Showing posts with label Parenthood. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Parenthood. Show all posts

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Girl Drama

So the boy tells me this morning that he has a girlfriend and her name is Kendall. I’m like oh how cute…he’s had a girlfriend before and her name was Kolby Davis, and still speaks of his lost love and how much he misses her. Scarred at the ripe ole age of four.

His new relationship is fresh and evidently this little hussy gets around. She used to be Josh’s girlfriend but they broke up so now she is the boy’s girlfriend.

I know that a boy needs to spread his wings and fly…but don’t be bringing any hussy home to meet Mom. Do your thing and respect the mom!

Seriously…I had these stories in Junior High…not when I was in preschool. I am so not ready for this.

Wednesday, May 28, 2008

My Handsome Boy...

This morning we were getting ready for school by brushing your teeth and you wanted to comb your hair, we are letting it grow now so you have something to comb. You picked up my comb and explained the following: “I have to comb my hair so I can look handsome.”

All I can say is thank goodness you are not a girl because I would have sent you to your room until you were thirty with a statement like that.

LOVE HIM!

Oh Witty One...

We were all sitting at the dinner table last night, we were finishing up our dinner and as usual had the TV on to your favorite cartoons (I very clearly understand many people think having the TV on during dinner is the worst thing you can do as a parent right next to leaving your four year old at home alone but ya know what…it works for us, for now) and your dad and I were reading a magazine and all of the sudden you exlaim…”I bet he didn’t see that coming!” I look up at your dad for non verbal clarification and he already has his head in his hands cracking up and I begin laughing so hard I start crying.

I ask your dad what was going on in the cartoon and he proceeded to explain the end of the cartoon where the wolf was tormenting the dog while he was singing opera. At the end the dog got his revenge and brought the wolf on stage and started tormenting him…this is where you come in “I bet he didn’t see that coming!” YOU ARE A FREAKIN GENIUS. You are four…right…do your remember that? You aren’t supposed to be making witty statements of that caliber much less using them in the correct context.

Thank you son! What a great moment.

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

42 months and 3 weeks

Dear Bugamug,

Well your mother is WAY behind on your newsletters. I apologize. I somehow hope this brief hole in your existence doesn’t lead you on a path of crime and evil. Not that you haven’t been at the forefront of my thoughts at some point everyday, there is just so many hours in a day and it seems I need more. You won’t understand this until you are at least 30 years old with a family, and a career of your own. I didn’t get it until about six months ago. Before then there seemed to be too many hours in the day and I was just wishing the day away trying to figure out what to do with my time.

There have been several changes in your life since your last newsletter. You have done great with potty training since we had our party in April. I brag about you to all that will listen and they can’t believe it was all done in a day. I have come to realize that waiting so long actually helped.

We took our first family vacation in May to San Antonio.

We had your 3rd birthday party at Pump It Up in Kingwood. It is an indoor inflatable jumping experience. About 10 of your friends showed up and you had a blast. Running, jumping, pizza, cake and presents! We should do this everyday! (Oh god NO!)

In July we decided to change schools. Prim.rose just wasn’t doing what we thought they should regarding curriculum and discipline. Kids.R.Kids built a new school down the road and we went for a visit and really liked what we saw and heard and decided to make the switch. The decision was again hard on me, I hated you having to leave your best friend and be ‘the new kid’ yet again. Your Dad and myself believe we have your best interest at heart even if you don’t understand it yet…you will.

We also FINALLY put away your crib and purchased a big boy bed and furniture. We took the side off your crib and you would not have anything to do with staying in your bed with all that freedom of running around at all hours. Your bedroom has been converted into a Surf and Skate theme…we hope you like it. Your Dad and I try to be hip when we can. When we fail miserably I still want points for times like this when we do it right.

The rest of the Summer was a big adjustment in your new school. It didn’t seem to be working out well. You were getting into trouble, not listening and ending up with the principal way more than I ever did at your age. So…we finally figured out you were bored and asked them to move you into the next class. BINGO. That lasted about few months until your old classmates moved up and the behavior issues started again. You are a smart one and you definitely keep your teachers on their toes. They have gone so far to tell me and your Dad that you are the reason they get up in the morning and teach. You continue to be challenging but they love you and you always become their favorite…even when you are not listening or tearing up your artwork or disturbing others a nap time.

A funny thing, you have Spanish every afternoon and you hate it, never listen, never participate BUT you know it. Your teacher says the only way you won’t disrupt others is if she sits down with you. Even though you don’t participate, when asked, you will tend to show off and regurgitate everything that has been taught, almost as if what you are learning is so 6 months ago and you so don't have time for this right now. That’s my boy.

In October you received some news that our family is growing by one. You seemed to take the news very well. Your dad and I did make the mistake of telling you it was a girl and you fell in love with her. You even decided to tell your teachers ‘Mommy has baby Sydney in her tummy.’ Thanks for that, Mom got a talking to from Ms. Pam on that one because Ms. Pam didn't find out first. Unfortunately mom and dad found out the baby was going to be a brother and not a sister and you were not happy one bit. ‘I don’t like boys, I like girls.’ It seems you have come around, you’ve started talking to your brother again while he is my ever growing belly.

At Christmas we decided to go to California to visit your dad's relatives. It was your first plane ride and you were so very excited. Mom and Dad prepared with snacks, books, and a definite must have...the DVD player (angels singing). Even though the flight wasn’t exactly like the last time mom had flown ALONE it was fun to share your first experience with you.

California was great, you had a blast. Everyday was a new adventure. You bonded with your cousins and Aunt Stef quickly. You had your first sleepover at Mema’s and liked it so much you did it again. HEAVEN. You also had your first Christmas experience at Nana and Papa’s. We went to Legoland, the beach (WHICH YOU LOVED), the aquarium, Bolboa park, and to visit some of Dad’s friends. You also had your dad and I doing laundry at 2 am one morning. Note to others out there…never give a young boy spaghetti sauce that has Vodka in the incredients. Doesn’t look or smell too good the second time around. You had this flying thing down pat as you slept through landing as we touched down at home.

That pretty much highlights the last 10 months of your life. Your favorite show(s) are Justice League, Batman and PowerRangers. You are better about the clothes you wear and seem to be growing out of the phase where certain articles of clothing burn the skin off of your bones when we put them on you. You will however not stay in your bed since we got back from California. You say you are afraid of the dark. Even though you have a night light in your room and my office light stays on to illuminate the hallway and there is a nightlight in the bathroom. So…kid…are you manipulating or are you truly scared. I am going to try one more thing tonight, switching of the noisemakers. I suspect the 10 year old noisemaker is making sounds that my be waking you at night. We will see.

You are a very strong will boy and your dad and I are finding it challenging helping you to display your dissatisfaction in way other than temper tantrums. “I want cheese, two cheeses.” “Ok” “I want strawberries.” “No, you can have cheese for a snack, not strawberries.” Here is where you fall to the floor in agony…the audacity that I, the mommy, tell you...the child...that you cannot have strawberries. Where is the justice in this world. I know…I know…We are currently working on government legislation for parents to be flogged 100 times if requests by three year olds are not satisified immediately.

Boy…you are a stinker but how you have made my life complete. I never imagined or believed my heart could love so much. You teach me things everyday about myself. You bring out my strengths and my weaknesses and when you reach out for me, hug and kiss me or snuggle with me at night for storytime those weaknesses seem to fade away.

Love,
Mom

Monday, August 20, 2007

Summer recap Part 1

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, 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.

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

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

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

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

Thursday, January 18, 2007

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

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.

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.

Monday, December 18, 2006

Visit with Santa

It has been a while and I apologize. Mommy has been very busy with work and visits with Santa regarding your presents.

You had your first "official" visit with Santa on the 9th. Our community had a "Winter Wonderland" and Santa stopped by.

While we were standing in line Dad asked you what you wanted and you said Cars, you love cars! We asked you what else you wanted and you said you didn't know. Mommy tried to help you out by asking you if you wanted world peace and you just looked at me funny.

We continued to prep you with your list for Santa. Just before the big moment we asked what you wanted and you said "Cars but not World peace". Your dad and I almost fell on the floor laughing. It was hilarious.

It was your time to shine, the moment arrived and as you walked up to Santa you were a bit intimidated. I can see why. An over weight, bearded guy with a red suit and boots. Did he realize it was 80 degrees outside? Anyway, you stood beside him with your figures in your mouth, clearly messmermized by the magnitude of the event of actually meeting Santa. Daddy took a few pictures to document the event and we were on our way to the balloon animals. You never quite got to tell Santa what you wanted for Christmas but he knows...he always knows. Plus...Mom and Dad got some extra "Santa" time and we told him a few things that we thought you might like as well.

On our way home we went and looked at lights. I think you were still reeling with your visit from Santa and we promptly called it a night.

One more week...it is so amazing to see the excitement and awe through your eyes. You ask Daddy to tell you the story of the cardinal and Grandma Helen. Every time a new present appears under the tree you squeal with excitement. We can't wait to share Christmas morning with you.

Wednesday, November 22, 2006

Nana and Papa are here!

Nana and Papa from California came to visit us for Thanksgiving. When I got home yesterday you were playing with them in your game room and were smiling from ear to ear. We have video chats with them every now and again and you love when "Geoffrey" the girafe stops by for a chat. You also hear Papa on the answering machine leaving messages on the weekend.

This morning I dropped you off and were not happy at all. I hate to leave you when you are so upset. You usually get this way when I drop you off for the first time in a long while, Daddy normally takes you in the morning. I know you wanted to stay home and play with Daddy and Nana and Papa. I told you they would pick you up early but that didn't console you. We will watch Cars on Sunday and that is all you can talk about and I know you will enjoy Thanksgiving.

Monday, November 20, 2006

"We're all Tooting"

Yes...out of the mouth of babes! You...my dear are quite an extradorinary little boy (yes...I'm biased...but I'm am your mother). You and your dear Dad were sitting at the table having dinner and I came in from the other room and you proceeded to explain..."We're all tooting". Your dad and I laughed and laughed and we're still laughing about it. Boys!

You had quite a busy weekend. We ran errands mostly on Saturday. You went with me to the grocery where you got a spiderman lunch box and a watch because Mom bought 3 Kraft products. You absolutely had to put the watch on like Mommy. After your nap we went to the antique store where you and Daddy went up and down the aisle "looking but not touching" (yeah right). You did great for a 2.5 year old.

Sunday was ALOT more eventful, Daddy FINALLY put together your sandboat which had mainatined a permanent place in the living room since June 26th (your birthday). When you got up on Sunday the first thing you asked was "where is my fort?". You helped Daddy for a bit but after the "spitting" incident he sent you inside with me. After your nap, as promised, Daddy filled your boat with sand and you played in your boat for awhile before we went to watch our Sunday matinee "Monsters Inc". The movie scared you a bit at first but Mommy and Daddy explained that it was just pretend and they were nice, silly monsters. You didn't move from you seat and except for showing Daddy the goober you put in your nose once or twice it was a great time.

Nana and Papa come in tomorrow. We will be watching Cars with them on Sunday. We can't wait to watch you watch that movie!

Thursday, November 16, 2006

Sausage Monster

You stole my sausage this morning! LOL!!! My breakfast is 2 soy sausages and an engligh muffin and this morning while I was waiting for my muffins you stole one of my sausages. Then you went back for more. Stinker! I called you the sausage monster and you wanted to know where it was. I told you it was you and you laughed. You and your dad started a new ritual in the mornings, he lets you drive down the driveway on your way to school. I got to witness it this morning. It was sweet, you were sitting in your Dad's lap with a big o' smile on your face turning the windshield wipers on and off. These are the experiences that I hope you are able to remember as an adult that allow you to remember how much you are loved.

Catching up...you poo pooed in your potty last week. YAY!! It was during your bath and you got out and sat on your potty. You were very calm about the situation and I am sooo proud of you. You asked to pee pee in the big potty the other day but I think we will stick with your potty and become more diligent about the potty on a more regular basis.

We're getting ready for Nana and PaPa to come for Thanksgiving and we're having Great Granny Grunt, Aunt Jen and my family over as well. It should make for a homey holiday I hope everyone is on their best behavior!

Thursday, November 9, 2006

28 Months and 19 Days

Several mothers across the land chronicle their child's life starting at conception. I've been the mom that says...wow...they have too much time on their hands. As I go back read the experiences of pregnancy and late nights with various people I can't help but wish I had done the same. So...today it starts. Although I won't remember your first word or when you took your first step you will have many more firsts and starting today you will read about them. This blog is for you son. You are 28 months and 19 days today and "this is your life." (starting today)

You continue to amaze your father and me with your development, demeanor and overall self control. I call you an "old soul". You have a gentle nature and pensive disposition. You do not do anything before you have studied your surroundings and others that are participating in an activity. Once you are comfortable and understand the activity there is no shortage of excitement and fun that is reflected in your expressions.

Things that you enjoy: NEMO, sand, feeding the ducks, McDonald's - nuggets and fries, helping Mom in the kitchen (we've made cupcakes and brownies together), playing "Spot the trashcans" and listening to SKA music in the morning with Daddy, Sunday afternoon matinees, making popcorn with Daddy and putting Goobers in your popcorn. You love cars, trucks, excavators, dump trucks and monster trucks. Sometimes when we get home we wait for the trucks to pass and they honk at you. Handy Manny and the Upside Down Show are your favorite shows. I think Dora and Wonder Pets are a close second. You know Toy Story and Lion King by heart. Mommy reads the Lion King book to you at night and every now and then you spout off "your future king is my son".

Things that you dislike: Timeout, getting woken up from your nap early, mean boys, going anywhere when you have been woken up from your nap early and thunder.

Food that you like: Burritos, Spaghetti, Chicken nuggets and fries, breakfast tacos, pancakes, eggs, sausage, corn and corn on the cob, broccoli, cheese turkey burgers, baked beans, corn dogs without the outside batter and anything that you can dip in sauce.

Food that you dislike: ALL veggies (except corn). The weird veggies that Daddy likes (most people don't like those veggies either). Sushi and avocado.

You are not a big junk food eater, you love the occasional brownie that you get from the spaghetti dinner and every now and again you'll have candy from your Halloween stash. You LOVE chocolate. Who makes the chocolate? "Daddy".

Last night you told me that you "Can't see because of what you are doing." Pretty articulate for a 28 month old. You tell me when you are cold and when you don't feel good. You are very good about using your words. You have a memory that is incredible. You demonstrate daily what a sponge you are and nothing gets by you. You in early pre-school II at school and in a couple of weeks you are transitioning to preschool. Pre-Kindergarten is next then Kindergarten and then you will be driving. Your best friend at school is Kolby and you participate in gymnastics and music classes which you really seem to enjoy. Taylor is your other friend outside of school and you and he are best pals when you aren't trying to drop things on his head when you are upstairs and he is downstairs.

Our routine at night starts with a bath, then jammie time dance (Stop...Jammie Time) and brush your teeth. We then say goodnight to NEMO and Daddy and I read and we say your prayers. When we are "relaxing" just before I tuck you in you hug me real tight and tell me "I love you so much." When I tuck you in you ask me to leave the bathroom light on. You are a great sleeper (you can thank your mom for that one...and your mom and dad thank you as well). Usually on the weekends you don't get up until we get you up around 9:30 and that is only because you need a nap sometime in the early afternoon.

Overall, you seem like a very happy boy. You know how to use "that's punk rock" and "it's all jacked up" in a sentence. You can identify the lunar module and Mommy is teaching you about the Neutral Buoyancy Lab and that the NASA KC-135 is known as the vomit comment.

Last night was rough going to bed. Your back molars are coming in and that seems to be messing with your system. You had diaper rash yesterday because of your bowel movement and didn't want to take a bath. You wanted your Daddy when we went to sleep but I think you were just overly tired and not feeling well. I rocked you for about 30 minutes and you went to bed fine. When Daddy and I came in and got you this morning you were perfect and in a good mood. Perhaps it was because it was "spot the trashcan" day with Daddy. When I left this morning you and Daddy were walking down our street to go check out the excavators. It made me smile.