I haven't journalled much of this pregnancy. I guess the idea is the less I count the days the faster they will go and the sooner I will be out of this yucky stage. The days have been long. I am exhausted all the time and generally nauseated. But I have not thrown up. I just have to eat constantly whether I feel like it or not and that keeps the major sick feelings at bay. I hope that by next week it will start to fade.
I am definitely gaining weight (whether water, bloating or otherwise!) my belly is getting chubby less where the baby is growing than I think where the food is going. Mira's pediatrician suggested weighing myself on an accurate scale once a week to be sure that I continue to gain consistently since there are 3 of us relying on my body right now! So rather than invest in an expensive scale I think I will just see if my primary care physician will let me us his once a week.
I tried a new endocrinologist this past week. My thyroid numbers are high right now but she changed my medication to bring them down. She seems like a good fit so far and I like that she doesn't need me to come in to the office just to review bloodwork, the office is in town (not 30 min away) and she seemed to hear what I was saying & asking. So hopefully this will go well.
So, we are in the third month and almost to the end of the first trimester. I am looking forward to the fun parts of pregnancy: growing belly, feeling great and duh the BABY in the end. I have to remind myself that there really isn't anything we need to be doing right now. We don't need clothes or a room or any baby things this time around so it is just 'business as usual' for a while. Oh and by the way I am pretty sure I have felt a 'flutter' or two :-)
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Monday, January 26, 2009
Sleep Happens
Last night Mira slept from 7:30pm-5:00 am without waking up! I of course was up all night worried that she wasn't waking up but I really could get used to this! I hope it is a trend. I've been waiting for her to start sleeping through the night.
Joshua seems to be doing well with 'Love and Logic' and so are we. I think he likes having choices and realizes that things happen because of his actions. It has been a learning experience for all of us but I believe we are on to something here. Certainly, I am in a better mood at the end of the day and that makes everyone happier!!
Joshua seems to be doing well with 'Love and Logic' and so are we. I think he likes having choices and realizes that things happen because of his actions. It has been a learning experience for all of us but I believe we are on to something here. Certainly, I am in a better mood at the end of the day and that makes everyone happier!!
Friday, January 23, 2009
Updates
The kids have been sick with cough, cold and pink eye issues for the past week or so. I tried to avoid it but I am not doing such a great job. I hope it passes soon! The nights are long when Mira cannot breath through her nose and wakes up very frustrated and hurting.
We have been working with Joshua using a book called, "Love and Logic". You can see more on the website, loveandlogic.com (I think). Anyway, it is a whole new route for us. Nothing else was working for us to communicate with Joshua and this seemsto be working so far. It is not magic but the difference has been that at the end of the day I am not at my wits end as I have been in the past. He is learning that Mommy and Daddy mean business and that the ball is in his court to make good decisions so it is a win/win situation.
We are watching Mira to see her nursing habits. I plan to start weaning her around her first birthday and she has shown no signs that she wants to wean so this is going to be interested. She likes to nurse through the night the most. She nurses 1-3 times during the day but since she has been sick AND teething she has wanted to nurse more. It is hard. So once everyone is well I think we can start cutting back at least one nursing at night and then go from there.
Other news - looks like I will be putting another 'ticker' up on our page soon. We are expecting Baby Tres. The Dr's due date which is pretty fuzzy at best is August 19. Baby Tres was our New Year's surprise and we are anxiously looking forward to all the change and excitement he or she will bring.
We have been working with Joshua using a book called, "Love and Logic". You can see more on the website, loveandlogic.com (I think). Anyway, it is a whole new route for us. Nothing else was working for us to communicate with Joshua and this seemsto be working so far. It is not magic but the difference has been that at the end of the day I am not at my wits end as I have been in the past. He is learning that Mommy and Daddy mean business and that the ball is in his court to make good decisions so it is a win/win situation.
We are watching Mira to see her nursing habits. I plan to start weaning her around her first birthday and she has shown no signs that she wants to wean so this is going to be interested. She likes to nurse through the night the most. She nurses 1-3 times during the day but since she has been sick AND teething she has wanted to nurse more. It is hard. So once everyone is well I think we can start cutting back at least one nursing at night and then go from there.
Other news - looks like I will be putting another 'ticker' up on our page soon. We are expecting Baby Tres. The Dr's due date which is pretty fuzzy at best is August 19. Baby Tres was our New Year's surprise and we are anxiously looking forward to all the change and excitement he or she will bring.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
In a matter of minutes
Joshua stuck something up his nose and shocked himself. Do I get a nap now?
We were working on discipline and had him in a quiet time in his room. We were actually standing right outside the door and I had removed all the toys from his room but there was a googly eye sitting on his dresser and at some point in the quiet time he must of stuck it up his nose. When he was done in quiet time he came out saying, 'Can you get the eye out?' It didn't take much questioning to figure it out. Luckily, he had a snotty nose and was able to blow it out in a tissue.
Then, we went downstairs and he requested a 'donut' (a bagel) So we were busy toasting that. Jason had one, too and Mira needed a snack. Things were busy. Joshua asked about getting the bagel out with a knife and we said, no you do not use a knife to remove anything from the toaster. Then he asked if you use your fingers or your hands and we said, your fingers and then I turned my back and heard a metal thing drop and Joshua holler and cry. I found the little cheese spreader knife with a ceramic handle sitting on the ground next to chair placed in front of the toaster. The handle probably keep him from getting more hurt than he did. I think only one finger touched the metal of the knife and that is the finger he hurt. Although he did have an ache further up his arm a few minutes later.
And it is now that I am thankful that we live on a street with two paramedics.
We were working on discipline and had him in a quiet time in his room. We were actually standing right outside the door and I had removed all the toys from his room but there was a googly eye sitting on his dresser and at some point in the quiet time he must of stuck it up his nose. When he was done in quiet time he came out saying, 'Can you get the eye out?' It didn't take much questioning to figure it out. Luckily, he had a snotty nose and was able to blow it out in a tissue.
Then, we went downstairs and he requested a 'donut' (a bagel) So we were busy toasting that. Jason had one, too and Mira needed a snack. Things were busy. Joshua asked about getting the bagel out with a knife and we said, no you do not use a knife to remove anything from the toaster. Then he asked if you use your fingers or your hands and we said, your fingers and then I turned my back and heard a metal thing drop and Joshua holler and cry. I found the little cheese spreader knife with a ceramic handle sitting on the ground next to chair placed in front of the toaster. The handle probably keep him from getting more hurt than he did. I think only one finger touched the metal of the knife and that is the finger he hurt. Although he did have an ache further up his arm a few minutes later.
And it is now that I am thankful that we live on a street with two paramedics.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
New Tooth
I have been feeling like Mira has been teething but not seeing anything to confirm this and then this morning I looked and low and behold she had a new tooth! Her top right incisor came down. So now she has her two front bottom teeth and one incisor. Funny girl.
Friday, January 16, 2009
Mira is 11 mos old, Joshua to the dentist
Just one more month and Mira will be ONE! It is hard to believe that this year has gone by so quickly. She is so vibrant and happy and joyful. I am so happy that her sleep has done a 180! Now, we put her down to bed and she just drifts off holding on to teddy and listening to her sleep sheep. She is still waking up 2am, 4am and then 6:30am for the day and I can't figure that out but I am sure time will tell.
I think Mira has gained weight even since Christmas. Her increased sleep may have something to do with it. Her thighs are filling out and I can feel that she is heavier. She is up to about 20 pounds now.
Joshua went to the dentist again today. He got a clean bill of teeth and made some progress as far as talking to the hygienists. He still had a difficult time when it came to the exam but thankfully they just had the dentist look and not the dentist and the hygienist. He will go back in 6 mos and we can hope for more small steps.
School is also going well for Joshua and we are planning to sign him up again next year. The program then will be 3 days instead of 2 but since it is still only 2.5 hours I think this will be ok. We'll have to see how it goes.
I think Mira has gained weight even since Christmas. Her increased sleep may have something to do with it. Her thighs are filling out and I can feel that she is heavier. She is up to about 20 pounds now.
Joshua went to the dentist again today. He got a clean bill of teeth and made some progress as far as talking to the hygienists. He still had a difficult time when it came to the exam but thankfully they just had the dentist look and not the dentist and the hygienist. He will go back in 6 mos and we can hope for more small steps.
School is also going well for Joshua and we are planning to sign him up again next year. The program then will be 3 days instead of 2 but since it is still only 2.5 hours I think this will be ok. We'll have to see how it goes.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
I LOVE Target
Today Mira finally received the high chair she needed since she has been standing up in the portable high chair/booster we had her in. The new chair has a 5-point harness and is stand alone. Target had all their baby gear on sale half price so we got the chair for $35.
Then I couldn't pass up the sit and stand stroller they also had on sale. I've been looking at them and the price was right. We assembled everything and took the kids for a walk after lunch. Joshua loved the freedom of being able to sit forwards or backwards or stand. Mira loved being able to see everything and I loved that they were contained!
I picked up a number of other things, too. The sales were just great and I like to stock up on gifts for the nieces and nephews while I can get good bargains.
I also had a fantastic talk with Aunt Jacque today. She gave me a number of ideas to try with Joshua since discipline again has not been working. It has helped being home and back on our regular schedule but Jason and I have again been feeling like we are at our wit's end. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely adore my son. He says the funniest and sweetest things and can be VERY kind but he also has an intense personality and can be VERY difficult to manage in the next second.
We enjoyed dinner with Ron, Christine and the kids on Friday evening. Mira impressed them with her tricks, saying 'ow' when she bumped her head, meowing, saying 'uh-oh' when she dropped anything, smiling, running around the house and just being her cute self. Josh and Val enjoyed flying their new planes. Yana tried to stay out of Joshua's reach, the dogs played together, Jason and Ron chatted non stop and Christine and I of course enjoyed our time, too. We even had a surprise visit from Godfather in his new Lotus.
Then I couldn't pass up the sit and stand stroller they also had on sale. I've been looking at them and the price was right. We assembled everything and took the kids for a walk after lunch. Joshua loved the freedom of being able to sit forwards or backwards or stand. Mira loved being able to see everything and I loved that they were contained!
I picked up a number of other things, too. The sales were just great and I like to stock up on gifts for the nieces and nephews while I can get good bargains.
I also had a fantastic talk with Aunt Jacque today. She gave me a number of ideas to try with Joshua since discipline again has not been working. It has helped being home and back on our regular schedule but Jason and I have again been feeling like we are at our wit's end. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely adore my son. He says the funniest and sweetest things and can be VERY kind but he also has an intense personality and can be VERY difficult to manage in the next second.
We enjoyed dinner with Ron, Christine and the kids on Friday evening. Mira impressed them with her tricks, saying 'ow' when she bumped her head, meowing, saying 'uh-oh' when she dropped anything, smiling, running around the house and just being her cute self. Josh and Val enjoyed flying their new planes. Yana tried to stay out of Joshua's reach, the dogs played together, Jason and Ron chatted non stop and Christine and I of course enjoyed our time, too. We even had a surprise visit from Godfather in his new Lotus.
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
Insight
Joshua was talking about Godfather tonight at dinner. He said, "Did Godfather bring gifts for everyone? Is he good at giving gifts? Is he 'Santa'?"
The End of Christmas the beginning of a new year
We arrived home last evening after a long day of travel that started before the sun came up and ended after the sun went down. The kids did reasonably well but today will be the start of getting back on routine minus sugar and tv. I'm thinking the fruit snacks and juice box that Josh ate for breakfast yesterday may not be the breakfast of champions.
It is good to be home in spite of the empty fridge which will have to be corrected quickly. Mira is up with me now as I write this post and Joshua is sleeping in. Hopefully we will get a little nap in before he wakes up. I've got lack of nap yesterday and jet lag on my side.
Mira's vocabulary continues to expand and now includes 'no' which comes out more like 'doh' and 'meow', 'arf', 'ow' and 'uh-oh'. While getting ready to go yesterday morning (at 4:30 am) I asked Joshua if he was having a hard time keeping his eyes open. He said, 'No, I am having a hard time keeping my eyes closed!' He was so excited to ride the plane and fell asleep only moments before we touched down in Baltimore then start straight up with an excited, 'DID WE LAND!' Joshua is certainly a creature of routine and I am looking forward to getting him back on track to hopefully correct some of his crazy behavior. He was becoming quite unruly by the end of our trip with hitting, spitting, running around and just general no listening.
Alright, it is back to bed for Mira and me. Wish me luck!
It is good to be home in spite of the empty fridge which will have to be corrected quickly. Mira is up with me now as I write this post and Joshua is sleeping in. Hopefully we will get a little nap in before he wakes up. I've got lack of nap yesterday and jet lag on my side.
Mira's vocabulary continues to expand and now includes 'no' which comes out more like 'doh' and 'meow', 'arf', 'ow' and 'uh-oh'. While getting ready to go yesterday morning (at 4:30 am) I asked Joshua if he was having a hard time keeping his eyes open. He said, 'No, I am having a hard time keeping my eyes closed!' He was so excited to ride the plane and fell asleep only moments before we touched down in Baltimore then start straight up with an excited, 'DID WE LAND!' Joshua is certainly a creature of routine and I am looking forward to getting him back on track to hopefully correct some of his crazy behavior. He was becoming quite unruly by the end of our trip with hitting, spitting, running around and just general no listening.
Alright, it is back to bed for Mira and me. Wish me luck!
Friday, December 26, 2008
Merry Christmas!
We made our way out to California for Christmas this year but not before we had a wonderful Christmas celebration at home with my side of the family. We made special arrangements with Santa on Monday and he came early. Joshua wrote a note Monday night and left out cookies and milk. We were able to help him add manners but he really only wanted to say, 'Dear Santa, Bring me presents'. He was thrilled and really understood the Santa concept this year. So, Tuesday we had Christmas morning and Aunt Jill & Aunt Tara were in town to see the kids rip into their presents. Joshua got a 'rocket jet plane with a control and two wheels.' He remarked that Santa got it just right. Mira received a wooden shape sorter. Other gift highlights were LOTS of books, fleece pillow case and bath robe for Joshua, magnetic animal matching game for Mira.
Throughout the day more family arrived and we opened and shared more gifts until dinner time when the house was full. We had a wonderful ham dinner where everyone brought something and then the madness began. We had to clean up and finish packing for our trip.
Wednesday we left the house at 4:30 am for the airport. The roads were ice but there were no delays so we set out. Mira did better on the flight than I expected but still only slept 1 hour of the 6 hour trip. Joshua watched movies and played and also did well. But there was NO FOOD on the plane and by the time we got off Joshua was more tired and more hungry than we realized. He flipped out trying to get in the carseat and then proceeded to fall asleep. At the house, once we got some food and a nap/rest in him he was a whole different boy.
Thursday, we celebrated Christmas in California and Santa came AGAIN. Kirra and Mir both got doll houses and Joshua got a building table. Mira also received a music table and Joshua a scooter. They loved those presents and the MANY others they received. After our Christmas with Grandma and Papa we made our way to Aunt Donna's house for the BIG family Christmas. The party was chaos but the kids did great. Mira was exhausted and finally passed out. She slept through an amazing amount of noise. Joshua was asleep pretty much as soon as he hit the car seat.
Today was much more laid back. We relaxed, playing with the kids new toys and had a Christmas dinner here.
Mira has been having a language explosion. She now says, 'Papa, dog, arf, up, and star'. She knows 'nose and mouth' if you ask her to point to them. She is just loving having Kirra around again to play with as is Joshua. It is really cute to see them toddling around after each other. They are all playing very nicely together.
The children are in bed and I think I am going to relax as well. I uploaded photos from here but not from home yet. I will get to them... Tara :-D
Throughout the day more family arrived and we opened and shared more gifts until dinner time when the house was full. We had a wonderful ham dinner where everyone brought something and then the madness began. We had to clean up and finish packing for our trip.
Wednesday we left the house at 4:30 am for the airport. The roads were ice but there were no delays so we set out. Mira did better on the flight than I expected but still only slept 1 hour of the 6 hour trip. Joshua watched movies and played and also did well. But there was NO FOOD on the plane and by the time we got off Joshua was more tired and more hungry than we realized. He flipped out trying to get in the carseat and then proceeded to fall asleep. At the house, once we got some food and a nap/rest in him he was a whole different boy.
Thursday, we celebrated Christmas in California and Santa came AGAIN. Kirra and Mir both got doll houses and Joshua got a building table. Mira also received a music table and Joshua a scooter. They loved those presents and the MANY others they received. After our Christmas with Grandma and Papa we made our way to Aunt Donna's house for the BIG family Christmas. The party was chaos but the kids did great. Mira was exhausted and finally passed out. She slept through an amazing amount of noise. Joshua was asleep pretty much as soon as he hit the car seat.
Today was much more laid back. We relaxed, playing with the kids new toys and had a Christmas dinner here.
Mira has been having a language explosion. She now says, 'Papa, dog, arf, up, and star'. She knows 'nose and mouth' if you ask her to point to them. She is just loving having Kirra around again to play with as is Joshua. It is really cute to see them toddling around after each other. They are all playing very nicely together.
The children are in bed and I think I am going to relax as well. I uploaded photos from here but not from home yet. I will get to them... Tara :-D
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Almost Christmas
Every day (many times a day) Joshua asks, 'Is it Christmas?' or 'Are we to the big box yet?' (referring to the calendar with Christmas circled on it). To which I answer, 'This is Christmas Season but it is not yet Christmas Day' and 'No, we are not to the big box yet but we can count the days.' Joshua is so excited about Christmas this year. He has asked Santa for a "Rocket Jet Plan" and I think Santa will be delivering just what Joshua wants. He has successfully NOT opened the presents that are starting to accumulate under the tree and loves all the signing and crafts and other merriment that go along with the holiday. Tomorrow is his preschool party and we are making cookies. Memaw and Grandad will be watching baby girl so that I can give my full attention to Joshua.
We have had several breakthroughs in preschool recently. He has started singing and participating in circle time and I am ecstatic! He is still having a hard time sitting still and keeping his body parts to himself but I think it goes along with feeling more comfortable and opening up to his class. I think it will improve, we are working on it anyway. So it looks like he has come out from behind the bookcase.
Mira is an excellent walker now. She has started climbing as well. So now we have to be extra careful with the stairs. She has also had a sign language explosion and can use the words, 'more', 'all done', 'bye-bye', 'clap' and 'excitement' successfully. She has some more sounds and words as well including meow, arf and pat. She loves to jabber on while sitting in her high chair, car seat or while toddling around the room. She is a lot more emphatic about her needs too she will come to me if she is tired, hungry or wet and put her arms up to be picked up. She leans over if she wants to nurse. It is awesome to be able to interact with her in a more meaningful way.
We are working on getting Mira to sleep for naps and bed time. She still requires a lot of interaction but I guess it will come in time. She mostly goes down at 7:30 and wakes up between 2-4 then she is up for the day at 6. She has a nap in the morning that is short and one in the afternoon with Joshua that is longer. She reverted a bit food wise while she was sick but we are getting back on the wagon slowly now.
Lots going on for Christmas so I hope to post again soon but certainly after the festivities I will try and make a few comments about it all. Check out my page on facebook to see videos of the kids.
We have had several breakthroughs in preschool recently. He has started singing and participating in circle time and I am ecstatic! He is still having a hard time sitting still and keeping his body parts to himself but I think it goes along with feeling more comfortable and opening up to his class. I think it will improve, we are working on it anyway. So it looks like he has come out from behind the bookcase.
Mira is an excellent walker now. She has started climbing as well. So now we have to be extra careful with the stairs. She has also had a sign language explosion and can use the words, 'more', 'all done', 'bye-bye', 'clap' and 'excitement' successfully. She has some more sounds and words as well including meow, arf and pat. She loves to jabber on while sitting in her high chair, car seat or while toddling around the room. She is a lot more emphatic about her needs too she will come to me if she is tired, hungry or wet and put her arms up to be picked up. She leans over if she wants to nurse. It is awesome to be able to interact with her in a more meaningful way.
We are working on getting Mira to sleep for naps and bed time. She still requires a lot of interaction but I guess it will come in time. She mostly goes down at 7:30 and wakes up between 2-4 then she is up for the day at 6. She has a nap in the morning that is short and one in the afternoon with Joshua that is longer. She reverted a bit food wise while she was sick but we are getting back on the wagon slowly now.
Lots going on for Christmas so I hope to post again soon but certainly after the festivities I will try and make a few comments about it all. Check out my page on facebook to see videos of the kids.
Friday, December 05, 2008
what do you want from Santa?
We took the kids downtown tonight for the Christmas Tree lighting and to see Santa. There was also a little parade. I was so proud of Joshua. I knew that he would not sit on Santa's lap but I asked him if he would stand next to Santa and he said, 'Yes'. AND he did it! He stood next to Santa and told him he wanted a "race jet plane". He was very clear on this point. Mira, since she is already not feeling well, did not take kindly to Santa holding her and screamed. She has an ear infection though so she is just unhappy right now, period.
I can't wait until we are all healthy again!
I can't wait until we are all healthy again!
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Sickness
Mira had her 9 mos checkup today. She weighed in at 18 lb (50%) and 26 inches (10-15%) The Dr. commented that she had really thinned out and I pointed out that it was probably because she was walking. She just shook her head at my crazy early walking children. In every way Mira is doing great and the Dr. was pleased with her development.
I kept Joshua out of school today due to his ongoing sickness and had him checked out as well. The Dr. diagnosed either bronchitis or pnuemonia and rather than have him (US) suffer through an x-ray, sent him home with antibiotics that should take care of either and a prescription for using his nebulizer 2x a day. I also talked to her at length about his extreme shyness. She recommended that he see a pediatric behavioral psychologist and we are going to look into doing so. Even if, as she pointed out, it is only to give us new skills to help him in difficult situations. She didn't think that taking him out of preschool was a good solution. I am going to talk to his preschool teacher still but I tend to agree. He likes going to school, I think he needs that kind of interaction or we will not be addressing the issue. So we will see.
Now it is on to naps and such. I hope that Joshua takes another 3 hour nap like he did yesterday. He truly needs it!
I kept Joshua out of school today due to his ongoing sickness and had him checked out as well. The Dr. diagnosed either bronchitis or pnuemonia and rather than have him (US) suffer through an x-ray, sent him home with antibiotics that should take care of either and a prescription for using his nebulizer 2x a day. I also talked to her at length about his extreme shyness. She recommended that he see a pediatric behavioral psychologist and we are going to look into doing so. Even if, as she pointed out, it is only to give us new skills to help him in difficult situations. She didn't think that taking him out of preschool was a good solution. I am going to talk to his preschool teacher still but I tend to agree. He likes going to school, I think he needs that kind of interaction or we will not be addressing the issue. So we will see.
Now it is on to naps and such. I hope that Joshua takes another 3 hour nap like he did yesterday. He truly needs it!
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Christmas Decorating
Last night, we put up our new Christmas Tree. We ordered it last year after Christmas so this was the first time we had ever seen it! Joshua was so excited all day to put it up. In the morning, we were out buying suits for Jason and out to lunch. Joshua has had a cold and fever so he was actually manageable while we were out. Usually he just moves too fast!
Today, we dug out the ornaments and decorated the tree. Every year, the kids pick out a new ornament. This year, Joshua picked one out at an arts festival over the summer. He was so excited to open his 'new' ornament and put in on. Mira even put hers on. She really examined it before hand though!
The camera status is that we are using our old digital camera (from 1999). It works well but transferring data is problematic because the storage technology is no longer supported. So, it works for now but obviously not ideal. I've been planning to buy a digital SLR for years so this may be the impetus I need to actually get it done BUT that is going to take a bit of research. We still should pick up a digital point and shoot for just the random every day stuff...
Today, we dug out the ornaments and decorated the tree. Every year, the kids pick out a new ornament. This year, Joshua picked one out at an arts festival over the summer. He was so excited to open his 'new' ornament and put in on. Mira even put hers on. She really examined it before hand though!
The camera status is that we are using our old digital camera (from 1999). It works well but transferring data is problematic because the storage technology is no longer supported. So, it works for now but obviously not ideal. I've been planning to buy a digital SLR for years so this may be the impetus I need to actually get it done BUT that is going to take a bit of research. We still should pick up a digital point and shoot for just the random every day stuff...
Saturday, November 29, 2008
No PIctures
Joshua broke our camera yesterday so we will be without pictures until we get that issue resolved. I have some photos from Thanksgiving that I need to post but after that...
Yes I know. This situation is dire.
Yes I know. This situation is dire.
Happy Thanksgiving, 2008!
Thanksgiving was at our house this year with Nanny, Grandad, Amy and the Gang, Arnaldo and Mr. Mark. It was great and we had enough food to feed an army. Joshua was so excited about the 'Thanksgiving Feast' and couldn't wait for the eating to begin. Although, when it finally started I think he had one bite of food. Crazy boy. He loved that his cousins were here to play.
Tara had surgery on Monday of this week to remove her kidney. She came through just fine and is recovering at home. But, Mom went up there to help out and so she had Thanksgiving dinner with Jill, Tara, Aunt Jo and Uncle Phil. Sounds like it was quite a meal. Tara was released from the hospital Wednesday night so she also was able to join in the feasting.
Yesterday, we drove out the the 'burg to have a mini reunion with some of my high school friends. We met at Chili's and reminisced for three hours. Mira was a star. Everybody just loved her. Joshua was shy but survived. After hanging out there we visited my friend Lisa and her parents and then over to Great God Mommy and Daddy's house (Aunt Carie's Parents). Joshie has been coming down with a cough and by the last house he was a mess. Mira was exhausted and we were ready to go home.
So today the little squirt woke at 5:30 ish. We are working on her sleeping and it is going so-so. She did have a really long nap yesterday before we left. I hope that helps her to get back on track.
Tara had surgery on Monday of this week to remove her kidney. She came through just fine and is recovering at home. But, Mom went up there to help out and so she had Thanksgiving dinner with Jill, Tara, Aunt Jo and Uncle Phil. Sounds like it was quite a meal. Tara was released from the hospital Wednesday night so she also was able to join in the feasting.
Yesterday, we drove out the the 'burg to have a mini reunion with some of my high school friends. We met at Chili's and reminisced for three hours. Mira was a star. Everybody just loved her. Joshua was shy but survived. After hanging out there we visited my friend Lisa and her parents and then over to Great God Mommy and Daddy's house (Aunt Carie's Parents). Joshie has been coming down with a cough and by the last house he was a mess. Mira was exhausted and we were ready to go home.
So today the little squirt woke at 5:30 ish. We are working on her sleeping and it is going so-so. She did have a really long nap yesterday before we left. I hope that helps her to get back on track.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Hip Hip Hooray!
Joshie, Mira and I met up with our friends Adriane, Chase and Mattingly at an Extreme Bounce place. You know the kind. They have huge moon bounces all set up indoors to play on. So on the drive there Joshua says, 'Hip Hip Hooray, Hip Hip Hooray, I'm so excited today. Happy, So Very Happy, I have the love of Jesus in my heart' He was piecing together parts of songs from SuperWhy and a couple of Bible Songs. He sings bits of songs all the time now and it is hilarious.
We had Joshua's Thanksgiving Feast at Preschool on Tuesday. The craft was a paper bag Turkey. After a potluck meal together the kids sang songs they had learned. It was a nice morning.
We had Joshua's Thanksgiving Feast at Preschool on Tuesday. The craft was a paper bag Turkey. After a potluck meal together the kids sang songs they had learned. It was a nice morning.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
More Updates
We have been having the Ultimate Dance Party in our home the past couple of nights. It starts around 6:30pm and ends at 7ish so don't miss the fun! We just turn on the music and let Joshua dance and move. He loves it and it gives him another opportunity to use up some of that endless energy he has. With cold and rainy weather becoming the norm, we need more creative ways to let him play.
Mira is also getting her groove on. She likes to stand and wiggle and bounce. It is REALLY cute.
Mira is also getting her groove on. She likes to stand and wiggle and bounce. It is REALLY cute.
To the Park
Today, in between rainy spells, Joshie, Mira and I went to the park down the street. Recently for preschool Joshua had to make a picture out of leaves that he had collected. Joshua, of course, made a rocket. So today on our way to the park we found leaves that looked like something. We found a small yellow leaf with a stem that looked like a mouse, a tulip poplar leaf that looked like a cat's head and a maple leaf that looked like a bird foot print. Joshua picked out another maple leaf that looked to him like an ogre's hand. He played in the puddles and made boats out of the some of the leaves. It was a fun walk and we had a nice time at the park.
Mira's sounds are sounding more word like as she 'talks'. She is standing and walking around the kitchen table. It is fun to see her on the go. Joshua has been enjoying WordWorld on PBS and is surprising us with he letter and letter sound knowledge.
Mira's sounds are sounding more word like as she 'talks'. She is standing and walking around the kitchen table. It is fun to see her on the go. Joshua has been enjoying WordWorld on PBS and is surprising us with he letter and letter sound knowledge.
Sunday, November 09, 2008
Cutting Hair and other musings
October was a very busy month with Aunt Trina and Kirra out to visit. We did so many fun things and I was able to post lots of pictures but I haven't been diligent about writing in the blog to explain all of the events. At this point, I am not even sure what I left out. I will start with today and work backwards.
The kids are exploding with new skills these days. Joshua continues to drive us batty with his 'terrible threes' but we are expecting it and looking forward to age 4. I don't really want him to get older, just less whiney ;-) How I ended up with a whiney child, I will never understand. In any case, Jason raced auto cross today and place second in the novice category. First place was another BMW Mini with a driver named... Jason. How funny! I stayed home with the kids while he raced. We went to church and there was a luncheon afterward. Plus, we had naps to consider. Over all it was a good and productive day. The leaves are at the tail end of changing colors and falling off. Soon, it will just be cold with no pretty autumn to look at.
Yesterday, I made my first attempt at cutting Joshua's hair. I looked up instructions online and picked up scissors at a beauty supply store. Already, I saved $5 on the cost we usually pay for taking him to the barber. I have to say, I think I did a pretty good job. I obviously need more practice but I am sure I will get plenty! I kept Joshie still with his bucket of Halloween candy and the Incredibles movie. The cut took about 15 minutes. I also helped Jason blend his hair cut later that day. I guess I need to hang my sign out as a barber, too! Cutting hair is something I thought I would NEVER do, having no inclination or talent for it, but here we are.
Friday, we had a very nice LONG walk in the gorgeous weather. It was 70! We wore Joshua out. I really need to do something like that EVERY day with him but with all the other household chores I don't get out as much as I would like. He really needs a good 30+ minutes twice a day of just hard playing in order to be manageable. So, on days that he doesn't get that in, I try and at least get him out for a walk around the nearby streets.
Joshua had another good day at school on Thursday. He was excited to turn in his art assignment to Miss Joan. The task was to collect leaves and create something with them on a piece of paper. Joshua chose a rocket, his favorite thing to make these days. I assisted only with applying glue to the leaves. Otherwise, Joshua did everything else including asking to add paint to his piece of art. I was so proud of him. He often rushes through guided activities like this and this time he was really interested in working on the project. Miss Joan helped Joshua walk in the circle with his classmates, singing the ABC's. She said he was a little weepy. I imagine he probably turned into a wet noodle and whine the entire time. But, he did it and maybe next time will be better. Baby steps. He is definitely participating more and more each time. He still says, 'I don't want to go to school' but I think he is enjoying his time there when he gets there.
Mira ... is no doing 'Peek a Boo' as well as her other tricks. She took several steps today. Grandad is one of her favorite people as is Daddy and she walked to both of them. She said, 'Cat' yesterday. I am not sure if it is her first word. She also says, 'Hi Dada' and 'Bye-bye.' Jason said he heard her say 'Cat' the other day, too. I would be funny for cat to be her first word since dog was Joshua's first word. She communicates her needs better each day. She has a very distinctive short, loud, "AH' sound that she makes when she needs something. She will bring toys to you to for you to play with her. And, if you start a game and stop she will move your hand or body to indicate that she wants you to keep playing.
We are working on sleep with Mira. We have started a bedtime routine of getting pj's on, nursing, reading 2-3 books and turning of the room light. Then we lay her down, pat her back and ... she cries. We do the patting again until she falls asleep and usually she is down until 11 pm. I try to nurse her before I sleep and that has been working reasonably well. She'll sleep until 4 or so. The unfortunate part is that she is waking up now between 5 and 6. That is a little early for me. With the time change, too, it is quite dark at that hour. Because she is up and we have quiet alone time, I have been working on infant potty training with her then. Although I don't like the early hour, my days have been a bit more productive because of getting up then AND I really do like my time with just Mira-baby. Joshie and I get uninterrupted time together when Mira is napping in the morning. We often read stories or play legos then.
Well - I suppose I should end this BOOK that I have written tonight. Tomorrow will bring more adventures and joys to share with you.
The kids are exploding with new skills these days. Joshua continues to drive us batty with his 'terrible threes' but we are expecting it and looking forward to age 4. I don't really want him to get older, just less whiney ;-) How I ended up with a whiney child, I will never understand. In any case, Jason raced auto cross today and place second in the novice category. First place was another BMW Mini with a driver named... Jason. How funny! I stayed home with the kids while he raced. We went to church and there was a luncheon afterward. Plus, we had naps to consider. Over all it was a good and productive day. The leaves are at the tail end of changing colors and falling off. Soon, it will just be cold with no pretty autumn to look at.
Yesterday, I made my first attempt at cutting Joshua's hair. I looked up instructions online and picked up scissors at a beauty supply store. Already, I saved $5 on the cost we usually pay for taking him to the barber. I have to say, I think I did a pretty good job. I obviously need more practice but I am sure I will get plenty! I kept Joshie still with his bucket of Halloween candy and the Incredibles movie. The cut took about 15 minutes. I also helped Jason blend his hair cut later that day. I guess I need to hang my sign out as a barber, too! Cutting hair is something I thought I would NEVER do, having no inclination or talent for it, but here we are.
Friday, we had a very nice LONG walk in the gorgeous weather. It was 70! We wore Joshua out. I really need to do something like that EVERY day with him but with all the other household chores I don't get out as much as I would like. He really needs a good 30+ minutes twice a day of just hard playing in order to be manageable. So, on days that he doesn't get that in, I try and at least get him out for a walk around the nearby streets.
Joshua had another good day at school on Thursday. He was excited to turn in his art assignment to Miss Joan. The task was to collect leaves and create something with them on a piece of paper. Joshua chose a rocket, his favorite thing to make these days. I assisted only with applying glue to the leaves. Otherwise, Joshua did everything else including asking to add paint to his piece of art. I was so proud of him. He often rushes through guided activities like this and this time he was really interested in working on the project. Miss Joan helped Joshua walk in the circle with his classmates, singing the ABC's. She said he was a little weepy. I imagine he probably turned into a wet noodle and whine the entire time. But, he did it and maybe next time will be better. Baby steps. He is definitely participating more and more each time. He still says, 'I don't want to go to school' but I think he is enjoying his time there when he gets there.
Mira ... is no doing 'Peek a Boo' as well as her other tricks. She took several steps today. Grandad is one of her favorite people as is Daddy and she walked to both of them. She said, 'Cat' yesterday. I am not sure if it is her first word. She also says, 'Hi Dada' and 'Bye-bye.' Jason said he heard her say 'Cat' the other day, too. I would be funny for cat to be her first word since dog was Joshua's first word. She communicates her needs better each day. She has a very distinctive short, loud, "AH' sound that she makes when she needs something. She will bring toys to you to for you to play with her. And, if you start a game and stop she will move your hand or body to indicate that she wants you to keep playing.
We are working on sleep with Mira. We have started a bedtime routine of getting pj's on, nursing, reading 2-3 books and turning of the room light. Then we lay her down, pat her back and ... she cries. We do the patting again until she falls asleep and usually she is down until 11 pm. I try to nurse her before I sleep and that has been working reasonably well. She'll sleep until 4 or so. The unfortunate part is that she is waking up now between 5 and 6. That is a little early for me. With the time change, too, it is quite dark at that hour. Because she is up and we have quiet alone time, I have been working on infant potty training with her then. Although I don't like the early hour, my days have been a bit more productive because of getting up then AND I really do like my time with just Mira-baby. Joshie and I get uninterrupted time together when Mira is napping in the morning. We often read stories or play legos then.
Well - I suppose I should end this BOOK that I have written tonight. Tomorrow will bring more adventures and joys to share with you.
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