Carl has out-done himself yet again! He has literally been up to 3:00 or so in the morning several nights in a row to pull this one off. He started on Saturday afternoon after John's birthday party and then by the next Thursday, it was complete and John was able to "open" it for his birthday. John was not allowed in the room during transformation, so he was super excited to see it.
The first picture is the "before" shot. Carl stripped the texture off the red wall and made it into a chalkboard, and the checkered wall is a super strong magnetic wall now. It is SO COOL!
The last picture is of the playdate group we had over here today, they broke the room in well!
Friday, February 25, 2011
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Happy third birthday week: Dear John
Dear John -
Our lives as we know them will change completely within the next couple of weeks as we will grow our family and welcome your new baby brother into the world. I think you will do great with Matthew. You are such a sweet and kind natured boy and love is what you do best.
This past year has been full of change and growing up for you. You have taken it like a champ. You started school and went through potty training. Literally one day you decided you did not want diapers anymore, and so it began. You mastered it right away, but the baby in you struggled with it a few times through the year and even today have a few set backs, but overall you are Mama's potty champion! Your move to a big boy room was seemless. Your language and communcation skills have really given you independence and confidence that have propelled you into the next stage of life.
I love talking with you, most of all when you look me in the eye. It melts my heart and makes me so proud! I know when you look me in the eye, you are serious about the subject, and I best listen. When you get really excited about something or can not seem to find just the right words, you take about 20 seconds to say one sentence, as you start from the beginning every time. You like things for things to be right from the start! This also carries over into other things. If you start a book or song and something happens or if you get interputted, you must start from the beginning; if your coloring page has a mistake on it, you will trash it and start all over, even if you had been working on it for a long time.
There are few things that have your full and undivided attention like coloring and animals do. When coloring, you concentrate and do not like to stop until it is complete and exactly the way you want it. All of your animals and their care and organization is as detailed and percise. You have a soft spot for animals of any kind (stuffed or real), and I truly can not think of one animal that you do not have. I am not exagerating.
You still love to be outside and would choose that over most anything else. You are not a real TV watcher, you would not watch it at all if we did not turn it on. You RARELY ask to watch anything, but when you do it is either Dino Dan, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, the new Pirate show on Disney Jr., or maybe Wonder Pets. Movies on the other hand...in the car you love to watch either "How to Train your Dragon" or "Ice Age, Dawn of the Dinosaurs". You love to watch 3d movies with Daddy and your "special glasses", especially the documentary on the ocean (shocker).
One of my most favorite things is watching you and Daddy. You two are the best of buddies. You love to wrestle or tackle him or have him put you in "John jail" until you can guess the password, which is typically some sort of dinosaur. You love to go up and "excersise" with him, which is so good for the both of you in so many ways. When Daddy is doing a project, all you want to do is help him. You mimic him and want to be just like him. He is the best Daddy in the world for you!
You have become less cautious this year. I would describe you now as observant and intuitive, I hope your continue to develop these things as I think they will serve you well through life. It makes talking around you a little more difficult these days as you are a sponge whether you act like you are listening or not. You notice ANYTHING that was different than they way you left it, or anything new in the house right away. You ask about immediately. You also have a sense of when Daddy or I are sad or angry about something. When we are down or have had a long day, we are putting a lot of effort into trying not to show this to you, as it does effect your mood and attitude.
You are the reason that Daddy and I do everything we do, we could not love you more and want nothing but the very best for you. One day you will know that everything we do is out of our love for you and nothing else. You have our hearts!
Happy third birthday week: School
This year John started a new era in his life that will continue for the next 18 years or so... he started "school". I put it in quotations, as it is not really school at this age, but that is what John knows it as and I am not sure having him refer to it as "mothers day out" is appropriate. :)
We waited until he was 2.5 to start him in school, and I think it was the perfect time. Every kids is different and Matthew may be ready earlier or later, but for John, it was ideal. I think I posted about this before, but that first day of dropping him off... I was crying so hard that I left my sunglasses on the whole time and it was one of those cries where you can not even take a deep breath. The second day, John was more upset, but then after that... smooth sailing!
Ms. Tonya and Ms. Betty are his teachers and John seems to like them just fine. A couple of our friends in the neighborhood also have them as teachers and are not the biggest fans though. I guess John really does not know any better, but he is happy. Neither of them are super warm people, but by no means are they mean or inappropriate. Ms. Betty is a grandmother and Ms. Tonya has high school kids, so both are a bit older than I would have expected. They do seem to treat the day more like a business than a fun experience. But they have been doing it for so many years, I am sure they just fall into a routine.
They seem to love John. I asked yesterday if they were seeing any mean talk or behavior out of John while at school and Ms. Tonya acted so surprised. She said he would be the last kids that he would expect that from and that he is always so sweet. She said she would start listening and watching for it, but seriously doubted it. That makes me feel good I suppose, although that means he is just doing it towards me and Carl, which is disturbing.
Anyone reading this knows that I am a highly competitive person, so when the first semester "progress report" came home (which I had no idea about, or I would have been on pins and needles for a week) I was no less than running to the car to read it. Keep in mind this is a 2 year old program and there is no comparison to other kids, but I still was so curious how he was doing when I was not around.
The scale basically was "not exhibiting the skill at all", "emerging skill" or something like "doing it less than 50% of the time" or "doing it more than 50% of the time". Almost everything was more than 50% of the time for John, but some of the ones that he was doing less than 50% of the time surprised me. Specifically - using scissors. I had NEVER handed him scissors before, of course he does not know how to use them! I did not think he was ready... but don't you know the next day I had a pair of safety scissors for him to practice with at home! Anyway, I won't go into all the details here. Once I get the 2nd semester report I will do a separate post, as I think it will be interesting to look back on in years.
One thing I have loved is seeing him learn from other people. It took me back at first when he would come home with a new word or song or action that I know I did not teach him. But it is so fun. I LOVE talking to him about his day (when he is in the mood that is), I think his answers are so interesting. And most of the time are quite revealing... the other day he told us that he was telling Zach about his fishing trip with Daddy and that Ms. Tonya had to tell them to be quite and not talk during the movie (it was Valentines party, they normally do not watch a movie). And then one day he told us that Ms. Tonya told him he could not growl at Avery any more because she did not like it. That is my little dinosaur!
He has not really picked up the Spanish much, or at least he does not really talk about it, but I know he loves when it is music or art day. I have SO MUCH art. I am saving it all in a box, not sure why, but I can not bring myself to throw it away.
He says he favorite part of school is the playground....shocker. He favorite friend changes every day, which I think the 'center time' is structured so that they play with different kids everyday. I really like this.
His coloring and tracing has gotten so much better this year, I attribute that to school and Kara. She works with him one on one a lot when she is hear. I love her too!
He will actually not go to this school again in the Fall though. I got up and stood in line at 5:00am in February to get one of the last remaining 6 spots in the Sunshine Kids preschool program at Stonebridge United Methodist church. It is where Carl and I got married. They have an incredible program that people just rave about and get in line at 5:00am in the morning to get a spot for. I am so excited about that! And he will be in the same class as his best little buddy Garrett.
It has been a great start to the next 18 years of his life....
We waited until he was 2.5 to start him in school, and I think it was the perfect time. Every kids is different and Matthew may be ready earlier or later, but for John, it was ideal. I think I posted about this before, but that first day of dropping him off... I was crying so hard that I left my sunglasses on the whole time and it was one of those cries where you can not even take a deep breath. The second day, John was more upset, but then after that... smooth sailing!
Ms. Tonya and Ms. Betty are his teachers and John seems to like them just fine. A couple of our friends in the neighborhood also have them as teachers and are not the biggest fans though. I guess John really does not know any better, but he is happy. Neither of them are super warm people, but by no means are they mean or inappropriate. Ms. Betty is a grandmother and Ms. Tonya has high school kids, so both are a bit older than I would have expected. They do seem to treat the day more like a business than a fun experience. But they have been doing it for so many years, I am sure they just fall into a routine.
They seem to love John. I asked yesterday if they were seeing any mean talk or behavior out of John while at school and Ms. Tonya acted so surprised. She said he would be the last kids that he would expect that from and that he is always so sweet. She said she would start listening and watching for it, but seriously doubted it. That makes me feel good I suppose, although that means he is just doing it towards me and Carl, which is disturbing.
Anyone reading this knows that I am a highly competitive person, so when the first semester "progress report" came home (which I had no idea about, or I would have been on pins and needles for a week) I was no less than running to the car to read it. Keep in mind this is a 2 year old program and there is no comparison to other kids, but I still was so curious how he was doing when I was not around.
The scale basically was "not exhibiting the skill at all", "emerging skill" or something like "doing it less than 50% of the time" or "doing it more than 50% of the time". Almost everything was more than 50% of the time for John, but some of the ones that he was doing less than 50% of the time surprised me. Specifically - using scissors. I had NEVER handed him scissors before, of course he does not know how to use them! I did not think he was ready... but don't you know the next day I had a pair of safety scissors for him to practice with at home! Anyway, I won't go into all the details here. Once I get the 2nd semester report I will do a separate post, as I think it will be interesting to look back on in years.
One thing I have loved is seeing him learn from other people. It took me back at first when he would come home with a new word or song or action that I know I did not teach him. But it is so fun. I LOVE talking to him about his day (when he is in the mood that is), I think his answers are so interesting. And most of the time are quite revealing... the other day he told us that he was telling Zach about his fishing trip with Daddy and that Ms. Tonya had to tell them to be quite and not talk during the movie (it was Valentines party, they normally do not watch a movie). And then one day he told us that Ms. Tonya told him he could not growl at Avery any more because she did not like it. That is my little dinosaur!
He has not really picked up the Spanish much, or at least he does not really talk about it, but I know he loves when it is music or art day. I have SO MUCH art. I am saving it all in a box, not sure why, but I can not bring myself to throw it away.
He says he favorite part of school is the playground....shocker. He favorite friend changes every day, which I think the 'center time' is structured so that they play with different kids everyday. I really like this.
His coloring and tracing has gotten so much better this year, I attribute that to school and Kara. She works with him one on one a lot when she is hear. I love her too!
He will actually not go to this school again in the Fall though. I got up and stood in line at 5:00am in February to get one of the last remaining 6 spots in the Sunshine Kids preschool program at Stonebridge United Methodist church. It is where Carl and I got married. They have an incredible program that people just rave about and get in line at 5:00am in the morning to get a spot for. I am so excited about that! And he will be in the same class as his best little buddy Garrett.
It has been a great start to the next 18 years of his life....
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Happy third birthday week: A Day in the Life
Over the last year our weeks have changed quite a bit. The most significant change is that we are no longer as consistent as we used to be, no one day is like another. So, what better day to use in this post than today, it is as typical as any other day at home. On Tuesday and Thursday John is in school, so those days are a bit different than today, but tomorrow's post is all about school, so we will capture it then.
6:30 - I get up and showered, I really like to be up and have already had my coffee and wake time before John gets up. I am just calmer throughout the day.
7:00 - Daddy is up and working out upstairs. So proud of him for doing this again, he is really sticking to it and it is so much motivation for me once I am cleared to exercise again.
7:30 - I go upstairs to wake up John because we have a busy morning. Normally he is up between 7:15 and 7:45. He lays in bed and wakes up awhile and then he says "Mama, I am ready to get up". I have told him daily that if the sun is up that he can get out of bed on his own, but he replies with "no, I will just wait for you". We cuddle for about 10 minutes or so because he DOES NOT LIKE to be woken up and rushed around.
7:45 - I give him two waffles and some milk while he watched the Disney Junior pirate show. Typically I try not to turn on the TV in the morning, but we were in a hurry and he was still not fully awake, so I was doing what I could to avoid a fit. I even did his hair on the couch so he would not have to be interrupted.
8:15 - out the door to take the dogs to get baths. They are so old these days and they just stink, despite any effort we put in. But with the baby coming, I wanted them to go through a good bath and the deshedding deal that takes 2 hours.
John is pretty indifferent about the car these days, no love or hate. Long trips do require a movie though.
8:40 - check in at the OBGYN ("Matthew's doctor" to John). John goes with me to every appointment and he is pretty used to the routine. Not that it is an easy routine, but overall, not bad. Although, one time he did poop in his pants, so I had to clean him up with no wipes and throw his underwear away in their bathroom. As long as I have the ipad with me, he is generally okay. Today was a bit out the ordinary. As soon as Dr. Robert came in, he proceeded to throw a fit about something and kicked me right in the shin. Would have been embarrassing, but she has a daughter a few weeks older and she totally understands. This was just the beginning of a long day of attitude, see below.
9:15 - head to Target for a few household items. On trips that do not involve a lot of groceries he gets to sit in the big part of the basket, so he was perfectly content with no fits. I have found a trick to the long trips to the store though.... I pick up a bag of trail mix (right there at each of the checkout counters) at the beginning of the trip and it keeps him busy (and messy) the entire time.
10:15 - yes, the Target trip took about an hour, I move really slow these days. We head to the park because the cleaners were still at the house. It was a gorgeous day and it was just the two of us. He does not really care about what I am doing when he is at the park, especially if his friends are there. He is pretty well independent. I will follow him around the big tall toy thing, but other than that, he would rather be left alone (or with friends if they are there). He is pretty cautious at the park and will not really try to climb up anything too difficult or tall. He likes to play pretend (including dinosaurs and dragons)and the collect sticks and rocks and find ants. Pretty typical boy stuff. I LOVE having a park 5 houses down from us and so many friends in the neighborhood, a real blessing.
11:15 - back home for a little play time. We continued to play on the front driveway for a bit longer. Daddy was working from home today, so I was able to entice John to come inside pretty easily. He played with his dragons a bit and I made lunch, which consisted of spaghettio's, blueberries and turkey, and milk. We all three sat down to eat.
12:15 - went back out front to play because it really as a gorgeous day. Daddy left to run an errand. I gave John his typical 10 minute warning about going inside, then 5 minutes, then 2, and so on. When it was time, he asked me if he could take this little black sprinkler out of one of the floor pots, I told him no. He looked at me and then reached for it. I told him no again and that if he did it he would have to go straight to nap. He looked right at me, turned around and yanked it out. I picked him up and marched him inside immediately. I made him walk up the stairs, pee and get into bed. He was crying the whole way. I lost it, I started crying pretty hard and John looked at me like I was crazy. I told him that it made me sad when he was not a good listener and that I did not like to punish him. He then proceeded to ask to say prayers (which we typically only do at night) and if I would lay with him for 2 minutes (EVERYTHING is 2 minutes with him right now, it is like a negotiating tool). So I said a prayer and cried even harder. He rubbed my cheek and gave me a kiss.
I am sure it is a combination of me being 9 months pregnant and him being 3, but my patience with him is thin and he hurts my feelings a lot. I also think he might be acting out a bit in preparation of Matthew. Things have been a little crazy busy around here lately and he probably feels that. I remind myself constantly throughout the day to take a deep breath, this is just a phase....
1:00 - I think he had fallen asleep at this point. I did some laundry, dishes and straightened up then decided that I needed a time out, so I just laid on the couch and watched TV for a bit and then fell asleep.
2:45 - "Mama, I am ready to wake up". I was awakened by a sweet little voice. After about 10 minutes of waking up and playing in his bed, he went to the potty and then of downstairs to help me make rice krispy treats for his school friends tomorrow to help celebrate John's birthday. This, and a few ritz bit PB crackers and milk was his snack for the day.
3:15 - Mainly play for the next chunk of time. Playing these days mainly consists of pretend play (which is not my niche) with dragons and dinosaurs. He also loves to paint, color, "work on" his letters and numbers in his workbooks, do "projects" whether that be making a card for someones birthday, helping me cook/bake something, his science kit, etc., move and play with his 1001 animals (still obsessed as he was at age 1 with animals). He is also still into his Toy Story friends, Lego duplos (although for only short bits of time), and puzzles. The latest thing is exercising. He will go up with Daddy and stay up there for the full hour trying to do the same stuff they are doing on TV. I am sure it is a distraction for Carl, John loves it.
4:00 - We go out back to play and pick up poop. He played with this new bubble gun he got for his birthday which was shaky at best, but he liked it. When it was time to go in, he started throw another fit. I convinced him to come inside so we could go pick up the dogs. The whole while telling him how God wants us to be good listeners and be kind to one another. I am hoping that it is getting through his head, although, he is 3.
4:30 - pick up the dogs and head back home. no drama.
5:00 - upstairs to play and draw a bit. Then he wanted me to me the Mommy Monster and chase him. He said "you can not run because of your big belly, but you can walk and chase me".
5:30 - he continued to play upstairs for a bit and I made dinner.
6:00 - Dinner was healthy tacos and then John also had carrots, whole wheat crackers and grapes. Daddy came down (he has been working and working in the play room all day trying to get it finished for John's birthday on Thursday) and we all ate together like we do every night. John will almost always ask to be excused from the table, which I love! We do have to say no every now and again until he has a few more bites, but typically we are done way before he asks.
6:30 - we all head upstairs. Daddy starts in the playroom again and John and I color and draw and play with his baby dragons.
7:00 - bath time. this time used to be such a beating to me. For the longest time for some reason I just did not like this task. These days, it is pretty easy with no drama (once you get him in the bath). John was being super sweet and a real good listener, as I had told him after dinner when he asked for "Jessie the cowgirl" back (I had taken her earlier in the day for hitting) that is he could be a good listener all the way through bath that he could have her back during quiet time.
7:30 - immediately after bath, he went and knocked on the playroom door (he knows he can not go in until Thursday) and told Daddy we were going downstairs for quiet time. We all went down and John got Jessie back, some Zyertec and a gogurt. We all relaxed a bit on the couch and then it was off to bed.
8:00 - tonight bed time was not too bad. It is about 70% good and 30% bad out of any given week. Which has gotten so much better with his move to his new room. Bed time is pretty much the same as it has always been.... potty, brush teeth, diaper and PJ's, books, put 3 animals in bed with him (he picks different ones every night), lights out, prayers, 3 songs (Old McDonald, You are my sunshine and God our Father) and then he asks you to lay with him for 2 minutes. We just lay there and he plays with your ear or rubs your cheek, special times.
8:15 - Daddy off to work in the playroom again, I help as much as I can and then I head downstairs to write this blog.... here is hoping for a 10:00 bedtime. Carl was up until 3:00am last night working on the room and up at 7:00 this morning to work and work out.... we both need some sleep.
As much as these days wear me out physically and emotionally, I do love and cherish them as our lives will never be the same in a short couple of weeks.
6:30 - I get up and showered, I really like to be up and have already had my coffee and wake time before John gets up. I am just calmer throughout the day.
7:00 - Daddy is up and working out upstairs. So proud of him for doing this again, he is really sticking to it and it is so much motivation for me once I am cleared to exercise again.
7:30 - I go upstairs to wake up John because we have a busy morning. Normally he is up between 7:15 and 7:45. He lays in bed and wakes up awhile and then he says "Mama, I am ready to get up". I have told him daily that if the sun is up that he can get out of bed on his own, but he replies with "no, I will just wait for you". We cuddle for about 10 minutes or so because he DOES NOT LIKE to be woken up and rushed around.
7:45 - I give him two waffles and some milk while he watched the Disney Junior pirate show. Typically I try not to turn on the TV in the morning, but we were in a hurry and he was still not fully awake, so I was doing what I could to avoid a fit. I even did his hair on the couch so he would not have to be interrupted.
8:15 - out the door to take the dogs to get baths. They are so old these days and they just stink, despite any effort we put in. But with the baby coming, I wanted them to go through a good bath and the deshedding deal that takes 2 hours.
John is pretty indifferent about the car these days, no love or hate. Long trips do require a movie though.
8:40 - check in at the OBGYN ("Matthew's doctor" to John). John goes with me to every appointment and he is pretty used to the routine. Not that it is an easy routine, but overall, not bad. Although, one time he did poop in his pants, so I had to clean him up with no wipes and throw his underwear away in their bathroom. As long as I have the ipad with me, he is generally okay. Today was a bit out the ordinary. As soon as Dr. Robert came in, he proceeded to throw a fit about something and kicked me right in the shin. Would have been embarrassing, but she has a daughter a few weeks older and she totally understands. This was just the beginning of a long day of attitude, see below.
9:15 - head to Target for a few household items. On trips that do not involve a lot of groceries he gets to sit in the big part of the basket, so he was perfectly content with no fits. I have found a trick to the long trips to the store though.... I pick up a bag of trail mix (right there at each of the checkout counters) at the beginning of the trip and it keeps him busy (and messy) the entire time.
10:15 - yes, the Target trip took about an hour, I move really slow these days. We head to the park because the cleaners were still at the house. It was a gorgeous day and it was just the two of us. He does not really care about what I am doing when he is at the park, especially if his friends are there. He is pretty well independent. I will follow him around the big tall toy thing, but other than that, he would rather be left alone (or with friends if they are there). He is pretty cautious at the park and will not really try to climb up anything too difficult or tall. He likes to play pretend (including dinosaurs and dragons)and the collect sticks and rocks and find ants. Pretty typical boy stuff. I LOVE having a park 5 houses down from us and so many friends in the neighborhood, a real blessing.
11:15 - back home for a little play time. We continued to play on the front driveway for a bit longer. Daddy was working from home today, so I was able to entice John to come inside pretty easily. He played with his dragons a bit and I made lunch, which consisted of spaghettio's, blueberries and turkey, and milk. We all three sat down to eat.
12:15 - went back out front to play because it really as a gorgeous day. Daddy left to run an errand. I gave John his typical 10 minute warning about going inside, then 5 minutes, then 2, and so on. When it was time, he asked me if he could take this little black sprinkler out of one of the floor pots, I told him no. He looked at me and then reached for it. I told him no again and that if he did it he would have to go straight to nap. He looked right at me, turned around and yanked it out. I picked him up and marched him inside immediately. I made him walk up the stairs, pee and get into bed. He was crying the whole way. I lost it, I started crying pretty hard and John looked at me like I was crazy. I told him that it made me sad when he was not a good listener and that I did not like to punish him. He then proceeded to ask to say prayers (which we typically only do at night) and if I would lay with him for 2 minutes (EVERYTHING is 2 minutes with him right now, it is like a negotiating tool). So I said a prayer and cried even harder. He rubbed my cheek and gave me a kiss.
I am sure it is a combination of me being 9 months pregnant and him being 3, but my patience with him is thin and he hurts my feelings a lot. I also think he might be acting out a bit in preparation of Matthew. Things have been a little crazy busy around here lately and he probably feels that. I remind myself constantly throughout the day to take a deep breath, this is just a phase....
1:00 - I think he had fallen asleep at this point. I did some laundry, dishes and straightened up then decided that I needed a time out, so I just laid on the couch and watched TV for a bit and then fell asleep.
2:45 - "Mama, I am ready to wake up". I was awakened by a sweet little voice. After about 10 minutes of waking up and playing in his bed, he went to the potty and then of downstairs to help me make rice krispy treats for his school friends tomorrow to help celebrate John's birthday. This, and a few ritz bit PB crackers and milk was his snack for the day.
3:15 - Mainly play for the next chunk of time. Playing these days mainly consists of pretend play (which is not my niche) with dragons and dinosaurs. He also loves to paint, color, "work on" his letters and numbers in his workbooks, do "projects" whether that be making a card for someones birthday, helping me cook/bake something, his science kit, etc., move and play with his 1001 animals (still obsessed as he was at age 1 with animals). He is also still into his Toy Story friends, Lego duplos (although for only short bits of time), and puzzles. The latest thing is exercising. He will go up with Daddy and stay up there for the full hour trying to do the same stuff they are doing on TV. I am sure it is a distraction for Carl, John loves it.
4:00 - We go out back to play and pick up poop. He played with this new bubble gun he got for his birthday which was shaky at best, but he liked it. When it was time to go in, he started throw another fit. I convinced him to come inside so we could go pick up the dogs. The whole while telling him how God wants us to be good listeners and be kind to one another. I am hoping that it is getting through his head, although, he is 3.
4:30 - pick up the dogs and head back home. no drama.
5:00 - upstairs to play and draw a bit. Then he wanted me to me the Mommy Monster and chase him. He said "you can not run because of your big belly, but you can walk and chase me".
5:30 - he continued to play upstairs for a bit and I made dinner.
6:00 - Dinner was healthy tacos and then John also had carrots, whole wheat crackers and grapes. Daddy came down (he has been working and working in the play room all day trying to get it finished for John's birthday on Thursday) and we all ate together like we do every night. John will almost always ask to be excused from the table, which I love! We do have to say no every now and again until he has a few more bites, but typically we are done way before he asks.
6:30 - we all head upstairs. Daddy starts in the playroom again and John and I color and draw and play with his baby dragons.
7:00 - bath time. this time used to be such a beating to me. For the longest time for some reason I just did not like this task. These days, it is pretty easy with no drama (once you get him in the bath). John was being super sweet and a real good listener, as I had told him after dinner when he asked for "Jessie the cowgirl" back (I had taken her earlier in the day for hitting) that is he could be a good listener all the way through bath that he could have her back during quiet time.
7:30 - immediately after bath, he went and knocked on the playroom door (he knows he can not go in until Thursday) and told Daddy we were going downstairs for quiet time. We all went down and John got Jessie back, some Zyertec and a gogurt. We all relaxed a bit on the couch and then it was off to bed.
8:00 - tonight bed time was not too bad. It is about 70% good and 30% bad out of any given week. Which has gotten so much better with his move to his new room. Bed time is pretty much the same as it has always been.... potty, brush teeth, diaper and PJ's, books, put 3 animals in bed with him (he picks different ones every night), lights out, prayers, 3 songs (Old McDonald, You are my sunshine and God our Father) and then he asks you to lay with him for 2 minutes. We just lay there and he plays with your ear or rubs your cheek, special times.
8:15 - Daddy off to work in the playroom again, I help as much as I can and then I head downstairs to write this blog.... here is hoping for a 10:00 bedtime. Carl was up until 3:00am last night working on the room and up at 7:00 this morning to work and work out.... we both need some sleep.
As much as these days wear me out physically and emotionally, I do love and cherish them as our lives will never be the same in a short couple of weeks.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Happy third birthday week: Big Boy Room
I think Carl's way of "nesting" is to do construction projects. And we are so lucky because of it! Carl has real talent and he never ceases to amaze me. His first labor of love for John was his nursery construction project that he poured himself into. This time around, he did 3 major projects around the house. One being the nursery of course (entry to come next week), one being the playroom for the boys (entry to come next week) and of course... John's big boy room....
Below you will find before and after photos. Carl did all of this work by himself, completely! It took a bit longer than I think he anticipated, but it is a masterpiece. He knocked out the closet and built in the bookshelves, hung the trim, painted, wired the new lights and hung everything. We still have some finishing touches and decorations to find and hang on the wall, but you can tell from the pictures that it is a fishing theme with sharks and vintage metal signs and actual fishing gear that Carl uses. Fishing will always be a special thing for Daddy and his boys, so it could not be more fitting.
Below you will find before and after photos. Carl did all of this work by himself, completely! It took a bit longer than I think he anticipated, but it is a masterpiece. He knocked out the closet and built in the bookshelves, hung the trim, painted, wired the new lights and hung everything. We still have some finishing touches and decorations to find and hang on the wall, but you can tell from the pictures that it is a fishing theme with sharks and vintage metal signs and actual fishing gear that Carl uses. Fishing will always be a special thing for Daddy and his boys, so it could not be more fitting.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Happy third birthday week: Easiest and Hardest
This 3rd year of life with a child has been amazing, as well as presented some challenges for us all. Some of the easiest and hardest things from this year (in bullet form of course :))
EASIEST
EASIEST
* Loving John unconditionally.
* Going to school (note: starting school is on the hard list). John loves school and I love watching him learn and grow socially. It came as a bit of a shock when he was learning things that were not coming from me or family members, but I quickly realized what a good thing it was.
* Playing. I am not the most creative person when it comes to impromptu imagination. So until now, it has been a challenge for me to come up with games and activities that I can really participate with John. Now that John has a longer attention span and can understand and take direction, we can play board games, puzzles, draw, play kids games (tag, hide-n-seek,etc.), etc. and I do not feel like it is a struggle, but just enjoy it.
* Moving John to a big boy room (separate post to come). Daddy let him watch and be a part of the progression and then he took it like a champ and never looked back.
* Language development. I have loved every second of this throughout this year. This was probably one of the biggest (if not the biggest) change in the 3rd year of life. John says something new every day. Things are much easier when he can express to me what he is thinking and feeling; as well as much easier for us to explain things and "reason" with him with words as well.
* Socializing. This is also one of the biggest things that has changed over the last year. He loves to play with his friends, and he does not stick to me like glue at all anymore. I attribute mainly to school, but we are lucky to have several good friends in the neighborhood that he sees on a regular basis and he is comfortable around them and their Mom's.
* Cuddle time. My little boy still loves his cuddle time with me and Daddy. I have to admit it is fading just a bit and may be on its way out for the most part. But for now, I enjoy every second and is one my favorite parts of the day.
Hardest -
* Potty training. I thought we had this down early on and only after a couple of weeks. Well, almost a year later, we still struggle a bit on a few things. I was clueless to the setbacks and I actually fear them even more now with Matthew coming.
* Attitude. Although I know that it is a part of growing up and gaining independence, it takes a lot of patience on our part to get through the stubborn, not-listening stages. Currently our issues include saying mean things ("go away" and "I don't like you"), throwing and hitting. I pray for patience daily.
* Starting school. Easily one of the hardest things I have done to walk out those doors on the first day. Thank God Carl was there to walk me out. Day two was tough on John, and then after that, we both love it.
* "Punishment". We have tried out several different things this year including time-outs, taking away toys, going to bed without books or animals. Still have not had to revert to spanking. I am hopeful that day will not come. Right now, counting to three seems to work, although we have never really gotten to three and done anything, so I am not sure why it is working. He does understand when he has done something wrong, and I guess that is the main thing, but it is still not something we like doing.
* Sickness. This year has brought on more sickness than your first two years of life by a land slide. I am sure it is because of school and taking more outgoings and being around more kids. Three times stick out in my head..1) the heat exhaustion/dehydration/sickness combo that ended up us rushing to the ER place, taught us to keep him hydrated and cooled off!... 2) the 8 days of vomiting, EIGHT DAYS. No one could really tell us what it was or why it lasted so long, but it only ended after basically starving you for 48 hours. it was so sad and quite disgusting..... 3) the ear infection that you woke up from nap with that kept you in hysterics for over 3 hours before we could see the Dr and get some drops. We also learned that after your first ever antibiotics that you are allergic to penicillin. No severe reaction, but enough that we caught it early and can avoid that in the future.
* Going to school (note: starting school is on the hard list). John loves school and I love watching him learn and grow socially. It came as a bit of a shock when he was learning things that were not coming from me or family members, but I quickly realized what a good thing it was.
* Playing. I am not the most creative person when it comes to impromptu imagination. So until now, it has been a challenge for me to come up with games and activities that I can really participate with John. Now that John has a longer attention span and can understand and take direction, we can play board games, puzzles, draw, play kids games (tag, hide-n-seek,etc.), etc. and I do not feel like it is a struggle, but just enjoy it.
* Moving John to a big boy room (separate post to come). Daddy let him watch and be a part of the progression and then he took it like a champ and never looked back.
* Language development. I have loved every second of this throughout this year. This was probably one of the biggest (if not the biggest) change in the 3rd year of life. John says something new every day. Things are much easier when he can express to me what he is thinking and feeling; as well as much easier for us to explain things and "reason" with him with words as well.
* Socializing. This is also one of the biggest things that has changed over the last year. He loves to play with his friends, and he does not stick to me like glue at all anymore. I attribute mainly to school, but we are lucky to have several good friends in the neighborhood that he sees on a regular basis and he is comfortable around them and their Mom's.
* Cuddle time. My little boy still loves his cuddle time with me and Daddy. I have to admit it is fading just a bit and may be on its way out for the most part. But for now, I enjoy every second and is one my favorite parts of the day.
Hardest -
* Potty training. I thought we had this down early on and only after a couple of weeks. Well, almost a year later, we still struggle a bit on a few things. I was clueless to the setbacks and I actually fear them even more now with Matthew coming.
* Attitude. Although I know that it is a part of growing up and gaining independence, it takes a lot of patience on our part to get through the stubborn, not-listening stages. Currently our issues include saying mean things ("go away" and "I don't like you"), throwing and hitting. I pray for patience daily.
* Starting school. Easily one of the hardest things I have done to walk out those doors on the first day. Thank God Carl was there to walk me out. Day two was tough on John, and then after that, we both love it.
* "Punishment". We have tried out several different things this year including time-outs, taking away toys, going to bed without books or animals. Still have not had to revert to spanking. I am hopeful that day will not come. Right now, counting to three seems to work, although we have never really gotten to three and done anything, so I am not sure why it is working. He does understand when he has done something wrong, and I guess that is the main thing, but it is still not something we like doing.
* Sickness. This year has brought on more sickness than your first two years of life by a land slide. I am sure it is because of school and taking more outgoings and being around more kids. Three times stick out in my head..1) the heat exhaustion/dehydration/sickness combo that ended up us rushing to the ER place, taught us to keep him hydrated and cooled off!... 2) the 8 days of vomiting, EIGHT DAYS. No one could really tell us what it was or why it lasted so long, but it only ended after basically starving you for 48 hours. it was so sad and quite disgusting..... 3) the ear infection that you woke up from nap with that kept you in hysterics for over 3 hours before we could see the Dr and get some drops. We also learned that after your first ever antibiotics that you are allergic to penicillin. No severe reaction, but enough that we caught it early and can avoid that in the future.
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Happy third birthday week: Birthday Party!
Today was John's birthday party! We went bowling with all of his friends (with a little shark theme thrown in where we could). I have to admit that I was a bit nervous for a bunch of 3-5 year olds with heavy balls and slippery floors, but it was a hit!
The party started late because our host called in sick and it was a bit chaotic (which rose my blood pressure higher than it should have been), but once we got the bumpers up and the ramps out, everything was flowing perfectly. I would highly recommend a bowling party for a birthday.
The kids seemed to really like bowling, and I think the parents were the only ones that even knew that a score was being kept. :) John really wanted to be in the "party room" with the cake and pizza instead of bowling, but once we got him out, him and Daddy had a great time. I know he was super excited about the party, but for some reason when the time comes to start the party, we have a shy little kiddo that seems totally overwhelmed (same deal as last year).
After about 5 or 6 rounds, kids started dropping like flies to go play with the arcade games. So we started the pizza and cake in the party room. Pizza was plentiful and shark cake was great (highly recommend Target next time you need a birthday cake). John was so cute during the "happy birthday" song. He just looked down and shyly glanced up around the room every now and again. I cried as a I was video taping... such a cry baby!
After pizza and cake, kids started to disperse again to play in the arcade. The party wound down and we passed out the ocean coloring books and mini plush sharks as party favors.
One of my favorite parts was having Brendan, Maggie, Brent and Abbey there. This is the first birthday party that they have been able to come to. I did not get to spend much time with them, but we all appreciate them taking them the time to come down and share with us!
Overall, it was a fantastic day and we were so lucky to have the majority of his little friends there to help us celebrate. He has A TON of new toys, and I have already stashed a few away for some delayed gratification once Matthew gets here. :)
I did not get near as many pictures as I thought I had. Here are a couple. I know that Abbey, Brent and Bob were snapping pictures too, so I am anxious to see those.
The party started late because our host called in sick and it was a bit chaotic (which rose my blood pressure higher than it should have been), but once we got the bumpers up and the ramps out, everything was flowing perfectly. I would highly recommend a bowling party for a birthday.
The kids seemed to really like bowling, and I think the parents were the only ones that even knew that a score was being kept. :) John really wanted to be in the "party room" with the cake and pizza instead of bowling, but once we got him out, him and Daddy had a great time. I know he was super excited about the party, but for some reason when the time comes to start the party, we have a shy little kiddo that seems totally overwhelmed (same deal as last year).
After about 5 or 6 rounds, kids started dropping like flies to go play with the arcade games. So we started the pizza and cake in the party room. Pizza was plentiful and shark cake was great (highly recommend Target next time you need a birthday cake). John was so cute during the "happy birthday" song. He just looked down and shyly glanced up around the room every now and again. I cried as a I was video taping... such a cry baby!
After pizza and cake, kids started to disperse again to play in the arcade. The party wound down and we passed out the ocean coloring books and mini plush sharks as party favors.
One of my favorite parts was having Brendan, Maggie, Brent and Abbey there. This is the first birthday party that they have been able to come to. I did not get to spend much time with them, but we all appreciate them taking them the time to come down and share with us!
Overall, it was a fantastic day and we were so lucky to have the majority of his little friends there to help us celebrate. He has A TON of new toys, and I have already stashed a few away for some delayed gratification once Matthew gets here. :)
I did not get near as many pictures as I thought I had. Here are a couple. I know that Abbey, Brent and Bob were snapping pictures too, so I am anxious to see those.
Friday, February 18, 2011
Happy third birthday week: Year in Pictures
I can hardly believe it is time for another birthday week blog! My big boy is turning three! Here is a picture from every month to see how he has changed...
March 2010
March 2010
April 2010
May 2010
June 2010
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Ten on Thursday (for the "ten on tuesday" procrastinators)
I truly THINK about doing a Ten on Tuesday every week, but before I know it... it is Wednesday. Here is a procrastinator version.
1) Found a new recipe blog that I linked to on the left. "Pearls, Handcuffs, and Happy Hour".
Some of the dinners I looked at do not necessarily focus on health, but are good recipes to have around when you are in a pinch. Fast and easy dinners. Some of her deserts and appetizers look pretty good too. I tried the jalapeno sliders - on a scale from 1 to 10, I would give it an 8 to serve at a football party and a 7 for dinner. Trying another one tonight.
2) Johns bed comes today!!! We are planning on moving him into his room on Sunday night. I have not posted pictures because I want it to be done first... but it is greatness! Carl is one handy man!
3) Work has been CRAZY! The guy that works for me quit... I could go on and on about it, but I will not. I will say that for about 2 weeks, I was working so much and did not realize it was effecting John. Well, it was. He totally regressed in potty training and was saying things to Daddy like "Mama does not like me anymore" and "Mama is mad at me". BROKE MY HEART! Once I put two and two together, I stopped working so much on my days with him, and he went back to his normal self within days. I guess it is an eye opener of what could be to come when Matthew gets here.
4) C-section is scheduled for March 9th at 10:00am. This was the only day that the combination of the Dr. that delivered John and the hospital I want to deliver at would work. It is the day that my Grammy passed away in 2002, but I look at this as a direct blessing from her!
5) I replaced all the pictures in my house; it was about time! The latest one of John was his 18 month pictures. But, I know I am going to turn around and do it again when the pictures of Matthew come, oh well. I have noticed that I am not in a lot of pictures, may need to hand the camera to Daddy every once in a while. :) (although half the time I am sure I am purposely hiding behind the camera)
6) Carl and I are both in major nesting mode! His presents itself in construction projects around the house, which I LOVE! Mine is more of the organization and cleaning mode. Between the two of us, if Matthew waits until March 9th, this house will be in tip top condition with some cool new rooms!
7) Need to catch up on blog reading - I apologize, it has been several weeks...
8) I am loving making frames as taught to me by Abbey (blog entry). I actually have been experimenting and have found that wrapping paper is pretty easy to use. It does show a few more bubbles, but with the right print, it still looks great. Makes it SUPER easy to file off. If you are looking for a personal gift idea or a fun craft to do with your girlfriends, I highly suggest this.
9) Random thought: My niece Maggie and I share something that no one else in my immediate family does... we both have summer birthdays. Every other person on my side of the family and Carl's side of the family have January, February or March birthdays. Maggie and I's birthday parties can be planned outside, so there!
10) Matthew is a MOVER! I am not sure what that will translate into when he joins us. He is CONSTANTLY on kicking or hitting or both. I think he stretches out completely in there because when he moves, I feel it from top to bottom. I love it because I know he is good, but at 3:00 in the morning, it makes it a bit hard to sleep.
1) Found a new recipe blog that I linked to on the left. "Pearls, Handcuffs, and Happy Hour".
Some of the dinners I looked at do not necessarily focus on health, but are good recipes to have around when you are in a pinch. Fast and easy dinners. Some of her deserts and appetizers look pretty good too. I tried the jalapeno sliders - on a scale from 1 to 10, I would give it an 8 to serve at a football party and a 7 for dinner. Trying another one tonight.
2) Johns bed comes today!!! We are planning on moving him into his room on Sunday night. I have not posted pictures because I want it to be done first... but it is greatness! Carl is one handy man!
3) Work has been CRAZY! The guy that works for me quit... I could go on and on about it, but I will not. I will say that for about 2 weeks, I was working so much and did not realize it was effecting John. Well, it was. He totally regressed in potty training and was saying things to Daddy like "Mama does not like me anymore" and "Mama is mad at me". BROKE MY HEART! Once I put two and two together, I stopped working so much on my days with him, and he went back to his normal self within days. I guess it is an eye opener of what could be to come when Matthew gets here.
4) C-section is scheduled for March 9th at 10:00am. This was the only day that the combination of the Dr. that delivered John and the hospital I want to deliver at would work. It is the day that my Grammy passed away in 2002, but I look at this as a direct blessing from her!
5) I replaced all the pictures in my house; it was about time! The latest one of John was his 18 month pictures. But, I know I am going to turn around and do it again when the pictures of Matthew come, oh well. I have noticed that I am not in a lot of pictures, may need to hand the camera to Daddy every once in a while. :) (although half the time I am sure I am purposely hiding behind the camera)
6) Carl and I are both in major nesting mode! His presents itself in construction projects around the house, which I LOVE! Mine is more of the organization and cleaning mode. Between the two of us, if Matthew waits until March 9th, this house will be in tip top condition with some cool new rooms!
7) Need to catch up on blog reading - I apologize, it has been several weeks...
8) I am loving making frames as taught to me by Abbey (blog entry). I actually have been experimenting and have found that wrapping paper is pretty easy to use. It does show a few more bubbles, but with the right print, it still looks great. Makes it SUPER easy to file off. If you are looking for a personal gift idea or a fun craft to do with your girlfriends, I highly suggest this.
9) Random thought: My niece Maggie and I share something that no one else in my immediate family does... we both have summer birthdays. Every other person on my side of the family and Carl's side of the family have January, February or March birthdays. Maggie and I's birthday parties can be planned outside, so there!
10) Matthew is a MOVER! I am not sure what that will translate into when he joins us. He is CONSTANTLY on kicking or hitting or both. I think he stretches out completely in there because when he moves, I feel it from top to bottom. I love it because I know he is good, but at 3:00 in the morning, it makes it a bit hard to sleep.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Ten on Tuesday
1) John's new word is "Heeeeeeyyyyyy" to just about everything. Picture a little scowl on his face. Pretty funny.
2) John and I listen to the Wee-sing Bible Song CD in the car and I love it. He asks to hear his "Jesus songs". Love him!
3) Registration for his school next year is tomorrow. I am going to suck it up and pay the fee to secure our spot here, but am planning on standing in line in February to get him into another school that we want him to be in. He only has 2.5 years of preschool left. That seems weird to me. I feel like he should have like 6 left. :)
4) Carl got his birthday present early and we have a 3d TV now. It is pretty cool! John likes to wear his "special glasses". We have only watched movies on it so far, but tonight there is a basketball game being broadcast in 3d. I can only imagine what they will come up with next.
5) Today is the funeral for Chris and Jenny (Goodpasture) Stigler. I have not been able to get them off my mind since Christmas Eve. I think about them and their surviving baby every day. It makes me stop and squeeze John tighter and tell Carl how much I love them. It gives things a new perspective, I suppose that is the silver lining for me. I will also say that I am so glad I have kept this blog....if anything was to happen to me, at least John and Matthew would have something that would give them a glimpse of me and my thoughts. I know that sounds morbid, but it is what it is.
6) I made a to-do list yesterday - I am not kidding - it went to almost 2 full pages.... better get to cracking, I think nesting as settled in.
7) Carl's close of business for 2010 is today!!!!!!!!!!!! WOOHOO!!!!!!!!!!! I know there are still busy times in the next month or so, but for the most part.... WOOHOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!
8) So excited about making some picture frames this weekend! Thanks Abbey for the awesome ideas and instructions.
9) John is so skinny! SO SKINNY! I want that boy to fatten up. The Doc says it is nothing to be concerned about and it will probably be this way or worse until he is 4.5. still in 2T pants, but they are getting to short now. Even the adjustable waist 3T pants will have to be cinched up so tight it will look like I put a sack on him.
10) John loves his "big blue bicycle" that Santa brought him and he will tell anyone who will listen all about it. BUT - the boy will not ride it! I think it is because when he peddles backwards, the brakes kick in and he can't move. I saw him on his tricycle and he looks like he goes backwards for about 1/2 a turn to get his feet positioned right to go forward.... since he can not do that on this, he gets frustrated and gets off. As soon as the weather will allow, I think I am going to have Garrett over and see if he will ride it for him, then John will be all about it!
2) John and I listen to the Wee-sing Bible Song CD in the car and I love it. He asks to hear his "Jesus songs". Love him!
3) Registration for his school next year is tomorrow. I am going to suck it up and pay the fee to secure our spot here, but am planning on standing in line in February to get him into another school that we want him to be in. He only has 2.5 years of preschool left. That seems weird to me. I feel like he should have like 6 left. :)
4) Carl got his birthday present early and we have a 3d TV now. It is pretty cool! John likes to wear his "special glasses". We have only watched movies on it so far, but tonight there is a basketball game being broadcast in 3d. I can only imagine what they will come up with next.
5) Today is the funeral for Chris and Jenny (Goodpasture) Stigler. I have not been able to get them off my mind since Christmas Eve. I think about them and their surviving baby every day. It makes me stop and squeeze John tighter and tell Carl how much I love them. It gives things a new perspective, I suppose that is the silver lining for me. I will also say that I am so glad I have kept this blog....if anything was to happen to me, at least John and Matthew would have something that would give them a glimpse of me and my thoughts. I know that sounds morbid, but it is what it is.
6) I made a to-do list yesterday - I am not kidding - it went to almost 2 full pages.... better get to cracking, I think nesting as settled in.
7) Carl's close of business for 2010 is today!!!!!!!!!!!! WOOHOO!!!!!!!!!!! I know there are still busy times in the next month or so, but for the most part.... WOOHOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!
8) So excited about making some picture frames this weekend! Thanks Abbey for the awesome ideas and instructions.
9) John is so skinny! SO SKINNY! I want that boy to fatten up. The Doc says it is nothing to be concerned about and it will probably be this way or worse until he is 4.5. still in 2T pants, but they are getting to short now. Even the adjustable waist 3T pants will have to be cinched up so tight it will look like I put a sack on him.
10) John loves his "big blue bicycle" that Santa brought him and he will tell anyone who will listen all about it. BUT - the boy will not ride it! I think it is because when he peddles backwards, the brakes kick in and he can't move. I saw him on his tricycle and he looks like he goes backwards for about 1/2 a turn to get his feet positioned right to go forward.... since he can not do that on this, he gets frustrated and gets off. As soon as the weather will allow, I think I am going to have Garrett over and see if he will ride it for him, then John will be all about it!
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