I got this little survey thing from Kim's baby blog. It's been going around blog world and is all about your first born. So for those that don't remember, here's the details on Katherine's birth!
1. were you married at the time? Yes.
2. what were your reactions? Pure shock. I had taken three pregnancy tests and they all came back negative. So when the doctor called and told me that I pregnant and wondered if I could be over to his office within the hour, I burst into tears.
3. how old were you? 27.
4. how did you find out you were pregnant? I got a call from the doctor
5. who did you tell first? Matt.Thankfully at the time we both worked at Principal, and his office was 7 floors above mine, so I ran up there in tears. After the quickie "Hi honey I'm pregnant. Can you leave work right now and go to the doctor with me"? we took off!
6. did you want to find out the sex? Without a doubt. I'm such a planner.
7. did you deliver early or late? Early. I was originally due on March 14th, but because of some complications, they *tried* to induce me on the 8th, which didn't work, so I went back in two days later for a second inducement.
8. did you have morning sickness? Sure did. I started throwing up before I found out I was pregnant and continued right up until the moments before she was born. Oh, and pretty much every day in between. Good times!
9. what did you crave? Taco pizza from Pizza Ranch and cereal.
10. who irritated you the most? Matt
11. what was your first child's sex? Girl
12. how many pounds did you gain throughout the pregnancy? 28 (might have been 27, I can't remember)...
13. did you have any complications during your pregnancy? Yes. My fluid was really low and they were concerned that the cord would get pinched off and dry up. That's why they induced me early.
14. where did you give birth? Iowa Methodist Medical Center
15. how many hours were you in labor? My OB came in and broke my water at 7:30 and Katherine was born 9 hours later. I had spend the previous night in the hospital though...
16. who drove you to the hospital? Matt
17. who watched? Matt and my mom.
18. was it natural or c-section? natural
19. did you take medicine to ease the pain? Sure did!!
20. how much did your child weigh? 5 lbs 12 oz
21. did your child have any complications? She was turned sunny side up and looking to the left so they almost had to break her collarbone to get her out.
22. what did you name him/her? Katherine Clair
23. how old is your first born today? 4.5 years
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Beggar's Night
Beggar's night was tonight and the kids had such a blast! I was a little worried that Caleb wouldn't put on his costume, but after he got the pumpkin bucket in his hot little hands with the promise of filling it with candy, it was GAME ON!! He actually LOVED wearing it, which shocked me... It was sooo cute. He was running around yelling, "AAAARRGGGG MATEY" and "COME ON MATEY" as he was running from house to house. It was absolutely adorable!!
Oh, and the costume -- It had this adorable little hat with it, but little Mr. IWON'TWEARANYTHINGBUTPOLO'SANDJEANS wouldn't put it on. Imagine that! Will say this... my kids have had super cute costumes in the past, but we got TONS of compliments on this one. Not sure if it was the costume that was so cute, or a little boy yelling AAARG MATEY to each house.
Now to the important part... the pictures!
Danyel invited a bunch of the neighbors over for pizza before we went out trick or treating, and here are the kids sitting on our front step before heading to their house.
On a side note -- my dad kept thinking that Caleb was a pilgrim, but when he stands up the costume looks much more pirate'ish. You can't tell in these pictures, but the pants are red and white striped underneath. Sooo cute.
After pizza, we started trick or treating and Laurie, Morgan and my dad came to join the group. It worked out perfectly. Laurie ran with Katherine and Morgan and my dad stayed with the toddler crowd. Caleb was so thrilled to see him that he ran right down the driveway and didn't let my dad out of his sight all night. We were all laughing... Caleb would go up to each house with me, and then as soon as he got his candy, he'd take off running and yell, "NEED POP-POPS HAND" and race back to my dad as fast as his little legs would carry him. He was more excited to walk with my dad than to get candy! The best part... my dad loves it probably more than Caleb. I love to watch the two of them. They're so blessed to have each other, and the love is obvious. I can't help but to think ... how wonderful will it be to have my dad with us in Disney!!
After we got done trick or treating in our neighborhood, we took the kids up to my parent's house so that they could trick or treat Grandma, and my mom could show them off to all her neighbors.
By this time, Caleb was worn out and all he wanted to do was play blocks with my dad. Here's the boys. When I told Caleb it was time to go home, they both begged for a few more minutes. How great is that?
Oh, and the costume -- It had this adorable little hat with it, but little Mr. IWON'TWEARANYTHINGBUTPOLO'SANDJEANS wouldn't put it on. Imagine that! Will say this... my kids have had super cute costumes in the past, but we got TONS of compliments on this one. Not sure if it was the costume that was so cute, or a little boy yelling AAARG MATEY to each house.
Now to the important part... the pictures!
Danyel invited a bunch of the neighbors over for pizza before we went out trick or treating, and here are the kids sitting on our front step before heading to their house.
On a side note -- my dad kept thinking that Caleb was a pilgrim, but when he stands up the costume looks much more pirate'ish. You can't tell in these pictures, but the pants are red and white striped underneath. Sooo cute.
After pizza, we started trick or treating and Laurie, Morgan and my dad came to join the group. It worked out perfectly. Laurie ran with Katherine and Morgan and my dad stayed with the toddler crowd. Caleb was so thrilled to see him that he ran right down the driveway and didn't let my dad out of his sight all night. We were all laughing... Caleb would go up to each house with me, and then as soon as he got his candy, he'd take off running and yell, "NEED POP-POPS HAND" and race back to my dad as fast as his little legs would carry him. He was more excited to walk with my dad than to get candy! The best part... my dad loves it probably more than Caleb. I love to watch the two of them. They're so blessed to have each other, and the love is obvious. I can't help but to think ... how wonderful will it be to have my dad with us in Disney!!
After we got done trick or treating in our neighborhood, we took the kids up to my parent's house so that they could trick or treat Grandma, and my mom could show them off to all her neighbors.
By this time, Caleb was worn out and all he wanted to do was play blocks with my dad. Here's the boys. When I told Caleb it was time to go home, they both begged for a few more minutes. How great is that?
Here's the girls -- Morgan, Katherine and Grammy.
We're already looking forward to next year! Hopefully Caleb will be able to keep up to the girls and we can all go together!
Costume party
What a week!! We've had more parties and get-togethers than I can count. Katherine has worn her costume for 4 or 5 days in row... We just keep celebrating and celebrating and celebrating... Everyone wants to get in on the action! It's a GOOD thing I came up with a costume!! LOL.
Last night the girls had a costume party at their ballet and tap classes. They were giddy dancing around in their princess dresses. Poor Katherine -- her costume was a good 4 or 5 inches too long. She had to keep hiking it up to her knees all night long! You couldn't even see her shoes!
Katherine and Morgan ~
Tomorrow Katherine will once again be wearing her costume. This time it'll be to preschool as they're having a Halloween party and going on a field trip. Since Matt has to work (it's earning season so the companies he covers are in the process of reporting their quarterly financials -- not to mention he's going to be on vacation all next week) and Caleb has Kindermusik, my mom is going to go with Katherine tomorrow. I wish I could have been there, but it's pretty hard for Grammy to get up and down off the floor 50 times in 45 minutes. So she's taking Katherine, and I'm taking Caleb. It works out well though ... Caleb is in desperate need of a haircut, and Katherine is looking forward to having Grammy with her.
Last night the girls had a costume party at their ballet and tap classes. They were giddy dancing around in their princess dresses. Poor Katherine -- her costume was a good 4 or 5 inches too long. She had to keep hiking it up to her knees all night long! You couldn't even see her shoes!
Katherine and Morgan ~
Tomorrow Katherine will once again be wearing her costume. This time it'll be to preschool as they're having a Halloween party and going on a field trip. Since Matt has to work (it's earning season so the companies he covers are in the process of reporting their quarterly financials -- not to mention he's going to be on vacation all next week) and Caleb has Kindermusik, my mom is going to go with Katherine tomorrow. I wish I could have been there, but it's pretty hard for Grammy to get up and down off the floor 50 times in 45 minutes. So she's taking Katherine, and I'm taking Caleb. It works out well though ... Caleb is in desperate need of a haircut, and Katherine is looking forward to having Grammy with her.Too funny..
The things Caleb says totally crack me up. He's learning to talk, but sometimes doesn't get it quite right. The concepts are there, but the words just aren't....
So right before naps I was giving the kids a snack and cleaning up the kitchen. All of a sudden Caleb started laughing and then said, "SSSCCUSE ME MOMMA. MY BOTTOM HONKED" and then he reached to cover it (much like you would your mouth when you burped). I couldn't help it, it totally cracked me up, and once I saw Katherine laughing, it was game over! It seems that the harder you try not to laugh, the more you can't help it!! We were all rolling!! Which is terrible because it only feeds that behavior (cross apply his fake belching routine), but man -- it's soooo funny!
Last night at dance all the girls dressed up in their Halloween costumes. I've got pictures to upload, but haven't had time yet. I'll try to get them up tonight after we go trick-or-treating. For anyone wondering, Des Moines does not trick-or-treat on Halloween night. We have something called Beggars Night the night before where all the little kids go trick-or-treating. So after the kids wake up from their naps, I'll get them dressed and head over to Danyel's house for dinner. She invited a bunch of us over for a little pizza party before the big night. Can't wait!!
So right before naps I was giving the kids a snack and cleaning up the kitchen. All of a sudden Caleb started laughing and then said, "SSSCCUSE ME MOMMA. MY BOTTOM HONKED" and then he reached to cover it (much like you would your mouth when you burped). I couldn't help it, it totally cracked me up, and once I saw Katherine laughing, it was game over! It seems that the harder you try not to laugh, the more you can't help it!! We were all rolling!! Which is terrible because it only feeds that behavior (cross apply his fake belching routine), but man -- it's soooo funny!
Last night at dance all the girls dressed up in their Halloween costumes. I've got pictures to upload, but haven't had time yet. I'll try to get them up tonight after we go trick-or-treating. For anyone wondering, Des Moines does not trick-or-treat on Halloween night. We have something called Beggars Night the night before where all the little kids go trick-or-treating. So after the kids wake up from their naps, I'll get them dressed and head over to Danyel's house for dinner. She invited a bunch of us over for a little pizza party before the big night. Can't wait!!
Monday, October 29, 2007
Quirky
I'll be the first one to admit... I'm pretty quirky. I've always hoped that it wasn't heredity, but now I'm fearing the worst! LOL.
One of my quirky things is socks. The thought of putting on a previously worn sock gives me the heebie-geebies. Big time. Actually, I'd rather go barefoot, even if the "previously worn" sock has only been on my foot 30 minutes. There's just something about it. I feel like I'm wearing dirty laundry. I just can't do it. I can't get past it....
So when I take Caleb to Kindermusik, and he insists on taking off his shoes and socks, I always put the sock in the corresponding shoe (ie the sock that was on his left foot goes in the left shoe). I'm not sure why, but it makes it less disgusting that way.... I never told him what I was doing, I just did it...
So fast forward to yesterday... I'm folding laundry in the living room and playing with the kids. When I get to the socks I realize that several of them are missing. I can't find them anywhere.... Katherine starts helping me look for them and all of a sudden Caleb says, "SOCKS, RIGHT DERE", and takes Katherine by the hand and leads her to the hallway closet. He had stuffed every sock he could find into shoes. LOL!! It totally cracked us up. It's amazing all the little things kids catch onto without us saying a word!
One of my quirky things is socks. The thought of putting on a previously worn sock gives me the heebie-geebies. Big time. Actually, I'd rather go barefoot, even if the "previously worn" sock has only been on my foot 30 minutes. There's just something about it. I feel like I'm wearing dirty laundry. I just can't do it. I can't get past it....
So when I take Caleb to Kindermusik, and he insists on taking off his shoes and socks, I always put the sock in the corresponding shoe (ie the sock that was on his left foot goes in the left shoe). I'm not sure why, but it makes it less disgusting that way.... I never told him what I was doing, I just did it...
So fast forward to yesterday... I'm folding laundry in the living room and playing with the kids. When I get to the socks I realize that several of them are missing. I can't find them anywhere.... Katherine starts helping me look for them and all of a sudden Caleb says, "SOCKS, RIGHT DERE", and takes Katherine by the hand and leads her to the hallway closet. He had stuffed every sock he could find into shoes. LOL!! It totally cracked us up. It's amazing all the little things kids catch onto without us saying a word!
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Success!!
Since my kids seem to catch every random virus under the sun, Matt and I decided that he would take Katherine to church while I stayed home with Caleb. With us leaving for Disney on Saturday morning, I don't want to chance Caleb catching a mysterious illness.... I can't imagine a worse way to spend a couple of hours than with a screaming toddler (in a confined location) who has a sinus infection/head cold and who feels like his ears are going to explode. Not my idea of a good time!! So we're taking ALL precautions!!
So, back to the train table saga... Since the table I wanted was on sale this week, as soon as Matt and Katherine walked in the door from church, I immediately took off in hopes of finally finding one in the store. As luck would have it, they had three tables left!! I could hardly believe my good fortune!! I was so ecstatic that I nearly jumped up and down!! Oh and the best part... not only was it on sale, but I received a coupon in the mail for 20% off any one item. Oh, happy day!! Let's just hope that Caleb loves it as much as I'm sure he will. Oh, for those interested, this is the table I bought. I'm thinking that Santa will have to get him a couple additional trains, signs, or other random stuff to tinker with, but all in all, he LOVES train tables.
As soon as I left Toys R Us, I went straight over to Old Navy in hopes of finding a Halloween costume for Caleb. Again, it was my lucky day!! I found this super cute pirate outfit and it was in his size! Talk about a red letter day!
So in about an hours time, I had two major stresses lifted off my shoulders -- Caleb will have a Halloween costume this year, and I found the elusive train table at a GREAT price.
Oh, and I have to brag.... I had such a proud Mommy moment this afternoon... Matt had to mow the lawn, so I took the kids on a walk and to the park in our neighborhood. When we arrived, one other mom was there with her two kids. We struck up a conversation while we were playing with all the kids. Out of the blue she asks me how old Caleb was... When I told her that he turned 2 in September, she went on to tell me that she's been a preschool teacher for 20+ years, and Caleb's speech is in the top 5% of all the kids she's worked with. I've always thought that he talked really well for his age, but hearing it from a preschool teacher (who didn't have to say anything at all) was super cool. I'm not sure if I've mentioned this or not, but he's been speaking in full sentences for some time now, and most people can understand him. Every once in a while he gets me... I have no clue what he's saying, so of course, Katherine pipes in and translates! Nothing gets by my Greek alphabet singin', Spanish speakin', non stop talkin' girl!! LOL!
So, back to the train table saga... Since the table I wanted was on sale this week, as soon as Matt and Katherine walked in the door from church, I immediately took off in hopes of finally finding one in the store. As luck would have it, they had three tables left!! I could hardly believe my good fortune!! I was so ecstatic that I nearly jumped up and down!! Oh and the best part... not only was it on sale, but I received a coupon in the mail for 20% off any one item. Oh, happy day!! Let's just hope that Caleb loves it as much as I'm sure he will. Oh, for those interested, this is the table I bought. I'm thinking that Santa will have to get him a couple additional trains, signs, or other random stuff to tinker with, but all in all, he LOVES train tables.
As soon as I left Toys R Us, I went straight over to Old Navy in hopes of finding a Halloween costume for Caleb. Again, it was my lucky day!! I found this super cute pirate outfit and it was in his size! Talk about a red letter day!
So in about an hours time, I had two major stresses lifted off my shoulders -- Caleb will have a Halloween costume this year, and I found the elusive train table at a GREAT price.
Oh, and I have to brag.... I had such a proud Mommy moment this afternoon... Matt had to mow the lawn, so I took the kids on a walk and to the park in our neighborhood. When we arrived, one other mom was there with her two kids. We struck up a conversation while we were playing with all the kids. Out of the blue she asks me how old Caleb was... When I told her that he turned 2 in September, she went on to tell me that she's been a preschool teacher for 20+ years, and Caleb's speech is in the top 5% of all the kids she's worked with. I've always thought that he talked really well for his age, but hearing it from a preschool teacher (who didn't have to say anything at all) was super cool. I'm not sure if I've mentioned this or not, but he's been speaking in full sentences for some time now, and most people can understand him. Every once in a while he gets me... I have no clue what he's saying, so of course, Katherine pipes in and translates! Nothing gets by my Greek alphabet singin', Spanish speakin', non stop talkin' girl!! LOL!
Friday, October 26, 2007
Mom of the Year
To put it bluntly, I won't be winning the Mom of the Year anytime soon. Halloween, and all the fun that surrounds it, has totally escaped us this year...
I've been thinking about and looking forward to Disney for months now, and in my mind, I realized that Halloween was right before that, but it didn't dawn on me that it was so close.... until Matt and I got talking a couple of nights ago. As we were sitting there making out our upcoming plans, it dawned on me that we are leaving for Disney World a week from TOMORROW. That's right folks -- a week from now I'll be basking in the Florida sun, but before then, I need to get ready for Halloween.
So in my stupor of trying to get everything done (that I had previously overlooked) I figured out that I better start with buying the kids a costume. Good place to start, right??? Last night after dinner, Matt and I packed up the kids and headed out to find the all important beggar's night costume. The only criteria is that Katherine's costume had to be "wholesome". Since she goes to a Christian preschool and they're visiting a nursing home, they don't want the kids to be dressed as witches, vampires, devils, etc. I get that. I wasn't looking for anything like that anyway. Katherine wanted to be Snow White, but as I quickly realized any "princess type" costume would suffice. Let's see.... we looked at Target, Kohl's, Toys R Us, TJ Maxx and finally hit the jackpot at K-Mart. And I wasn't being overly critical or picky... everything was SOLD OUT in her size!! She ended up getting the Sleeping Beauty costume from the Shrek movie. Thankfully she LOVES it. She's already modeled it for us!! Oh, and thanks to my procrastination -- it was 40% off. Can't beat that! And yes, the costume we bought was the LAST ONE in her size.
Caleb wasn't so lucky... After all the running around he came home with ... NOTHING - NADA - ZIP - ZERO. That's right, the poor kid doesn't have a costume to wear this year. I talked to my sister in law, Caroline, and she offered to let Caleb wear Leo's costume from last year. It's a train conductor, so I know he'll love it. Danyel also brought down one of Walker's old costumes. It's super adorable and warm (which is such a bonus) but Caleb won't have a thing to do with it. It's a fuzzy lion, and it freaks him out!! So unless he has a change of heart, I'm thinking that he'll be a train conductor...
So on top of the costume debacle, we were going to carve pumpkins tonight. Yea, we haven't gotten around to that either... Anyway, Matt takes a look at them and declares that one of them is already rotten. WONDERFUL! Chalk up another bonus point in my direction!
So basically this Halloween, Katherine is lucky to get a costume, I'm still working on Caleb's and carving pumpkins.. not yet! But, tomorrow is another day!
Oh, and then to add to my mom of the year tally... This morning Caleb threw a holy fit when I was trying to get him into his car seat. It went on for a good 10 minutes and I tried everything -- trickery, bribing, begging, pretty much everything I could think of. In the midst of my frustration, I shut his door, got in the car, put it in reverse and backed out of the garage. I thought it would scare him into getting in his car seat, but no... I had Katherine screaming and crying that I wasn't being safe with her baby brother. As if I'd really leave without him buckled...
So anyone who wants to nominate me as mom of the year, please do!! I think I've got a good shot at winning this year! LOL
I've been thinking about and looking forward to Disney for months now, and in my mind, I realized that Halloween was right before that, but it didn't dawn on me that it was so close.... until Matt and I got talking a couple of nights ago. As we were sitting there making out our upcoming plans, it dawned on me that we are leaving for Disney World a week from TOMORROW. That's right folks -- a week from now I'll be basking in the Florida sun, but before then, I need to get ready for Halloween.
So in my stupor of trying to get everything done (that I had previously overlooked) I figured out that I better start with buying the kids a costume. Good place to start, right??? Last night after dinner, Matt and I packed up the kids and headed out to find the all important beggar's night costume. The only criteria is that Katherine's costume had to be "wholesome". Since she goes to a Christian preschool and they're visiting a nursing home, they don't want the kids to be dressed as witches, vampires, devils, etc. I get that. I wasn't looking for anything like that anyway. Katherine wanted to be Snow White, but as I quickly realized any "princess type" costume would suffice. Let's see.... we looked at Target, Kohl's, Toys R Us, TJ Maxx and finally hit the jackpot at K-Mart. And I wasn't being overly critical or picky... everything was SOLD OUT in her size!! She ended up getting the Sleeping Beauty costume from the Shrek movie. Thankfully she LOVES it. She's already modeled it for us!! Oh, and thanks to my procrastination -- it was 40% off. Can't beat that! And yes, the costume we bought was the LAST ONE in her size.
Caleb wasn't so lucky... After all the running around he came home with ... NOTHING - NADA - ZIP - ZERO. That's right, the poor kid doesn't have a costume to wear this year. I talked to my sister in law, Caroline, and she offered to let Caleb wear Leo's costume from last year. It's a train conductor, so I know he'll love it. Danyel also brought down one of Walker's old costumes. It's super adorable and warm (which is such a bonus) but Caleb won't have a thing to do with it. It's a fuzzy lion, and it freaks him out!! So unless he has a change of heart, I'm thinking that he'll be a train conductor...
So on top of the costume debacle, we were going to carve pumpkins tonight. Yea, we haven't gotten around to that either... Anyway, Matt takes a look at them and declares that one of them is already rotten. WONDERFUL! Chalk up another bonus point in my direction!
So basically this Halloween, Katherine is lucky to get a costume, I'm still working on Caleb's and carving pumpkins.. not yet! But, tomorrow is another day!
Oh, and then to add to my mom of the year tally... This morning Caleb threw a holy fit when I was trying to get him into his car seat. It went on for a good 10 minutes and I tried everything -- trickery, bribing, begging, pretty much everything I could think of. In the midst of my frustration, I shut his door, got in the car, put it in reverse and backed out of the garage. I thought it would scare him into getting in his car seat, but no... I had Katherine screaming and crying that I wasn't being safe with her baby brother. As if I'd really leave without him buckled...
So anyone who wants to nominate me as mom of the year, please do!! I think I've got a good shot at winning this year! LOL
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
My poker face needs some work!
I must confess... There are days that it's so hard for me to keep my game face on. I know I *should* be stern with Caleb -- correcting him, trying to teach him right from wrong, but man... it's hard sometimes. There are times that all I want to do is just sit and laugh with him. Today was one of those days....
I have no idea where he learned this from, but all of a sudden, Caleb has been taking small sips of beverage, lowering his chin to his chest and letting out this obnoxious, super loud fake belching noise. It couldn't be more disgusting! Then he looks up at you, smiles and says, ESKUSE ME!! It's as hilarious as it is disgusting!
Whenever he does this (which is pretty much every time he's got a drink in hand) I look at him right in the eye and talk in my sternest voice. I'm really trying to keep my game face on and impress on his that this behavior is NOT acceptable. But holy cow, it's soooo funny! I know.... I know... how mature is it that a 32 year old finds fake belching from her 2 year old son funny? Don't answer that!
Then he looks up at me with this little twinkle in his eye and a grin on his face... He knows that he's supposed to say "Excuse me" and thinks that if he does, it's all good. There are times I have to turn away... I just can't help myself. I can't let him see me laugh... And it certainly doesn't help that Katherine is busting a gut! To make matters worse, she's caught me laughing a time or two (or twenty) when he's not looking... I'm definitely going to have to try and capture this behavior on tape.
Well, this little act is one thing in the comfort of our own home, but out in public... yea, not so much... Matt took the kids to LeMars this weekend, and I forgot to call and warn his parents about this little behavior. From what I'm told, they all went out to eat in Sioux City and Caleb got a glass of milk. As I could only imagine, he pulled out the fake burping routine. Matt reported back that it didn't take him long to empty the entire cup. I am soooo proud!
I have no idea where he learned this from, but all of a sudden, Caleb has been taking small sips of beverage, lowering his chin to his chest and letting out this obnoxious, super loud fake belching noise. It couldn't be more disgusting! Then he looks up at you, smiles and says, ESKUSE ME!! It's as hilarious as it is disgusting!
Whenever he does this (which is pretty much every time he's got a drink in hand) I look at him right in the eye and talk in my sternest voice. I'm really trying to keep my game face on and impress on his that this behavior is NOT acceptable. But holy cow, it's soooo funny! I know.... I know... how mature is it that a 32 year old finds fake belching from her 2 year old son funny? Don't answer that!
Then he looks up at me with this little twinkle in his eye and a grin on his face... He knows that he's supposed to say "Excuse me" and thinks that if he does, it's all good. There are times I have to turn away... I just can't help myself. I can't let him see me laugh... And it certainly doesn't help that Katherine is busting a gut! To make matters worse, she's caught me laughing a time or two (or twenty) when he's not looking... I'm definitely going to have to try and capture this behavior on tape.
Well, this little act is one thing in the comfort of our own home, but out in public... yea, not so much... Matt took the kids to LeMars this weekend, and I forgot to call and warn his parents about this little behavior. From what I'm told, they all went out to eat in Sioux City and Caleb got a glass of milk. As I could only imagine, he pulled out the fake burping routine. Matt reported back that it didn't take him long to empty the entire cup. I am soooo proud!
Monday, October 22, 2007
Train Table Hell...
Oh, I'm tellin' ya... I'm soooo in it! Trying to find a train table *on sale* has got to be one of the most frustrating, most infuriating, most nerve wracking quest on earth. Every kid in the city must be getting one for Christmas! I swear, I'm ready to pull my hair out! UUUUGH!
So Saturday morning, (let me remind you the kids are in LeMars, so IF I SO CHOSE I could have slept until NOON for the first time in 5 years) I get up early, shower and head to Toys R Us. They had *promised* me that the tables would be in stock and on the floor ready for sale Saturday morning. Oh, and they were... There were about 10 of them sitting right in front of me. Do you think I got one??? Oh, hell no....
Why you might ask???? Let me tell you.... The train tables that were on sale were just the table (ie no trains, track, or buildings to go with it) and then you got a 60 piece "starter set" for free. Pretty good deal... THAT IS IF THEY HAVE THE STINKIN' FREE SET IN STOCK! All week, they've had tons of the starter sets on the shelf, but no table. Ironically enough, as soon as they get the table in, the *free* starter sets are magically gone. UUUUUGH. Frustration has set in.... big time!!
So.... I came home, once again., without a train table. Here's the deal though... this table is going on sale in a week or two, and will be on sale for a month.... I can't go wrong. Everything comes in one big box, and since I've learned the fine art of stalking, I can't go wrong! Wish me luck!!
So Saturday morning, (let me remind you the kids are in LeMars, so IF I SO CHOSE I could have slept until NOON for the first time in 5 years) I get up early, shower and head to Toys R Us. They had *promised* me that the tables would be in stock and on the floor ready for sale Saturday morning. Oh, and they were... There were about 10 of them sitting right in front of me. Do you think I got one??? Oh, hell no....
Why you might ask???? Let me tell you.... The train tables that were on sale were just the table (ie no trains, track, or buildings to go with it) and then you got a 60 piece "starter set" for free. Pretty good deal... THAT IS IF THEY HAVE THE STINKIN' FREE SET IN STOCK! All week, they've had tons of the starter sets on the shelf, but no table. Ironically enough, as soon as they get the table in, the *free* starter sets are magically gone. UUUUUGH. Frustration has set in.... big time!!
So.... I came home, once again., without a train table. Here's the deal though... this table is going on sale in a week or two, and will be on sale for a month.... I can't go wrong. Everything comes in one big box, and since I've learned the fine art of stalking, I can't go wrong! Wish me luck!!
Friday, October 19, 2007
Lady of Leisure
That would be the best way to describe me this weekend. I can hardly believe it! LOL.
Matt and the kids are headed back to LeMars at 4 pm today, and I can't go because I had promised to watch Michelle's kids (Ben and Tessa) this Saturday night ages ago. So other than my obligation to Michelle for a few hours tomorrow night, my weekend is wiiiiiide open! As horrible as this sounds, I'm soooo looking forward to it!!
Caleb has always been a Momma's boy, but lately it's gotten ridiculous! It's to the point, that if I'm in the room, he won't go to anyone else. Not even Matt. Last night we went to the mall and because it was raining (and we had to run a really quick errand) we decided not to bring in the stroller. Do you think Caleb would let Matt carry him or (God forbid) walk by himself. NO STINKIN' WAY!! So I had to carry him the entire way, and trust me... he gets heavy after a while! Typically if Katherine's around though, he's fine. There's no one in his world like his "sissy". They play so well together, and if she's not around he's lost. She's his constant. He adores her. For that I[m grateful!!
So Caleb and I are breaking up! For the weekend anyway... I think it'll do us both good. I'll have time without him attached to my hip, and he'll have the opportunity how to figure it out without me around.
Matt was giving me grief last night about being alone for the entire weekend. He thinks I'll go stir crazy in an empty house. He thinks I need a constant social outlet. He doesn't think I'll be able to stand it. Oh baby, I assure you I'll be JUST FINE! LOL!! Tonight I'm going out for dinner and drinks at the Cheesecake Factory and then will swing by hospice to see my Grandma on the way home. Michelle (Nicholas and Caden's mom) is coming over to scrap with me until the wee hours in the morning. Tomorrow morning I'm showing up at Toys R Us the second they open to try and get a train table (cross apply the "stalker" post), and then all afternoon I'm scrapping... with the music of my choice turned up ridiculously loud!! Tomorrow night I'm watching Ben and Tessa and then Matt and kiddos will be home Sunday. I'm also hoping to fit in a trip to Barnes and Noble for a little light reading and coffee. It'll be a great and relaxing weekend!
As much as I enjoy every second with my kids, I really do think it's best for all of us to have a little time apart. It's a good opportunity for me to step back and concentrate on myself for a short time. When they return home I'll be refreshed, and a better mom to them. I'll have more energy and a clear mind. This is good for all of us....
Will I miss my babies? Absolutely. Will I think about them the entire time they're gone? Without a doubt. Will I be counting down the minutes until they return. No question. But until then, I'm a lady of leisure this weekend!! WOO-HOO!!
Matt and the kids are headed back to LeMars at 4 pm today, and I can't go because I had promised to watch Michelle's kids (Ben and Tessa) this Saturday night ages ago. So other than my obligation to Michelle for a few hours tomorrow night, my weekend is wiiiiiide open! As horrible as this sounds, I'm soooo looking forward to it!!
Caleb has always been a Momma's boy, but lately it's gotten ridiculous! It's to the point, that if I'm in the room, he won't go to anyone else. Not even Matt. Last night we went to the mall and because it was raining (and we had to run a really quick errand) we decided not to bring in the stroller. Do you think Caleb would let Matt carry him or (God forbid) walk by himself. NO STINKIN' WAY!! So I had to carry him the entire way, and trust me... he gets heavy after a while! Typically if Katherine's around though, he's fine. There's no one in his world like his "sissy". They play so well together, and if she's not around he's lost. She's his constant. He adores her. For that I[m grateful!!
So Caleb and I are breaking up! For the weekend anyway... I think it'll do us both good. I'll have time without him attached to my hip, and he'll have the opportunity how to figure it out without me around.
Matt was giving me grief last night about being alone for the entire weekend. He thinks I'll go stir crazy in an empty house. He thinks I need a constant social outlet. He doesn't think I'll be able to stand it. Oh baby, I assure you I'll be JUST FINE! LOL!! Tonight I'm going out for dinner and drinks at the Cheesecake Factory and then will swing by hospice to see my Grandma on the way home. Michelle (Nicholas and Caden's mom) is coming over to scrap with me until the wee hours in the morning. Tomorrow morning I'm showing up at Toys R Us the second they open to try and get a train table (cross apply the "stalker" post), and then all afternoon I'm scrapping... with the music of my choice turned up ridiculously loud!! Tomorrow night I'm watching Ben and Tessa and then Matt and kiddos will be home Sunday. I'm also hoping to fit in a trip to Barnes and Noble for a little light reading and coffee. It'll be a great and relaxing weekend!
As much as I enjoy every second with my kids, I really do think it's best for all of us to have a little time apart. It's a good opportunity for me to step back and concentrate on myself for a short time. When they return home I'll be refreshed, and a better mom to them. I'll have more energy and a clear mind. This is good for all of us....
Will I miss my babies? Absolutely. Will I think about them the entire time they're gone? Without a doubt. Will I be counting down the minutes until they return. No question. But until then, I'm a lady of leisure this weekend!! WOO-HOO!!
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
I've turned into a stalker
I admit it.... I've turned into one of those crazed stalker parents who has become completely obsessed with getting the "right" Christmas gift for my kids. It's a sickness really... Calling stores to find out if they have the train table in stock, wondering when it's coming back in, showing up as soon as the store opens.... It's enough to drive me crazy!! If only there REALLY was a Santa Claus.... LOL!!
On Sunday, I was absolutely out of my mind, driving all over town at insane speeds, trying to get the much loved train table for Caleb. When I came up short, I felt defeated and vowed to show up at Toys R Us this morning as soon as the store opened to get the train table that was scheduled to be on the truck. I had to run another errand in the area, so I actually got there about 10 minutes before the store opened. And guess what??? The parking lot had no less than 20 - 25 cars already sitting in the parking lot in the pouring rain.
Part of me was glad to see that I wasn't the only insane person in town, and the other part of me was cussing that so many people were waiting to get in the store BEFORE it opened. Doesn't anyone have a life?? LOL!
So here I am, sitting in the car, and plotting my strategy..... wondering how quickly I can get into the store in the middle of a downpour with a 2 year old in tow.
Let's just say I'm incredibly THANKFUL that it was raining or I would have looked like a total fruit loop running as fast as I possibly can into a toy store the second they open... Oh, and the best part.... the truck never came. NO TRAIN TABLE. Oh. My. Heavens. I can't stand any more of this! I called tonight right before they closed (I told you I was a stalker!) and they are getting the truck tonight..... Which means that at 10 am tomorrow morning, the train tables will be on the floor ready for sale. Guess where I'll be???? AT KATHERINE'S FIRST GYMNASTICS CLASS!!! This is killing me!
On Sunday, I was absolutely out of my mind, driving all over town at insane speeds, trying to get the much loved train table for Caleb. When I came up short, I felt defeated and vowed to show up at Toys R Us this morning as soon as the store opened to get the train table that was scheduled to be on the truck. I had to run another errand in the area, so I actually got there about 10 minutes before the store opened. And guess what??? The parking lot had no less than 20 - 25 cars already sitting in the parking lot in the pouring rain.
Part of me was glad to see that I wasn't the only insane person in town, and the other part of me was cussing that so many people were waiting to get in the store BEFORE it opened. Doesn't anyone have a life?? LOL!
So here I am, sitting in the car, and plotting my strategy..... wondering how quickly I can get into the store in the middle of a downpour with a 2 year old in tow.
Let's just say I'm incredibly THANKFUL that it was raining or I would have looked like a total fruit loop running as fast as I possibly can into a toy store the second they open... Oh, and the best part.... the truck never came. NO TRAIN TABLE. Oh. My. Heavens. I can't stand any more of this! I called tonight right before they closed (I told you I was a stalker!) and they are getting the truck tonight..... Which means that at 10 am tomorrow morning, the train tables will be on the floor ready for sale. Guess where I'll be???? AT KATHERINE'S FIRST GYMNASTICS CLASS!!! This is killing me!
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Overheard...
Today we went to The Playground For Kids with Michelle, Nicholas and Caden. First, let me say that this place rocks!! They've got tons of inflatables, a huge treehouse and climbing structure for the kids to explore, and it couldn't be cleaner. By the time we're ready to leave the kids are sweating and exhausted! Yes, this is a good thing! Second, Katherine & Nicholas are 2 months apart and Caleb & Caden are 2.5 months apart. All four of them get along wonderfully, so spending time with them is a dream come true. It's so easy -- there are no fights, no bickering, no competition of any kind. My biggest worry is if they'll fall and hurt themselves. So, I guess what I'm saying.... today was a GREAT day!
Since Michelle is 31 weeks pregnant, I had all four kids in the inflatable obstacle course, and had to help Caleb and Caden get through a couple of parts they had trouble with. As I bent down to help Caleb, Katherine yells from behind me, "Mommy, I just love your purple underwear". ENOUGH SAID!
Since Michelle is 31 weeks pregnant, I had all four kids in the inflatable obstacle course, and had to help Caleb and Caden get through a couple of parts they had trouble with. As I bent down to help Caleb, Katherine yells from behind me, "Mommy, I just love your purple underwear". ENOUGH SAID!
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Frustration...
Caleb has fallen in love with train tables, and plays with them every chance he gets... at the Science Center, at Nicholas and Caden's house, at Ben's house. He's obsessed, and will stand there an tinker for as long as we'd let him. He loves pushing the trucks and trains around the tracks, setting up the stoplights, making car sounds, you know, typical boy stuff. LOL!
Matt and I have decided to get him a set for Christmas, so I've been educating myself and shopping around for good deals. As luck would have it, Michelle called me this morning and told me that Toys R Us had a table on sale, and with purchase, it included a 60 piece starter set for FREE. How perfect is that??? Since we were on our way to Hospice to visit my Grandma, I decided to pick it up while the kids were napping later that afternoon.
I finally got to Toys R Us around 3 this afternoon. Originally they had 50 sets, but had been completely sold out since noon! What??? UUUUGH! So I race to the car and call Michelle. She called down to the southside store while I called around trying to get directions. She called me back to say that they had sets still in the store, so at this point, it's full speed ahead! I have a heavy foot anyway, but today I was flying!!
I pull into the parking lot, run inside and guess what??? SOLD OUT! I missed the last set by minutes. How frustrating is that??? I wanted to cry....
The story I'm told is that the West Des Moines store is getting a truck in on Wednesday. They don't know if there will be any train tables on board, but I'll be waiting by the door when it opens! Santa is going to come through for my little man this year!!
Matt and I have decided to get him a set for Christmas, so I've been educating myself and shopping around for good deals. As luck would have it, Michelle called me this morning and told me that Toys R Us had a table on sale, and with purchase, it included a 60 piece starter set for FREE. How perfect is that??? Since we were on our way to Hospice to visit my Grandma, I decided to pick it up while the kids were napping later that afternoon.
I finally got to Toys R Us around 3 this afternoon. Originally they had 50 sets, but had been completely sold out since noon! What??? UUUUGH! So I race to the car and call Michelle. She called down to the southside store while I called around trying to get directions. She called me back to say that they had sets still in the store, so at this point, it's full speed ahead! I have a heavy foot anyway, but today I was flying!!
I pull into the parking lot, run inside and guess what??? SOLD OUT! I missed the last set by minutes. How frustrating is that??? I wanted to cry....
The story I'm told is that the West Des Moines store is getting a truck in on Wednesday. They don't know if there will be any train tables on board, but I'll be waiting by the door when it opens! Santa is going to come through for my little man this year!!
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Over scheduling...
I need some help here... As parents we all know that over scheduling your children is a bad thing. Kids need time to be kids. They don't need adult pressures and stress. They need tons of free time to explore, be creative, grow and learn. I've heard it all, and although I don't disagree, I'm a firm believer of giving your children a variety of experiences. I take them on tons of "field trips", play dates, enroll them in classes, etc... and to be honest, I think they're better for it. They have been exposed to a variety of situations and experiences that most kids their age have not. For the most part, they know how to act when we're out in public, they are polite, and aware of the world around them... Not to say that chaos doesn't errupt at times! LOL.
With all that said, here's my question... Katherine has preschool on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings from 9 - 11:30. On Monday night she has ballet, tap and tumbling lessons from 5:45 - 7:00. On Tuesday she has Kindermusik starting at 6:30. She has been dissatisfied/disappointed with her tumbling class, so we've talked about dropping that class which would mean that she wouldn't start dance lessons until 6:15 on Monday nights. If we do that, I plan to enroll her in a true gymnastics class. Actually, I signed her up already. After looking into the different programs and time slot availability, I chose Urbandale Dance and Gymnastics. She'll go Thursday mornings from 10 -11 am.
So my question is... When she took all three classes Monday night, it didn't seem like a big deal, (we were already there, she was dressed and ready to go, and the classes were back to back) but if I add Thursday morning into the mix, am I over scheduling her? For the sake of full disclosure, she's THRILLED about going to a gymnastics studio, and can't wait to start. When she heard Matt and I discussing it, and we agreed that she should take gymnastics, she threw her heavy arms around my neck and thanked me a million times. She was genuinely elated.
So, do you think that I'm doing her more harm that good by signing her up for all these classes??? Am I over scheduling her?
With all that said, here's my question... Katherine has preschool on Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings from 9 - 11:30. On Monday night she has ballet, tap and tumbling lessons from 5:45 - 7:00. On Tuesday she has Kindermusik starting at 6:30. She has been dissatisfied/disappointed with her tumbling class, so we've talked about dropping that class which would mean that she wouldn't start dance lessons until 6:15 on Monday nights. If we do that, I plan to enroll her in a true gymnastics class. Actually, I signed her up already. After looking into the different programs and time slot availability, I chose Urbandale Dance and Gymnastics. She'll go Thursday mornings from 10 -11 am.
So my question is... When she took all three classes Monday night, it didn't seem like a big deal, (we were already there, she was dressed and ready to go, and the classes were back to back) but if I add Thursday morning into the mix, am I over scheduling her? For the sake of full disclosure, she's THRILLED about going to a gymnastics studio, and can't wait to start. When she heard Matt and I discussing it, and we agreed that she should take gymnastics, she threw her heavy arms around my neck and thanked me a million times. She was genuinely elated.
So, do you think that I'm doing her more harm that good by signing her up for all these classes??? Am I over scheduling her?
Friday, October 12, 2007
Hockey rocks!
Tonight was an absolute BLAST!! It was the kids' first hockey game and they loved every second! It didn't hurt that we ended up sitting in a sky box, so the kids had free run of 12 plush chairs over looking the ice rink (not sure if that's the correct term...), and super nice furniture inside the box complete with a two TV's -- one of which had on cartoons. None of them watched it, but it was still nice to have.
About half way though, Shooter, the mascot, came for a visit. All of the kids hugged and gave him high fives. They were thrilled to see him! Unfortunately, I left my camera at home, but Julie and Andrea have promised to forward me pics. So I'll post them later this weekend.
Oh, a funny Katherine story for you...
At one point she had to go to the bathroom, so I took her down the hallway to the bathroom that was only used my the sky boxes. It was clean -- spotless really. When we got in there, one of the other stalls was occupied. All of a sudden Katherine says, "Wow, Mommy... it's so clean in here.... and it smells so good in here .... kind of minty, like when I go to the dentist". At this point, I can hear the woman in the occupied stall trying to conceal her laughter.
I take her into a stall and she immediately comments about how clean the bathroom is, and then says (at almost a yell), "Mommy, it's so clean in here that you won't need to line the potty chair with 50 sheets of toilet paper for me to sit my bottom on". The woman sitting next to us couldn't hold it in any longer, and let out this deep belly laugh, to which Katherine replied, "You sit on paper too"? I could have died, but that's sooooo Katherine, and I wouldn't have it any other way! LOL!
The absolute highlight of the night had NOTHING to do with hockey. It just so happened to be the opening game of the season and they were honoring Shawn Johnson for becoming the world gymnastics champion. Katherine was in awe! As we were leaving to head to the car, we saw her walking in the hallway outside of the sky boxes. Katherine couldn't stop staring. Everyone told me that I should ask her for a picture with Katherine, but I couldn't.... Of course, within 10 seconds, I regretted it. Katherine would have LOVED to have her picture taken with the future Olympian. One thing is for sure, we'll be glued to the Olympics next summer!
About half way though, Shooter, the mascot, came for a visit. All of the kids hugged and gave him high fives. They were thrilled to see him! Unfortunately, I left my camera at home, but Julie and Andrea have promised to forward me pics. So I'll post them later this weekend.
Oh, a funny Katherine story for you...
At one point she had to go to the bathroom, so I took her down the hallway to the bathroom that was only used my the sky boxes. It was clean -- spotless really. When we got in there, one of the other stalls was occupied. All of a sudden Katherine says, "Wow, Mommy... it's so clean in here.... and it smells so good in here .... kind of minty, like when I go to the dentist". At this point, I can hear the woman in the occupied stall trying to conceal her laughter.
I take her into a stall and she immediately comments about how clean the bathroom is, and then says (at almost a yell), "Mommy, it's so clean in here that you won't need to line the potty chair with 50 sheets of toilet paper for me to sit my bottom on". The woman sitting next to us couldn't hold it in any longer, and let out this deep belly laugh, to which Katherine replied, "You sit on paper too"? I could have died, but that's sooooo Katherine, and I wouldn't have it any other way! LOL!
The absolute highlight of the night had NOTHING to do with hockey. It just so happened to be the opening game of the season and they were honoring Shawn Johnson for becoming the world gymnastics champion. Katherine was in awe! As we were leaving to head to the car, we saw her walking in the hallway outside of the sky boxes. Katherine couldn't stop staring. Everyone told me that I should ask her for a picture with Katherine, but I couldn't.... Of course, within 10 seconds, I regretted it. Katherine would have LOVED to have her picture taken with the future Olympian. One thing is for sure, we'll be glued to the Olympics next summer!
Great find!!
Over the past couple of years, I've been searching for the perfect apple orchard to add to our fall "must do" list, but haven't had much luck, especially with the one south of town closing a few years ago. As fate would have it, my neighbor, Carolyn, mentioned an apple orchard about 30 minutes outside of town that she recently visited. She said it was wonderful, and had so much for the kids to do. Not only that, but it met one of my main criterias for any good orchard.... we could actually go out in the orchard and pick our own apples off the tree.
Katherine didn't have school today for a teacher in-service, so we decided to make the trip this morning, and the orchard certainly didn't disappoint. It was every bit as good as she told me it was and then some. We all had so much fun.
Here's some pictures from today.
The orchard has a time warp tunnel where you can go back in time 100 years. It's pretty cool. The kids actually crawl through this tunnel and when they emerge they're in the early 1900's.
Located in this area is an old school house. Katherine had a blast sitting on the stool, and "teaching" the kids the Greek alphabet. All Caleb was concerned with was how far he could jump off the chairs and how many desks he could climb on top of before I tackled him. LOL.
Here is Katherine in back of the schoolhouse.
I just realized that these pictures are out of order, and since I'm to lazy to reload them, just bear with me....
Here's a picture of Caleb playing on the haystack outside of the main gate where you can pick your own pumpkins. This orchard also has a pumpkin patch and tractor ride, but since we spent most of the time picking apples and playing in the 100 year old village, we skipped it.
Katherine and Caleb taking a break from climbing on the haystack. They loved sitting on the pumpkins!
They had this super cute outhouse that the kids LOVED going in and hiding from the mommies!
Professor Hanson teaching the Greek alphabet...
They also had toy tractors that Caleb LOVED!! Since he couldn't reach the pedals, I had to push him around the track! Don't you love the bug in the background???
In the time warp village, they also have the story of the three little pigs, complete with the straw, stick and brick houses. The kids loved running into each of them and playing house. Allison (Carolyn's little girl) is sitting next to Katherine. We were so glad that they wanted to go back to the orchard with us!!
The kids and I....
It's apple pickin' time! The orchard gives you these long claw type things with a basket attached so that you can get the higher apples without bruising them. I decided to get crazy and climb the tree and hand pick ours. I can't remember the last time I climbed a tree!! Oh, to be young again! LOL.
I'm not sure if the kids like picking or eating the apples more... They were perfect... crisp and juicy!! We had so much fun!
Julie's husband (another one of our neighbors) got box seats to the Iowa Stars game tonight. I think I might have gone to a hockey game in high school, but not even 100% sure..... In any event, tonight will be my first hockey game in years, and the kids' first game ever. Unfortunately I don't know any of the rules, but still looking forward to the game. We're going with Julie (and family) and Andrea (and family) so it should be a good time.... and the kids can run around in the box all night!
Katherine didn't have school today for a teacher in-service, so we decided to make the trip this morning, and the orchard certainly didn't disappoint. It was every bit as good as she told me it was and then some. We all had so much fun.
Here's some pictures from today.
The orchard has a time warp tunnel where you can go back in time 100 years. It's pretty cool. The kids actually crawl through this tunnel and when they emerge they're in the early 1900's.
Located in this area is an old school house. Katherine had a blast sitting on the stool, and "teaching" the kids the Greek alphabet. All Caleb was concerned with was how far he could jump off the chairs and how many desks he could climb on top of before I tackled him. LOL.
Here is Katherine in back of the schoolhouse.
I just realized that these pictures are out of order, and since I'm to lazy to reload them, just bear with me....Here's a picture of Caleb playing on the haystack outside of the main gate where you can pick your own pumpkins. This orchard also has a pumpkin patch and tractor ride, but since we spent most of the time picking apples and playing in the 100 year old village, we skipped it.
Katherine and Caleb taking a break from climbing on the haystack. They loved sitting on the pumpkins!
Back to the time warp village....
They had this super cute outhouse that the kids LOVED going in and hiding from the mommies! 
Professor Hanson teaching the Greek alphabet...
They also had toy tractors that Caleb LOVED!! Since he couldn't reach the pedals, I had to push him around the track! Don't you love the bug in the background???
In the time warp village, they also have the story of the three little pigs, complete with the straw, stick and brick houses. The kids loved running into each of them and playing house. Allison (Carolyn's little girl) is sitting next to Katherine. We were so glad that they wanted to go back to the orchard with us!!
The kids and I.... 
It's apple pickin' time! The orchard gives you these long claw type things with a basket attached so that you can get the higher apples without bruising them. I decided to get crazy and climb the tree and hand pick ours. I can't remember the last time I climbed a tree!! Oh, to be young again! LOL.
I'm not sure if the kids like picking or eating the apples more... They were perfect... crisp and juicy!! We had so much fun!
Katherine and Allison walking through the orchard, trying to find the perfect tree. We're already looking forward to next year!!
Julie's husband (another one of our neighbors) got box seats to the Iowa Stars game tonight. I think I might have gone to a hockey game in high school, but not even 100% sure..... In any event, tonight will be my first hockey game in years, and the kids' first game ever. Unfortunately I don't know any of the rules, but still looking forward to the game. We're going with Julie (and family) and Andrea (and family) so it should be a good time.... and the kids can run around in the box all night!
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Just wondering....
Several weeks ago, Carolyn and I left the kids with the boys and we headed over to Williamsburg for a little retail therapy. The outlet mall happens to have a Carter's and Osh Kosh store, so you can only imagine where most of the money went... LOL! I ended up buying Caleb several outfits -- the swooshy pants and matching shirts. Very comfy and a necessity in every little boy's wardrobe, right??? WRONG!
This morning when I was getting the kids ready for the day I picked out a *new* and very cute outfit for Caleb to wear. Orange pants with navy stripes going down the side and an orange and navy stripped shirt. Lately, he's had a thing with collared shirts -- refusing to wear a shirt without one.... This shirt has a collar, so I thought I'd be safe! Nope... To say that he refused to put it on would be a gross understatement.... He screamed & cried, kicked and threw a holy fit. It was quite the scene! There was NO WAY he was wearing anything but his standard jeans and collared shirt. How insane is that????
I tried to tell him that his jeans were dirty, hoping he'd mix it up a bit, but no such luck. He just screamed, "WAAANNNT MY DIRTY JEANS"! UUUUGH! So on went jeans and a shirt. I have all these 24 months clothes that he'll never wear, and since they were bought at an outlet mall, I'm not sure if I can return them, and even if I could, it's almost a 2 hour drive.... Frustration, I tell ya!! So if anyone needs a complete fall wardrobe, let me know and I'll hook you up!
This morning when I was getting the kids ready for the day I picked out a *new* and very cute outfit for Caleb to wear. Orange pants with navy stripes going down the side and an orange and navy stripped shirt. Lately, he's had a thing with collared shirts -- refusing to wear a shirt without one.... This shirt has a collar, so I thought I'd be safe! Nope... To say that he refused to put it on would be a gross understatement.... He screamed & cried, kicked and threw a holy fit. It was quite the scene! There was NO WAY he was wearing anything but his standard jeans and collared shirt. How insane is that????
I tried to tell him that his jeans were dirty, hoping he'd mix it up a bit, but no such luck. He just screamed, "WAAANNNT MY DIRTY JEANS"! UUUUGH! So on went jeans and a shirt. I have all these 24 months clothes that he'll never wear, and since they were bought at an outlet mall, I'm not sure if I can return them, and even if I could, it's almost a 2 hour drive.... Frustration, I tell ya!! So if anyone needs a complete fall wardrobe, let me know and I'll hook you up!
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Randomness
It's one of those random days... I've had so many things that I've wanted to blog about, but each time I sit down at the computer my mind goes blank. So a random, rambling blog is all you get! LOL.
1. Katherine has been singin' loud and singin' proud these days. She's got a new a favorite song, and has been beltin' it out for anyone and everyone who'll listen! Anyone want to take a guess what song has invaded our world??? You wouldn't guess right in a million years so I'll just clue you in.... the Greek alphabet! That's right, Katherine has been singing "Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, Epsilon... (all the way through Omega) at the top of her lungs 24/7. What's so hilarious is that she actually gets the words (letters) right each time. I just have to chuckle... she sounds like such a little sorority girl.
2. My car has a new name. I have no idea why, but Katherine and Caleb have named my car "J.J." and each time one of them says it, they both break into hysterical laughter.... the belly clutching, tear jerking, gasping for breath, eyes tearing kind of laughter. I'm not sure it's THAT funny, but seeing them laugh like that gets me every time. I'm not sure you can hear a child laugh like that and not join them. So lately, I've been spending several minutes each day laughing with them about absolutely nothing at all. It's good for the soul!
3. The Science Center has a new exhibit and the kids looove it! We went downtown yesterday with Michelle, Nicholas and Caden and spent well over an hour in the new grossology exhibit. It's a little kids' wonderland. They have a slide for younger kids (you enter through the mouth and exit in the stomach and then can crawl through the intestines -- yuck), an air gun that shoots ping pong balls into "nostrils" and when you get a certain number of balls in, the nose sneezes them back at you, machines that make farting and burping sounds, pin ball machines, and so much more. I had a hard time pulling the kids out of that room! It's a good thing that lunch time was right around the corner! LOL.
4. I made 11 or 12 Boo Buckets and finally finished delivering them yesterday. This kids loved sneaking around and plotting how and when we'd deliver them. I hope everyone found them, and no one figures out that we were behind it!!
5. Katherine is in a tumbling class that she's not so thrilled with. It's not gymnastics -- only tumbling, so they don't work on the bars, beam or vault, and the skills they've worked on thus far, are VERY elementary -- such as the bunny hop, crab walk, cigar rolls, somersaults, etc. No cartwheels. No round offs. Katherine is bored. She wants to do more, so.... I called Chows. For anyone who doesn't know, Shawn Johnson trains at Chows, so I thought I'd call and get prices. Pretty expensive -- $52.50/4 weeks. After talking to Danyel, who used to be in competitive gymnastics, I called Urbandale Dance and Gymnastics -- they were $58/month. OUCH! Holy cow is that pricey!! Not to be cheap, but I don't know what to do. I'm already paying for preschool, kindermusik for BOTH kids, and ballet, tap and tumbling for Katherine. Thank goodness Caleb's storytime is FREE!! LOL! All of these kids activities are soooo pricey! On the other hand, she is always turning cartwheels and round offs in the living room and watches gymnastics almost every day on TV. (I TiVo'ed it for her and she's so addicted)! She wants to take gymnastics sooooo badly. So, we'll see.
6. Next Tuesday night is date night, and I'm soooo looking forward to it. We are going with 4 couples (some of the neighborhood crew) to Mrs. Trusslers for dinner. I know this probably sounds strange, but Mrs. Trussler is this woman who lives out in the country and cooks elaborate dinners every night for one party. You have to have a minimum of 8 people and everyone has the same menu, but it's such a wonderful, fun place. You sit at her formal dining room table, eat off her china/sterling and can bring your own wine. You can stay as long as you want, and it's such a "homey" experience. Oh, and did I mention it's a legendary??? She's booked out more than a year in advance. So, we're really looking forward to it. Typically it's just a girls thing, but this time we decided to invite the guys. Other than Matt, it's all of the other guys' first time. Should be a blast!!
1. Katherine has been singin' loud and singin' proud these days. She's got a new a favorite song, and has been beltin' it out for anyone and everyone who'll listen! Anyone want to take a guess what song has invaded our world??? You wouldn't guess right in a million years so I'll just clue you in.... the Greek alphabet! That's right, Katherine has been singing "Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, Epsilon... (all the way through Omega) at the top of her lungs 24/7. What's so hilarious is that she actually gets the words (letters) right each time. I just have to chuckle... she sounds like such a little sorority girl.
2. My car has a new name. I have no idea why, but Katherine and Caleb have named my car "J.J." and each time one of them says it, they both break into hysterical laughter.... the belly clutching, tear jerking, gasping for breath, eyes tearing kind of laughter. I'm not sure it's THAT funny, but seeing them laugh like that gets me every time. I'm not sure you can hear a child laugh like that and not join them. So lately, I've been spending several minutes each day laughing with them about absolutely nothing at all. It's good for the soul!
3. The Science Center has a new exhibit and the kids looove it! We went downtown yesterday with Michelle, Nicholas and Caden and spent well over an hour in the new grossology exhibit. It's a little kids' wonderland. They have a slide for younger kids (you enter through the mouth and exit in the stomach and then can crawl through the intestines -- yuck), an air gun that shoots ping pong balls into "nostrils" and when you get a certain number of balls in, the nose sneezes them back at you, machines that make farting and burping sounds, pin ball machines, and so much more. I had a hard time pulling the kids out of that room! It's a good thing that lunch time was right around the corner! LOL.
4. I made 11 or 12 Boo Buckets and finally finished delivering them yesterday. This kids loved sneaking around and plotting how and when we'd deliver them. I hope everyone found them, and no one figures out that we were behind it!!
5. Katherine is in a tumbling class that she's not so thrilled with. It's not gymnastics -- only tumbling, so they don't work on the bars, beam or vault, and the skills they've worked on thus far, are VERY elementary -- such as the bunny hop, crab walk, cigar rolls, somersaults, etc. No cartwheels. No round offs. Katherine is bored. She wants to do more, so.... I called Chows. For anyone who doesn't know, Shawn Johnson trains at Chows, so I thought I'd call and get prices. Pretty expensive -- $52.50/4 weeks. After talking to Danyel, who used to be in competitive gymnastics, I called Urbandale Dance and Gymnastics -- they were $58/month. OUCH! Holy cow is that pricey!! Not to be cheap, but I don't know what to do. I'm already paying for preschool, kindermusik for BOTH kids, and ballet, tap and tumbling for Katherine. Thank goodness Caleb's storytime is FREE!! LOL! All of these kids activities are soooo pricey! On the other hand, she is always turning cartwheels and round offs in the living room and watches gymnastics almost every day on TV. (I TiVo'ed it for her and she's so addicted)! She wants to take gymnastics sooooo badly. So, we'll see.
6. Next Tuesday night is date night, and I'm soooo looking forward to it. We are going with 4 couples (some of the neighborhood crew) to Mrs. Trusslers for dinner. I know this probably sounds strange, but Mrs. Trussler is this woman who lives out in the country and cooks elaborate dinners every night for one party. You have to have a minimum of 8 people and everyone has the same menu, but it's such a wonderful, fun place. You sit at her formal dining room table, eat off her china/sterling and can bring your own wine. You can stay as long as you want, and it's such a "homey" experience. Oh, and did I mention it's a legendary??? She's booked out more than a year in advance. So, we're really looking forward to it. Typically it's just a girls thing, but this time we decided to invite the guys. Other than Matt, it's all of the other guys' first time. Should be a blast!!
Monday, October 8, 2007
Fire trucks are Caleb's new BFF
Every week, Katherine's preschool has a different "theme" in which they center the lessons and activities around, they focus on a specific letter of the alphabet, and learn a nursery rhyme, etc. With that being said...
This morning as we pulled into the parking lot to drop Katherine off at preschool, there sat every little boy's dream -- an ambulance and a small fire rescue vehicle. Immediately my heart sank. Was someone ill? Did they have to call 911? What happened? My mind was racing and fearing the worst. (Obviously my Grandma's condition has been on my mind a lot lately).... All of a sudden Katherine and Caleb starting oooh'ing and aaaah'ing over the trucks, and then she reminded me that this is "fire safety week" at preschool. Of course it was fire safety week!! DUH... What was I thinking??? I swear I feel like I'm losing my mind! LOL.
We ended up parking right next to the small rescue vehicle, and 4 or 5 uniformed fire fighters were walking around, putting on their full gear. Caleb could hardly contain himself. He burst into laughter and started yelling "fire truck"!! There was nothing more than he wanted to hop in that truck with them and take it for a spin.
We talked to them for a minute, and then had to get Katherine into her class. After we said our goodbyes, we turned around to find the hallway full of fighters carrying all their gear. Caleb went absolutely NUTS! I swear he high 5'ed them all a million times, and then totally freaked out when he got to hold this canister type thing. He was in heaven!!
I finally pulled him away, and we walked outside only to find the huge fire truck pulling up to the door (in the drop off lane for those familiar with the building), and Caleb was just in awe.... The high 5'ing stopped. The laughter was a thing of the past. He just stood there; his eyes as big as saucers and didn't move a muscle. He was so shocked to see the truck up close that he could barely breathe. The fireman in the truck waved and honked the horn at him, and then he totally freaked!! He was jumping up and down, clapping and high-five'ing everything in sight. OOOOH, how he loved that truck! LOL!! The fire fighters got out and "insisted" that he touch the truck and stand on the side of it.
I wish I had my camera. The look on his face was priceless. It was the look of sheer joy -- the kind of happiness that can only come from deep within one's soul. The kind of happiness that makes life worth living. The kind of happiness that I live to see in my children's eyes.
Definitely the highlight of the day!
This morning as we pulled into the parking lot to drop Katherine off at preschool, there sat every little boy's dream -- an ambulance and a small fire rescue vehicle. Immediately my heart sank. Was someone ill? Did they have to call 911? What happened? My mind was racing and fearing the worst. (Obviously my Grandma's condition has been on my mind a lot lately).... All of a sudden Katherine and Caleb starting oooh'ing and aaaah'ing over the trucks, and then she reminded me that this is "fire safety week" at preschool. Of course it was fire safety week!! DUH... What was I thinking??? I swear I feel like I'm losing my mind! LOL.
We ended up parking right next to the small rescue vehicle, and 4 or 5 uniformed fire fighters were walking around, putting on their full gear. Caleb could hardly contain himself. He burst into laughter and started yelling "fire truck"!! There was nothing more than he wanted to hop in that truck with them and take it for a spin.
We talked to them for a minute, and then had to get Katherine into her class. After we said our goodbyes, we turned around to find the hallway full of fighters carrying all their gear. Caleb went absolutely NUTS! I swear he high 5'ed them all a million times, and then totally freaked out when he got to hold this canister type thing. He was in heaven!!
I finally pulled him away, and we walked outside only to find the huge fire truck pulling up to the door (in the drop off lane for those familiar with the building), and Caleb was just in awe.... The high 5'ing stopped. The laughter was a thing of the past. He just stood there; his eyes as big as saucers and didn't move a muscle. He was so shocked to see the truck up close that he could barely breathe. The fireman in the truck waved and honked the horn at him, and then he totally freaked!! He was jumping up and down, clapping and high-five'ing everything in sight. OOOOH, how he loved that truck! LOL!! The fire fighters got out and "insisted" that he touch the truck and stand on the side of it.
I wish I had my camera. The look on his face was priceless. It was the look of sheer joy -- the kind of happiness that can only come from deep within one's soul. The kind of happiness that makes life worth living. The kind of happiness that I live to see in my children's eyes.
Definitely the highlight of the day!
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Boo Buckets
WE WERE BOO'ED THIS MORNING!! The kids were thrilled to see the adorable tin pumpkin bucket filled with goodies and treats. What a great way to start off the day!
Before we moved to Des Moines, I had never heard of Boo Buckets, so for anyone not in the know... A boo bucket is a wonderful little Halloween bucket, delivered anonymously, full of yummy goodies, candy, fruit, stickers, etc. It's similar to a May Day basket but on a grander scale. When you receive one of the coveted buckets, you immediately stick a note in your door that says "BOO" or "I've been Boo'ed", and then make up two buckets and deliver them to another house -- on the sly. The idea is that through this chain of giving, each house will eventually be tapped and place the decoration in their front window. Typically the kids wait with great anticipation to see what their bucket will look like and then plot who they'll boo in return. It's great fun for them, trying to figure out who gave them their bucket, and has become one of the fall traditions we eagerly look forward to!
I had totally forgotten about the boo buckets this year, when all of a sudden, Matt notices Andrea racing through our backyard, carrying something. He assumed she was coming in, so he went to the back door to let her in, but she disappeared. He turned to me and asked, "Is today a special day? ....like May Day or something?" Nope, I tell him, it's not. The boo bucket thing still wasn't clicking... So Matt went around to the front door, and there stood Andrea delivering the "anonymous" bucket.
I can't believe I had forgotten! In years past, I had buckets already made and ready to go, but this year it totally slipped my mind. I guess it made the surprise all that much sweeter!
So either tonight on the way home from Morgan's party, or tomorrow while Katherine is at preschool I'm going to pick up the stuff to make boo baskets. I'm going to make two for houses in our neighborhood, one for Morgan/Hannah, and two or three more for friends of ours who don't live in the neighborhood. If it wasn't anonymous, I'd throw in bags of kettle corn (yum!!) but that'd give it away, so we'll have to find something else.
After church today, Matt and I decided to take the kids back out to Howells so that we could take the tractor ride out to the pumpkin patch and pick out the all important carving pumpkins. Last weekend when we went there, the kids spent so much time playing in the kiddie area that we never actually made it out to the patch. So today was the day!!
I decided not to take any pictures today... partly because Matt was teasing me about being a paparazzi, and partly because it looked like rain and I didn't want the camera to get soaked in the middle of the patch. It was so nice just to relax and enjoy the day, without feeling like I "had" to get some great pictures. Today felt so normal again -- the kids are on the mend, we got some boo bucket love, my Grandma seems to be doing a little better, and tonight we are celebrating Morgan's 5th birthday. I like normal. Normal is good.
Before we moved to Des Moines, I had never heard of Boo Buckets, so for anyone not in the know... A boo bucket is a wonderful little Halloween bucket, delivered anonymously, full of yummy goodies, candy, fruit, stickers, etc. It's similar to a May Day basket but on a grander scale. When you receive one of the coveted buckets, you immediately stick a note in your door that says "BOO" or "I've been Boo'ed", and then make up two buckets and deliver them to another house -- on the sly. The idea is that through this chain of giving, each house will eventually be tapped and place the decoration in their front window. Typically the kids wait with great anticipation to see what their bucket will look like and then plot who they'll boo in return. It's great fun for them, trying to figure out who gave them their bucket, and has become one of the fall traditions we eagerly look forward to!
I had totally forgotten about the boo buckets this year, when all of a sudden, Matt notices Andrea racing through our backyard, carrying something. He assumed she was coming in, so he went to the back door to let her in, but she disappeared. He turned to me and asked, "Is today a special day? ....like May Day or something?" Nope, I tell him, it's not. The boo bucket thing still wasn't clicking... So Matt went around to the front door, and there stood Andrea delivering the "anonymous" bucket.
I can't believe I had forgotten! In years past, I had buckets already made and ready to go, but this year it totally slipped my mind. I guess it made the surprise all that much sweeter!
So either tonight on the way home from Morgan's party, or tomorrow while Katherine is at preschool I'm going to pick up the stuff to make boo baskets. I'm going to make two for houses in our neighborhood, one for Morgan/Hannah, and two or three more for friends of ours who don't live in the neighborhood. If it wasn't anonymous, I'd throw in bags of kettle corn (yum!!) but that'd give it away, so we'll have to find something else.
After church today, Matt and I decided to take the kids back out to Howells so that we could take the tractor ride out to the pumpkin patch and pick out the all important carving pumpkins. Last weekend when we went there, the kids spent so much time playing in the kiddie area that we never actually made it out to the patch. So today was the day!!
I decided not to take any pictures today... partly because Matt was teasing me about being a paparazzi, and partly because it looked like rain and I didn't want the camera to get soaked in the middle of the patch. It was so nice just to relax and enjoy the day, without feeling like I "had" to get some great pictures. Today felt so normal again -- the kids are on the mend, we got some boo bucket love, my Grandma seems to be doing a little better, and tonight we are celebrating Morgan's 5th birthday. I like normal. Normal is good.
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Sleep is a good thing.
I have to admit, I really like sleep. To quote Martha, it's a good thing. Without it (or if I get less than 6 hours a night), I get edgy, crabby, and get on my own nerves! It's not pretty, let me assure you!! LOL. So between the lack of sleep, and spending every free minute up at hospice with my Grandma, I'm worn out -- physically and emotionally.
The last few nights have been hard for Caleb... He hasn't been sleeping nearly as long as normal, and the sleep he is getting isn't good quality shut-eye. I'm guessing that, without his plug, he's having a hard time getting himself back to sleep when he wakes up in the middle of the night. So he's been waking up crying in the middle of the night and then up for the day sometime before 6. However, yesterday everything changed...
Katherine and Caleb have both been under the weather this week with a sore throat and cough, and in the past day, Caleb started running a low grade fever. (I took both of them to Dr. Jon on Tuesday and they're on antibiotics). I'm sure he just feels achy all over -- poor little guy. I feel so badly for him, there's nothing more I want than to give him his plug and tell him to have at it. BUT, we've made it this far, so there's no going back. Yesterday when I laid him down in his crib at nap time, he didn't cry or fuss at all. It was nothing but silence, thank heavens!! Typically, he's a two hour nap kind of guy, so when he was still sleeping at 2.5 hours, I began to wonder... At three hours I opened his door and checked in on him. At 3.5 hours, I felt his forehead to make sure he wasn't burning up. Finally, he woke up a little more than 4 hours later. I about fell over! He never sleeps that long. I guess between lack of sleep and being sick, he was just worn out.
Tonight Matt and Julie (one of our neighbors) has invited everyone over to watch a movie at their house. They bought some projector type thing so that they can set it up outside and have the kids watch a movie on the side of the house while the adults sit around the fire pit and chat. Sounds like sooo much fun, but with the coughs and fever, I don't want to infect the entire neighborhood, so we'll have to sit tonight out.
My brother is coming back tonight for my niece, Morgan's birthday party tomorrow, so we'll probably go out to dinner with the fam, and then head up to hospice. I've been planning on taking the kids up there with me, but since they're sick, I can't risk infecting my Grandma (or anyone else for that matter) so Matt will take them home for bed.
Anyway -- sorry I don't have anything funny or interesting to report. It's been a really tough last week -- sick kids, not sleeping, and my Grandma in hospice. There's been so many things I've wanted to blog about, but when nap time rolled around for them, I napped too. Hopefully next week things will be more back to normal....
The last few nights have been hard for Caleb... He hasn't been sleeping nearly as long as normal, and the sleep he is getting isn't good quality shut-eye. I'm guessing that, without his plug, he's having a hard time getting himself back to sleep when he wakes up in the middle of the night. So he's been waking up crying in the middle of the night and then up for the day sometime before 6. However, yesterday everything changed...
Katherine and Caleb have both been under the weather this week with a sore throat and cough, and in the past day, Caleb started running a low grade fever. (I took both of them to Dr. Jon on Tuesday and they're on antibiotics). I'm sure he just feels achy all over -- poor little guy. I feel so badly for him, there's nothing more I want than to give him his plug and tell him to have at it. BUT, we've made it this far, so there's no going back. Yesterday when I laid him down in his crib at nap time, he didn't cry or fuss at all. It was nothing but silence, thank heavens!! Typically, he's a two hour nap kind of guy, so when he was still sleeping at 2.5 hours, I began to wonder... At three hours I opened his door and checked in on him. At 3.5 hours, I felt his forehead to make sure he wasn't burning up. Finally, he woke up a little more than 4 hours later. I about fell over! He never sleeps that long. I guess between lack of sleep and being sick, he was just worn out.
Tonight Matt and Julie (one of our neighbors) has invited everyone over to watch a movie at their house. They bought some projector type thing so that they can set it up outside and have the kids watch a movie on the side of the house while the adults sit around the fire pit and chat. Sounds like sooo much fun, but with the coughs and fever, I don't want to infect the entire neighborhood, so we'll have to sit tonight out.
My brother is coming back tonight for my niece, Morgan's birthday party tomorrow, so we'll probably go out to dinner with the fam, and then head up to hospice. I've been planning on taking the kids up there with me, but since they're sick, I can't risk infecting my Grandma (or anyone else for that matter) so Matt will take them home for bed.
Anyway -- sorry I don't have anything funny or interesting to report. It's been a really tough last week -- sick kids, not sleeping, and my Grandma in hospice. There's been so many things I've wanted to blog about, but when nap time rolled around for them, I napped too. Hopefully next week things will be more back to normal....
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
This is harder than I thought...
Life without Caleb's plug has definitely been interesting.... To say that it's been a roller coaster for us all, would be the understatement of the year. I really thought that since he was soooo excited about getting Mack and becoming a big boy, that he'd give up his plug without that much of a fight. How out of touch with reality am I????
Up until Caleb got rid of his plug, nap time was a breeze. So easy, it was comical. When it got close to nap time, I'd ask, "Who wants to be the nap leader?" and they'd both go running for the stairs yelling "MEEEEEEE" and race to their rooms. Without the plug, TOTALLY different story. Day number one without the plug was a disaster. He screamed and cried for well over an hour, and he *never* cries at bedtime. I knew he had to be exhausted because this was the same day he got up an hour and a half earlier than normal. My poor little man was so tuckered out that we had to pry him out of bed at 6:15. He was totally cashed out!
Despite his sheer exhaustion, once again he was up before the sun, ready to play! (Clearly I'm NO expert, but I'm wondering if he's now getting up earlier than normal because he can't soothe himself back to sleep). But the real test came right before Katherine had to be to school.... Caleb decided it was a fine time to have an absolute meltdown and DEMAND his plug.
Katherine and I went out to the garage, and while she was buckling herself into her car seat, I went back in to pick up Caleb. He went into panic mode... screaming, crying, and trying to wiggle away from me. I finally wrestled him outside, but getting into his car seat was out of the question. He was having NONE of it! I tried with all my might to get him into his car seat, and physically I just couldn't... Yes, my two year old is stronger than me! LOL. I tell ya, it was terrible. The chaos went on for about 15 minutes, and by that time I was running late in getting Katherine to school. I was begging and pleading with him to get in, trying to remain calm. Katherine was trying to distract him by showing him imaginary birds, squirrels, and airplanes. Out of frustration, she finally offered up candy. Nothing would persuade him. There was NO WAY he was getting in that car seat without that plug.
So there I stand, reduced to tears and calling Matt. I felt so helpless. There was no way I could get him in that car seat. If I didn't have to get Katherine to school, we would have just gone back in the house and forgotten it, but we had to leave 5 minutes ago, and unfortunately I couldn't leave him home alone -- although the thought did cross my mind!! LOL. So yea -- I gave in. As soon as he saw the plug, he immediately quit crying, turned around and sat down. So now I'm stewing... My two year old got the best of me. Kim -- I so needed your pencils! Not sure if they would have helped the tears, but holy cow was I frustrated!
Thankfully that was the last time he's had the plug. I went to hospice last night to spend some time with my Grandma, so Matt put little man to bed. Matt said he cried a little, but not more than 10 minutes or so... Nap time today was much easier as well, and he's gone back to telling everyone that he's a "biiiig boy" and his plug is in the garbage. Now here's to hoping that he starts sleeping a little later in the morning. I don't know about you, but I like to sleep past 5:45 am!
Up until Caleb got rid of his plug, nap time was a breeze. So easy, it was comical. When it got close to nap time, I'd ask, "Who wants to be the nap leader?" and they'd both go running for the stairs yelling "MEEEEEEE" and race to their rooms. Without the plug, TOTALLY different story. Day number one without the plug was a disaster. He screamed and cried for well over an hour, and he *never* cries at bedtime. I knew he had to be exhausted because this was the same day he got up an hour and a half earlier than normal. My poor little man was so tuckered out that we had to pry him out of bed at 6:15. He was totally cashed out!
Despite his sheer exhaustion, once again he was up before the sun, ready to play! (Clearly I'm NO expert, but I'm wondering if he's now getting up earlier than normal because he can't soothe himself back to sleep). But the real test came right before Katherine had to be to school.... Caleb decided it was a fine time to have an absolute meltdown and DEMAND his plug.
Katherine and I went out to the garage, and while she was buckling herself into her car seat, I went back in to pick up Caleb. He went into panic mode... screaming, crying, and trying to wiggle away from me. I finally wrestled him outside, but getting into his car seat was out of the question. He was having NONE of it! I tried with all my might to get him into his car seat, and physically I just couldn't... Yes, my two year old is stronger than me! LOL. I tell ya, it was terrible. The chaos went on for about 15 minutes, and by that time I was running late in getting Katherine to school. I was begging and pleading with him to get in, trying to remain calm. Katherine was trying to distract him by showing him imaginary birds, squirrels, and airplanes. Out of frustration, she finally offered up candy. Nothing would persuade him. There was NO WAY he was getting in that car seat without that plug.
So there I stand, reduced to tears and calling Matt. I felt so helpless. There was no way I could get him in that car seat. If I didn't have to get Katherine to school, we would have just gone back in the house and forgotten it, but we had to leave 5 minutes ago, and unfortunately I couldn't leave him home alone -- although the thought did cross my mind!! LOL. So yea -- I gave in. As soon as he saw the plug, he immediately quit crying, turned around and sat down. So now I'm stewing... My two year old got the best of me. Kim -- I so needed your pencils! Not sure if they would have helped the tears, but holy cow was I frustrated!
Thankfully that was the last time he's had the plug. I went to hospice last night to spend some time with my Grandma, so Matt put little man to bed. Matt said he cried a little, but not more than 10 minutes or so... Nap time today was much easier as well, and he's gone back to telling everyone that he's a "biiiig boy" and his plug is in the garbage. Now here's to hoping that he starts sleeping a little later in the morning. I don't know about you, but I like to sleep past 5:45 am!
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Oh. My. Heavens.
It's been a long day. A really REALLY long day.
Caleb slept decently well last night considering he was without plug (pacifier), but decided to get up at least 1.5 hours sooner than normal. He demanded to play with Mack. Are you kidding me? It's still dark out... The birds aren't even chirping, but my little man is ready to rock and roll! All I want to do is hit snooze for a few more minutes... No such luck!
Katherine heard all the commotion and came into my room hoping to get a little more shut-eye, but Caleb would have none of it. After all, it was time to play, and evidently Mack was a willing participant.
So I turned on the TV (I know, I know... BAD MOMMY) and took a shower. It was STILL dark, and I'm not exactly a morning person!! UUUUUGH!
By the time 9:30 rolled around, we had already been to the grocery store and back home again and unloaded the sacks. Since it was raining, I decided it was a perfect day for Chuck E Cheese. Caleb brought Mack along, but I insisted that he wait in the car. Caleb couldn't wait to tell Ben and Michelle that he was now a big boy and Mack was waiting for him in the car.
Shortly after we got there, Caleb decided that he wanted to take off his shoes, and then ran off to play. I look up and see several people laughing, and all of a sudden, here comes Caleb running, jeans in hand, sporting only a diaper. It was lovely! He was laughing so hard he could hardly run! It was hysterical.
We're home now (obviously), and despite how well he was doing without his plug, he's now up in bed screaming for it. He's absolutely beside himself. It breaks my heart, but as much as I want to, I can't give him his plug back now..... It's killing me! He's got to be tired. Oh, I wish he'd go to sleep!
Caleb slept decently well last night considering he was without plug (pacifier), but decided to get up at least 1.5 hours sooner than normal. He demanded to play with Mack. Are you kidding me? It's still dark out... The birds aren't even chirping, but my little man is ready to rock and roll! All I want to do is hit snooze for a few more minutes... No such luck!
Katherine heard all the commotion and came into my room hoping to get a little more shut-eye, but Caleb would have none of it. After all, it was time to play, and evidently Mack was a willing participant.
So I turned on the TV (I know, I know... BAD MOMMY) and took a shower. It was STILL dark, and I'm not exactly a morning person!! UUUUUGH!
By the time 9:30 rolled around, we had already been to the grocery store and back home again and unloaded the sacks. Since it was raining, I decided it was a perfect day for Chuck E Cheese. Caleb brought Mack along, but I insisted that he wait in the car. Caleb couldn't wait to tell Ben and Michelle that he was now a big boy and Mack was waiting for him in the car.
Shortly after we got there, Caleb decided that he wanted to take off his shoes, and then ran off to play. I look up and see several people laughing, and all of a sudden, here comes Caleb running, jeans in hand, sporting only a diaper. It was lovely! He was laughing so hard he could hardly run! It was hysterical.
We're home now (obviously), and despite how well he was doing without his plug, he's now up in bed screaming for it. He's absolutely beside himself. It breaks my heart, but as much as I want to, I can't give him his plug back now..... It's killing me! He's got to be tired. Oh, I wish he'd go to sleep!
Monday, October 1, 2007
We lost the plug!!!
Over the past 6 months or so, I've been trying to get Caleb to get rid of his beloved plug (pacifier) to no avail. Ever since he was a few months old, he'd suck on that thing and make this sing-songy humming noise which meant that he was about ready to drift off to sleep. It was more than just his 'plug', it was truly a comfort, and he just wasn't ready to part with it. I didn't push it either because every time he was without it for an extended period of time, he'd suck on his fingers, and I certainly didn't want him to turn into a thumb sucker.
The plug did have it's limitations though.... Caleb knew he couldn't take it outside to play, and if he was trying to talk, I'd tell him I couldn't understand him, and he'd spit it right out. If we were out and about for a long day (like Adventureland), I'd bring it along and Caleb could only suck on it if he was in stroller. The real problems began when he'd want to sit in the stroller and skip rides just so he could suck on that thing. At one point I was talking to Dr. Jon about this and his comment was, "You know how some grown men take a smoke break??? Well you have a toddler who enjoys a good plug break". Ha-ha very funny.... but unfortunately, true!
This past Saturday night, we went to Ben's 4th birthday party and one of his presents was a Mack truck (from the Cars movie) complete with little Chick Hicks, Leak Less, and McQueen cars. It was love at first sight for my little man. He was totally obsessed with it, and has been asking for it ever since the party.
So tonight after we got home from Katherine's dance lessons, I told Caleb that when he was ready to throw his plugs in the garbage, we'd head out and get him his very own Mack truck. I made the stipulations CRYSTAL CLEAR, and he knew that once the plugs went into the garbage we'd get him Mack, but he'd never get them back. All of a sudden, he grabbed two plugs and threw them in the trash. I about fell over.
All of a sudden, he starts doing a happy dance and yelling for Mack. We're all cheering for him, and he runs and grabs his shoes and yells, "Mommy, shoes on"! Needless to say, at 8:15, with both kids in their jammies, we make the 15 mile (one way) trip to Wal-Mart and pick up this. Caleb was just beaming. He was so proud of himself, and in loooooove with his new Mack. I told him a million times how proud I was of him, what a big boy he was, and reminded him WHY I bought Mack.
We didn't get home until almost 9:00 tonight and I had to let him stay up and play with Mack. Since he gave up his beloved plugs and was now a big boy, he got to stay up and play with the truck he traded his plugs for.
Both Matt and I were fearing bedtime, hoping he didn't stay up and cry for hours, and praying we wouldn't give in to the pressure! Matt brought him into his room, put Mack on his dresser (so that he could watch over Caleb while he slept), and went through the bedtime routine. For about 3 minutes he yelled, "DAAAA-DEEEE", but didn't cry and didn't ask for his plug. So yea, the $20.00 was well spent!! Now, here's to hoping that tomorrow goes just as easily!!
The plug did have it's limitations though.... Caleb knew he couldn't take it outside to play, and if he was trying to talk, I'd tell him I couldn't understand him, and he'd spit it right out. If we were out and about for a long day (like Adventureland), I'd bring it along and Caleb could only suck on it if he was in stroller. The real problems began when he'd want to sit in the stroller and skip rides just so he could suck on that thing. At one point I was talking to Dr. Jon about this and his comment was, "You know how some grown men take a smoke break??? Well you have a toddler who enjoys a good plug break". Ha-ha very funny.... but unfortunately, true!
This past Saturday night, we went to Ben's 4th birthday party and one of his presents was a Mack truck (from the Cars movie) complete with little Chick Hicks, Leak Less, and McQueen cars. It was love at first sight for my little man. He was totally obsessed with it, and has been asking for it ever since the party.
So tonight after we got home from Katherine's dance lessons, I told Caleb that when he was ready to throw his plugs in the garbage, we'd head out and get him his very own Mack truck. I made the stipulations CRYSTAL CLEAR, and he knew that once the plugs went into the garbage we'd get him Mack, but he'd never get them back. All of a sudden, he grabbed two plugs and threw them in the trash. I about fell over.
All of a sudden, he starts doing a happy dance and yelling for Mack. We're all cheering for him, and he runs and grabs his shoes and yells, "Mommy, shoes on"! Needless to say, at 8:15, with both kids in their jammies, we make the 15 mile (one way) trip to Wal-Mart and pick up this. Caleb was just beaming. He was so proud of himself, and in loooooove with his new Mack. I told him a million times how proud I was of him, what a big boy he was, and reminded him WHY I bought Mack.
We didn't get home until almost 9:00 tonight and I had to let him stay up and play with Mack. Since he gave up his beloved plugs and was now a big boy, he got to stay up and play with the truck he traded his plugs for.
Both Matt and I were fearing bedtime, hoping he didn't stay up and cry for hours, and praying we wouldn't give in to the pressure! Matt brought him into his room, put Mack on his dresser (so that he could watch over Caleb while he slept), and went through the bedtime routine. For about 3 minutes he yelled, "DAAAA-DEEEE", but didn't cry and didn't ask for his plug. So yea, the $20.00 was well spent!! Now, here's to hoping that tomorrow goes just as easily!!
Hospice
My Grandma was admitted into the hospice house here in Johnston Friday night. We wanted to keep her out of there for as long as possible, but it became evident that she needed more care than the nursing home could provide her.
The hospice house is located on Merle Hay Road, right next to the post office, and I remember driving by it countless times, always thankful that I never had to step foot inside and my heart going out to all those that did. Little did I know that my turn would come, and all too soon....
Last night, Matt, the kids and I went up the my parents house for dinner, and then after that, my parents, Laurie and I went up to visit my Grandma, while Matt took the kids home.
I have to admit, that amidst all the sadness and heart break, it's a very peaceful and beautiful place. It has a wonderful "healing garden" in the middle courtyard, and it's lush and colorful. Her suite is very cozy and homey -- a great bathroom with a whirlpool, a fireplace in her bedroom, a patio/deck that leads outside, great big and bright windows, a side room complete with fridge and pull out bed for family to stay... I found it amazing that something so heartbreaking was also something so warm and comforting. It's so much better than the nursing home.
At first I hesitated to bring the kids with me, because I was so unsure what it'd be like.... It's nothing like I expected -- no IV's, no "hospital feel", not really medical at all. There's a playroom for the kids and all pets are welcome.
So after I dropped Katherine off at preschool, Caleb and I went and picked her up some flowers and brought them by before story time. Grandma loved having him there, and Caleb must have given her about 50 high 5's. And then, he found the buttons on her bed. Thankfully she wasn't in it!
We didn't stay long -- only about 30 minutes, but it's good to have her close. This way, I can see her every day, if only for a few minutes....
The hospice house is located on Merle Hay Road, right next to the post office, and I remember driving by it countless times, always thankful that I never had to step foot inside and my heart going out to all those that did. Little did I know that my turn would come, and all too soon....
Last night, Matt, the kids and I went up the my parents house for dinner, and then after that, my parents, Laurie and I went up to visit my Grandma, while Matt took the kids home.
I have to admit, that amidst all the sadness and heart break, it's a very peaceful and beautiful place. It has a wonderful "healing garden" in the middle courtyard, and it's lush and colorful. Her suite is very cozy and homey -- a great bathroom with a whirlpool, a fireplace in her bedroom, a patio/deck that leads outside, great big and bright windows, a side room complete with fridge and pull out bed for family to stay... I found it amazing that something so heartbreaking was also something so warm and comforting. It's so much better than the nursing home.
At first I hesitated to bring the kids with me, because I was so unsure what it'd be like.... It's nothing like I expected -- no IV's, no "hospital feel", not really medical at all. There's a playroom for the kids and all pets are welcome.
So after I dropped Katherine off at preschool, Caleb and I went and picked her up some flowers and brought them by before story time. Grandma loved having him there, and Caleb must have given her about 50 high 5's. And then, he found the buttons on her bed. Thankfully she wasn't in it!
We didn't stay long -- only about 30 minutes, but it's good to have her close. This way, I can see her every day, if only for a few minutes....
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