At the end of last month, right after a last minute trip to NY for an unfortunate circumstance, there was need to return for another. My step-dad's mother, Janet Gleason, passed. Her health was iffy for a while, so while it was not completely unexpected, it always feels surreal to say your final goodbyes. Of course I rounded up the boys and drove up to do just that. She was so good to us and counted us as her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
On the way we stopped to stay with Cousin Jill since she is an easy half-way point and just wonderful company anyway. She let us take over the basement each way to and from NY. Thank goodness for Jill & Greg! I never could have made that trek without the stopover!
The boys were pretty good and the drive not completely unbearable (though I don't want to have to do it again for a while). But being a single parent for a few days was really rough. I felt like I was "on" the whole time, worrying about them,"are they fed?", "are they safe?", "where are they?!" There was help on the other end as always but still, they are a handful. Restaurants are no fun with busy boys and we had to endure a couple of those. And Benny of course it still very much glued to my right hip. You would think I would have just fallen into bed each night exhausted. I was exhausted, but I never relaxed completely until we got home and barely sleep the whole week. I super tired and missing Leo very much by the time we got home.
Still, the visit was nice as we spent some quality time with the Grands, the Aunts, the Uncles, and Lily. We had beautiful weather the whole time. Nathan loved being outside, running non-stop. I love to see him able to just go and not worry (too much). Benny was less easy as mentioned, and he got a little banged up on his outside adventures (a missing chunk of his nose, a scrape on his chin and forehead were proof). But we survived.
While we were there, Babci went into the hospital (and we all feared - another grandmother?!). She recovered, but the hospital visit brought Leo's aunt and uncle down from Boston to see her. So I brought the boys over to see them. Nathan had only met Paul & Julie once and Benny not at all so we stopped by Grandpa Trucks house on the way out of town.
Despite my GPS not working, then the DVD player not working on the way home, several potty breaks and some hungry and I'm-sick-of-the-car complaints, we made it work. I was very happy to collapse on the couch when we got home, and let Daddy take over.
Since then I feel like it's getting harder and harder to catch up. True we have a lot of little house projects going on (as you will see in another post). But the kids seem to require non-stop attention. Meals are a series of getmethis and getmethat. Each room of the house is a trail of objects from other rooms. Dust, dirt and dropped food and drink are everywhere. And this isn't even taking care of shopping for and preparing meals, doing laundry, getting ready to go one place or another. If you're a mom, you know. It's endless. Then there is the overnight shennanigans. For the most part it's under control here. But there are nights where Nathan wakes with his awful high-pitch whine that wakes Benny 50% of the time. Last night Benny took forever to get back to sleep. Then it takes ME forever to get back to sleep. Then there is a Nathan in my face at 5:30 saying he doesn't want to sleep in his room alone (I let him sleep on the floor for a quick solution that didn't require me to move). And then Benny wakes at 6:30 for the day, just when I planned to wake up to fit in a little me-time. Ugh! I'm not complaining - this is parenthood. But sometimes I just have to throw my hands up in the air and say "It's not fair." Stomp around like a child and get it out. So I did. And now I feel better. But now I must get back to the to-do's. Dinner doesn't make itself over here.
PS - My Mothers Day was great. I left the house for a few hours. ALONE! Then we went to Gigi's for dinner. A needed break indeed. I think we should have mothers day once a week at least!
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Friday, April 26, 2013
1 + 4 = Tired
(((Yawn))) I'm tired. I've been forcing early morning workouts lately. I'm not bragging. Just reminding myself that I am doing this when I re-read it again someday. It's totally worth it to get up and get that out of the way first thing (especially when I have time to shower too). But I won't lie; I'm beat at the end of the day. But then again, that may be all about these boys I am chasing around. One and Four are no joke.
I have to say, Nathan as a four year old (as tiring as he can be) has been better than threes. He is suddenly so grown up! I met with his preschool teacher a few weeks ago and of course he got stunning golden reviews (like at Gigi's!). I told Miss Christy (his teacher) that it sounds like a totally different kid. This is not unusual. I decided to force my little golden child to do more of the things he does at school and he's been doing more on his own. This can be good and bad but mostly good.
For starters, Nathan enjoys the shower more than a bath lately. He will go into our shower, start it, get in and wash himself. Occasionally he will even get out on his own without threats and warnings. He has been getting up to pee at night (accompanied by random cries and squeals but let's focus on the good stuff here). When I was told he is totally wiping his own butt at school I put my foot down at home and guess what - the kid is a good butt wiper. (One down, one to go) He can get dressed on his own, gets water from the fridge, and sometimes his own snacks (which is where it can be less a good thing). The other day Leo must have told him to get him some tea (perhaps joking?) and then I found Nathan at the fridge, glass mug in hand, filling it with water to start some tea. (Yes, countertop climbing was involved here) We went for a walk today and Nathan was determined to cross the street on his own, assuring me he could look both ways (which he did non-stop the whole way across the street). He can turn the TV on and off. Put on his shoes and socks. Clicks in his own seat belt. He is quite the independent child when he wants to be. And thank goodness. Because the other one is obviously not.
Benny on the other hand is all over the place. A busy, climbing, curious, expressive little person. He is a copy cat (which is tough when big bro can do it all). He is a runner. He would be a weeble wobble, but really the kid does fall. All the time. His head is developing that tough shell that Nathan has though. His bumps and bruises heal quickly and he is easy to distract for the most part. Think food. The kid is non-stop. He is really funny. He knows when he is being silly or bad and giggles and runs away. He loves to climb on the bench in my office and look out the window. He plays with the shoes by the front and often tries to put them on. He continues to sleep well at night, though we are challenged with one nap or two. None is never an option. Benny is whiny for sure. But like I said, food or mommy is likely to cure him. Or Nathan. He is always laughing at the things Nathan does, even when I'm trying to get Nathan to stop the annoying thing that Benny is laughing at.
Right now it's hard to do things with them. Nathan wants to go, go, go and so does Benny. But Benny can't go without me. But Nathan has already taken off while I'm putting on shoes, changing a diaper, preparing a bag, etc. I feel like I'm often behind trying to keep up. I try to go out and do things with them but this is often stressful. Then again, being at home often is too. Demand after demand, mess after mess. The witching hour is often my breaking point and I sometimes really can't wait for Benny to be entertained by TV as easily as Nathan is. By dinnertime I need that virtual babysitter help! By bedtime I'm cooked.
As hectic as it all is, of course it's all good. I get out to enjoy friends often and so does Leo. Tonight he is out playing poker and Uncle Matt has gone along with him. That means a little Jen-Time. A book? A movie? Maybe early bed time!
I have to say, Nathan as a four year old (as tiring as he can be) has been better than threes. He is suddenly so grown up! I met with his preschool teacher a few weeks ago and of course he got stunning golden reviews (like at Gigi's!). I told Miss Christy (his teacher) that it sounds like a totally different kid. This is not unusual. I decided to force my little golden child to do more of the things he does at school and he's been doing more on his own. This can be good and bad but mostly good.
For starters, Nathan enjoys the shower more than a bath lately. He will go into our shower, start it, get in and wash himself. Occasionally he will even get out on his own without threats and warnings. He has been getting up to pee at night (accompanied by random cries and squeals but let's focus on the good stuff here). When I was told he is totally wiping his own butt at school I put my foot down at home and guess what - the kid is a good butt wiper. (One down, one to go) He can get dressed on his own, gets water from the fridge, and sometimes his own snacks (which is where it can be less a good thing). The other day Leo must have told him to get him some tea (perhaps joking?) and then I found Nathan at the fridge, glass mug in hand, filling it with water to start some tea. (Yes, countertop climbing was involved here) We went for a walk today and Nathan was determined to cross the street on his own, assuring me he could look both ways (which he did non-stop the whole way across the street). He can turn the TV on and off. Put on his shoes and socks. Clicks in his own seat belt. He is quite the independent child when he wants to be. And thank goodness. Because the other one is obviously not.
Benny on the other hand is all over the place. A busy, climbing, curious, expressive little person. He is a copy cat (which is tough when big bro can do it all). He is a runner. He would be a weeble wobble, but really the kid does fall. All the time. His head is developing that tough shell that Nathan has though. His bumps and bruises heal quickly and he is easy to distract for the most part. Think food. The kid is non-stop. He is really funny. He knows when he is being silly or bad and giggles and runs away. He loves to climb on the bench in my office and look out the window. He plays with the shoes by the front and often tries to put them on. He continues to sleep well at night, though we are challenged with one nap or two. None is never an option. Benny is whiny for sure. But like I said, food or mommy is likely to cure him. Or Nathan. He is always laughing at the things Nathan does, even when I'm trying to get Nathan to stop the annoying thing that Benny is laughing at.
Right now it's hard to do things with them. Nathan wants to go, go, go and so does Benny. But Benny can't go without me. But Nathan has already taken off while I'm putting on shoes, changing a diaper, preparing a bag, etc. I feel like I'm often behind trying to keep up. I try to go out and do things with them but this is often stressful. Then again, being at home often is too. Demand after demand, mess after mess. The witching hour is often my breaking point and I sometimes really can't wait for Benny to be entertained by TV as easily as Nathan is. By dinnertime I need that virtual babysitter help! By bedtime I'm cooked.
As hectic as it all is, of course it's all good. I get out to enjoy friends often and so does Leo. Tonight he is out playing poker and Uncle Matt has gone along with him. That means a little Jen-Time. A book? A movie? Maybe early bed time!
Sunday, April 14, 2013
Revolving Door
How is it the middle of April and how do I cover what I have missed when I didn't even know I missed it? Well, let's back track. Today is a beautiful spring day. I mean gorgeous! Except for the pollen. That stuff is nasty and we are at the thick of it. But that soon will dissolve in the spring rains and we will have the wonderful spring colors left behind. (And cicadas apparently. That's a whole other thing to look forward to. Ick!) Despite the pollen it was a nice morning to get up, dressed and do some family photos. My wonderful friend Carrie did them for us and even though I asked for a couple different various shots, I'm really hoping to just get one good one. Just one! It's not a lot to ask until you have a family of your own that squirms, runs, and does whatever they want.
This past week was back to our usual - play dates, preschool, stuff around the house. I am thankful for routine since the previous week was anything but. Since Nathan was off school for a week and my mother was taking a trip up to NY, we decided last minute to go with her. Until very last minute when we had a terrible night of sleep and I developed chills, fever, aches and a cough overnight. That did it for me and I decided it was best to not go. We were all disappointed and Nathan begged to go to Pop's house all week after that. But being in the car and then caring for the boys alone would not have been ideal.
Just when we were getting used to not going, Joanne's mother passed and I was suddenly planning to go to NY after all for the services. Poor Leo was prepared for a week alone and then he was stuck with two boys over the weekend. I was only gone a mere 36 hours though (the longest of my life!) and they survived. Super Daddy had it covered and I was able to be with family. I flew up and drove back with my mom. I was glad for the chance to pay my respects and even a little time without the boys. but I was super glad to be home. (11 hours in the car. So. Not. Fun.) That entire week was boring, uncertain, painful and unusual. I'm glad it is behind us. My only regret is that our anniversary went by without much fanfare. But Leo knows I love him and how wonderful the last six years have been. We'll have to make up for it next year!
Before that we were dealing with a very cold March and trying to pass time inside. It has since changed, as I mentioned, and we spent lots of time outside this week, much of it in water. The small pool and sprinkler have already been set up in the front a few times this week and I expect the rest of the summer to be similar. Nathan loves the water and spent hours playing with the hose the other day. He rarely stays interested in anything for long so this is a wonderful discovery! Benny was not as interested and was rather annoyed when I tried to get him involved in water play. He likes to put rocks and chalk and whatever else he can find, in and out of buckets and bowls. I don't know how this will turn out when the pool opens. It's always a new adventure with each changing season and each changing stage for the boys. It keeps me on my toes, that is for certain.
This week G'pa Truck, Kerri and boys were here for a visit. And friend Mario came down for a day to hang too. It's a revolving door I tell ya!
This past week was back to our usual - play dates, preschool, stuff around the house. I am thankful for routine since the previous week was anything but. Since Nathan was off school for a week and my mother was taking a trip up to NY, we decided last minute to go with her. Until very last minute when we had a terrible night of sleep and I developed chills, fever, aches and a cough overnight. That did it for me and I decided it was best to not go. We were all disappointed and Nathan begged to go to Pop's house all week after that. But being in the car and then caring for the boys alone would not have been ideal.
Just when we were getting used to not going, Joanne's mother passed and I was suddenly planning to go to NY after all for the services. Poor Leo was prepared for a week alone and then he was stuck with two boys over the weekend. I was only gone a mere 36 hours though (the longest of my life!) and they survived. Super Daddy had it covered and I was able to be with family. I flew up and drove back with my mom. I was glad for the chance to pay my respects and even a little time without the boys. but I was super glad to be home. (11 hours in the car. So. Not. Fun.) That entire week was boring, uncertain, painful and unusual. I'm glad it is behind us. My only regret is that our anniversary went by without much fanfare. But Leo knows I love him and how wonderful the last six years have been. We'll have to make up for it next year!
Before that we were dealing with a very cold March and trying to pass time inside. It has since changed, as I mentioned, and we spent lots of time outside this week, much of it in water. The small pool and sprinkler have already been set up in the front a few times this week and I expect the rest of the summer to be similar. Nathan loves the water and spent hours playing with the hose the other day. He rarely stays interested in anything for long so this is a wonderful discovery! Benny was not as interested and was rather annoyed when I tried to get him involved in water play. He likes to put rocks and chalk and whatever else he can find, in and out of buckets and bowls. I don't know how this will turn out when the pool opens. It's always a new adventure with each changing season and each changing stage for the boys. It keeps me on my toes, that is for certain.
This week G'pa Truck, Kerri and boys were here for a visit. And friend Mario came down for a day to hang too. It's a revolving door I tell ya!
Monday, March 25, 2013
Four
My baby boy is four years old. I don't need to ask where the time has gone. We are all asking the same thing. How does it pass so quickly? How can some days seem so long yet in a blink my first baby is so very much not a baby anymore?!
For Nathan's birthday we spent time with family. Cousin Jill is having her own first baby next month so we used the event to gather. Greg, Tim, Mom (and their respective mates and off spring) were all there. The hotel we all stayed at was right off 95, near Jill's house and near the Metro (and had delicious food there!). I think we will be staying there again as it was so nice to be close to it all.
We were busy all weekend with lots to see and do. And at every turn there were two things: running and climbing (by Nathan and therefor Lily when she could keep up) and whining (by Benny when he wasn't attached to mommy, by Mommy who is still sore from a tetanus shot a week ago, and by Daddy who had to deal with all of us). So just insert those extra conditions to every event and come up with your own conclusions about how it all went!
Friday we got in around lunch at the same time as Greg, Danielle and Lily. The kids were so happy to see each other and proceeded to run around the lobby at top speed. We settled quickly and walked to the Metro station to get into the DC area. This is, in theory, awesome. Except that they make it really complicated to get tickets. Long story short, four of us couldn't figure it out and had trouble part of the way. And we did have to switch lines at some point. But overall it was a quick trip, the kids loved it (Nathan wanted to go back on the next day) and it was probably a lot easier and less expensive than trying to park in DC.
Once there we had a little something to eat before we explored a little. A speed bump here is the security you go through when going in and out of the buildings there. It was no problem but it's an extra hoop to jump through. We finally got into the museum to see the giant elephant at the entrance, the dinosaur bones and space exhibit. Truthfully, the kids were only so-so interested, we are all pretty tired and we were uninterrupted by bathroom visits and all the above conditions. There was a nice photographic exhibit that I enjoyed. We were all happy to move on though and see the sites outdoors. I almost wished we had done more of that. The mall is such a big wonderful place to run and the buildings of course are awesome. I would love to go back when the kids are older and get up close to the monuments, memorials and the White House. Or better yet, alone with my camera to enjoy the architecture. It's on the bucket list.
The evening dinner was a necessity but, as stated the above conditions made it less than relaxing. But then again it was the kids in a restaurant or a cramped hotel room. Hhmmmm....
Let me just stop here and say I am sorry if I seem less than interested, engaged, funny or talkative if you have seen me in the last, say, four years. I am totally one of those moms who isn't fully present if my kids are. I feel like I miss out on good conversation, or even just conversations that are logical and made of complete sentences. It's motherhood and no matter how much you hate it and try to avoid it, you can't. It's just one of those things - like stretched out skin, shedding and uninterrupted sleep. It's awful. I'm sorry.
The following morning was better as we all had some sleep (not great since there were some immature teenagers on a school trip in the hallway making noise) and plenty of time to hang out. While we were sleeping the Birthday Fairy came too. She put balloons and crepe paper all over the room for the birthday boy. He was thoroughly surprised. I was super tired - I had to wait for everyone to finally fall asleep and then quietly blow up balloons in the bathroom. Totally worth it though.
As mentioned, the breakfast was really good and the lobby area was open, modern, clean and relatively safe for kids to wander around. Benny even napped while Nathan and Lily played and I got to read a little. A little.
Jill's house was a quick ride up the road and it was wonderful to see everyone. There was really only a small smattering of Garrisons but we hadn't seen them in so long. And actually we had time for catching up - hard to do when there is a giant group. The sun came out and it was a lovely day. Nathan ran around with another little girl, Mackie. The two hit it off wonderfully and they were sad to say good bye at the end of the day. Aunt Mary and Uncle Lee made sure to have a little birthday gift for Nathan. It was so sweet and he really loved it.
One gathering spilled to the next and we prepared for pizza and cake and presents back at the hotel. 8 adults and 3 children in a hotel room is a tight squeeze but we made it happen and it was nice to be together. Again, I wish I could have enjoyed it differently. Benny is so very attached and simply isn't happy unless he is on me or distracted by something. And my wild child, Nathan is often running and climbing and pushing the limits of the furniture and our patience. I was so tired by 8:30, I hated pushing people out the door. But such is life with kids. And yes, I know it will pass. But I don't like to miss out or do things half-assed. In any event, Nathan enjoyed his gifts - the highlights being the glow-in-the-dark PJ's from Greg & Danielle (best PJ givers ever!) and the amazing cake from Tim & Jen. (Not to mention the bike from Gigi and Grandpa earlier in the week. Spoiled!)
Sunday morning we spent more time together and then parted ways. We were all pretty spent, even though I would have loved to see the downtown part of Alexandria. The above conditions would not have made for a pleasant time though so going home was the best choice.
We were happy to not return home to any disasters - we noticed a leak coming from upstairs just before we left on Friday morning. No emergencies - just laundry.
Despite the madness of kids in hotel rooms, it was worth the trip. Jill looked fabulous with her cute little belly and seeing family is always a plus. It all made for a busy month. Especially for the birthday boy who got to go to a hockey game with Daddy and Monster Jam with Logan earlier in the month. He's going to be disappointed when we just hang around in the driveway on bikes for the next few weekends.
For Nathan's birthday we spent time with family. Cousin Jill is having her own first baby next month so we used the event to gather. Greg, Tim, Mom (and their respective mates and off spring) were all there. The hotel we all stayed at was right off 95, near Jill's house and near the Metro (and had delicious food there!). I think we will be staying there again as it was so nice to be close to it all.We were busy all weekend with lots to see and do. And at every turn there were two things: running and climbing (by Nathan and therefor Lily when she could keep up) and whining (by Benny when he wasn't attached to mommy, by Mommy who is still sore from a tetanus shot a week ago, and by Daddy who had to deal with all of us). So just insert those extra conditions to every event and come up with your own conclusions about how it all went!
Friday we got in around lunch at the same time as Greg, Danielle and Lily. The kids were so happy to see each other and proceeded to run around the lobby at top speed. We settled quickly and walked to the Metro station to get into the DC area. This is, in theory, awesome. Except that they make it really complicated to get tickets. Long story short, four of us couldn't figure it out and had trouble part of the way. And we did have to switch lines at some point. But overall it was a quick trip, the kids loved it (Nathan wanted to go back on the next day) and it was probably a lot easier and less expensive than trying to park in DC.
Once there we had a little something to eat before we explored a little. A speed bump here is the security you go through when going in and out of the buildings there. It was no problem but it's an extra hoop to jump through. We finally got into the museum to see the giant elephant at the entrance, the dinosaur bones and space exhibit. Truthfully, the kids were only so-so interested, we are all pretty tired and we were uninterrupted by bathroom visits and all the above conditions. There was a nice photographic exhibit that I enjoyed. We were all happy to move on though and see the sites outdoors. I almost wished we had done more of that. The mall is such a big wonderful place to run and the buildings of course are awesome. I would love to go back when the kids are older and get up close to the monuments, memorials and the White House. Or better yet, alone with my camera to enjoy the architecture. It's on the bucket list.The evening dinner was a necessity but, as stated the above conditions made it less than relaxing. But then again it was the kids in a restaurant or a cramped hotel room. Hhmmmm....
Let me just stop here and say I am sorry if I seem less than interested, engaged, funny or talkative if you have seen me in the last, say, four years. I am totally one of those moms who isn't fully present if my kids are. I feel like I miss out on good conversation, or even just conversations that are logical and made of complete sentences. It's motherhood and no matter how much you hate it and try to avoid it, you can't. It's just one of those things - like stretched out skin, shedding and uninterrupted sleep. It's awful. I'm sorry.
The following morning was better as we all had some sleep (not great since there were some immature teenagers on a school trip in the hallway making noise) and plenty of time to hang out. While we were sleeping the Birthday Fairy came too. She put balloons and crepe paper all over the room for the birthday boy. He was thoroughly surprised. I was super tired - I had to wait for everyone to finally fall asleep and then quietly blow up balloons in the bathroom. Totally worth it though.As mentioned, the breakfast was really good and the lobby area was open, modern, clean and relatively safe for kids to wander around. Benny even napped while Nathan and Lily played and I got to read a little. A little.
Jill's house was a quick ride up the road and it was wonderful to see everyone. There was really only a small smattering of Garrisons but we hadn't seen them in so long. And actually we had time for catching up - hard to do when there is a giant group. The sun came out and it was a lovely day. Nathan ran around with another little girl, Mackie. The two hit it off wonderfully and they were sad to say good bye at the end of the day. Aunt Mary and Uncle Lee made sure to have a little birthday gift for Nathan. It was so sweet and he really loved it.
One gathering spilled to the next and we prepared for pizza and cake and presents back at the hotel. 8 adults and 3 children in a hotel room is a tight squeeze but we made it happen and it was nice to be together. Again, I wish I could have enjoyed it differently. Benny is so very attached and simply isn't happy unless he is on me or distracted by something. And my wild child, Nathan is often running and climbing and pushing the limits of the furniture and our patience. I was so tired by 8:30, I hated pushing people out the door. But such is life with kids. And yes, I know it will pass. But I don't like to miss out or do things half-assed. In any event, Nathan enjoyed his gifts - the highlights being the glow-in-the-dark PJ's from Greg & Danielle (best PJ givers ever!) and the amazing cake from Tim & Jen. (Not to mention the bike from Gigi and Grandpa earlier in the week. Spoiled!)
Sunday morning we spent more time together and then parted ways. We were all pretty spent, even though I would have loved to see the downtown part of Alexandria. The above conditions would not have made for a pleasant time though so going home was the best choice.We were happy to not return home to any disasters - we noticed a leak coming from upstairs just before we left on Friday morning. No emergencies - just laundry.
Despite the madness of kids in hotel rooms, it was worth the trip. Jill looked fabulous with her cute little belly and seeing family is always a plus. It all made for a busy month. Especially for the birthday boy who got to go to a hockey game with Daddy and Monster Jam with Logan earlier in the month. He's going to be disappointed when we just hang around in the driveway on bikes for the next few weekends.
Thursday, February 21, 2013
Growing, reaching, learning, changing
I am always at odds with what to do with my time since MY time is so limited. But stopping to record what is going on with the boys is essential. They are growing and changing at lightening speed. I fear I may have already missed recording some things that we will never get back!
Benny. Oh that Benny. I can never get tired of looking at his cute little face. Or watching him toddle around. He is a full time walker now and he moves very quickly. I move him from trouble in one area and before I know it he is behind me making more. He reaches up high to feel around for things on the kitchen table. He grabs across the ends of the couch to the side tables for drinks, remotes, phones, magazines or whatever is there. He climbs like Nathan always has. Over pillows, under toys, through the legs of the tables and chairs. He discovered he can move things! He will climb up under the legs of the bar stools in the kitchen and move them around. He pushed a chair across the kitchen floor just because he can. And he does it all with a big proud grin.
He makes sounds. The latest is "weee". Actually is just sounds like "we" but he seems to do it in appropriate places like going down the slide or climbing down the bed. He will play with a truck or plane and move it around appropriately making noises along with it. Given a paper towel, he will "wipe" the floor with it. Push a broom across the room. Put the tops on containers. Blocks back in the box.
He is very excited to do the things Nathan does too. He eats like a big boy, often using a fork or spoon or at least trying to. Drinking from big boy cups. Last night he got his own "go-gurt" (frozen yogurt you eat like an icee) and he was so proud to walk around sucking on that thing like his big brother.
Benny has been a good sleeper and will more and more take longer naps. Not everyday but there are some good nap days and they are great! We love a happy Benny after a nap!
Nathan continues to run circles around us all. Literally. The kid doesn't sit still. But he does have his wonderful moments too of course. Even though he is already the big boy, he wants to do everything as an even bigger boy would. Helping put away dishes, and bringing the step stool to the counter to "help cook" (which Benny happily climbs up right after him!). He helps to pat Benny's back when going to sleep. He will whisper like we do, "go to sleep, it's ok, put your head down sweetie."
He proudly brings home masterpieces from school ("I made this for you Mommy!") and is slowly writing his letters. His drawings are becoming more recognizable and I can officially declare him a lefty like his Mommy.
The things he says are what cracks us up daily. He yelled out to Gigi and Grandpa one day, "Ok, bye, take care!" (What little kid says take care?), and then followed it up with "I love you more than a garbage can!" Uh, ok. He attempts to use big words all the time still and says them over and over to make sure he's getting it right. "Did I say it right?" And his recall is still amazing. He was singing Ghostbusters the other day and Leo and I couldn't remember the last time we had played the song for him. Yet he knew the words from whenever that was.
Aside from the everyday growing, learning, changing and causing trouble at home, we have had a couple fun outings too. The circus was in town and it seems like every year I wanted to take Nathan, something else was going on (which sounds odd as he hasn't been on this earth for that many years but it seems like he has been!). I finally took him, just me and Nathan. I had to get him excited by watching You Tube videos of it first and then he seemed to "get it." He liked the animals and the motorcycles that ride round and round in the "ball of steel!" It was a fun time for just the two of us even if he did get antsy towards the end. The following week Leo took Nathan to a hockey game at the same arena. They were last minute free tickets and even though it was Valentines Day I told them to go. I ended up having some time to myself anyway after Benny went to sleep so it was a win-win for everyone. It sounded like they both had fun and once he warmed up to what was going on, he won the fellow game-goers over with his "Let's go Canes" chant. Anywhere he can stand up on the chairs and yell at the top of his lungs ranks high up on the list of cool stuff to do.
Which reminds me; according to Nathan, Daddy is more fun than Mommy. But he loves Mommy the most. I guess I can settle for that.
Benny. Oh that Benny. I can never get tired of looking at his cute little face. Or watching him toddle around. He is a full time walker now and he moves very quickly. I move him from trouble in one area and before I know it he is behind me making more. He reaches up high to feel around for things on the kitchen table. He grabs across the ends of the couch to the side tables for drinks, remotes, phones, magazines or whatever is there. He climbs like Nathan always has. Over pillows, under toys, through the legs of the tables and chairs. He discovered he can move things! He will climb up under the legs of the bar stools in the kitchen and move them around. He pushed a chair across the kitchen floor just because he can. And he does it all with a big proud grin.
He makes sounds. The latest is "weee". Actually is just sounds like "we" but he seems to do it in appropriate places like going down the slide or climbing down the bed. He will play with a truck or plane and move it around appropriately making noises along with it. Given a paper towel, he will "wipe" the floor with it. Push a broom across the room. Put the tops on containers. Blocks back in the box.
He is very excited to do the things Nathan does too. He eats like a big boy, often using a fork or spoon or at least trying to. Drinking from big boy cups. Last night he got his own "go-gurt" (frozen yogurt you eat like an icee) and he was so proud to walk around sucking on that thing like his big brother.
Benny has been a good sleeper and will more and more take longer naps. Not everyday but there are some good nap days and they are great! We love a happy Benny after a nap!
Nathan continues to run circles around us all. Literally. The kid doesn't sit still. But he does have his wonderful moments too of course. Even though he is already the big boy, he wants to do everything as an even bigger boy would. Helping put away dishes, and bringing the step stool to the counter to "help cook" (which Benny happily climbs up right after him!). He helps to pat Benny's back when going to sleep. He will whisper like we do, "go to sleep, it's ok, put your head down sweetie."
He proudly brings home masterpieces from school ("I made this for you Mommy!") and is slowly writing his letters. His drawings are becoming more recognizable and I can officially declare him a lefty like his Mommy.
The things he says are what cracks us up daily. He yelled out to Gigi and Grandpa one day, "Ok, bye, take care!" (What little kid says take care?), and then followed it up with "I love you more than a garbage can!" Uh, ok. He attempts to use big words all the time still and says them over and over to make sure he's getting it right. "Did I say it right?" And his recall is still amazing. He was singing Ghostbusters the other day and Leo and I couldn't remember the last time we had played the song for him. Yet he knew the words from whenever that was.
Aside from the everyday growing, learning, changing and causing trouble at home, we have had a couple fun outings too. The circus was in town and it seems like every year I wanted to take Nathan, something else was going on (which sounds odd as he hasn't been on this earth for that many years but it seems like he has been!). I finally took him, just me and Nathan. I had to get him excited by watching You Tube videos of it first and then he seemed to "get it." He liked the animals and the motorcycles that ride round and round in the "ball of steel!" It was a fun time for just the two of us even if he did get antsy towards the end. The following week Leo took Nathan to a hockey game at the same arena. They were last minute free tickets and even though it was Valentines Day I told them to go. I ended up having some time to myself anyway after Benny went to sleep so it was a win-win for everyone. It sounded like they both had fun and once he warmed up to what was going on, he won the fellow game-goers over with his "Let's go Canes" chant. Anywhere he can stand up on the chairs and yell at the top of his lungs ranks high up on the list of cool stuff to do.Which reminds me; according to Nathan, Daddy is more fun than Mommy. But he loves Mommy the most. I guess I can settle for that.
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Remote
Here's a tip - do not purchase a childs' toy that can only work with a remote. The remote will be lost, rendering the toy useless. We bought Nathan a light up moon for his bedroom wall. It lights up at different phases and it's super cute for our little astronaut. He was using it one night and then a mere 24 hours later the remote disappeared. I don't need to explain the scene a typical tired almost-four-year-old out on when we couldn't find the remote. Daddy gave in to looking for it although I was all about the take-care-of-your-stuff lesson. It doesn't seem possible the thing was not in the room anywhere unless it walked away (meaning it was walked away by curious one-year-old). Either way, it was found. A day later. When I happen to be laying on the floor in the living room and I happened to spot it under the couch. I'm thinking Velcro or glue is the answer here.
Benny has been cranky this week. The loss of a feeding, the gaining of teeth, growing pains....I don't know. It's being more usual to see him this way rather than happy all the time. He is starting to throw himself on the ground in little fits here and there, he gets mad when you take things from him and of course he is unhappy when he sees mommy leave the room. He has had some trouble eating lately too - again, possibly because of the change in some feeding patterns around here. Hopefully this will settle soon. He continues to sleep well and walk all over the place. And he really misses his brother when they are not together!
Nathan is his usual wacky self. I worry he is getting pickier by the day in the food department. (Oh no!) But I continue to introduce new foods and then bribe him into eating them. I fear I have already done the damage and given into chicken nuggets one too many times. Before I know it I will be eating sushi alone and my three guys will happily be slurping down past and bread at every meal. Sigh. At least it's delicious homemade bread I guess . . .
I made another loaf today, meant to resemble regular white sandwich bread. It is awesome.
For Nathan's birthday weekend we are going to Virginia. Cousin Jill is expecting her first and instead of an all girls event, it will be a whole family shin dig. We can't wait to celebrate and party with the family. I have to figure out a way to make it special for Nathan too. Maybe decorate our hotel room?!
What's next? Not much. Leo and I discussed an adult-only beer fest in the Spring. A no-kid event?! Yes! More details to follow . . .
Benny has been cranky this week. The loss of a feeding, the gaining of teeth, growing pains....I don't know. It's being more usual to see him this way rather than happy all the time. He is starting to throw himself on the ground in little fits here and there, he gets mad when you take things from him and of course he is unhappy when he sees mommy leave the room. He has had some trouble eating lately too - again, possibly because of the change in some feeding patterns around here. Hopefully this will settle soon. He continues to sleep well and walk all over the place. And he really misses his brother when they are not together!
Nathan is his usual wacky self. I worry he is getting pickier by the day in the food department. (Oh no!) But I continue to introduce new foods and then bribe him into eating them. I fear I have already done the damage and given into chicken nuggets one too many times. Before I know it I will be eating sushi alone and my three guys will happily be slurping down past and bread at every meal. Sigh. At least it's delicious homemade bread I guess . . .
I made another loaf today, meant to resemble regular white sandwich bread. It is awesome.
For Nathan's birthday weekend we are going to Virginia. Cousin Jill is expecting her first and instead of an all girls event, it will be a whole family shin dig. We can't wait to celebrate and party with the family. I have to figure out a way to make it special for Nathan too. Maybe decorate our hotel room?!
What's next? Not much. Leo and I discussed an adult-only beer fest in the Spring. A no-kid event?! Yes! More details to follow . . .
Thursday, January 24, 2013
Shorts, Snow, Hot water, Road Trips & Pancakes
Let's talk about the weather. Blogs aren't really for that but the weather here has been so wacky it's worth mentioning. About two weeks ago it was so warm on a Sunday I had shorts on. It was in the high 70's and it was necessary (although awkward with pale legs that are very used to jeans and boots these days!). A week later, we has snow. Snow! It was barely an inch but it was a dazzling sight to watch at night and we enjoyed it with fresh homemade bread (more on that later) and wine. A fire going would have been perfect. In the morning there was barely a cover of it left behind but still. Snow is a big deal around here so you enjoy what you get. I feel like we should pretend every day is like a snow day. Even though it may not be filled with anything special all the time, we should take advantage of it like that. A rare gift.
Anyway, let me tell you about this bread. A gift also, but not a rare one. In fact, I plan to have the dough made up and ready most of the time because it's that good. A friend of mine (who I speak of often because she inspires me daily to try new and amazing things!) has a book about baking bread and offered it to me. Artisan Bread in 5 Minutes a Day. No joke. This is a great book. I made it last week when we were expecting snow, like I said, and it was a nice treat. Leo often asks me to get bread at the store but now I won't be getting it at Teeter. I will be making it often at home. It's cheap, easy and fresh! If Leo says it's good I'm going to stick with it. It's hard to make him happy in the kitchen.
Bread also makes a great offering to your neighbors when you have to beg for a hot shower. That was the case last week. On a Friday night at 5p, on a holiday weekend (of course), Leo noticed the water heater leaking in the garage. Not dripping but leaking. Awesome. The water was still hot but we weren't sure if we should keep the water on still or what. Unsure, we turned it all off and gradually tried to empty the tank over the next day or so. Long story short, the repair guy didn't come until Monday and $1000 later we got a new one installed Tuesday morning. We are lucky to have amazing neighbors that don't mind a knock on the door, towel in hand, fresh bread in the other, asking for a hot shower.
This hot water dilemma wasn't so bad as it didn't affect Nathan. Over the weekend, Gigi was going to take him for an overnight. Last minute, a trip to NY had to happen to get Teddy (I'll explain later) and Gigi asked if Nathan would like to come too. I wasn't sure what to think of this at first. My baby away from me for several days, in the car for long hours . . . Well what the heck! When I told some friends about this adventure they mostly said they would be nervous and worried about it. I admitted I was too. But I'm glad we went for the opportunity. Not just to have a few days break from our oh-so-lovely almost-four-year-old (I say with motherly love and sarcasm), but because it was really good for him. There are a few things I know for sure about Nathan. He likes new places, people, being outside, having attention, and adventure. He got all this and more on his quick trip to NY. They left early Monday and returned Wednesday evening. And it seems they packed a lot in the very short trip. He saw his cousin Lily (his favorite part of the trip, btw), played with dogs, got to ride in a UTV, went shopping for shoes and a winter jacket, picked out gifts for Benny, went to McDonalds more than once I'm sure, painted, saw lots of various people and had macaroni and cheese at every meal (apparently). The kid didn't stop and it sounds like he did a great at going with the flow. I'm so proud of him. My little road warrior. I hear he only wet the bed once and cried for mommy once too. But for several night away from us, at barely four years old, he was a stellar travel companion.
Now, Teddy is a Shih tzu/ Poodle mix (yes a shih poo. Sounds like shit poo!) and he belonged to Ed's mother. While she is relocating to a different home, her dogs had to be redistributed and so Gigi and Grandpa are now dog owners! Teddy is six years old and actually very cute. He's very calm and well behaved and Nathan just loves him. I'm totally not a dog-lover at all, but I have to say, Teddy is a lovable little guy. It will be fun to visit him up at Gigi's house. I think Benny will get a kick out of him too since they are the same size!
Speaking of Benny, his birthday is days away and while we planned to have a small affair for his birthday we apparently have a guest list of 29. Seems we are incapable of having small parties. So for my next feat, I will product hot pancakes for 18 adults and 15 children. We are having a "pancake bar", something I thought of myself and am quite unsure but proud of. We will be decorating and baking the next two days away. I think it will be nice little celebration for our one year old. I was thinking "keep it simple, he won't remember anyway." But I will. And it's a special day. And like I said, we have to make everyday special to make note of the gift that it is.
Anyway, let me tell you about this bread. A gift also, but not a rare one. In fact, I plan to have the dough made up and ready most of the time because it's that good. A friend of mine (who I speak of often because she inspires me daily to try new and amazing things!) has a book about baking bread and offered it to me. Artisan Bread in 5 Minutes a Day. No joke. This is a great book. I made it last week when we were expecting snow, like I said, and it was a nice treat. Leo often asks me to get bread at the store but now I won't be getting it at Teeter. I will be making it often at home. It's cheap, easy and fresh! If Leo says it's good I'm going to stick with it. It's hard to make him happy in the kitchen.
Bread also makes a great offering to your neighbors when you have to beg for a hot shower. That was the case last week. On a Friday night at 5p, on a holiday weekend (of course), Leo noticed the water heater leaking in the garage. Not dripping but leaking. Awesome. The water was still hot but we weren't sure if we should keep the water on still or what. Unsure, we turned it all off and gradually tried to empty the tank over the next day or so. Long story short, the repair guy didn't come until Monday and $1000 later we got a new one installed Tuesday morning. We are lucky to have amazing neighbors that don't mind a knock on the door, towel in hand, fresh bread in the other, asking for a hot shower.
This hot water dilemma wasn't so bad as it didn't affect Nathan. Over the weekend, Gigi was going to take him for an overnight. Last minute, a trip to NY had to happen to get Teddy (I'll explain later) and Gigi asked if Nathan would like to come too. I wasn't sure what to think of this at first. My baby away from me for several days, in the car for long hours . . . Well what the heck! When I told some friends about this adventure they mostly said they would be nervous and worried about it. I admitted I was too. But I'm glad we went for the opportunity. Not just to have a few days break from our oh-so-lovely almost-four-year-old (I say with motherly love and sarcasm), but because it was really good for him. There are a few things I know for sure about Nathan. He likes new places, people, being outside, having attention, and adventure. He got all this and more on his quick trip to NY. They left early Monday and returned Wednesday evening. And it seems they packed a lot in the very short trip. He saw his cousin Lily (his favorite part of the trip, btw), played with dogs, got to ride in a UTV, went shopping for shoes and a winter jacket, picked out gifts for Benny, went to McDonalds more than once I'm sure, painted, saw lots of various people and had macaroni and cheese at every meal (apparently). The kid didn't stop and it sounds like he did a great at going with the flow. I'm so proud of him. My little road warrior. I hear he only wet the bed once and cried for mommy once too. But for several night away from us, at barely four years old, he was a stellar travel companion.
Now, Teddy is a Shih tzu/ Poodle mix (yes a shih poo. Sounds like shit poo!) and he belonged to Ed's mother. While she is relocating to a different home, her dogs had to be redistributed and so Gigi and Grandpa are now dog owners! Teddy is six years old and actually very cute. He's very calm and well behaved and Nathan just loves him. I'm totally not a dog-lover at all, but I have to say, Teddy is a lovable little guy. It will be fun to visit him up at Gigi's house. I think Benny will get a kick out of him too since they are the same size!
Speaking of Benny, his birthday is days away and while we planned to have a small affair for his birthday we apparently have a guest list of 29. Seems we are incapable of having small parties. So for my next feat, I will product hot pancakes for 18 adults and 15 children. We are having a "pancake bar", something I thought of myself and am quite unsure but proud of. We will be decorating and baking the next two days away. I think it will be nice little celebration for our one year old. I was thinking "keep it simple, he won't remember anyway." But I will. And it's a special day. And like I said, we have to make everyday special to make note of the gift that it is.
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