Since it is the time of year to reflect on the things you have and are grateful for, I figured I'd stop grousing about the crap the kids do that annoy me so much and focus on what I love about them.
When they smile, laugh or giggle I join right in.
When they play together, even with the age difference.
Kieran is an amazing big brother. I expect him to be completely and utterly over-protective. Future boyfriends will likely have more to fear from Kieran than Ken. (though Ken may debate that)
Amelia loves to imitate. Whether it's mimicking Kieran, 'reading' a book, or tickling the dog (or her own belly), she is learning by doing - and that's amazing.
They both love to help. Kieran actually wants to help put his clothes away. Granted, it usually helps him delay bedtime by a few minutes, but still...Mia wants to help by being held by you while you try to do whatever it is that needs done. Doesn't really help but she feels involved, I think.
Kieran telling me about his day, honestly.
Amelia, trying to see and touch everything around her.
Their big hearts.
Ken, we have made amazing kids. I hope we can help them be wonderful adults (someday in the FAR future).
Tuesday, December 04, 2012
Monday, November 19, 2012
Bedtime Battles
It used to be simple to get Kieran to go to bed. Sure some nights he would delay and others he'd be downright stubborn (no idea where that came from), but generally he'd follow orders and do what needed done.
Last night, however, he lost it. First mistake, letting him play on my Fire while I finished up with dinner dishes, etc. When I told him it was time to go upstairs, he did nothing. I asked if he heard me and he said he had. So I took the Fire from him and shut it off. He seemed OK with that (though not happy).
We got to his room, I told him to get naked and get ready for a bath (he had helped me scrub the tub so he could have one), he said he wanted to put his laundry away first. Knowing this for the delay tactic it was, I said we could do it after his bath but not before. He sat down and refused to do anything. I had to threaten to take away his toys to keep him from playing with anything. Finally I told him if he did not get moving in the next minute he would have a shower. Again, nothing.
Frustrated and at my wits' end, I treated him like a baby. Took his clothes off and bodily carried him upstairs to the bathroom. He is thinking this is funny, I can tell. I turn on the faucet and then the shower. He looses it. I put him into the shower and he yells "I'm not going to get clean!" I let him sob (and I mean SOB) for awhile.
Then I hear a "Mommy!" Not a cry, but a demand. He wants to tell me he's not going to get clean. I told him I'd give him a minute to reconsider and then I would do it for him. Time goes by, he does nothing, so I clean him up. He fights me every step of the way. Finally, shower is off, he's out and his nose is running. I get him some toilet paper to blow his nose, which he does and then throws the toilet paper on the ground.
I lost it. I told him in no uncertain terms he would have to pick it up. He fought me for 2 minutes before I grabbed his hand, put the tissue in it and bodily carried them both to the trash can (thank goodness he's still under 40 lbs), where I had him put the tissue away.
I took him to his room, where he still fought me on getting ready for bed. He was crying after his shower, which woke up his sister, who started crying. Ken was at his wits' end with her (she didn't want to go to sleep), so we traded.
Ken got Kieran to bed and I got Amelia back to sleep. For some reason, every time I put Kieran to bed, he fights me. Its frustrating because we don't spend as much time together and I don't like to fight with him, but he's got to know his behavior is not acceptable.
This morning, without prompting from anyone, he said to me "Mom, I'm sorry about last night." I thanked him and left it alone.
Maybe if I push his bedtime back by 1/2 hour it will be better. Maybe I'll just tell him he can put himself to bed from now on.
Last night, however, he lost it. First mistake, letting him play on my Fire while I finished up with dinner dishes, etc. When I told him it was time to go upstairs, he did nothing. I asked if he heard me and he said he had. So I took the Fire from him and shut it off. He seemed OK with that (though not happy).
We got to his room, I told him to get naked and get ready for a bath (he had helped me scrub the tub so he could have one), he said he wanted to put his laundry away first. Knowing this for the delay tactic it was, I said we could do it after his bath but not before. He sat down and refused to do anything. I had to threaten to take away his toys to keep him from playing with anything. Finally I told him if he did not get moving in the next minute he would have a shower. Again, nothing.
Frustrated and at my wits' end, I treated him like a baby. Took his clothes off and bodily carried him upstairs to the bathroom. He is thinking this is funny, I can tell. I turn on the faucet and then the shower. He looses it. I put him into the shower and he yells "I'm not going to get clean!" I let him sob (and I mean SOB) for awhile.
Then I hear a "Mommy!" Not a cry, but a demand. He wants to tell me he's not going to get clean. I told him I'd give him a minute to reconsider and then I would do it for him. Time goes by, he does nothing, so I clean him up. He fights me every step of the way. Finally, shower is off, he's out and his nose is running. I get him some toilet paper to blow his nose, which he does and then throws the toilet paper on the ground.
I lost it. I told him in no uncertain terms he would have to pick it up. He fought me for 2 minutes before I grabbed his hand, put the tissue in it and bodily carried them both to the trash can (thank goodness he's still under 40 lbs), where I had him put the tissue away.
I took him to his room, where he still fought me on getting ready for bed. He was crying after his shower, which woke up his sister, who started crying. Ken was at his wits' end with her (she didn't want to go to sleep), so we traded.
Ken got Kieran to bed and I got Amelia back to sleep. For some reason, every time I put Kieran to bed, he fights me. Its frustrating because we don't spend as much time together and I don't like to fight with him, but he's got to know his behavior is not acceptable.
This morning, without prompting from anyone, he said to me "Mom, I'm sorry about last night." I thanked him and left it alone.
Maybe if I push his bedtime back by 1/2 hour it will be better. Maybe I'll just tell him he can put himself to bed from now on.
Friday, November 02, 2012
My Little Goblins
While Halloween is over, I know I have been frighteningly lax in keeping up the blog. If only someone had told me how hard it would be to keep up with two kids... oh wait. Nevermind.
Amelia continues to grow and amaze. She's got a few words but they are pretty much indistinguishable from her babble. She is quite content to give you full details about an object, her day, or life in general. Just don't expect to understand a word she says. She'd probably walk more if we set her down, but when we're trying to keep up with Kieran, I admit it's easier to have her in the stroller or in our arms.
Kieran amazes me. Just last night we were talking about the word 'reflective'. He was able to give me a great description (when light hits something and bounces off). I'm still not entirely sure about school this year. I feel like progress there is a lot slower than he would otherwise go. He is content with it, however, so we're reserving judgement until his report card comes in. Which may be today or early next week.
We weathered Sandy well. Worst part is that Devin (new puppy) would not go outside and so we were constantly cleaning up after him while trying to keep two kids entertained in this small house. It is times like that when I do wish for a bigger house in the burbs. But, after the storm, there was trick-or-treating. City Halloween ROCKS. People sit on their front steps if they have candy and in an hour kids can hit nearly 100 houses. It was cold but clear and the kids had fun. The only thing that seemed to scare Mia was the scream masks.
OK, I gotta go get Kieran ready for school and walk the dog one more time. Love to all blog again when I remember. (sorry!)
Amelia continues to grow and amaze. She's got a few words but they are pretty much indistinguishable from her babble. She is quite content to give you full details about an object, her day, or life in general. Just don't expect to understand a word she says. She'd probably walk more if we set her down, but when we're trying to keep up with Kieran, I admit it's easier to have her in the stroller or in our arms.
Kieran amazes me. Just last night we were talking about the word 'reflective'. He was able to give me a great description (when light hits something and bounces off). I'm still not entirely sure about school this year. I feel like progress there is a lot slower than he would otherwise go. He is content with it, however, so we're reserving judgement until his report card comes in. Which may be today or early next week.
We weathered Sandy well. Worst part is that Devin (new puppy) would not go outside and so we were constantly cleaning up after him while trying to keep two kids entertained in this small house. It is times like that when I do wish for a bigger house in the burbs. But, after the storm, there was trick-or-treating. City Halloween ROCKS. People sit on their front steps if they have candy and in an hour kids can hit nearly 100 houses. It was cold but clear and the kids had fun. The only thing that seemed to scare Mia was the scream masks.
OK, I gotta go get Kieran ready for school and walk the dog one more time. Love to all blog again when I remember. (sorry!)
Tuesday, October 09, 2012
The Incredible Growing Girl
Amelia had her 15 month checkup yesterday. She shot up from the 10th percentile in weight and height to 25th and 50th, respectively. She's close to 20 lbs now. Still a peanut compared to most kids in her class but definitely getting to the point where it's a pain to haul her around all the time. Her head circumference is back on the charts, so that's good too.
She got 2 shots and handled them like a trooper. Cried for a minute but was silent before we left the doctor's office. The doctor said she's doing everything she should be and is pretty much right on target for growth. So, hooray!
Kieran has finally spoken up about the amount of time I've been spending with Mia. I knew it was a lot (I put her down most nights, while Ken puts Kieran to bed), but my heart broke a little when he admitted that he talked like a baby because "Mom, you do more fun things with Mia than you do with me". This coming week we'll see how it goes, working on spending more time with him (when I'm not yelling at him to pick up his room, get ready for school or do his homework).
Our other big news is the dog. Well, puppy, actually. Can't believe we did this again. What were we thinking?
Oh, right, he's cute.
She got 2 shots and handled them like a trooper. Cried for a minute but was silent before we left the doctor's office. The doctor said she's doing everything she should be and is pretty much right on target for growth. So, hooray!
Kieran has finally spoken up about the amount of time I've been spending with Mia. I knew it was a lot (I put her down most nights, while Ken puts Kieran to bed), but my heart broke a little when he admitted that he talked like a baby because "Mom, you do more fun things with Mia than you do with me". This coming week we'll see how it goes, working on spending more time with him (when I'm not yelling at him to pick up his room, get ready for school or do his homework).
Our other big news is the dog. Well, puppy, actually. Can't believe we did this again. What were we thinking?
Monday, September 17, 2012
Juggling
So much is going on, I'm having a hard time keeping up and on top of everything.
Ken and Kieran have been pushing for a dog, so my codicil was that we had to clean house - and keep it clean - regularly before the dog got here. We'd been working on that but the last two weeks got away from us and the house was a wreck. So after Kieran's soccer game on Saturday, Ken went with Mia grocery shopping and Kieran and I cleaned house. Kieran told me on Sunday that he likes our 'new' cleaner house better. When I told him we'd clean house every week he actually cheered. Something is wrong with that kid.
Amelia is doing very well at daycare. She's walking tons, spending a lot of time in the pre-toddler room, which she likes. Some mornings she doesn't want us to leave and others she's running away from us. Still hard to get her to nap and sometimes hard to get her to sleep but her night-time pattern is much better. Most nights she sleeps from about 7 or 7:30 until 5:30 or 6 the next morning. Ken showed her so much new stuff on Saturday that she slept until 8 on Sunday morning.
We have been exceedingly neglectful of taking photos. Like many parents, the 2nd child suffers from a lack of our ability to do five things at once (play with older child while changing diaper of younger child, while talking to someone on the phone, while trying to answer the door - just an example). This is something I want to get much better about. Since Kieran has soccer games on Saturdays, I think I'll go back to what we did with Kieran, which was try to take photos each week.
Anyway, tons going on at my office (and Ken's too), had a few minutes while I was waiting for a project to complete to type this out. Beyond work stuff, I've been trying to get more involved with the community now that I am not bodily tied to Amelia. I've volunteered for a lot of things which is also keeping me hopping. Lots going on, but it's all good. Looking forward to the holidays and some downtime to spend with the entire family.
Ken and Kieran have been pushing for a dog, so my codicil was that we had to clean house - and keep it clean - regularly before the dog got here. We'd been working on that but the last two weeks got away from us and the house was a wreck. So after Kieran's soccer game on Saturday, Ken went with Mia grocery shopping and Kieran and I cleaned house. Kieran told me on Sunday that he likes our 'new' cleaner house better. When I told him we'd clean house every week he actually cheered. Something is wrong with that kid.
Amelia is doing very well at daycare. She's walking tons, spending a lot of time in the pre-toddler room, which she likes. Some mornings she doesn't want us to leave and others she's running away from us. Still hard to get her to nap and sometimes hard to get her to sleep but her night-time pattern is much better. Most nights she sleeps from about 7 or 7:30 until 5:30 or 6 the next morning. Ken showed her so much new stuff on Saturday that she slept until 8 on Sunday morning.
We have been exceedingly neglectful of taking photos. Like many parents, the 2nd child suffers from a lack of our ability to do five things at once (play with older child while changing diaper of younger child, while talking to someone on the phone, while trying to answer the door - just an example). This is something I want to get much better about. Since Kieran has soccer games on Saturdays, I think I'll go back to what we did with Kieran, which was try to take photos each week.
Anyway, tons going on at my office (and Ken's too), had a few minutes while I was waiting for a project to complete to type this out. Beyond work stuff, I've been trying to get more involved with the community now that I am not bodily tied to Amelia. I've volunteered for a lot of things which is also keeping me hopping. Lots going on, but it's all good. Looking forward to the holidays and some downtime to spend with the entire family.
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Baby Steps - A Reminder
Our vacation was great this year. We took a full week off work and did nothing, really. Because we didn't think we'd have a ton of money, Ken and I initially planned for a stay-cation. We were going to hit Hershey Park, the DC Zoo, one of the nearby state parks and do Ocean City for one day.
Well, as luck would have it my brother had a place in OC that he couldn't use for the full week, so we happily took it for some extra time at the beach. I'm really glad we did.
Kieran did not react well to the ocean the first time he saw it. It was big and loud and scary. He was nearly 2 and it still took him a few days to acclimate to it (on a cruise). Amelia was no different. When she saw the ocean for the first time she cried and screamed. She liked playing in the sand but did not want to be near the water.
I have nothing but great memories of the ocean. We went to Ocean City at least once each year as I grew up. I remember sticking my head under water and hearing the dolphins far out to sea, collecting shells with my grandmother and playing tennis with my grandfather. I wanted so much for Mia to love the beach at first sight.
Then Ken reminded me that baby steps are the way to go. Our second day there we spent the morning at the beach again. This time we were prepared to keep Amelia entertained playing in the sand while Ken & I took turns playing with Kieran int he water. But then, it happened. I looked up and Ken was standing behind me, holding Mia. She wasn't crying. Or screaming. She was just watching the water. Ken said he'd just taken one step at a time slowly moving toward the water. Once he knew she was comfortable where they were standing, he'd take another step.
And it worked.
Once she got over the sound and the sight, I dipped her toes in the water. She realized that it was like the pool - which she loves - and then tried to faceplant into the water. From then on she had a great time at the beach. We stayed for hours, the four of us, playing and laughing and getting sand everywhere. Just like when I was growing up.
Well, as luck would have it my brother had a place in OC that he couldn't use for the full week, so we happily took it for some extra time at the beach. I'm really glad we did.
Kieran did not react well to the ocean the first time he saw it. It was big and loud and scary. He was nearly 2 and it still took him a few days to acclimate to it (on a cruise). Amelia was no different. When she saw the ocean for the first time she cried and screamed. She liked playing in the sand but did not want to be near the water.
I have nothing but great memories of the ocean. We went to Ocean City at least once each year as I grew up. I remember sticking my head under water and hearing the dolphins far out to sea, collecting shells with my grandmother and playing tennis with my grandfather. I wanted so much for Mia to love the beach at first sight.
Then Ken reminded me that baby steps are the way to go. Our second day there we spent the morning at the beach again. This time we were prepared to keep Amelia entertained playing in the sand while Ken & I took turns playing with Kieran int he water. But then, it happened. I looked up and Ken was standing behind me, holding Mia. She wasn't crying. Or screaming. She was just watching the water. Ken said he'd just taken one step at a time slowly moving toward the water. Once he knew she was comfortable where they were standing, he'd take another step.
And it worked.
Once she got over the sound and the sight, I dipped her toes in the water. She realized that it was like the pool - which she loves - and then tried to faceplant into the water. From then on she had a great time at the beach. We stayed for hours, the four of us, playing and laughing and getting sand everywhere. Just like when I was growing up.
Friday, July 27, 2012
Worst Blogging Mom Award
Yes, I am giving it to myself. I have Amelia's 1 year stats at home (height, weight, head circumference) and here it is, a month later, and I haven't posted them. Blech. I stink.
But I'll cut myself some slack. Kieran was having a good summer until a few weeks ago when his temper showed up (I guess it took a few weeks to find his camp). We're working on it (again) and it is easier to get him to talk once he's calmed down. So, there's that.
Amelia's been sick (she's better now) and that threw us for a loop. A fortunate side effect seems to be better sleep, however. We'll see if she can keep this up.
She's not walking yet (though she cruises along the furniture with ease), but she is definitely communicating a lot more. This morning I asked her if she was ready to go downstairs and she nodded and said "ya". Pretty exciting. Now that I'm done feeding her from my body (WOO HOO. Oh, wait am I supposed to be unhappy about that?), I can spend a bit more time with Kieran which is nice.
In a few weeks we'll be taking our vacation, which is really a stay-cation. We'll be doing some small things in the area (like maybe finally go to the dairy farm that I tried to do last year while on maternity leave) and then heading to the beach for a few days. Really looking forward to it. I need some rest and relaxation.
Kieran and Ken are ready for a new dog (I am not, but am being dragged along the journey anyway). On the upside it's given me and Ken the impetus we've needed to get the house in shape.
Other than that nothing else new. Gotta go and I promise to be a better mom blogger... next month.
But I'll cut myself some slack. Kieran was having a good summer until a few weeks ago when his temper showed up (I guess it took a few weeks to find his camp). We're working on it (again) and it is easier to get him to talk once he's calmed down. So, there's that.
Amelia's been sick (she's better now) and that threw us for a loop. A fortunate side effect seems to be better sleep, however. We'll see if she can keep this up.
She's not walking yet (though she cruises along the furniture with ease), but she is definitely communicating a lot more. This morning I asked her if she was ready to go downstairs and she nodded and said "ya". Pretty exciting. Now that I'm done feeding her from my body (WOO HOO. Oh, wait am I supposed to be unhappy about that?), I can spend a bit more time with Kieran which is nice.
In a few weeks we'll be taking our vacation, which is really a stay-cation. We'll be doing some small things in the area (like maybe finally go to the dairy farm that I tried to do last year while on maternity leave) and then heading to the beach for a few days. Really looking forward to it. I need some rest and relaxation.
Kieran and Ken are ready for a new dog (I am not, but am being dragged along the journey anyway). On the upside it's given me and Ken the impetus we've needed to get the house in shape.
Other than that nothing else new. Gotta go and I promise to be a better mom blogger... next month.
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
To Amelia on Her First Birthday
Wow. I can't believe we've made it a year. The day you were born was a surprise, but a happy one. Your dad and I made it through delivery fairly quickly arriving at the hospital around 9 AM and you were born at 11:06. G'ma was there and so was Zadie and Bubbie and your brother. Uncle Andy, Aunt Wendy and your cousins came to see you as soon as they could. Becca was so excited to FINALLY have a girl cousin.
The past year has been something of a blur. You are still waking up at night, though definitely not as often. You finally said 'mama' (on Father's Day) after weeks of 'dada', but I swear your favorite word is 'brother'. I cannot even remember the blob we brought home from the hospital, the nights I had to wake you every few hours to feed, and I got used to having a baby that could breastfeed with ease.
Now you are almost walking. Annoying your brother. Smiling when I tell you no (as you go to do whatever it is again). Raising you to be the strong amazing woman I know you can be will be difficult, but enjoyable. Be kind to your brother. He has been more than patient while you have needed so much attention and help. If he acts out or annoys you or hits you know that whatever happens, he will always have your back. That he loves you unconditionally. That he will scare off boyfriends.
Be kind to your dad, too. He will freak out on you. Tell you no. Threaten your boyfriends. Know that he also loves you unconditionally. That he sat with you, hand on your back, when you couldn't sleep. He had more patience to sit by your crib until you could doze off than I ever will.
Looking forward to another year of watching you grow, seeing you run, hearing you talk.
Love,
Mom
The past year has been something of a blur. You are still waking up at night, though definitely not as often. You finally said 'mama' (on Father's Day) after weeks of 'dada', but I swear your favorite word is 'brother'. I cannot even remember the blob we brought home from the hospital, the nights I had to wake you every few hours to feed, and I got used to having a baby that could breastfeed with ease.
Now you are almost walking. Annoying your brother. Smiling when I tell you no (as you go to do whatever it is again). Raising you to be the strong amazing woman I know you can be will be difficult, but enjoyable. Be kind to your brother. He has been more than patient while you have needed so much attention and help. If he acts out or annoys you or hits you know that whatever happens, he will always have your back. That he loves you unconditionally. That he will scare off boyfriends.
Be kind to your dad, too. He will freak out on you. Tell you no. Threaten your boyfriends. Know that he also loves you unconditionally. That he sat with you, hand on your back, when you couldn't sleep. He had more patience to sit by your crib until you could doze off than I ever will.
Looking forward to another year of watching you grow, seeing you run, hearing you talk.
Love,
Mom
Wednesday, June 06, 2012
21 Days and Counting
Until Amelia is one year old. Holy crap - where did the time go?
One day you're thinking one kid is enough, the next you're not feeling so well and realize that maybe all the food aversions aren't the start of the flu. Pregnant to baby to nearly a toddler in the blink of an eye.
And Kieran has nearly completed his first year at public school. In so many ways he loves it, he's really looking forward to the summer and his Karate camp. We do the orientation for that this Sunday.
Grandma is coming to visit so Ken and I are frantically cleaning house (which is long overdue since I gave myself the baby excuse to not do a ton of housework this past year) and the weekend of Mia's party should be a lot of fun. There's so much going on right now it's hard to keep it all straight.
Speaking of which, I gotta jet. Love ya, blog again... eventually. Maybe before she's 2.
One day you're thinking one kid is enough, the next you're not feeling so well and realize that maybe all the food aversions aren't the start of the flu. Pregnant to baby to nearly a toddler in the blink of an eye.
And Kieran has nearly completed his first year at public school. In so many ways he loves it, he's really looking forward to the summer and his Karate camp. We do the orientation for that this Sunday.
Grandma is coming to visit so Ken and I are frantically cleaning house (which is long overdue since I gave myself the baby excuse to not do a ton of housework this past year) and the weekend of Mia's party should be a lot of fun. There's so much going on right now it's hard to keep it all straight.
Speaking of which, I gotta jet. Love ya, blog again... eventually. Maybe before she's 2.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Elmo Must Die
Amelia gave me an entire week of sleeping through the night. Then she stopped - just when I thought we were on to something with the earlier bedtime. She is sleeping better overall, with only 1-2 wake ups each night at most. But when she's up after 3:30 AM, I run the risk of her being awake for the day. Which is why Elmo must die.
She was up at 3:40 - but she had gone to sleep early that night, maybe 7:15 or 7:30. So I knew that there was a possibility that she was awake for good. But no, after feeding she seemed relaxed enough for me to put her back in her crib. Then I stepped on something fuzzy - Tickle Me Elmo.
"Hehehe. That tickles a little." Said Elmo.
Amelia's eyes opened then closed again. I put her in her crib.
"Tickle Elmo again." said Elmo.
Her head came up. I rubbed her back and she put her head back down.
"OK, tickle Elmo later." said Elmo.
That did it. Amelia was up, smiling and looking to play.
"Eff you, Elmo." I whispered.
The end of the story is that I went upstairs and told Ken it was his turn. It was 5:30 at this point, which means I probably slept while she fed. He gave me another 2 blissful hours of sleep. I have yet to forgive Elmo.
That is all for now. Will blog again eventually.
She was up at 3:40 - but she had gone to sleep early that night, maybe 7:15 or 7:30. So I knew that there was a possibility that she was awake for good. But no, after feeding she seemed relaxed enough for me to put her back in her crib. Then I stepped on something fuzzy - Tickle Me Elmo.
"Hehehe. That tickles a little." Said Elmo.
Amelia's eyes opened then closed again. I put her in her crib.
"Tickle Elmo again." said Elmo.
Her head came up. I rubbed her back and she put her head back down.
"OK, tickle Elmo later." said Elmo.
That did it. Amelia was up, smiling and looking to play.
"Eff you, Elmo." I whispered.
The end of the story is that I went upstairs and told Ken it was his turn. It was 5:30 at this point, which means I probably slept while she fed. He gave me another 2 blissful hours of sleep. I have yet to forgive Elmo.
That is all for now. Will blog again eventually.
Friday, May 18, 2012
The Baby and The Boy
I've been very remiss in blogging. Too busy lately - lots going on both from a work and a home perspective.
Ken's first triathlon is this weekend - fingers crossed- he's hoping to finish. I told Kieran that Ken was going to be in a race and he got very excited. I also told him that we'd go to see him cross the finish line.
Kieran: But I want to see the race!
Me: The whole race will take 5 hours.
Kieran: Boring!
Me: Exactly. That's why we'll go and cheer Daddy when he crosses the finish line.
Kieran writes and reads very well now. We have a stack of words for him to review each night - sight words from class and words we have added because his sight words are too simple (we got rid of all the 2 letter words and will soon remove all 3 letter words). He's also begun to write stories in his journal instead of drawing pictures each day. In class they begin each day by writing a sentence fragment (example: At the farm, I saw a....) and then the kids can finish the sentence with a picture or with words. Kieran's doing 2 or 3 pages full of words. He also wrote me a card that says "Mommy I miss you wen your gon". I love that card.
Amelia is doing well too. She's doing something I will not discuss here, but suffice to say I am better rested than I have been previously. I will not say more as I do not wish to jinx what has been occurring.
Her babbling is cute and she's waving and clapping her hands. She will even imitate sounds (Hi Dad is a favorite imitated phrase - still no mom yet dangit). Cruising along furniture and sometimes standing for a moment by herself. I doubt she will walk early (as her brother did) but I am not worried about her talking.
I'm gearing up to get details done for her first birthday party - coming in just over a month. I am counting down for multiple reasons (yes, one of them is so I can drink again) but am still blown away by the fact that it has been nearly a year since she was born. The past year has flown by.
On a related (but completely separate) topic... we finally dumped photos from the camera and have some videos that are old to share. So, now that it's nearly June I can post photos from Ken & Kieran's trip to Disney... from last August. Yes, we are that family. Deal with it.
Love to all, blog again sometime.
Ken's first triathlon is this weekend - fingers crossed- he's hoping to finish. I told Kieran that Ken was going to be in a race and he got very excited. I also told him that we'd go to see him cross the finish line.
Kieran: But I want to see the race!
Me: The whole race will take 5 hours.
Kieran: Boring!
Me: Exactly. That's why we'll go and cheer Daddy when he crosses the finish line.
Kieran writes and reads very well now. We have a stack of words for him to review each night - sight words from class and words we have added because his sight words are too simple (we got rid of all the 2 letter words and will soon remove all 3 letter words). He's also begun to write stories in his journal instead of drawing pictures each day. In class they begin each day by writing a sentence fragment (example: At the farm, I saw a....) and then the kids can finish the sentence with a picture or with words. Kieran's doing 2 or 3 pages full of words. He also wrote me a card that says "Mommy I miss you wen your gon". I love that card.
Amelia is doing well too. She's doing something I will not discuss here, but suffice to say I am better rested than I have been previously. I will not say more as I do not wish to jinx what has been occurring.
Her babbling is cute and she's waving and clapping her hands. She will even imitate sounds (Hi Dad is a favorite imitated phrase - still no mom yet dangit). Cruising along furniture and sometimes standing for a moment by herself. I doubt she will walk early (as her brother did) but I am not worried about her talking.
I'm gearing up to get details done for her first birthday party - coming in just over a month. I am counting down for multiple reasons (yes, one of them is so I can drink again) but am still blown away by the fact that it has been nearly a year since she was born. The past year has flown by.
On a related (but completely separate) topic... we finally dumped photos from the camera and have some videos that are old to share. So, now that it's nearly June I can post photos from Ken & Kieran's trip to Disney... from last August. Yes, we are that family. Deal with it.
Love to all, blog again sometime.
Friday, April 27, 2012
Failing and Redemption
This week has been insane - and not in a good way.
Kieran had a horrible start to the week. After a few solid months of improving behavior, we hit a huge backslide when Kieran began hitting his classmates on Monday. It continued Tuesday. Wednesday, I got a call from the assistant principal - he was not allowed to go to the field trip Thursday and they recommended we create a 'task force' style approach to getting him out of this behavior. Basically, have him see the school psychologist.
I HATED the school psychologist growing up. Was sent there after some creative writing assignments upset the teacher (hey, I was an imaginative kid) and I never understood it and didn't like the person. The idea of sending Kieran to that gives me a lump in my throat, but I don't know what more we can do.
We've talked with him about the golden rule - treat people the way you wanted to be treated. Ask him things like "would you like it if so-and-so hit you?" and the answer is always "no". Then is it OK that you hit? "No"
But he keeps doing it.
According to the teacher he's the only one in the class who is hitting. She's worried that one day someone will hit him back (hard). She and I are starting to believe it may be the only thing that breaks through. We take away toys. We take away privileges. We make him write lines. We banish him to his room until dinner and then straight to bed after. Nothing seems to faze him.
Wednesday night I sat with him after Ken had an even worse day (car hit, ran out of gas, etc) and asked why he was hitting his classmates.
"I want them to look at me and laugh at me."
"You want their attention?" I ask
"Yes."
Hmmm. OK, at least we're getting somewhere. We talk about ways to gain friends and that hitting people is doing the opposite of his intention (make friends).
Thursday he sits with the Kindergarten class. He LOVES it. He learns new things, is very energized and had a WONDERFUL day behavior-wise. This goes back to Ken's theory which is that Kieran has been bored this past year. Unfortunately, I did not feel comfortable asking him to get moved up because I did not believe (and rightly so, given his behavior) that he was socially ready for the next grade up. Perhaps one day he may skip a grade, perhaps not. But at least we had a turnaround. And, I am hopeful, that we'll have more improvement as Ken & I work harder to give Kieran some weekend playdates, more time with his friends outside of school, and more time with us that isn't 100% focused on the baby. So glad the story ended on a better note. Fingers crossed he had a good day today as well.
Kieran had a horrible start to the week. After a few solid months of improving behavior, we hit a huge backslide when Kieran began hitting his classmates on Monday. It continued Tuesday. Wednesday, I got a call from the assistant principal - he was not allowed to go to the field trip Thursday and they recommended we create a 'task force' style approach to getting him out of this behavior. Basically, have him see the school psychologist.
I HATED the school psychologist growing up. Was sent there after some creative writing assignments upset the teacher (hey, I was an imaginative kid) and I never understood it and didn't like the person. The idea of sending Kieran to that gives me a lump in my throat, but I don't know what more we can do.
We've talked with him about the golden rule - treat people the way you wanted to be treated. Ask him things like "would you like it if so-and-so hit you?" and the answer is always "no". Then is it OK that you hit? "No"
But he keeps doing it.
According to the teacher he's the only one in the class who is hitting. She's worried that one day someone will hit him back (hard). She and I are starting to believe it may be the only thing that breaks through. We take away toys. We take away privileges. We make him write lines. We banish him to his room until dinner and then straight to bed after. Nothing seems to faze him.
Wednesday night I sat with him after Ken had an even worse day (car hit, ran out of gas, etc) and asked why he was hitting his classmates.
"I want them to look at me and laugh at me."
"You want their attention?" I ask
"Yes."
Hmmm. OK, at least we're getting somewhere. We talk about ways to gain friends and that hitting people is doing the opposite of his intention (make friends).
Thursday he sits with the Kindergarten class. He LOVES it. He learns new things, is very energized and had a WONDERFUL day behavior-wise. This goes back to Ken's theory which is that Kieran has been bored this past year. Unfortunately, I did not feel comfortable asking him to get moved up because I did not believe (and rightly so, given his behavior) that he was socially ready for the next grade up. Perhaps one day he may skip a grade, perhaps not. But at least we had a turnaround. And, I am hopeful, that we'll have more improvement as Ken & I work harder to give Kieran some weekend playdates, more time with his friends outside of school, and more time with us that isn't 100% focused on the baby. So glad the story ended on a better note. Fingers crossed he had a good day today as well.
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Mommy Brain
Quick one for you. Though Amelia is doing better this week than she has for the past few weeks (last night she was up only once, at midnight, and slept until 6 AM) I am having trouble with keeping my mind where it needs to be.
Case in point - this morning. Ken took Amelia to daycare, so I was with Kieran, getting him ready for school. I'm frantically packing his lunch, packing my bags, generally getting us ready. I look up at the clock and it's time to go.
We walk to school talking about what makes fog, the caterpillars in his classroom, etc. We get to the street next to his school and there is no crossing guard. I look around - there are no other kids in uniform out. Starting to worry that school is somehow closed (maybe their A/C is out?) and I didn't get the message, we keep walking. Then I stop short - it's not 7:30, but 7 AM. I look at Kieran and tell him my mistake.
Then we head home laughing about Mommy's mix-up.
We get home, I get a cup of coffee and 20 minutes to relax. Kieran gets a 2nd cereal bar. When I tell him its time to go he looks at me and asks "Mommy - are you sure?"
I smile and say "Yes" but secretly check the clock on the wall to verify.
Case in point - this morning. Ken took Amelia to daycare, so I was with Kieran, getting him ready for school. I'm frantically packing his lunch, packing my bags, generally getting us ready. I look up at the clock and it's time to go.
We walk to school talking about what makes fog, the caterpillars in his classroom, etc. We get to the street next to his school and there is no crossing guard. I look around - there are no other kids in uniform out. Starting to worry that school is somehow closed (maybe their A/C is out?) and I didn't get the message, we keep walking. Then I stop short - it's not 7:30, but 7 AM. I look at Kieran and tell him my mistake.
Then we head home laughing about Mommy's mix-up.
We get home, I get a cup of coffee and 20 minutes to relax. Kieran gets a 2nd cereal bar. When I tell him its time to go he looks at me and asks "Mommy - are you sure?"
I smile and say "Yes" but secretly check the clock on the wall to verify.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
If I Could, I Would
If I could change Mia's sleep habits, I would. If I could make it rain money, I would. If I could remember to clean my glasses each day, I would. Same goes for blogging. So, here's what we've been up to...
Amelia is doing better with nighttime (at least the past 2 nights she did) but I'm not ready to call it just yet (given that the previous 2 weeks she was up at least twice each night). Ken believes if we get her upstairs earlier she may sleep better. Kieran had a 7 PM bedtime when he was little, Mia's been working on a 7:30 or 8PM bedtime. Last two nights we put her to bed earlier and it's been better - she even slept from 7:30 until 6 this morning. So, we'll see how we can work that. It'll be hard, but it's not impossible.
She continues to grow rapidly. She's pulling up and cruising along the furniture (and people). She likes to hug and smile and play peek-a-boo. She adores her big brother.
Big brother's reading is coming along so well that he now reads one book to himself most nights after we go downstairs. It effectively makes his bedtime a little bit later (8:15 or as late as 8:30) but he's very very good about turning off his light and not trying to milk the opportunity.
Kieran started his baseball season this past Saturday and had another game Monday night. The big difference this year is that he's doing coach-pitch (not t-ball). He hit 3 pitches at Monday's game and even though he's the littlest one on his team, he still hits better than half the kids. Maybe that's just my mom-goggles, but I swear it's true.
The funniest Kieran story lately is from his game Monday. Last inning of the game and Kieran was 2nd to last to hit. When the last batter hits, all players on base run home and then the game is over. I see the first base coach lean in to Kieran to tell him to watch the batter and when he hits the ball, run around the bases.
The batter hits and Kieran takes off. He rounds second, third and goes all the way home, only to see the batter still standing there. It was a foul ball - so Kieran is directed back to first base to wait for a real hit. As he runs back to his base I hear him yell "Yay! I get to do it all again!"
Amelia is doing better with nighttime (at least the past 2 nights she did) but I'm not ready to call it just yet (given that the previous 2 weeks she was up at least twice each night). Ken believes if we get her upstairs earlier she may sleep better. Kieran had a 7 PM bedtime when he was little, Mia's been working on a 7:30 or 8PM bedtime. Last two nights we put her to bed earlier and it's been better - she even slept from 7:30 until 6 this morning. So, we'll see how we can work that. It'll be hard, but it's not impossible.
She continues to grow rapidly. She's pulling up and cruising along the furniture (and people). She likes to hug and smile and play peek-a-boo. She adores her big brother.
Big brother's reading is coming along so well that he now reads one book to himself most nights after we go downstairs. It effectively makes his bedtime a little bit later (8:15 or as late as 8:30) but he's very very good about turning off his light and not trying to milk the opportunity.
Kieran started his baseball season this past Saturday and had another game Monday night. The big difference this year is that he's doing coach-pitch (not t-ball). He hit 3 pitches at Monday's game and even though he's the littlest one on his team, he still hits better than half the kids. Maybe that's just my mom-goggles, but I swear it's true.
The funniest Kieran story lately is from his game Monday. Last inning of the game and Kieran was 2nd to last to hit. When the last batter hits, all players on base run home and then the game is over. I see the first base coach lean in to Kieran to tell him to watch the batter and when he hits the ball, run around the bases.
The batter hits and Kieran takes off. He rounds second, third and goes all the way home, only to see the batter still standing there. It was a foul ball - so Kieran is directed back to first base to wait for a real hit. As he runs back to his base I hear him yell "Yay! I get to do it all again!"
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Amelia, by the Numbers
I cannot believe she's 9 months old already. OK, what I really can't believe is that she's 9 months old and only slept through the night 2-3 times. UGH.
But, enough of that - here's her stats:
26 3/4 inches tall
15 0.8 oz.
16.25 head circumference
She's finally on the chart for head circumference (3rd percentile) and is 5th percentile for everything else. She's tiny, but mighty. She's on track for all her developmental milestones.
No shots this time, but they did a finger prick test for iron and she's a little low (they want 11, she was 9.75 or some such). Not a big deal, but she is already constipated and taking iron will not help that. We have to lay off the bananas, increase her prune intake and see if she'll start drinking water (she is not a fan of juice) to try and alleviate the issue. She's pooping once a day but they are hard as rocks.
Anyway - all in all we're doing OK. Kieran has overcome his bout with pinkeye, Amelia no longer has thrush and I am clearing up the yeast infection that Mia gave me (thanks, baby girl). Ken is finally back to exercising after breaking his ribs though they still seem to pain him a bit. Been a bad year for us medical-wise. I'm hoping that turns around.
Doctor wants me to try and transition Amelia to a lovey to see if that will help her start sleeping through the night. I'm hopeful and will try it all. Most nights she's only up once, but lately she's been up a few times. I think she may be teething, but she's so even-keeled during her awake time it's hard to tell (Kieran was heck on wheels all the time when teething).
We're just about ready to sign Kieran up for his summer camp - Karate and swimming. He's very excited. I'll be happy that both kids will be near the office and I won't have to do the crazy running around to pick them both up on nights when Ken works late (or is away at a conference). That's enough for now - I promise more stories of kids later.
Love to all, blog again sometime.
But, enough of that - here's her stats:
26 3/4 inches tall
15 0.8 oz.
16.25 head circumference
She's finally on the chart for head circumference (3rd percentile) and is 5th percentile for everything else. She's tiny, but mighty. She's on track for all her developmental milestones.
No shots this time, but they did a finger prick test for iron and she's a little low (they want 11, she was 9.75 or some such). Not a big deal, but she is already constipated and taking iron will not help that. We have to lay off the bananas, increase her prune intake and see if she'll start drinking water (she is not a fan of juice) to try and alleviate the issue. She's pooping once a day but they are hard as rocks.
Anyway - all in all we're doing OK. Kieran has overcome his bout with pinkeye, Amelia no longer has thrush and I am clearing up the yeast infection that Mia gave me (thanks, baby girl). Ken is finally back to exercising after breaking his ribs though they still seem to pain him a bit. Been a bad year for us medical-wise. I'm hoping that turns around.
Doctor wants me to try and transition Amelia to a lovey to see if that will help her start sleeping through the night. I'm hopeful and will try it all. Most nights she's only up once, but lately she's been up a few times. I think she may be teething, but she's so even-keeled during her awake time it's hard to tell (Kieran was heck on wheels all the time when teething).
We're just about ready to sign Kieran up for his summer camp - Karate and swimming. He's very excited. I'll be happy that both kids will be near the office and I won't have to do the crazy running around to pick them both up on nights when Ken works late (or is away at a conference). That's enough for now - I promise more stories of kids later.
Love to all, blog again sometime.
Monday, March 12, 2012
Sleep is NOT Overrated
I don't think I can stress that enough. A good night's sleep is everything. Unfortunately, Amelia seems to think that I can get by without it. She is wrong. Oh, so wrong.
I'm not sure if it was just because she's congested (Kieran, Amelia and I are all coming down with this cold at the same time), she had a strange day (napped late, Becca party and watching people at the aquarium), or just because she wants to eff with me. Whatever the reason, she didn't fall asleep until 9 PM last night, then was up multiple times. So many times that I really don't remember. My brain is fuzzy today and I am sucking down the coffee to keep my brain afloat.
Kieran, on the other hand, managed to do much better this weekend than he has in awhile. After threatening to keep him home from the birthday fun on Sunday unless he got his act together, Kieran listened well and followed directions all day Saturday (and Sunday too). As a reward I showed him the new Despicable Me 2 trailer on YouTube last night. He and I have now watched it about 5 times and still giggle each time we see it.
Unfortunately, when I dropped him off this morning he was already starting in with his need to entertain. He was singing the "let's get together and kill Barney" song as he walked in the door today. I reprimanded him and the teacher also indicated she was very tired of that particular tune. Still hoping he'll have a good day... we'll see.
I'm not sure if it was just because she's congested (Kieran, Amelia and I are all coming down with this cold at the same time), she had a strange day (napped late, Becca party and watching people at the aquarium), or just because she wants to eff with me. Whatever the reason, she didn't fall asleep until 9 PM last night, then was up multiple times. So many times that I really don't remember. My brain is fuzzy today and I am sucking down the coffee to keep my brain afloat.
Kieran, on the other hand, managed to do much better this weekend than he has in awhile. After threatening to keep him home from the birthday fun on Sunday unless he got his act together, Kieran listened well and followed directions all day Saturday (and Sunday too). As a reward I showed him the new Despicable Me 2 trailer on YouTube last night. He and I have now watched it about 5 times and still giggle each time we see it.
Unfortunately, when I dropped him off this morning he was already starting in with his need to entertain. He was singing the "let's get together and kill Barney" song as he walked in the door today. I reprimanded him and the teacher also indicated she was very tired of that particular tune. Still hoping he'll have a good day... we'll see.
Monday, March 05, 2012
Guess What?
This is Kieran's new favorite catch phrase. He will start a story this way and then for each sentence he'll end with "... and guess what?" I think he just wants to be sure we're paying attention.
He told us that "you kiss people you love, and you only kiss if you're married". Then he proceeded to tell us that he was going to marry Gracie (friend at school). When asked about it, he confessed that Gracie told him they would be married. Later, I wanted to know if he wanted to marry Gracie. He said "I will." I reiterated that I knew he said he would marry her but I wanted to know if he wanted to marry her. He smiled and said again that he would marry her.
Ken said he's not telling Gracie's dad any of this.
He told us that "you kiss people you love, and you only kiss if you're married". Then he proceeded to tell us that he was going to marry Gracie (friend at school). When asked about it, he confessed that Gracie told him they would be married. Later, I wanted to know if he wanted to marry Gracie. He said "I will." I reiterated that I knew he said he would marry her but I wanted to know if he wanted to marry her. He smiled and said again that he would marry her.
Ken said he's not telling Gracie's dad any of this.
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Maybe Next Time
Amelia turned 8 months old yesterday. To celebrate, she woke up only once last night. I promise not to get used to it.
Kieran has not been doing well at school. He's had many days on red (parent note) and yesterday his aftercare program basically asked us to try to not bring him in today (though given the short notice, they understood that it was not an option). Ken & I agree that what he wants is to not be in aftercare but to have some time with me and/or Ken one-on-one so to take him out of the afterschool program is rewarding him for bad behavior. But it's definitely bad when you're asked to have your kid take a day to 'think about things'.
Last night was even worse. I made Kieran write lines (I will not be bad. I will listen.), no TV, lost a toy, no dessert and no vitamins (gummy kind so they are a treat). And I made a dinner I knew was not tops on his list. During dinner he was playing and I asked him to stop (repeatedly) this goes on most dinnertimes and is very frustrating. Ken told him that if he could not stop playing he could just take his butt upstairs. To which Kieran replied "You've got a big butt." (later he confessed he thought Ken said that he could take his big butt upstairs) At which point he was sent directly to bed. Do not pass go, do not get any bedtime stories. One hour early. It's the harshest we've been on him. I hope that he got the message. I'm tired of being parent to the child who is constantly in trouble.
The flip side of this is that all the teachers agree that he can be a sweet, loving child. That he is forthright and honest about his errors, but he is also defiant when he has made up his mind. I am really hoping for a good report on today.
In other news, Amelia has begun to pull up on things at school. Which means we really need to lower her crib this weekend. And I have to buy a step so I can reach her once it's lowered. Yes, I really am that short.
Love to all, blog again soon.
Kieran has not been doing well at school. He's had many days on red (parent note) and yesterday his aftercare program basically asked us to try to not bring him in today (though given the short notice, they understood that it was not an option). Ken & I agree that what he wants is to not be in aftercare but to have some time with me and/or Ken one-on-one so to take him out of the afterschool program is rewarding him for bad behavior. But it's definitely bad when you're asked to have your kid take a day to 'think about things'.
Last night was even worse. I made Kieran write lines (I will not be bad. I will listen.), no TV, lost a toy, no dessert and no vitamins (gummy kind so they are a treat). And I made a dinner I knew was not tops on his list. During dinner he was playing and I asked him to stop (repeatedly) this goes on most dinnertimes and is very frustrating. Ken told him that if he could not stop playing he could just take his butt upstairs. To which Kieran replied "You've got a big butt." (later he confessed he thought Ken said that he could take his big butt upstairs) At which point he was sent directly to bed. Do not pass go, do not get any bedtime stories. One hour early. It's the harshest we've been on him. I hope that he got the message. I'm tired of being parent to the child who is constantly in trouble.
The flip side of this is that all the teachers agree that he can be a sweet, loving child. That he is forthright and honest about his errors, but he is also defiant when he has made up his mind. I am really hoping for a good report on today.
In other news, Amelia has begun to pull up on things at school. Which means we really need to lower her crib this weekend. And I have to buy a step so I can reach her once it's lowered. Yes, I really am that short.
Love to all, blog again soon.
Friday, February 24, 2012
Bedtime and Other Tales of Woe
I'm ready for Amelia to have a better bedtime routine. Kieran had this whole sleeping thing down at 8 weeks old. She's nearly 8 months and we're still struggling. Blech.
She goes down without fuss. It's staying down that seems to be an issue. 8 PM is bedtime. She's usually in her crib no later than 8:30, back up around 10:30. And at 1:30 and sometimes again at 3:30. Every now and again she'll throw me a curve ball and sleep from 8:30 until 3:30 or from 10:30 until 5 or 6 AM. I just want some consistency (and more sleep).
Poor Kieran is desperate for a little one-on-one time with me and Ken. Ken fell down our stairs at the beginning of the month and likely broke some ribs. He was laid up for about 2 weeks and then had to make up work for the next two weeks, which meant Kieran was stuck with me and Amelia and no "just him" time, unless you count him going to his room by himself.
I think this has led to his very bad days at school lately (on red, orange and yellow a lot). Hoping we can turn this trend around now that we recognize what may be the cause of it.
Not much else to say but that I recognize I haven't blogged in awhile. I got swamped at work, Ken was sick so I didn't have time at home either. Will try to be better, that's all I can promise.
She goes down without fuss. It's staying down that seems to be an issue. 8 PM is bedtime. She's usually in her crib no later than 8:30, back up around 10:30. And at 1:30 and sometimes again at 3:30. Every now and again she'll throw me a curve ball and sleep from 8:30 until 3:30 or from 10:30 until 5 or 6 AM. I just want some consistency (and more sleep).
Poor Kieran is desperate for a little one-on-one time with me and Ken. Ken fell down our stairs at the beginning of the month and likely broke some ribs. He was laid up for about 2 weeks and then had to make up work for the next two weeks, which meant Kieran was stuck with me and Amelia and no "just him" time, unless you count him going to his room by himself.
I think this has led to his very bad days at school lately (on red, orange and yellow a lot). Hoping we can turn this trend around now that we recognize what may be the cause of it.
Not much else to say but that I recognize I haven't blogged in awhile. I got swamped at work, Ken was sick so I didn't have time at home either. Will try to be better, that's all I can promise.
Thursday, February 02, 2012
What's New
Amelia is crawling (well, still combat crawling) and starting to get into a lot. Kieran still dotes on her but every now and again I see an inkling of the future when Kieran states "Stop touching me, Amelia!" or "EWWWW! Baby slobber!" I knew the ever-loving big brother couldn't last forever. *sigh*
We did end up getting a new cat. The original idea was that Reggie might be lonely now that Ochi is gone so we were going to adopt a cat from a friend. Anyway, that fell through we asked our new vet where they would suggest we go to adopt a cat. They sent us to a little old lady who had just brought in a stray and was looking for a new home.
Welcome Callie - the little calico cat. She and Reggie have been feeling each other out, though they're not best buds yet, I expect they will be within a month or so. Kieran is desperately trying to get her to accept his love (including hugs), but she's a bit leery. She's adjusting to her new home very well (using the litterbox - Hooray!) and does come upstairs at night to sleep on my feet. Shhh. Don't tell Kieran.
Amelia is not doing great in the sleeping through the night thing. Some nights she is up so many times I actually lose count. Other times she is up only once or twice. I'm hoping this is a phase but if it persists later this month we may have to do some crying-it-out (probably both of us). We'll see. She doesn't do self-soothing very well (which is bad) but can settle down with minimal help but it has to be the exact right timing.
So far she loves all food and we have not had any allergic reactions (knock wood). She's into the 2nd stage foods and once she can sit up a bit better I hope to start her on some real solids - things she can feed herself. We get this forlorn look from her each time we eat in front of her.
That's about it. Work has been crazy for me and Ken. I barely see him as by the time we're done with the kids each night we have about a half hour left in us to decompress before we clean up/pack lunches/head to bed. Maybe we'll get that babysitter soon and get the heck out of the house.
OK, Got to get back to it. Love to all, blog again soon. Happy Groundhog Day.
We did end up getting a new cat. The original idea was that Reggie might be lonely now that Ochi is gone so we were going to adopt a cat from a friend. Anyway, that fell through we asked our new vet where they would suggest we go to adopt a cat. They sent us to a little old lady who had just brought in a stray and was looking for a new home.
Welcome Callie - the little calico cat. She and Reggie have been feeling each other out, though they're not best buds yet, I expect they will be within a month or so. Kieran is desperately trying to get her to accept his love (including hugs), but she's a bit leery. She's adjusting to her new home very well (using the litterbox - Hooray!) and does come upstairs at night to sleep on my feet. Shhh. Don't tell Kieran.
Amelia is not doing great in the sleeping through the night thing. Some nights she is up so many times I actually lose count. Other times she is up only once or twice. I'm hoping this is a phase but if it persists later this month we may have to do some crying-it-out (probably both of us). We'll see. She doesn't do self-soothing very well (which is bad) but can settle down with minimal help but it has to be the exact right timing.
So far she loves all food and we have not had any allergic reactions (knock wood). She's into the 2nd stage foods and once she can sit up a bit better I hope to start her on some real solids - things she can feed herself. We get this forlorn look from her each time we eat in front of her.
That's about it. Work has been crazy for me and Ken. I barely see him as by the time we're done with the kids each night we have about a half hour left in us to decompress before we clean up/pack lunches/head to bed. Maybe we'll get that babysitter soon and get the heck out of the house.
OK, Got to get back to it. Love to all, blog again soon. Happy Groundhog Day.
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Combat Crawl
It's been a bit rough for us these past few weeks. We all got colds, we lost Ochi, we've been crazy busy. In a way, it's been good. It's nice to know we're liked enough to get invited places, but I could use a break. Of course, the last time I said that I ended up bringing a cold home. Nevermind, I'll take the craziness.
What's been new? Kieran is getting curious about his body and starting to talk about things that are "girl things" versus "boy things". Like colors. He used to say that pink and purple were his favorite colors. He wanted to decorate his room in sparkly pink and purple anything. We resisted this because we knew what was coming. We diverted him to let him put sparkly things on Amelia's walls that were pink and purple (I just didn't want to make more work for us having to take down anything we put up). Sure enough, he's declared these colors "girl colors". I asked him if he still liked the colors. He said yes, but reiterated the 'girl colors' comment. Kids.
For his body questions, we got him a book from the library that talks about the body and how it's changing. That certain parts are private and what they do. He's also very into building muscles. Ken once explained that he rips his muscles to build them up. Now every night Kieran tells me he's ripping up his muscles to grow big and strong.
Amelia has begun eating solid food (and by solid, I refer to the pureed baby food). So far she's liked everything, fruit is, of course, preferred. She has also begun the 'combat crawl'. She moves along the floor using her arms and legs but instead of picking her belly up, she leaves it down. Slithering more like a snake. It's very funny. It also means we have to vacuum more often. And sweep. And clean. Which we haven't.*sigh*
She's still not sleeping through the night. She gets up about once and goes right back down, so I'm not complaining. Next week we'll do a weight check update and Kieran will have his yearly exam. At that appointment I'll find out if we can move Kieran to a booster seat (I think the answer will be yes). That'll be pretty cool.
This weekend we are holding our first 'big boy birthday' party. Most of Kieran's previous parties have been at daycare, at a relative's house or a bowling alley with family. We're going to Chuck E Cheese on Sunday and have 11 kids and 15 adults. I'm prepping my ears for the noise.
Finally, Ken opened the door and now we have to go through it. The day that Ochi passed away, a friend of ours was reaching out trying to find a new home for her cat. It seems her newborn has allergies and the current home the cats were not getting along. Ken told Kieran we'd get a new cat. Well, now the cats are getting along and we have to go searching for another cat. Because Kieran is very set on having two. Hopefully Reggie will forgive us.
OK, better get back to it. Love to all, blog again soon.
What's been new? Kieran is getting curious about his body and starting to talk about things that are "girl things" versus "boy things". Like colors. He used to say that pink and purple were his favorite colors. He wanted to decorate his room in sparkly pink and purple anything. We resisted this because we knew what was coming. We diverted him to let him put sparkly things on Amelia's walls that were pink and purple (I just didn't want to make more work for us having to take down anything we put up). Sure enough, he's declared these colors "girl colors". I asked him if he still liked the colors. He said yes, but reiterated the 'girl colors' comment. Kids.
For his body questions, we got him a book from the library that talks about the body and how it's changing. That certain parts are private and what they do. He's also very into building muscles. Ken once explained that he rips his muscles to build them up. Now every night Kieran tells me he's ripping up his muscles to grow big and strong.
Amelia has begun eating solid food (and by solid, I refer to the pureed baby food). So far she's liked everything, fruit is, of course, preferred. She has also begun the 'combat crawl'. She moves along the floor using her arms and legs but instead of picking her belly up, she leaves it down. Slithering more like a snake. It's very funny. It also means we have to vacuum more often. And sweep. And clean. Which we haven't.*sigh*
She's still not sleeping through the night. She gets up about once and goes right back down, so I'm not complaining. Next week we'll do a weight check update and Kieran will have his yearly exam. At that appointment I'll find out if we can move Kieran to a booster seat (I think the answer will be yes). That'll be pretty cool.
This weekend we are holding our first 'big boy birthday' party. Most of Kieran's previous parties have been at daycare, at a relative's house or a bowling alley with family. We're going to Chuck E Cheese on Sunday and have 11 kids and 15 adults. I'm prepping my ears for the noise.
Finally, Ken opened the door and now we have to go through it. The day that Ochi passed away, a friend of ours was reaching out trying to find a new home for her cat. It seems her newborn has allergies and the current home the cats were not getting along. Ken told Kieran we'd get a new cat. Well, now the cats are getting along and we have to go searching for another cat. Because Kieran is very set on having two. Hopefully Reggie will forgive us.
OK, better get back to it. Love to all, blog again soon.
Monday, January 09, 2012
Farewell Ochi
For those that don't know, Ken had a plan after we got together (all those eons ago). First, we would get some plants. If we could keep the plants alive, we would get a cat. I have a black thumb and was never able to keep a plant alive for more than a few months. But, I'm a big cat person, so I didn't think it would be horrible to get a cat even though we flunked the plant test.
If we could keep the cat alive, we would get a dog. Well, we started out with just one cat, Milo. Milo ate a penny and somehow after paying for his surgery and hospital stay, we were crazy enough to adopt a second cat, Neci. The two were friends until we got a third cat, Tucker. Tucker thought he was a dog, and was very disappointed in his two housemates.
After we had kept the cats several years and bought a house, we got the dog. The plan was if we could keep the dog alive, we would talk kids.
Ochi joined us in September of 2000. He was a great dog and Tucker (the doglike cat) was very excited to have him around. Until he got bigger, then Tucker was no longer a fan. Ochi made me believe that not all dogs are slobbering, barky, annoying animals. He was always there to snuggle (especially if there were fireworks or a big thunderstorm), provide extra warmth on your feet (even if you didn't really want him to), and adapted very well to not only moving into the city but being a family dog (at age 6).
He doted on Kieran as a baby - did the whole protective dog thing. LOVED it when Kieran started to eat solid food (I don't know how I'm going to keep a floor clean without a dog around), and was doing it all over again with Amelia.
It's sad to know that Amelia will not remember Ochi. That Kieran's memories of him may fade. That we will no longer have his gentle warmth each night.
He could be a pain in the butt, but he was OUR pain in the butt. And we loved him.
If we could keep the cat alive, we would get a dog. Well, we started out with just one cat, Milo. Milo ate a penny and somehow after paying for his surgery and hospital stay, we were crazy enough to adopt a second cat, Neci. The two were friends until we got a third cat, Tucker. Tucker thought he was a dog, and was very disappointed in his two housemates.
After we had kept the cats several years and bought a house, we got the dog. The plan was if we could keep the dog alive, we would talk kids.
Ochi joined us in September of 2000. He was a great dog and Tucker (the doglike cat) was very excited to have him around. Until he got bigger, then Tucker was no longer a fan. Ochi made me believe that not all dogs are slobbering, barky, annoying animals. He was always there to snuggle (especially if there were fireworks or a big thunderstorm), provide extra warmth on your feet (even if you didn't really want him to), and adapted very well to not only moving into the city but being a family dog (at age 6).
He doted on Kieran as a baby - did the whole protective dog thing. LOVED it when Kieran started to eat solid food (I don't know how I'm going to keep a floor clean without a dog around), and was doing it all over again with Amelia.
It's sad to know that Amelia will not remember Ochi. That Kieran's memories of him may fade. That we will no longer have his gentle warmth each night.
He could be a pain in the butt, but he was OUR pain in the butt. And we loved him.
Saturday, January 07, 2012
The Attack of the Cold
So, I've sucked a lot at keeping up the blog since Amelia has been born. Sorry about that, but hey, I've got a baby at home! I took a trip in mid-December and came home with a cold. Which I promptly gave to Mia. Who gave it to Ken. Who, thankfully, waited until I got better before he succumbed.
Christmas and New Years passed in a blur of being sick and taking care of sickies. Kieran got Skylanders and that has become (along with legos) his new obsession. Mia got some new toys but she's still learning how to grab, so she'll play with them later.
Not much else to tell, since we're just slogging to the surface of feeling better. Unfortunately, Ochi is now sick. Very sick. We're not sure what will happen and it's really upsetting. He's been a great dog and we've not given him the attention he's deserved. I'm hoping he'll pull past this but the vet told Ken to prep for the worst. Not a good sign.
Anyway, just wanted to blog and say we're still here and I promise to get a bit better about posting more frequently in the coming year.
Christmas and New Years passed in a blur of being sick and taking care of sickies. Kieran got Skylanders and that has become (along with legos) his new obsession. Mia got some new toys but she's still learning how to grab, so she'll play with them later.
Not much else to tell, since we're just slogging to the surface of feeling better. Unfortunately, Ochi is now sick. Very sick. We're not sure what will happen and it's really upsetting. He's been a great dog and we've not given him the attention he's deserved. I'm hoping he'll pull past this but the vet told Ken to prep for the worst. Not a good sign.
Anyway, just wanted to blog and say we're still here and I promise to get a bit better about posting more frequently in the coming year.
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