Dear Bugamug,
This last month started out with Landon’s birthday party. Landon and your Dad share the same birth date, we went to his house for a BBQ. I think you had a good time. Your Dad shared with me that you and Maddox were in the other room pouting when Lan was opening his presents. I know it is hard for you guys, plus he got some really cool stuff.
Most of the weekends this month consisted of errands and chores. Your Dad and I are attempting to get things in order before your brother makes his debut in less than eight weeks. You’ve been helping me plant lilies, trimming trees and organizing the garage. It’s been rather challenging but you do love to help so much…and I try to keep that in mind to keep you busy.
Taekwondo has been going really really well. You earned TWO STRIPES within a week. I was afraid you were going to expect stripes every time you showed up for class but thankfully this past class no one received a strip so you didn’t feel slighted.
Your Dad and I watch you and just shake our heads. You can always be heard over everyone eles (YES MA’AM). You have a big o smile on your face when you are allowed to run. You want to lead (and you are promptly reminded you cannot be the leader of the class until you obtain your black belt status in about 6-8 years), you have found shortcuts to things that don’t entirely make sense to you like hiding behind the bob’s and instead of squatting and standing back up you just remain squatting. Nice going son.
You received an outstanding report from your class yesterday and wanted to bring it in to your class. I said no because it had glitter on it and I didn’t see the relevance then your Dad remembered the kids’ bringing in their reports last week and they received a ‘Way to Go’; silly mommy. You brought your report in and you received a way to go and you earned your first star. Now we just have to get a visitor to come visit with you so you can get a V to sew that star on to.
That leads us to Dr. Ler.mer. Dad and I decided to go to a family counselor for some advice and coaching on how to handle a boy of your nature. It turns out you are extremely gifted, by his observation of course. Not that Dad and I don’t feel the same we just thought it was our biased opinion. You really enjoyed the visit with the doctor and he obviously made an impression on you, you are still bringing up his name. He gave us some good advice and we will see where we go from here in the coming months.
School just got better for you this last week. They moved you up to Sweet 450. You seemed to be adjusting quickly. Ms. Heather is so excited you are in her class she can’t stop talking about it. You also seem to be up the challenge of the big kid class. For now…”Oh No” reports are a thing of the past.
We had another BBQ in mid April at Ms. Nicole’s. She has to be the coolest ever. She rented a moon jump for you boys and you guys had a blast. We brought out the fire pit and you were obsessed. You boys had your drinks and cookies sitting around the fire. WAY TOO CUTE. Again we were there until about 10 and we didn’t get home until 11 and you were exhausted; MUST STAY AWAKE FOR SCOOBY DOO.
We found a new favorite show for you: Captain Planet. Actually it is a really good show about protecting the planet from pollution and such. I’ve taught you to turn the water off while you are brushing your teeth, you even remind me sometimes.
I began reading a children’s version of Treasure Island and you are riveted. We read a few pages every night and you seem to look forward to it. Pirates and Treasure…ARGH MATEY.
We had another BBQ at Mr. Paul’s house. You and Kyle had a fun time chasing each other around. Kyle and I left at the same time, I had a girls night a Ms Nicole’s and you were more upset that Kyle left than me. That’s lovely.
Last weekend you visited the ‘Shire’ with your Dad for the first time…that you know of. You were actually there when you are a baby but we only stopped by for a few pix the last time. Your dad said you had a blast on your adventure through the forest. He has plans to take you fishing Saturday morning. HOW FUN!! I know you boys will have a great time.
I swear you grow up everyday. It is hard to keep up with you sometimes. Dr. Lermer said you would surpass us at 8 with your intellect and wit…I’m thinking more like 5. I am grateful you have been blessed with your gifts and your Dad and I are going to try everything in our power to step up to the challenge and cultivate those gifts in the best way possible. Heaven help us.
I just called to RSVP you to birthday party for an old friend of yours, Kolby Davis. You haven’t seen her in almost a year but you still talk about her and apparently she still talks about you. I think I’m not going to tell you and let you be surprised.
You are very loved and we are very proud of you…keep being you.
Love,
Mom
Friday, April 25, 2008
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
44 Months
Dear Bugamug,
On time two months in a row…I’m on a roll. This month has been nothing less than exciting. We are still keeping you very busy. A few notables from the month, you attended Tay.lor’s birthday party at Pu.mp It Up. Of course you LOVED it. You slid down the gynormous slide frontwards, backwards and upside down, BOY; no fear. You prolly would have done a swan dive off the top if you had thought about it. You and your dad played around a bit and your mom got some great shots, and you ran and ran and ran to your sweaty hearts content.
The following weekend your dad went to New Or.leans on a guys trip and true to form I kept you incredibly busy. That Saturday was by far your busiest day to date. First stop was TaeKwonDo. This was the first time you actually participated, second time to attended class. You did a stellar job. You listened, participated and looked to be enjoying what you were doing. So…I signed you up and you got your Gui. That’s where the fun abruptly stopped. The instructor put your jacket and your white belt on to take a picture and you were not happy at all. However, the picture you ended up taking made you look way intense which I don’t think is a bad thing. You are a force to be reckoned with.
After TaeKwonDo we went to I.HOP for breakfast. You got the JoJo pancakes. Which translates to pink and blue syrup with a pink sucker on top in honor of ‘Hor.ton Hears a Who’. You ate about half and had had your fill. I think you figured out that while it looked cool it did not live up to your expectations; you bogarted the strawberries from my pancakes instead.
After breakfast we headed to Gal.veston to the beach, the first time you went to the beach in Texas. We met Landon and Maddox there. OH MY GOSH did you have fun. I enjoyed just watching you take it all in and play to your hearts content without restriction.
We had all the best beach toys; I know this because other kids were migrating our way asking to play with our sand toys. There was a mishap regarding the sand castle you boys and Ms. Jodie were building but once we got past that it was smooth sailing. You decided to try out the water and it was COLD. You ran and ran and played and played then it was time to pack up and head to Maddox’s for dinner. When you told your dad you went to the beach you explained it the following way: “I was running in the water and the water totally came up and got me.” Totally…totally…my lil California boy; that is so cool.
At Maddox’s house you and the boys played some more. It was great going to a new house with new toys to keep you boys occupied. Landon and Maddox’s parents and I enjoyed some ‘adult’ time and got dinner ready while you boys played to your hearts content.
We finally wrapped it up around 10p and you showed no signs of slowing down. Where do you get all of your energy? We headed home which took about 45 min and you still didn’t fall asleep you were watching ‘Sco.oby Doo’. Only after we got our showers and I put you to bed did you fall asleep 5 minutes later AND you didn’t get up until 8:30 the next morning…that’s my boy.
On Sunday we had a low key day. I made breakfast and we got ready to go to the movies to see ‘Hort.on Hears A Who’. You enjoyed the movie. You were sitting in my lap at one point and your brother started kicking you in the back. You could feel him and it didn’t seem to bother you. You would just smile.
We had glorious naps then got ready to pick Dad up from the airport. I had a really a good weekend with you…thanks.
The following weekend was Easter weekend. I’m still trying to find a church so we haven’t gone yet, I swear by next year the Wayne’s will be in church celebrating Easter. Saturday we started off at TaeKwonDo, all I can say is we made progress from Thursday’s debacle. On Thursday we got to the door but you refused to go in. You had your Gui on but it must have been burning your skin or harming you in some way based on the way you were carrying on. We ended up leaving and sent you to your room and boy were you mad. Saturday morning we did get you in your Gui and in the building. Understanding your progress we told you that you could watch. You seemed content with that and we will try again on Thursday to actually participate IN your Gui.
In the afternoon you helped me scoop sand out of your sandbox in order to clean it up and make it useable. Your Dad and I are working to get that backyard in better shape so you can play out there more.
Sunday the Easter Bunny visited you. When Dad came back from Starbucks he went to find you to let you know he saw the Easter Bunny leaving our backyard. You totally scored. The Bunny left you a car basket that was bigger than you and hid a ton of eggs around the backyard. You went out in your jammy’s and loaded up. Your dad made his famous, incredible French toast then we colored a few eggs for fun. That afternoon you and I went on an ‘adventure’; we took a walk up to the park, you got bored then we went to the duck pond, through the tunnel, to the other duck pond and the other park then back home. It was delightful. We talked about things, sang songs, and watched all the animals. It was a few hours of just us that I will remember and cherish always.
Now, for the update regarding school; deep breathe…things aren’t going as well as we would like. The ‘Oh No’ reports have stopped but that is just because your teachers were told to stop reporting. Not sure that is the right answer because you understand that you don’t have to be accountable and you are getting away with things. Your Dad and I are still discussing what we are going to do to try and solve this problem. Your teachers believe that it will resolve itself after your brother is born. I’m hoping…
You are very loving to your brother as you watch my belly grow. You like to feel him kick and you ask how he is doing every day. Whenever you share snacks with me you always give one for me and one for your brother. You are already very thoughtful and loving toward him. I can’t wait for you boys to meet and become lifelong friends.
Love,
Mom
On time two months in a row…I’m on a roll. This month has been nothing less than exciting. We are still keeping you very busy. A few notables from the month, you attended Tay.lor’s birthday party at Pu.mp It Up. Of course you LOVED it. You slid down the gynormous slide frontwards, backwards and upside down, BOY; no fear. You prolly would have done a swan dive off the top if you had thought about it. You and your dad played around a bit and your mom got some great shots, and you ran and ran and ran to your sweaty hearts content.
The following weekend your dad went to New Or.leans on a guys trip and true to form I kept you incredibly busy. That Saturday was by far your busiest day to date. First stop was TaeKwonDo. This was the first time you actually participated, second time to attended class. You did a stellar job. You listened, participated and looked to be enjoying what you were doing. So…I signed you up and you got your Gui. That’s where the fun abruptly stopped. The instructor put your jacket and your white belt on to take a picture and you were not happy at all. However, the picture you ended up taking made you look way intense which I don’t think is a bad thing. You are a force to be reckoned with.
After TaeKwonDo we went to I.HOP for breakfast. You got the JoJo pancakes. Which translates to pink and blue syrup with a pink sucker on top in honor of ‘Hor.ton Hears a Who’. You ate about half and had had your fill. I think you figured out that while it looked cool it did not live up to your expectations; you bogarted the strawberries from my pancakes instead.
After breakfast we headed to Gal.veston to the beach, the first time you went to the beach in Texas. We met Landon and Maddox there. OH MY GOSH did you have fun. I enjoyed just watching you take it all in and play to your hearts content without restriction.
We had all the best beach toys; I know this because other kids were migrating our way asking to play with our sand toys. There was a mishap regarding the sand castle you boys and Ms. Jodie were building but once we got past that it was smooth sailing. You decided to try out the water and it was COLD. You ran and ran and played and played then it was time to pack up and head to Maddox’s for dinner. When you told your dad you went to the beach you explained it the following way: “I was running in the water and the water totally came up and got me.” Totally…totally…my lil California boy; that is so cool.
At Maddox’s house you and the boys played some more. It was great going to a new house with new toys to keep you boys occupied. Landon and Maddox’s parents and I enjoyed some ‘adult’ time and got dinner ready while you boys played to your hearts content.
We finally wrapped it up around 10p and you showed no signs of slowing down. Where do you get all of your energy? We headed home which took about 45 min and you still didn’t fall asleep you were watching ‘Sco.oby Doo’. Only after we got our showers and I put you to bed did you fall asleep 5 minutes later AND you didn’t get up until 8:30 the next morning…that’s my boy.
On Sunday we had a low key day. I made breakfast and we got ready to go to the movies to see ‘Hort.on Hears A Who’. You enjoyed the movie. You were sitting in my lap at one point and your brother started kicking you in the back. You could feel him and it didn’t seem to bother you. You would just smile.
We had glorious naps then got ready to pick Dad up from the airport. I had a really a good weekend with you…thanks.
The following weekend was Easter weekend. I’m still trying to find a church so we haven’t gone yet, I swear by next year the Wayne’s will be in church celebrating Easter. Saturday we started off at TaeKwonDo, all I can say is we made progress from Thursday’s debacle. On Thursday we got to the door but you refused to go in. You had your Gui on but it must have been burning your skin or harming you in some way based on the way you were carrying on. We ended up leaving and sent you to your room and boy were you mad. Saturday morning we did get you in your Gui and in the building. Understanding your progress we told you that you could watch. You seemed content with that and we will try again on Thursday to actually participate IN your Gui.
In the afternoon you helped me scoop sand out of your sandbox in order to clean it up and make it useable. Your Dad and I are working to get that backyard in better shape so you can play out there more.
Sunday the Easter Bunny visited you. When Dad came back from Starbucks he went to find you to let you know he saw the Easter Bunny leaving our backyard. You totally scored. The Bunny left you a car basket that was bigger than you and hid a ton of eggs around the backyard. You went out in your jammy’s and loaded up. Your dad made his famous, incredible French toast then we colored a few eggs for fun. That afternoon you and I went on an ‘adventure’; we took a walk up to the park, you got bored then we went to the duck pond, through the tunnel, to the other duck pond and the other park then back home. It was delightful. We talked about things, sang songs, and watched all the animals. It was a few hours of just us that I will remember and cherish always.
Now, for the update regarding school; deep breathe…things aren’t going as well as we would like. The ‘Oh No’ reports have stopped but that is just because your teachers were told to stop reporting. Not sure that is the right answer because you understand that you don’t have to be accountable and you are getting away with things. Your Dad and I are still discussing what we are going to do to try and solve this problem. Your teachers believe that it will resolve itself after your brother is born. I’m hoping…
You are very loving to your brother as you watch my belly grow. You like to feel him kick and you ask how he is doing every day. Whenever you share snacks with me you always give one for me and one for your brother. You are already very thoughtful and loving toward him. I can’t wait for you boys to meet and become lifelong friends.
Love,
Mom
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
43 Months
Dear Bugamug,
Look at me I’m actually on time…don’t get used to it. It’s been a month and it seems a long one at that. Your dad and I are at our wits end with you and your ‘oh no’ reports from school. The level of frustration is at its all time high. We’ve taken away TV, treats, you go to bed right after dinner without a story or me or your dad laying with you for 5 minutes. BOY!!! I’ve dangled sleeping in our bed AND playing with Kolby Davis and that still doesn’t trigger a change. Your dad called you in your classroom and that seemed to help. I tried this today since your dad is on a business trip in Ve.gas…we will see.
We are going to try Kar.ate in the next couple of weeks to see if you need an outlet for your energy and we believe that will provide more structure. Unfortunately your mom had the same issues and they greatly subsided when I joined soccer. Luckily we’re trying this kar.ate thing at 4 instead of 8. Cause good lord…we would probably make you walk to school both ways naked and if you kept this up for the next 4 years. For those parental activist groups I am just kidding…I would let him wear underware.
Now that is out of the way…I can talk about all the good things that happened this month. We went to Granny’s for her birthday that coincided with our monthly visits. You were very happy to see her and gave her a lot of hugs and she ate them all up. Papa was there in his blue jumper and that other boy Donald also made an appearance. You and the puppy Abby added A LOT of noise to nominally much quiet house. Abby likes to chase you around the living room and bark and you squeal. This went on…and on…to where the noise was too much for me to bare. Poor Granny and Papa…I think they were ready for us to leave sooner than later.
It seems you are finally reacquainted with your room and you don’t come down EVERY night and try to weasel you way into our bed. Also you’ve managed to stay in your bed after we put you down instead of the previous two hours later still trying to get you to go to bed. “I need some water”, “I need to go to the bathroom”, “MOM…MOM…cover me up!”. Good lord son…you almost drove me to drinkin.
You and your dad have had some great bonding time of late. I think it has been great for you, especially when your brother arrives you and your dad will be hanging out a lot more. I love to hear of all the things you guys do together…there is just some things mom doesn’t think of and thankfully you have a dad that does and I can tell you enjoy every minute of your time with him.
We went to the zoo with your Ms Jodie, Mr. Bryan, Miss. Nicole, Mr. Danny, Landon, Mr. Max, Ms, Melyssa and Max. It was a BEAUTIFUL day the weather was warm enough but not HOT. Most of the animals were out (the ones in cages too) and we had a good time. You are the oldest of the three boys, all about 1.5 apart and you so get a kick out of seeing them do what you do…even if you get in trouble because I know you like seeing them get in trouble too!
This past weekend we went to Moody Gardens, your first trip and I haven’t been there in 6 years. It is nice, pricey but nice. We went to the Aquarium and the Rainforst pyramid. Yeah…you weren’t interested. You had more fun just running about, especially since the floor sloped down the entire way…gotta love gravity and the sensation of running fast and running over everything in your path. Excuse him…Seth Allen…excuse him…Seth Allen. That was the theme of the afternoon. Good grief boy you are challenging. As we were leaving Ms. Melyssa spotted a playground and you boys went to town. We could have saved our money and just played there for four hours. We ended up at dinner at Cas.ey’s on the seawall and I had had enough. WHERE is your OFF BUTTON. You would not be quiet. Where do you get it? You didn’t even fall asleep on the way home…did you forget you DID NOT have a nap? Thankfully mom thought ahead and bought you a new DVD and that occupied you for the entire way home. I would kiss the person that invented the portable DVD player if he/she were standing in front of me…tongue and everything. Ok...I digress…I’ll save that for my blog. I apologize son.
Things heard at the dinner table from a certain 3.5 year old.
“Dad…this dinner is good…or shall I say Honey…this dinner is good.”
The hubby and I were hugging in the kitchen, said 3.5 yr old “awe”.
I’ll have to ask your dad about the few more that currently escapes me. Oh you listen…and you listen good you just choose not to listen when you want to.
By the by I love you very much. Challenges and I all I wouldn’t have you any other way than you are…except perhaps the listening and minding part. :D
Love,
Mom
Look at me I’m actually on time…don’t get used to it. It’s been a month and it seems a long one at that. Your dad and I are at our wits end with you and your ‘oh no’ reports from school. The level of frustration is at its all time high. We’ve taken away TV, treats, you go to bed right after dinner without a story or me or your dad laying with you for 5 minutes. BOY!!! I’ve dangled sleeping in our bed AND playing with Kolby Davis and that still doesn’t trigger a change. Your dad called you in your classroom and that seemed to help. I tried this today since your dad is on a business trip in Ve.gas…we will see.
We are going to try Kar.ate in the next couple of weeks to see if you need an outlet for your energy and we believe that will provide more structure. Unfortunately your mom had the same issues and they greatly subsided when I joined soccer. Luckily we’re trying this kar.ate thing at 4 instead of 8. Cause good lord…we would probably make you walk to school both ways naked and if you kept this up for the next 4 years. For those parental activist groups I am just kidding…I would let him wear underware.
Now that is out of the way…I can talk about all the good things that happened this month. We went to Granny’s for her birthday that coincided with our monthly visits. You were very happy to see her and gave her a lot of hugs and she ate them all up. Papa was there in his blue jumper and that other boy Donald also made an appearance. You and the puppy Abby added A LOT of noise to nominally much quiet house. Abby likes to chase you around the living room and bark and you squeal. This went on…and on…to where the noise was too much for me to bare. Poor Granny and Papa…I think they were ready for us to leave sooner than later.
It seems you are finally reacquainted with your room and you don’t come down EVERY night and try to weasel you way into our bed. Also you’ve managed to stay in your bed after we put you down instead of the previous two hours later still trying to get you to go to bed. “I need some water”, “I need to go to the bathroom”, “MOM…MOM…cover me up!”. Good lord son…you almost drove me to drinkin.
You and your dad have had some great bonding time of late. I think it has been great for you, especially when your brother arrives you and your dad will be hanging out a lot more. I love to hear of all the things you guys do together…there is just some things mom doesn’t think of and thankfully you have a dad that does and I can tell you enjoy every minute of your time with him.
We went to the zoo with your Ms Jodie, Mr. Bryan, Miss. Nicole, Mr. Danny, Landon, Mr. Max, Ms, Melyssa and Max. It was a BEAUTIFUL day the weather was warm enough but not HOT. Most of the animals were out (the ones in cages too) and we had a good time. You are the oldest of the three boys, all about 1.5 apart and you so get a kick out of seeing them do what you do…even if you get in trouble because I know you like seeing them get in trouble too!
This past weekend we went to Moody Gardens, your first trip and I haven’t been there in 6 years. It is nice, pricey but nice. We went to the Aquarium and the Rainforst pyramid. Yeah…you weren’t interested. You had more fun just running about, especially since the floor sloped down the entire way…gotta love gravity and the sensation of running fast and running over everything in your path. Excuse him…Seth Allen…excuse him…Seth Allen. That was the theme of the afternoon. Good grief boy you are challenging. As we were leaving Ms. Melyssa spotted a playground and you boys went to town. We could have saved our money and just played there for four hours. We ended up at dinner at Cas.ey’s on the seawall and I had had enough. WHERE is your OFF BUTTON. You would not be quiet. Where do you get it? You didn’t even fall asleep on the way home…did you forget you DID NOT have a nap? Thankfully mom thought ahead and bought you a new DVD and that occupied you for the entire way home. I would kiss the person that invented the portable DVD player if he/she were standing in front of me…tongue and everything. Ok...I digress…I’ll save that for my blog. I apologize son.
Things heard at the dinner table from a certain 3.5 year old.
“Dad…this dinner is good…or shall I say Honey…this dinner is good.”
The hubby and I were hugging in the kitchen, said 3.5 yr old “awe”.
I’ll have to ask your dad about the few more that currently escapes me. Oh you listen…and you listen good you just choose not to listen when you want to.
By the by I love you very much. Challenges and I all I wouldn’t have you any other way than you are…except perhaps the listening and minding part. :D
Love,
Mom
Monday, February 4, 2008
Superbowl XLII
Yesterday was Superbowl 42, Patriots vs Giants. This was a significant superbowl regarding the Patriots bid to go 19-0 for the season, only one other team in the NFL has gone undefeated, the 1972 Miami Dolphins. How’s that info coming from MOM. That’s right, I know a thing or two about sports.
I’m not going to do an in depth commentary about the game. It was a pretty boring game to say the least until the fourth quarter and the game was 7-3 Patriots. The Patriots scored with less than 5 minutes to go in the fourth making it 14-10. The Giants got the ball back with four minutes left on the clock and went down the field for a touchdown, game ends 14-17 Giants. HUGE upset.
As you are not into watching football yet your dad and I set you up in our bedroom with a couple of rented movies and all the snacks your little bowl could carry. Funguns were a big hit with you. Transformers didn’t hold your attention but boy howdy we didn’t see or hear you for an hour and fifteen while you watched Rugrats. All in all you did great. Asking you to stay out of sight for three hours was a tall order and you managed about two hours. Nice job boy.
I’m not going to do an in depth commentary about the game. It was a pretty boring game to say the least until the fourth quarter and the game was 7-3 Patriots. The Patriots scored with less than 5 minutes to go in the fourth making it 14-10. The Giants got the ball back with four minutes left on the clock and went down the field for a touchdown, game ends 14-17 Giants. HUGE upset.
As you are not into watching football yet your dad and I set you up in our bedroom with a couple of rented movies and all the snacks your little bowl could carry. Funguns were a big hit with you. Transformers didn’t hold your attention but boy howdy we didn’t see or hear you for an hour and fifteen while you watched Rugrats. All in all you did great. Asking you to stay out of sight for three hours was a tall order and you managed about two hours. Nice job boy.
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
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.
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.
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.
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