have been your theme lately. You’ve about sent Dad over the edge in the mornings to the point where he has had to ask me for help. So…in order to alleviate such challenges as picking the right shirt/pants/shorts you have worn the same pair of shorts for a week now…your black comfy shorts with white strips on the side. I let you pick out your own shirt and that seems to have helped a bit in the clothing department.
This morning I made the mistake of “opening” your banana (which you asked me do to before quickly changing your mind right after I “opened” it. The mouth opened…the eyes squeezed shut and I reminded you to use your words and talk to me. All you had to do was ask to switch bananas with me. You understood so the crying was short lived.
Mom and Dad have quite a challenge with you and us. It seems we have reached a point where your independence and we doing things for you has reached crossroads. Understanding this makes it a bit easier…but somedays (like yesterday) there is not an easy button and you just have to push through.
You are a good boy and bring us so much joy…I know we will all get through it together.
Oh…you said y’all the other day…your dad almost fell over out of shock. Me…not so surprised as you live in Texas and I say it frequently. I am trying however not to say “fixin” when you are in the room.
This was a long one but a good one. You still grow up every day. You are 37lbs and 39 inches tall.
In the month to come we will tackle potty training…stay tuned for those trials and tribulations.
Keep growing, keep laughing and keep learning.
Love,
Mom
Tuesday, March 6, 2007
32 Months and 8 Days
Today is a beautiful day in March. The weather is a perfect, a crisp morning and it will be warm in the afternoon. We have been taking advantage of the extra daylight hours in the evening and venturing outside to talk with our neighbors. Last week you and I were out talking to Mr. Justin and Gus; when you saw your Dad turn down the street you yelled “Look Mr. Justin there is my Dad”. It was the sweetest thing. I put you down (you are afraid of Gus) and you ran up the driveway to meet your Dad.
Saturday we went out to ride your tricycle after you nap and we walked down to Jordan’s house and you had your first “play date”. Jordan is 6 and it was fun watching you two interact. All of her toys are pink and she has lots of dolls and you didn’t care. To you...it was cool just playing with new toys.
Last week all of us neighbors were out talking in the evening and you helped Mr. Paul move his dirt with a shovel, right after you were playing in it. Mr. Paul asked if you like to fish and you said no so he offered for you and dad to come fish with him. Now when we talk about Mr. Paul you ask about fishing. I think you would love to fish.
I went away a couple of weeks ago to Florida visiting the Space Shuttle for work. It was the first time I have been away from home in a couple of years and I was worried you and Dad were going to have a difficult time. Again…you proved what a wonderful child you are and everything went great. I called you at school everyday to check on you and spoke with you again at night before you went to bed. I think you were more excited about the prospect of getting a present than worried about me being gone. :D
Your behavior is improving and your dad and I are so proud of you. We even got awarded parents of the month at your school! WE ROCK. You are working so hard and your teachers and your parents can tell.
Last night when dad was putting on your show you told him you were “pointed” in him. I almost fell over laughing so hard. You meant you were disappointed in him, this is what mommy and daddy tell you when you get sent to the office at school. Oh man…nothing gets by you. You are so smart. It seems you are struggling with when you choose to use that knowledge.
Your dad and I are having our own struggle with removing your crib rail to convert your bed to a toddler bed. Like I’ve always said... you are a most excellent sleeper, you even crawl in your bed in the evening and out in the morning... once you are in …you are in. We’re just afraid you will know you have a bit more freedom and it scares us. We just need to suck it up. I am thinking Saturday morning the rail comes off and you are that much closer to independence. Excuse me while I wipe my tears.
Your eating habits are better but still no veggies. Dad found an excellent solution V8 Mango Juice or something like that. It gives you your entire serving of fruits and veggies in a tasty juice. That works for us…until you decide you will eat any veggie that is not corn.
Your most watched movie this last couple of days is NEMO. Saturday it was the Incredibles and Cars. You hate to wear pants that are too big. The one time you did you were scarred. Now you think all your jeans are too big. We have to tell you to try them on and we will take them off if they are too big. They never are.
You are brushing your teeth like a champ…spitting and everything. So…big…so big. At night you like to hide in Daddy’s office with him and I always have to ask Dad if he has seen you. Then I go around the house looking for you. When I come back I hear a faint meow in the corner…it’s you.
You read “Papa, Please Get Me the Moon” to me the other night, almost verbatim. There is something about a two year old that includes “indeed” when they are speaking. Of course you are not reading you have heard the story so many times you know it by heart. Or are you? Daddy told you a Magic Ladybug story when I was gone and you ask me to tell you that story and I tell you I don’t know it. Then you tell me the story. LOVE IT!
That about covers it for the last month, your dad and I love you very much and we really understand how hard you are working to be good at school, we are very proud and we thank you.
Love,
Mom
Saturday we went out to ride your tricycle after you nap and we walked down to Jordan’s house and you had your first “play date”. Jordan is 6 and it was fun watching you two interact. All of her toys are pink and she has lots of dolls and you didn’t care. To you...it was cool just playing with new toys.
Last week all of us neighbors were out talking in the evening and you helped Mr. Paul move his dirt with a shovel, right after you were playing in it. Mr. Paul asked if you like to fish and you said no so he offered for you and dad to come fish with him. Now when we talk about Mr. Paul you ask about fishing. I think you would love to fish.
I went away a couple of weeks ago to Florida visiting the Space Shuttle for work. It was the first time I have been away from home in a couple of years and I was worried you and Dad were going to have a difficult time. Again…you proved what a wonderful child you are and everything went great. I called you at school everyday to check on you and spoke with you again at night before you went to bed. I think you were more excited about the prospect of getting a present than worried about me being gone. :D
Your behavior is improving and your dad and I are so proud of you. We even got awarded parents of the month at your school! WE ROCK. You are working so hard and your teachers and your parents can tell.
Last night when dad was putting on your show you told him you were “pointed” in him. I almost fell over laughing so hard. You meant you were disappointed in him, this is what mommy and daddy tell you when you get sent to the office at school. Oh man…nothing gets by you. You are so smart. It seems you are struggling with when you choose to use that knowledge.
Your dad and I are having our own struggle with removing your crib rail to convert your bed to a toddler bed. Like I’ve always said... you are a most excellent sleeper, you even crawl in your bed in the evening and out in the morning... once you are in …you are in. We’re just afraid you will know you have a bit more freedom and it scares us. We just need to suck it up. I am thinking Saturday morning the rail comes off and you are that much closer to independence. Excuse me while I wipe my tears.
Your eating habits are better but still no veggies. Dad found an excellent solution V8 Mango Juice or something like that. It gives you your entire serving of fruits and veggies in a tasty juice. That works for us…until you decide you will eat any veggie that is not corn.
Your most watched movie this last couple of days is NEMO. Saturday it was the Incredibles and Cars. You hate to wear pants that are too big. The one time you did you were scarred. Now you think all your jeans are too big. We have to tell you to try them on and we will take them off if they are too big. They never are.
You are brushing your teeth like a champ…spitting and everything. So…big…so big. At night you like to hide in Daddy’s office with him and I always have to ask Dad if he has seen you. Then I go around the house looking for you. When I come back I hear a faint meow in the corner…it’s you.
You read “Papa, Please Get Me the Moon” to me the other night, almost verbatim. There is something about a two year old that includes “indeed” when they are speaking. Of course you are not reading you have heard the story so many times you know it by heart. Or are you? Daddy told you a Magic Ladybug story when I was gone and you ask me to tell you that story and I tell you I don’t know it. Then you tell me the story. LOVE IT!
That about covers it for the last month, your dad and I love you very much and we really understand how hard you are working to be good at school, we are very proud and we thank you.
Love,
Mom
Friday, February 16, 2007
Happy Holiday - 2007 (Valentine's Day)
Happy Valentine's Day sweetie! V-Day was a good day. I went to visit you at your Valentine's party. When I arrived you were sitting very nicely carefully eating a bite sized cup cake. Your plate was filled high with big ol' cup cakes, cookies and cheese. Yes...cheese.
Your first thing out of your mouth was that you were good today and did not go to the office or time out. I was smiling ear to ear! I am so proud of you. I told you and hugged you. You finished your cup cake and cheese and you were ready to go. Of course you were enticed by the valentine cards waiting for you from your classmates.
We went home early and you wanted to watch the Incredibles. Mom had to do some "Valentine's" prep and you were very content watching your movie. You called your dad and told him the good news about the office. He was very happy.
When dad got home you opened your cards and your presents. You received more "Cars" cars, a balloon and a book about the airport. Dad did good. We're going to try to go to San Diego in May so Dad is prepping you early. When myself and your dad would say Happy Valentine's day you would come back with Happy Holiday. Too cute.
After dinner you watched one more show and then it was bath and bed. It was a very nice day...and you were great.
Love,
Mom
Your first thing out of your mouth was that you were good today and did not go to the office or time out. I was smiling ear to ear! I am so proud of you. I told you and hugged you. You finished your cup cake and cheese and you were ready to go. Of course you were enticed by the valentine cards waiting for you from your classmates.
We went home early and you wanted to watch the Incredibles. Mom had to do some "Valentine's" prep and you were very content watching your movie. You called your dad and told him the good news about the office. He was very happy.
When dad got home you opened your cards and your presents. You received more "Cars" cars, a balloon and a book about the airport. Dad did good. We're going to try to go to San Diego in May so Dad is prepping you early. When myself and your dad would say Happy Valentine's day you would come back with Happy Holiday. Too cute.
After dinner you watched one more show and then it was bath and bed. It was a very nice day...and you were great.
Love,
Mom
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Fun Family Weekend
This past weekend we had a family weekend. And you absolutely loved it. On Saturday we took you to the Woodlands Children's Museum and you had a ball playing with the sand, looking at fish, writing on the chalkboard of the school room and playing in the tar pits with the dinosaurs. Mom and Dad really enjoyed it as well. There was so much to see and do that we couldn't finish everything so I am sure we will be going back soon.
Sunday, Dad suggested to go ride go-karts, which we hadn't done before. Oh My Gosh...you so loved it! You went out with your dad first and every time you guys came around the corner you had a big o smile on your face...ear to ear. Then it was mom's turned and dad went and got the camera and he got some stellar shots of you thoroughly enjoying your first go-kart experience. By the time you were riding with me you would be my spotter and tell me when other karts were coming up from behind..."Go faster mom". One for the memory bank!
We are planning a trip to San Diego in May. We have started talking with you about riding on a plane. You are very excited. We still need to work on your behavior at school. Trips to the office are coming to frequent. Listening ears...Your dad and I are trying hard to remind you to go talk to your teacher if you are frustrated. Keep trying.
Love,
Mom
Sunday, Dad suggested to go ride go-karts, which we hadn't done before. Oh My Gosh...you so loved it! You went out with your dad first and every time you guys came around the corner you had a big o smile on your face...ear to ear. Then it was mom's turned and dad went and got the camera and he got some stellar shots of you thoroughly enjoying your first go-kart experience. By the time you were riding with me you would be my spotter and tell me when other karts were coming up from behind..."Go faster mom". One for the memory bank!
We are planning a trip to San Diego in May. We have started talking with you about riding on a plane. You are very excited. We still need to work on your behavior at school. Trips to the office are coming to frequent. Listening ears...Your dad and I are trying hard to remind you to go talk to your teacher if you are frustrated. Keep trying.
Love,
Mom
Friday, February 2, 2007
31 months and 7 days
You turned 31 months a few days ago...all I can say is I'm trying. You are changing weekly it seems. Growing older and wiser by the day. Your dad and I continuously ask you if you grew up today. You give us a look like "mom..dad, put down the jagermister."
Your eating habits still do not include any vegetable that does not start or end with corn. You eat more pancakes for breakfast than I do. Your Dad bought the fam a quesadilla maker and you LOVE those. Mickey D's is still your favorite weekend lunch and frozen spaghetti and chicken on the bone come in a close second and third. Your dad and I have been able to insert "Dora" yogurt as a dessert and always top that off with a chocolate coin. "Can I have a coin?"
The potty training front is improving. You do not like to use the potty at school because you are afraid you will fall in. I saw those potties and I can totally relate. You are doing well with training at home. You always go before your bath because Mom has burned in your brain that pottying in the bathtub is gross. Especially with the amount of bathwater you consume each night.
The past few weeks we have had to work with you regarding your behavior at school and at home. Your dad got a call from the school and you had to talk with him and tell him why you were in the office. You did not like that. We took away your shows and you were not allowed to watch TV. The following Monday you were sent to the office again and no shows or TV. By Tuesday you got it and we haven't had a return trip since. We had a conference with your teacher, Ms. Viviana yesterday and she told us how much she enjoys you in her class. You are so smart but you are having a hard time with structure. Mom and Dad are working on that with you and we can already see a difference in a just a week.
Somewhere in the past week you decided to call us Mom and Dad. "Hey mom?...Mom" thanks "Dad". It cracks your dad and I up.
Your favorite TV shows are Dora, Diego, The Wiggles and Handy Manny. Your favorite movie this week is Antbully. I hear you quoting lines in the bath every now and again.
You have started role playing much more openly. I could hear you talking in the bath when you thought I wasn't listening but now you are doing more physical role playing. You like to pretend you are a dog or a baby at night and you go and hide from me in your dad's office. When I ask your dad where you are I can hear you giggle.
You have learned to crawl in and out of your bed but thankfully you have not put two and two together and figured out you can do this when mom and dad are not there. I think this is because you are a most excellent sleeper and when you are in your bed you are sleeping and not contemplating your escape.
You are very well mannered and polite. Always saying yes, please and thank you. You execuse yourself from the table and put your dishes in the sink. Your dad and I watch with pride and amazement at how fast you are growing into a young man.
You and I went to visit Great Granny and Papa Boley last weekend. We had chicken on the bone for dinner. You weren't very hungry because Granny kept giving you "treats". That's okay...it's Granny's job. I love how very affectionate you are with them, including "that other boy", Uncle Donald.
Daddy was sick last weekend and you and I spent a lot of time together. We made a magic ball out of crystals, we built forts with Lincoln Logs and you crashed them with your truck. We also played video games on your Vcast. Well...mom did most of the playing, you watched. You were so cooperative. Like you knew things were off and it was very important to help mom and be on your best behavior.
Your and Dad and I are so proud of you and how hard you have worked on your behavior at home and school. I am so happy to be your mom and I love you very much.
Love,
Mom
Your eating habits still do not include any vegetable that does not start or end with corn. You eat more pancakes for breakfast than I do. Your Dad bought the fam a quesadilla maker and you LOVE those. Mickey D's is still your favorite weekend lunch and frozen spaghetti and chicken on the bone come in a close second and third. Your dad and I have been able to insert "Dora" yogurt as a dessert and always top that off with a chocolate coin. "Can I have a coin?"
The potty training front is improving. You do not like to use the potty at school because you are afraid you will fall in. I saw those potties and I can totally relate. You are doing well with training at home. You always go before your bath because Mom has burned in your brain that pottying in the bathtub is gross. Especially with the amount of bathwater you consume each night.
The past few weeks we have had to work with you regarding your behavior at school and at home. Your dad got a call from the school and you had to talk with him and tell him why you were in the office. You did not like that. We took away your shows and you were not allowed to watch TV. The following Monday you were sent to the office again and no shows or TV. By Tuesday you got it and we haven't had a return trip since. We had a conference with your teacher, Ms. Viviana yesterday and she told us how much she enjoys you in her class. You are so smart but you are having a hard time with structure. Mom and Dad are working on that with you and we can already see a difference in a just a week.
Somewhere in the past week you decided to call us Mom and Dad. "Hey mom?...Mom" thanks "Dad". It cracks your dad and I up.
Your favorite TV shows are Dora, Diego, The Wiggles and Handy Manny. Your favorite movie this week is Antbully. I hear you quoting lines in the bath every now and again.
You have started role playing much more openly. I could hear you talking in the bath when you thought I wasn't listening but now you are doing more physical role playing. You like to pretend you are a dog or a baby at night and you go and hide from me in your dad's office. When I ask your dad where you are I can hear you giggle.
You have learned to crawl in and out of your bed but thankfully you have not put two and two together and figured out you can do this when mom and dad are not there. I think this is because you are a most excellent sleeper and when you are in your bed you are sleeping and not contemplating your escape.
You are very well mannered and polite. Always saying yes, please and thank you. You execuse yourself from the table and put your dishes in the sink. Your dad and I watch with pride and amazement at how fast you are growing into a young man.
You and I went to visit Great Granny and Papa Boley last weekend. We had chicken on the bone for dinner. You weren't very hungry because Granny kept giving you "treats". That's okay...it's Granny's job. I love how very affectionate you are with them, including "that other boy", Uncle Donald.
Daddy was sick last weekend and you and I spent a lot of time together. We made a magic ball out of crystals, we built forts with Lincoln Logs and you crashed them with your truck. We also played video games on your Vcast. Well...mom did most of the playing, you watched. You were so cooperative. Like you knew things were off and it was very important to help mom and be on your best behavior.
Your and Dad and I are so proud of you and how hard you have worked on your behavior at home and school. I am so happy to be your mom and I love you very much.
Love,
Mom
Thursday, January 18, 2007
6 Weird Things About Me
Thanks Jodie! Since you used half of the things I would have posted I'm going to have to get creative.
The Rules: Each player of this game starts with the six (6) weird things about you. People who get tagged need to write a blog post of their own six (6) weird things as well as state this rule clearly. In the end, you need to choose six (6) people to be tagged and list their names.
1. I absolutely must take a shower at night before I go to bed. It doesn't not matter if I have had three showers earlier in the day or that I have not left the house all day. I do not sleep well unless I have had my shower.
2. Although food touching is at the top of my weirdness list I also eat one food at a time. None of this mixing and matching. Eat all of the taco, move on to the enchilada and finish will a little bit of beans and rice and I may elect to eat chips along with my beans and rice.
3. I hate feet. Yours...mine and ours. Feet disgust me. That's all I'm going to say about that.
4. I cannot sleep if I do not have the fan on. I don't care if it is 20 degrees outside the fan must be on. I may concede and turn it down to medium during cold weather. If I am in a hotel I turn the A/C down as low as possible...I have to have air circulating.
5. All doors visible in the bedroom must remain close. Hello...panick room and the guy standing in the door way when she was sleeping. Hell no! Bedroom door, bathroom door, closet door...all closed at night for safe sleeping.
6. Man I thought I was the only one that was freaked out if the toilet paper was upside down. I am a big proponent of making sure the toilet paper dispenses from the top. I hate spinning and spinning and spinning looking for the start of the roll and it remains upside down. I will also fix toilet paper, even in a strangers house if it is upside down.
I tag Scott, Sandy (my other blog) and Jen. I am still developing a blog circle.
The Rules: Each player of this game starts with the six (6) weird things about you. People who get tagged need to write a blog post of their own six (6) weird things as well as state this rule clearly. In the end, you need to choose six (6) people to be tagged and list their names.
1. I absolutely must take a shower at night before I go to bed. It doesn't not matter if I have had three showers earlier in the day or that I have not left the house all day. I do not sleep well unless I have had my shower.
2. Although food touching is at the top of my weirdness list I also eat one food at a time. None of this mixing and matching. Eat all of the taco, move on to the enchilada and finish will a little bit of beans and rice and I may elect to eat chips along with my beans and rice.
3. I hate feet. Yours...mine and ours. Feet disgust me. That's all I'm going to say about that.
4. I cannot sleep if I do not have the fan on. I don't care if it is 20 degrees outside the fan must be on. I may concede and turn it down to medium during cold weather. If I am in a hotel I turn the A/C down as low as possible...I have to have air circulating.
5. All doors visible in the bedroom must remain close. Hello...panick room and the guy standing in the door way when she was sleeping. Hell no! Bedroom door, bathroom door, closet door...all closed at night for safe sleeping.
6. Man I thought I was the only one that was freaked out if the toilet paper was upside down. I am a big proponent of making sure the toilet paper dispenses from the top. I hate spinning and spinning and spinning looking for the start of the roll and it remains upside down. I will also fix toilet paper, even in a strangers house if it is upside down.
I tag Scott, Sandy (my other blog) and Jen. I am still developing a blog circle.
Your first SNOW (ICE) day
Yesterday school was cancelled due to the ice storm that rolled through town on Tuesday night. You do not yet fully understand the significance of a snow day in Texas. Although it did not technically snow Houstonians are not used to driving around on ice and do it very poorly. So we had a mommy and me day!
I got you up around 9:30 due to the most excellent sleeper that you have become and I will forever thank you for that. You helped me make pancakes and we pigged out during an episode of Dora.
After Dora we moved on to Over the Hedge, anything but The Incredibles or Cars...I can recite every line. I really enjoyed snuggling with you on the couch and protecting you from the bear. After two back to back showings of Over the Hedge you had lunch and went down for a nap until 4:30, that's my boy.
I know I won't win any "mother of the year" awards for filling your day with TV but you seemed to enjoy it and I enjoyed "enjoying" it with you. :D
When daddy got home we broke out the Quesadilla maker and made you a chicken and cheese quesadilla. You absolutely loved them. You ate more than I did. From now on we will forever have a quesadilla night once a week.
I enjoyed spending time with you yesterday and perhaps in about 5 more years we may have another Snow day to enjoy together.
Love,
Mom
I got you up around 9:30 due to the most excellent sleeper that you have become and I will forever thank you for that. You helped me make pancakes and we pigged out during an episode of Dora.
After Dora we moved on to Over the Hedge, anything but The Incredibles or Cars...I can recite every line. I really enjoyed snuggling with you on the couch and protecting you from the bear. After two back to back showings of Over the Hedge you had lunch and went down for a nap until 4:30, that's my boy.
I know I won't win any "mother of the year" awards for filling your day with TV but you seemed to enjoy it and I enjoyed "enjoying" it with you. :D
When daddy got home we broke out the Quesadilla maker and made you a chicken and cheese quesadilla. You absolutely loved them. You ate more than I did. From now on we will forever have a quesadilla night once a week.
I enjoyed spending time with you yesterday and perhaps in about 5 more years we may have another Snow day to enjoy together.
Love,
Mom
Monday, January 8, 2007
No More Fish
This weekend was a sick weekend for you. On Saturday morning when I went to get you up around 9:30 there was a pungent smell of vomit and poo in the air. Sometime during the night you became sick and you didn't even call for your dad or me to help you. Saturday morning we got you up and you didn't want a bath but your Dad calmed you down and you and I layed on the couch together watching Cars and The Incredibles.
We thought it may have been the Mahi Mahi with Chipotle sauce you bummed from your Dad on Friday that upset your stomach but on Sunday morning when we were eating Taco's you had another explosion. So we think it was a bug going around.
You are such a good boy and so loving when you are not feeling good. You and I again watch more Cars and Incredibles. By the end of last night you were actually quoting from the movies during your bath.
Your Dad and I went out to dinner on Saturday night to celebrate our anniversary so we put you to bed early. You did not want any part of that. I'm getting ready and I hear..."Mommy...Mommy...where are you?" "Mommy...Mommy...good night." "Mommy..." A promise of CostCo and a bike ride forty-five minutes later finally quited you down. You know...you always know.
You are feeling much better thankfully and went to school this morning. Looks like we made it through unscathed.
We thought it may have been the Mahi Mahi with Chipotle sauce you bummed from your Dad on Friday that upset your stomach but on Sunday morning when we were eating Taco's you had another explosion. So we think it was a bug going around.
You are such a good boy and so loving when you are not feeling good. You and I again watch more Cars and Incredibles. By the end of last night you were actually quoting from the movies during your bath.
Your Dad and I went out to dinner on Saturday night to celebrate our anniversary so we put you to bed early. You did not want any part of that. I'm getting ready and I hear..."Mommy...Mommy...where are you?" "Mommy...Mommy...good night." "Mommy..." A promise of CostCo and a bike ride forty-five minutes later finally quited you down. You know...you always know.
You are feeling much better thankfully and went to school this morning. Looks like we made it through unscathed.
Wednesday, January 3, 2007
"I'll be your best friend"
Yes...at 2 1/2 you have officially mastered the art of bribery. You were in the tub the other night and wanted me to "fetch" your cars that were downstairs. I told you I was fixin to bathe you and we would get your cars tomorrow. With a smile on your face and your head cocked to the side and your puppy dog brown eyes you said "I'll be your best friend!" What! Where it the world did you hear that and how do you know the context in which to use that remark? Son...you continue to amaze me everyday.
Christmas was great. This was the first year you were truly excited and understood all that was going on. You made quite the hall. Here is a brief list, there was sooo much:
Two dinosaurs - rah
"Cars" Cars: Chick Hicks, Mater, Doc Hudson, Red, Sheriff
A wooden tractor trailer truck with "Seth Allen" on the side - Nana and Papa
Ornaments - Nana and Papa
Gasoline Truck with Helicopter - The Hess'
VCast Video Game - Mema
Tractor from the "Cars" - Aunt Sue and Uncle Roger
Police Car - Granny
Big Truck - Uncle Donald
Tank - Aunt Denise and Uncle Gene
$50 gift card - Grandma and Grandpa
Gumby and Pokey
Fort
Lincoln Logs
Bath water coloring
Bath paints (do not recommend)
Shoes
Clothes
"Cars" Bedding
"Cars" Blanket - The Dugan's
"Cars" Shirt - The Dugan's
Aquadoodle - The Reeves'
Horns - Eric Reeves
"Cars" Tricycle
Books
Safari animals
Hungry Hungry Hippos
and...and
That is most of it...lessons learned...scale back for next year. It took us two days to open all of the gifts. You will be fine sweetie...you won't even notice. We had ham for dinner, by the way, you LOVE ham. And for dessert you asked for a brownie and I told you we didn't have any brownies and you preceded to say "we have cookies though". Boy...you proving to be someone your Dad and I are going to have to stay one step ahead of.
You went to Jump Town with Taylor on Friday and you had a great time. Jump town is an indoor facililty that has several different types of air jumpers. You climbed, slid, bounced and showed off to your hearts content. We grabbed lunch at Johnny Carino's and he wanted no part of settling down to eat, you were too ramped up from the 1.5 of jumping so mommy and you had to make a quick departure. By the time I read your story you were OUT. It was a fun day.
The rest of the weekend was low key, you helped me take some of the Christmas lights down and rode your tricycle. You also helped take our donations to Goodwill. You are starting to asert your authority and Dad and I are prepping for the challenge.
Sunday we went to visit Granny and Great Papa. They were very much looking forward to your visit. You played with Papa and he showed you his toys and you showed him yours. We are going to make an effort to see them once a month in the upcoming year. It was great to see the love and joy on their faces with having a little one around.
Happy New Year little one. It's going to be a great year.
Christmas was great. This was the first year you were truly excited and understood all that was going on. You made quite the hall. Here is a brief list, there was sooo much:
Two dinosaurs - rah
"Cars" Cars: Chick Hicks, Mater, Doc Hudson, Red, Sheriff
A wooden tractor trailer truck with "Seth Allen" on the side - Nana and Papa
Ornaments - Nana and Papa
Gasoline Truck with Helicopter - The Hess'
VCast Video Game - Mema
Tractor from the "Cars" - Aunt Sue and Uncle Roger
Police Car - Granny
Big Truck - Uncle Donald
Tank - Aunt Denise and Uncle Gene
$50 gift card - Grandma and Grandpa
Gumby and Pokey
Fort
Lincoln Logs
Bath water coloring
Bath paints (do not recommend)
Shoes
Clothes
"Cars" Bedding
"Cars" Blanket - The Dugan's
"Cars" Shirt - The Dugan's
Aquadoodle - The Reeves'
Horns - Eric Reeves
"Cars" Tricycle
Books
Safari animals
Hungry Hungry Hippos
and...and
That is most of it...lessons learned...scale back for next year. It took us two days to open all of the gifts. You will be fine sweetie...you won't even notice. We had ham for dinner, by the way, you LOVE ham. And for dessert you asked for a brownie and I told you we didn't have any brownies and you preceded to say "we have cookies though". Boy...you proving to be someone your Dad and I are going to have to stay one step ahead of.
You went to Jump Town with Taylor on Friday and you had a great time. Jump town is an indoor facililty that has several different types of air jumpers. You climbed, slid, bounced and showed off to your hearts content. We grabbed lunch at Johnny Carino's and he wanted no part of settling down to eat, you were too ramped up from the 1.5 of jumping so mommy and you had to make a quick departure. By the time I read your story you were OUT. It was a fun day.
The rest of the weekend was low key, you helped me take some of the Christmas lights down and rode your tricycle. You also helped take our donations to Goodwill. You are starting to asert your authority and Dad and I are prepping for the challenge.
Sunday we went to visit Granny and Great Papa. They were very much looking forward to your visit. You played with Papa and he showed you his toys and you showed him yours. We are going to make an effort to see them once a month in the upcoming year. It was great to see the love and joy on their faces with having a little one around.
Happy New Year little one. It's going to be a great year.
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