A CAMP OF SORTS

It's All my Brother's Fault

2010-09-01T16:11:00.000-07:00

A conversation with Dean today. Jack will be 2 in November. Dean will be 4 in February.

Me: Where did you learn to fight bad guys?

Dean: From Jack.

Me: You saw Jack hitting bad guys like that?

Dean: No. He hasn't yet. But he will one day. That's how I learned to do it.

Me: You mean he hasn't ever done that, but you do because... Dean, I'm really confused.

Dean: Yeah. He will show me someday, so it's his fault.

This Old House

2010-08-27T13:03:00.000-07:00

Not too long ago we made a visit to our empty house to find some sort of fungus growing on the tile of the bathroom. It had been quite some time since anyone actually lived there, so we thought there might be a water problem behind the walls. We decided it was time to do this:

We ended up ripping everything out of the bathroom in plans to do a total remodel while we were fixing the various problems we KNEW about, and solving the fungus mystery. We did not find any water leaking anywhere, which was a bit of a relief. We'll be going back in a few weeks to hopefully finish putting the bathroom together. So the fungus is still a mystery.

While we were there Lucas and Dean went back yard camping. It was Dean's first time to sleep in a tent. We'd planned for the whole family to sleep in there together, but when it was time to go to sleep, Jack desperately pointed at the house repeating over and over "Bed!". So I happily obliged. I tried to get a good picture of the three of them in there, but someone was always looking away or doing something goofy.

And of course you can't be a part of our family without a little bit of drama. We spent the entire time working on the bathroom and trying to keep track of the children. There were times when things could have gone wrong as one child or the other would wander off through the house and into the back yard. Or the one time Lucas crawled under the house and I found the boys peering into the entrance with flashlights at the ready. Dean told me he'd seen daddy go in and went to find flash lights so that Jack and him could see what was down there. This most likely would have ended well, but the spiders. I mean it! SPIDERS!

Toward the end of the weekend we were all taking a break in our back yard. Lucas and I were actually doing nothing other than talk about what we'd put back in the bathroom and watching the boys. Jack and Dean were digging in the dirt and making huge piles of rocks. Then, they found the only plant in the backyard that is not grass or some type of rose bush, the only plant that I did not know the name. They started by taking of the huge leaves and pretending that they were fans. Then they had a leaf war and started tearing them to shreds and throwing them at each other. After a bit I heard Jack spit something out.

"Did you just put that plant in your mouth?" Jack nodded. I spied Dean looking at his leaf and contemplating the same thing. "Dean, don't put that in your mouth. I don't know if it is poisonous." I was getting up to go check Jack's mouth for remains when he started screaming in pain and running to me. And, Dean of course, followed with the same scream a few seconds later. The little turkey had eaten the plant too. After I told him not too! They were obviously in pain and their little lips were bright red and starting to swell.

We called poison control, and were told that we needed to go to a local hardware store or something and figure out what type of plant it was and then call back. I was remembering a time when my younger brother had eaten mistletoe which ended with him in the hospital having his stomach pumped and wondering how much time one has to drive around to all of the different stores seeking this mystery plant in their nursery section. So I left the boys with Lucas and began my search. It took two stores until I found a plant that was not my plant, but seemed similar.

After calling poison control back, I found that the plant in our back yard is a relative of a spathe of some sort. Apparently it is filled with tiny shards which cause the insides of mouths to sting and possibly swell, but generally stays in one area. It is not poisonous. This plant is now dead. I ripped it out. May it rest in peace.

In the meantime Lucas gave the kids the only antihistamine we had in the house. It happened to be a night time cold medicine for kids over four and they may have had a little bit too much of it. This is how I found them when I got back. They slept well for the rest of the night. Poor little munchkins.

Sledding

2010-01-31T18:59:00.000-08:00

We spent part of this last weekend at my Dad's cabin. Dean had seen snow before, but this was Jack's first time. They both liked it, except for the cold part. Next time we really need to buy them some gloves.

Grandpa and us by the boys' first snowman. Kelly took the picture, so we missed her.

Grandma Kelly, Grandpa, and Dean sledding down the driveway.

Jack and I sledding.

The boys in my life.

Dean is such a good brother to pull Jack up the hill like that.

Drummin' Up a Bath

2009-11-18T22:22:00.000-08:00

Dean sometimes sings a bluesy song about his dad being gone. And though it is a terribly sad song to listen to, it brings a smile to my lips cause the kid really understands the use of music to express himself. Though I have tried, I have yet to get that song on video.

BUT, I did get him playing the drums in the bathtub tonight. I especially love his drum sound effects. He's a natural talent. It's ok, you can tell me so!

Click here to see another video of him singing almost a year ago.

Fall Fun

2009-11-18T22:11:00.001-08:00

I used this walker when Jack was younger and Dean was potty training. It kept him out of the process, and, yet, didn't leave him out. Now we use it as a lawn mower and to give Jack rides around the front yard. Yes, Jack IS outside in his pajamas. What?

This picture is proof that I do laundry. See all of the clean laundry strewn around the floor in the back ground. The boys are taking a trip to the dump in their truck. Dean is so creative. I imagine Jack is too, but he doesn't talk much yet.

Just out of the shower. Mommy had to grab a diaper and came back to find Jack walking down the hall with his Mr. Happy backpack on. Cracks me up.

Jack also enjoys wearing hats. This one is his Johnny Appleseed hat.

Six Flags Part II

2009-11-03T21:25:00.000-08:00

We've gone to Six Flags 3 times now. But I have no pictures of the 2nd time. In these pictures, the park was set up for Fright Fest, but didn't have anything that scared either of the boys, as we were there during the day. I of course have NO picture showing anything Fright Fest-ish

One of the things I like about this park is that it has both roller coaster rides AND animals/animal shows. One show has a swimming white tiger, this is the character that walks around to meet the kids.

This is my first roller coaster ride with Dean. It may be one of the last. I think toddler roller coasters are about as much as I can handle.

Six Flags

2009-11-03T21:09:00.000-08:00

The second half of this year we have had season passes to Six Flags. I believe I've posted hair raising and funny stories previously, but now I can finally post some pictures.

Jack was still light enough to carry on my back.

Or in Lucas' arms. He's watching Dean ride in an airplane.

Dean was too tall to have an adult, but too young for me to feel totally comfortable with it. He had a lot of fun though!

I think this was Dean's first time riding on a moving part of a carousel.

This is Jack's first ride on a carousel.

The Lake

2009-11-02T21:34:00.000-08:00

Sometimes the boys and I go to a lake near the house to feed geese. Dean rides his bike and I walk Jack in the stroller. The geese are almost as tall as Dean and definantly taller than Jack.

Halloween 2009

2009-11-01T22:20:00.001-08:00

This year the boys and I spent Halloween with our next door neighbor and a friend of theirs. Lucas was in Canada, so he missed out on all of the fun. It was neat to watch Dean get into the spirit of things.

Dragon Dean roaring at Horsey Jack and Ewok Jacob.

Jack in the stroller watching the older boys trick or treat.

Dean was so fascinated with the dog flashlight, that he didn't realize he was carrying around candy until we were finished.

Mr. Clean

2009-11-01T21:57:00.000-08:00

Jack is a very organized child. If I leave my shoes out, he will go and put them away. Everything has a place, and he quietly moves around the house making sure that things are where they should be. This week he found Dean's little broom and got to work on the garage.

Sit in Your Chair

2009-11-01T21:48:00.000-08:00

"I AM sitting in my chair, Mop!"

Hallucinations

2009-10-25T13:22:00.000-07:00

This is one of those entries where I entertain you at my expense. A few weeks back we had a couple of torrential downpours. Or maybe those two days were just full of regular old rain, but after two years with a dry river bed it seemed like a lot of rain. Dean and I ran errands and bought rain boots for his little wet feet. He splashed, jumped, hooted, and hollered in those red and black rain boots. Then refused to wear any other shoes for awhile.

In the days following the rains, I have been viscously attacking mushrooms in our yard. All kinds of mushrooms. They ranged in color and size and became interesting to me though still annoying. I was afraid some might be poisonous and one of the kids would eat one. Heck, they've tried to eat everything else we have in our backyard.

One day I realized there were grasses growing in my otherwise empty hanging pots. All of them are fairly high above my head, so I was tipping them side ways and reaching up to take out the grasses when I found these beautiful amazingly bright pink mushrooms. They were incredible. Dean and Jack were out with me, and I didn't want to pull the pot down to study and remove the miracle mushrooms, so I left them thinking I'd look them up on the internet and remove them later

I spent a few nights searching for these mushrooms, but never saw a picture of any that were quite so bright. So, I finally set out to photograph them before I disposed of them. I took down the pot and was surprised at how much one particular section looked like butterfly wings. Man nature was amazing. As I got down closer to pull them out, I realized that they were not indeed mushrooms. I was wrong...oh how I was wrong. When did I put THAT in there?

Jack Walks

2009-10-23T13:30:00.000-07:00

Although Jack took his first step a few months ago, he has recently decided it is time to walk. I can't believe how fast he's grown. I look at him now, and I see a little boy. A very young toddler. I no longer see that little bitty baby I brought home. This is exciting because I know what is coming and how many cool things I get to teach him soon. But, alas, it also saddens me. I morn the lose of the baby.

Oh Poop

2009-08-25T11:24:00.001-07:00

It was grocery day. Well ok maybe way PAST grocery day. So far past that I decided we needed to stop by a local coffee shop to get breakfast so Dean could have milk. Well, ok because any excuse is a good excuse to have someone else make me coffee and yummy muffins.

We had to go through our usual to get Dean dressed. I couldn't find his newer shoes (the ones that actually fit) anywhere. "Dean, where are your shoes? Have you seen them? Help me find them, please." "They gone," he said. "Uh, gone where? We just had them yesterday," I responded. "They go to Nanda. (pause) Yesterday." "That's very interesting Dean. How'd they get to Canada?" I ask in a futile attempt to track them down. "They go with daddy on an airplane. It ok, mop. I no like them anyway. You take them back to the store. I no like them."

I finally found them next to the front tire of my car. The flat one. Yeah, that's right, the FLAT tire on my car! After deciding it probably had enough air in it to get us to the grocery store, we set out on our original errand with no more goof ups...until...

I handed Dean the broccoli that he was very insistent on holding. What could it hurt? I thought. It's just broccoli. How cool is it that he's that into broccoli. As we walked through the grocery store a constant stream of words regarding his love for broccoli were accompanied by his imitation of eating it "all up". The coolness of pretend eating wore off for him and his beloved broccoli quickly became a hose. He began spraying noisily at items on the shelf. Then I had to open my big mouth. "What are you spraying?" "Poop." he responded. "Wait, did I hear you right? You're spraying poop? Out of that hose?" "Yeah," he said. I could tell he was only half listening. So I asked him what he was spraying again. He looked real thoughtful. "Pee-pull. I spayng pee-pul," he said carefully. Darn it all! I think I just gave him the idea to spray poop at people. What have I done?

Dinner Conversation

2009-08-24T17:53:00.000-07:00

We'd eaten dinner and I was clearing the plates. I was amazed that Dean hadn't asked to be excused in his usual prompt "let me down as soon as I can" manner. "Hi daddy!" I heard him say, "No way! No WAAAAY!. Daddy you crack me up." "What did he say," I dumbly asked. " I NOT talking to YOU. Don't talk to MEEEEE!" he replied. Then he turned to his brother, "Jack, Daddy say he Super Daddy."

Smartie Pants

2009-08-22T18:29:00.000-07:00

Every night when we take a bath, I pull the plug from the drain and let the boys stay in it until the water is gone. This gives them a bit of a warning that bath time is over and creates less melt downs. Tonight Dean figured out that if he gently slid Jack over the drain, his butt would plug it back up and the water would stay in. Jack didn't seem to mind.

A Pocket Full Of...

2009-08-21T17:48:00.000-07:00

Sometimes when you have your hands full, but you want your kid to stay very close for safety reasons (like crossing the street) it is helpful to have the child hold your pocket. I've tried it during the last year or so a few times, but Dean has trouble getting a good grip and I should have started training him with it a little better before Jack came along and my hands were too full to guide him along the way.

Today I watched as a woman started crossing the street with a shopping cart being pushed with one hand and a cell phone in the other. Her two kids trailed along behind. Just as she stepped into the street she ordered, "Grab a pocket." They were the fastest pocket grabbers I have ever seen. I was amazed, impressed even. As I was thinking of ways she may have trained them to be such stealthy pocket grabbers, I thought about the location of the pockets they grabbed. The were on her butt. It is all so automatic for them that I wonder if she every says "Grab a pocket." when she's wearing, say, a skirt or something with no pockets. Do the kids just desperately grab at her butt? Do they put a hand on each of her cheeks and trot along?

*** *** ***

Dean and Jack were playing next to eachother on the floor this afternoon. This is the conversation they had:

Dean: Hey Jack

Jack: Hiiiiiiiiii

Dean: I love you big. (pause) I said I love you BIG.

Jack stares wide eyed with a big goofy smile on his face.

Dean: Jack, can I have a baby back ride?

At which point Dean begins to climb on Jack's back. Conversation over. Mom intervenes.

Slip N' Slide

2009-08-21T07:53:00.000-07:00

After a mostly restful night (Jack slept in 3 hour chunks), I thought I'd be ready to face the day in a calm motherly manner. I'd nurse my son back to health, cuddle the baby, and do my chores. I set the boys up for breakfast and started our usual battles. Dean's more irritable than usual because he's not feeling well, so we had to grump back and forth over every little thing. The kicker was the yogurt. Dean didn't want HIS yogurt. He wanted Jack's yogurt. They each had blueberry Yobaby yogurt. They were the same. But Dean just knew Jack's was better. When I told him he couldn't have any of Jack's, he kicked me.

And so, he went to his room. Usually he screams and yells and says he wants his daddy, but today he was VERY quiet. Oh crap! He was peeing. I just knew he must be if he was that quiet. So I abandoned Jack in his highchair and rush to Dean's room. He was sitting calmly on his bed staring at me. I started to relax thinking that he hadn't after all when I suddenly slipped and fell into a giant puddle of pee. GIANT I tell you. I was soaked. My shorts were wet. My shirt was wet. Even my ankle braces was saturated with urine. Thankfully I didn't injure my ankle further, but I did jerk my shoulder around pretty good as I made a desperate grab for the wall on the way down.

I'm sure my shoulder is fine. I PRAY that it is, because I can just see myself at the doctor's office now. "So how'd you hurt you shoulder?" she'd ask. "I slipped in my son's pee." I'd reply. Great.

Strength Training

2009-08-20T21:46:00.000-07:00

After a very long night of bedtime battles and middle of the night wakings from the kids I awoke very tired this morning. Thankfully, about 11 last night when Jack still wasn't asleep I strapped him in the back carrier and set up the coffee maker so I'd be set first thing in the morning. I knew today would be a coffee day, but I didn't know how much more I should have made.

I've begun to realize that if I try to stick around the house after long nights like that, I become focused on how to get a few moments here and there to rest or relax. When I'm teaching after a night like that, I do just fine because I am out and about and must be ON. So today I decided to just be ON.

We started with a walk and some backyard time. Then it dawned on me that we needed something MORE to just keep going. I have a Six Flags season pass and I needed to use it. So I loaded up the boys (which took like an hour, with maybe a half hour of trying to get Dean INTO the car) and headed out. I even went with a plan. And it was a good one.

I hate our double stroller because it is heavy and hard to push. I find it totally unbearable, so I decided I would take only the single stroller and bring the baby carrier for "just in case" Dean became to tired. I figured we'd see a show first thing because it is a LONG walk from the parking lot to the park. I had extra shorts for potty accidents, diapers for those other accidents, snacks to sneak in, and lunches packed so we could eat at the car before we drove home.

What I didn't plan for was the weather. It was 80 when I left my home. 30 minutes later, it was 62...Six Flags was much colder. So I did what any good mom would do. I found my bathing suit cover in the trunk ( a skirt) and made Jack wear it. If you're reading this Jack, no it was not Halloween and yes you were wearing a skirt...in public. But it was black and long and flowy so it was ok. Then I went into the store and bought Dean a sweat shirt, because by the time we'd made it inside the park his arms were blue.

So part of my plan was foiled, but remedied. Except the part where I'd left the baby carrier at home. It was not in the trunk with the one kid stroller as I thought. It was now VERY important that I find a show to sit at so that Dean's little legs could have a break. He was so excited to be there that he'd been running for our 15 minute hike in. I pulled out our map to find my to the Elephant show (this Six Flags is part zoo) and was pleasantly surprised when an older gentleman with a Six Flags uniform stopped to ask me if he could assist. Why yes thank you Mr. Nice Employee could you please tell me where the Elephants are. He did, they weren't there. He'd sent us to loop the outside of the entire park before we would get to our destination. By the time I'd realized that we had in fact STARTED near the elephants, it was too late. We missed the show.

But all was not lost, there were rides to ride along the way. My poor sweet boy dutifully rode rollercoasters, and fair type rides all by himself while Jack and I watched. Jack can not ride these rides until he can walk. I dubiously held him in front of one employee and showed how he could STAND all by himself without holding onto anything, but it apparently doesn't count as WALKING.

Dean enjoyed the rides, but in a more engineer type of enjoyment. He rode each ride and spent the entire time looking at the gear and levers that made it work rather than at the colorful pictures or even the scenery for each and every ride.

About the time we made it to the Elephants Dean hit total melt down. He was tired. He didn't want to walk, he didn't want me to carry him, and nothing would please the little man. So I hoisted him onto my shoulders where he couldn't get away and began the march back through the park to the car while pushing my other tub of love in his stroller. We made quite the scene as Dean screamed at me to let him down and I repeatedly told him no that he was too tired.

Now I must tell you, in case you didn't know, that those tall strong daddys or maybe even uncles that you see with kids on their shoulders are just that...STRONG. And I mean STRONG. By the time I made it back to the car pushing the stroller carrying my 25lb infant and giving my screaming tantrum throwing toddler a shoulder ride, my thoughts were on the IBprofein that I still can't have because I'm nursing.

I got the boys into the car and started giving them thier lunch (can't have outside food in the park) when Dean declared that his ear hurt and I thought, "Uh oh." Well ok maybe I thought something more like CRAP! AGAIN! REALLY!? NOW!? Because we've done this with you before. Like maybe 12 times in your short two years. Only daddy's always been there to help comfort you in the middle of the night when you wake in pain. AND I'm too young to be responsible for you all by myself. I'm not credentialed for that. They gave me a credential for teaching little children, not to nurse them back to health.

After we'd made it home and visited the doctor who we were able to see right away, we found out that Dean has an ear infection. Surprised? AND strep throat. Ok, THAT was a surprise. Poor Dean. Poor, poor Dean. He was really sick, had a fever, and his dumb Mop made him walk through the entire SIX FLAGS park.

But the best part of his day was the visit with his doctor (whom I am so glad to have as his doctor again). He let him hold the light he uses to look into kiddos ears. Like, let him hold it for almost 10 minutes. Our doctor is not only great at diagnosing children, but also takes the time to know them. He's awesome. I just want to visit him for checkups from now on.

It's a Hard Job...But somebody's got to do it.

2009-08-19T22:46:00.000-07:00

After working a 17 hour shift with no breaks, I will be on call all night. Man this stay at home mom position is serious business.

Ha! I crack myself up.

A New Chapter

2009-08-19T13:35:00.000-07:00

And I suppose it is time to start writing again. I am missing IMPORTANT documentation of my little ones as they grow too quickly. Lord knows that I'll want to remember every little detail about their lives. Haha!

And so I'll start with some short stories.

Yesterday the boys had a busy morning while grandma and great grandma Ellen came to watch them so that I could go to my newest ankle doctor. The doctor will not be sending me for more physical therapy just yet. He'd like to wait another 6 weeks and see what nature does. I get that. I still ache, but it is getting better as I go. I told him I was feeling impatient and wanted to be back to normal again and he said it might take the full year for this one. A full year. That's how long it takes to completely recover from childbirth. Exceot for the occasional tweak when I over do it, my tummy muscles feel just fine. Why the long healing ankle? Science is interesting.

Lucas is back in Canada again after his week off. It went by fast and we miss him, but the transition seems to be smoother this time around. Like with everything in our lives, we'll probably settle in finally just as he gets to move back home.

Last night when Dean was talking himself to sleep he suddenly yelled, "Daddy, I plant flowers with Mop today!" He's been yelling things at the top of his lungs that he wants to tell his daddy. Sometimes I think that he's loud enough that daddy can probably hear him.

I am in a writing funk.It's become more difficult to write because of my fear of how people will interpret things. Will they see my story as funny? Will they decide I am just a whiner and I need to grow up? Can I sometimes write about a tough time and have it just be that, a tough time worth sharing? And with that and another crummy post...here's a wonderful picture of my Jack that was sent to me.

He says a few words and phrases, loves to talk on the phone, and is still trying desperately to walk. Yeah, that's right, he's a real ladies man.

San Diego

2009-06-29T14:58:00.000-07:00

In case you are wondering where I have been...I've moved in with my mom for a little bit. My internet access is limited mostly by the fact that I have been chasing two kiddos around a house that is not child proof. It's been draining, but fun.

I've had lots of story worthy moments, but no time to document them, so here's a quick overview:

Jack has taken his first step (7 months) and almost has his first tooth. I can see it, but it hasn't broken the skin. He says "Hi" and waves, he says Mamamama when I leave the room, he says dada when Lucas is here, and he calls his Uncle Nick "Nana".

Dean is working on his molars and talks nonstop. He narrates his every move and says all kinds of funny stuff that I can't remember right now. He loves the beach, enjoys story hour at the library, and was recently on TV with a baseball player from the San Diego Padres.

Lucas is working in Canada for 15 days on and 6 days off. We miss him and can't wait for the Canada job to end.

For My own Purposes

2009-06-04T22:09:00.000-07:00

When I took Jack to the doctor last Friday I found out that he is of course tall for his age and doing well with the eating. I was shocked to find that he had a double ear infection. OUCH! I am totally posting this here so that I can go back through my logs later on and count when the doctors start asking me how many ear infections he's had. With Dean I always stared at them and started trying to count. I had lost count after the 5th I think, then I'd get confused. With Jack, I hope I can always tell them 2. Cause that's how many he's had.

Say a Little Prayer...or a GREAT BIG one

2009-06-03T21:12:00.000-07:00

Please, please pray for baby Zoey (almost a month old) and her family (my good friends). She got a fever yesterday and is being sent by helicopter to another better equipped hospital as I type. So far, the doctors have found some trouble with her kidneys.

Slow Down Jackety!

2009-06-02T20:40:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I posted about Jack's new sitting up and a few days later he added a few stunts. He was already doing the army crawl, though it was backwards. Now he crawls and can pull himself into a standing up position. Kiddo's only 6 months old. If he's standing, doesn't that mean walking's just around the corner? I hope it's a long 4 monthsish corner.

Dean and I are still potty training. Now we're on hard core. Today we were sitting on the potty when he pulled this cardboard roll onto his lap and the toilet lid to lean against his back. "I'm Dora!" he declared, "see my packpack? Dis my eyegass" Great kid! Now pee already so we can go "explore" the livingroom or back yard OR SOMETHING, I thought to myself. Also, because I'm into trying tricks for better sleeping and now potty training (mostly to entertain myself), I tossed a Cherrio into the and told him to pee on it. He did. Then he looked at me with a haunted and horrified expression and exclaimed, "Those are for eating, Mop!" Oh dear. Bad Mop, bad!

And then these two pictures. The top one is Dean at about 4 1/2 or 5 months, the bottom is Jack at 6 months.

Great Posture (5 months)

2009-05-19T20:44:00.000-07:00

Jack has learned to sit up all by himself during the past few weeks. He's also been waking up at various points of the night to "practice". His super excited expression when he succeeds makes the all nighters worth it. Isn't he a cutie?

He has a thing or two to teach his Mop about great posture.

Precious Sleep

2009-05-10T13:49:00.001-07:00

Any of you who have read my blog during the past 2 years know that my eldest son has difficulty with sleep (falling asleep, staying asleep, and waking peacefully from sleep). For the past 3 weeks or so, I have been able to help him fall asleep without any hourly screaming sessions. No I have not been sitting with him or driving him around until he finally drifts off. We've just found a system the two of us.

Now nap time has been a different story. My guess is that this is in part because I only do the naptime bit with him on weekends. All other days he takes naps at daycare. Today Dean had a particularly difficult time. When he all was finally quiet, I sent Lucas in to cover Dean with some blankets. Here's how he found him...in corner of the closet. A little bit funny, and a little bit sad. Ok, mostly funny. I had to leave the room quickly so that I didn't wake him up with my laughter.

Also, here's the new addition for my momma's garden. She has a stepping stone for every grandchild, or will when I finally mail this one. The wet section in the middle is his footprint. Hard to tell in the photo

A Birthday Cake

2009-05-08T14:48:00.000-07:00

Ok, so one more funny story with Dean's speech and Lucas' lack of understanding.

Lucas has never been able to REALLY understand what Dean is saying which leaves me translating a lot. I know that I've got a mother's ear for kid speak and so it's easier for me to figure out what it is that Dean is trying to communicate.

Last weekend we had another married couple over for Lucas' birthday. Seresh is from India and Preetha is from Sri Lanka, so they both have heavy accents, call things by different names, and can sometimes be difficult to understand.

It was after we'd eaten dinner and Lucas was pulling his cake out to cut. No I don't usually make him prepare his own cake for his birthday, but I had already started my current crutch bearing state. The conversation went something like this.

Dean: Dad! I want some cake.

Wow, I thought, That was very clear! He even got all of the sounds in each word.

Lucas: What?

Me: You couldn't understand him or you just need him to repeat it because you didn't catch it?

Lucas: (waves arms wildly for emphasis) Who can understand THAT?! I mean really!

Seresh: (in thick Indian accent) Lucas, I think he said he wants some cake.

HAHAHAHAHA! Oh, I died of laughter. Preetha did too.

A special note: When Lucas went to go get his cake from our favorite bakery, they only had a pink one left. He forgot to get candles though, so Lucas, Dean, and Seresh made a run to the store. They came back with the pink breast cancer balloon for Dean. Seresh thought it went well with the cake.

Conversations

2009-05-07T15:41:00.000-07:00

Jack and Dean 5 months and a little over 2 years.

Two pictures of Jack smiling in one day. Oh, and trying to crawl. He can move his legs, but hasn't figured out how to move his hands forward.

The conversations I've had since my leg injury have been more than humorous lately.

****

Last night at dinner:

Lucas asks Dean if he wants spaghetti or Mac N Cheese for dinner. Dean chooses spaghetti. Well, I think he chooses it, because he does respond with a word that starts with an s, has a g, somewhere and ends with a long e sound. We all sit down and Dean starts yelling at the top of his lungs "Out! Let me out! I no like that! (points at plate with spaghetti) It coffee! (translation:yucky!) That for Miss Suey's dog 'umbo!" I am annoyed that Dean is throwing a tantrum over food that he picked out himself (I think) and ask him to please use his inside voice and stop yelling. At which point Jack emits a low chuckle. Because CLEARLY this is hilarious. Dean looks at him and screams, "AAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!" and Jack chuckles harder. Now Dean is no longer screaming in the bratty way, just screaming. I still find it annoying. "Dean if you continue to scream, you will go to your room. No one wants to listen to that." Except Jack, I mentally correct myself. Dean lets out one more loud pitched scream leading Jack to laugh so hard that his sweet potatoes come out of his nose. It is funny, now, but only because Jack thinks it is so funny. Dean ended up in his room, but it is obvious that I am out numbered.

*****

Dean still calls me "Mop." and I still secretly hope that he does for always. I was reading him a bedtime story. When I turned the page he said, "Hey Mop! That's a mop." What's he really trying to tell me?

*****

When I asked Dean about the dragon that lives in our backyard, he told me that it flew away like his balloon. I asked him where it had gone. Apparently it is at Miss Suzie's. I wonder if Miss Suzie and I have joint custody of the dragon. I get him on the weekends and she has him during the week. Apparently Miss Suzie's house is a better place for the dragon. He never comes inside our house, but spend all day inside hers.

******

Me: What did you do today?

Dean: I pay.

Me: What did you play with?

Dean: A dog.

Me: Did you play with Dumbo or did you play with a toy dog?

Dean: I pay Dumbo. He not our dog, Mop. He Miss Suzie dog.

I'm glad he let me know that Dumbo doesn't belong to us. How funny!

Imaginary Friend

2009-05-03T17:58:00.001-07:00

Dean has an imaginary friend. He is a dragon who roars. Dean has been talking to or about him all day long. Apparently this dragon lives in our backyard and enjoys roses.

When I Wish I had a Camera

2009-05-03T15:57:00.001-07:00

You know those motorized scooter carts that some grocery stores provide for the elderly who have a tough time getting around the store? Ever see the mom's that are using them with kids hanging off of the side as they shop and wonder...do they really need that thing, or are they lazy?

I was one of those mom's today. Picture this: A carseat hiding Jack in the basket at the front of the scooter and Dean on my lap while we drive around the store.

At first I was a little embarrassed and felt like I had no right to the "special cart", but I quickly got over this. After all, I am on crutches and can carry neither child. How did I get them out of the car, you may ask. Lucas was with us. Too nervous to take both boys through the grocery store without help. I went thinking that next time he'd realize that I was more of a hinderance than a help.

Boy was I wrong! Dean loves the motorized cart. Duh! He really thought that he was the one steering the entire time and was more than happy to cram items into the little space that Jack's carseat left behind. That was the easiest shopping trip I've ever had with the boys. No one was cranky and we were out speedy quick.

Funnier

2009-04-28T20:12:00.000-07:00

Things just get funnier and funnier around here. Last night Dean was in his bed falling asleep (he's been doing so without the screaming fits lately) when he called to me. I went in to see if he needed to get covered up or something. When I got there he looked at me very seriously and said, "Mop, I need dohtor." "Really," I replied, "why?" "My eye hert." Maybe he does need a doctor.

This morning my big boy toddler who has so much trouble falling asleep and staying asleep closed his eyes tight and said, "Mop! I stiw sweepin! You leabe me awone!" Really it cracked me up because we spend so much energy trying to get him to stay asleep and there I am trying to wake the poor thing up. Also, it always cracks me up when he calls me Mop.

Then later this morning, after sneaking various moments to climb on chairs and hang items for Open House next week, I almost got caught. My principal did a walk through just as I was stepping down and helping a student with their work. A few minutes later we left for lunch. It was at this time that my foot slipped off of the ledge of our sidewalk and I landed flat on my face in front of 40 third graders. I had fractured my ankle. I guess I had it coming. Luckily for me my principal had not gone too far because he had to treck back and help my title one aide hoist my not so skinny, just had a baby butt into a stinkin' wheelchair. Karma!

Ok, so the last paragraph wasn't very funny. It sucked! IT HURT! I have enough to deal with without the pain of crutches! WOES ME! WAAAA! Pity party is over and it's time to pick myself up and keep trucking.

Thank goodness I have a goofy toddler to do this with. He just walked over to tell me good night. Then turned and bent over to tell my crutches good night and gave them a very gentle kiss. Goof!

Ouch

2009-04-13T09:39:00.000-07:00

I've had so much to blog about. ?Usually that means that life is too busy happening to stop and blog. I've forgotten most of the funny things that have been happening and will have to do some sort of picture update later.

Jack is starting to crawl. He mostly does a backwards army crawl. Although, yesterday he did push his way forward once.

We spent Spring Break visiting as many grandparents as we could squeeze in both at our house and down in San Diego. We also spent the week with a timer. Dean sat on the potty every hour, but only actually went potty at rest stops (because they're so cool) and once last night. Can't say I haven't been trying though.

A snapshot from this morning:

I needed to use the bathroom, so I placed a wide awake Jack in his crib to play (safe place) and left Dean to keep building blocks out in the livingroom. Just as I sat down I heard Jack crying and Dean saying "Mop! Mop! Pick up my brudder!" Can't a woman just pee! I mean really! Dean had taken the few seconds it took me to walk down the hall to the bathroom and dropped a clock on Jack's head. He's got a little bump, but I think he'll be ok. Oh, yeah, and Mop is my newest of nicknames from my son. Don't know why, he knows how to say mom. Goofy.

Laughable Part II

2009-03-24T20:09:00.000-07:00

Jack's giggle is more timid than Dean's ever was, but it is just as sweet. Right now he finds my singing and dinnertime (with OOGA sound effects) to be hilarious. I saved you from my singing and gave you the food covered face.

Laughable

2009-03-24T19:48:00.000-07:00

This video with the young man in the giggle shirt is Dean when he first started laughing.
Compare this video to my next post of Jack's giggling.

A conversation with Dean at 2 years old :

Dean: "Jack, That a big NO NO!" while waving his pointer finger in Jack's face for emphasis.

Me: "Dean, Jack's not doing anything wrong. You let mommy and daddy be the boss of Jack."

Dean (while looking seriously into my eyes): "No, mommy, you not boss. Daddy boss. Dean want to be boss too.

Serves Me Right

2009-03-15T12:01:00.000-07:00

Yesterday evening I was wallowing in my own misery because yet again, Lucas is out of comission (threw out his back). I was exhausted from late nights with both babies, working, and of course trying to keep the house in order. I spent an hour cleaning up a cup of Dean's milk that I dropped after it had seeped into the cabinents and drawers which meant I had to clean all of the items in the drawer as well. The entire time I was fuming, but also telling myself in the very back part of my brain that none of this was really that big of a deal. It could be worse, much worse and has been lately. I just needed some time to steam and get it all out of my system.

And then this happened... (a long winded action filled story, but not for those afraid of the dark and scary men who rob homes)

Both boys had finally fallen asleep for the night. I had this feeling that this would be one of THOSE nights. You know, the ones where both boys slept all night and mommy slept some too when she wasn't checking to see if they were still breathing. I snuggled deep into the bed. I closed my eyes and started to relax.

I heard noises outside that didn't sound right and neighbors yelling. I pushed Lucas awake and said "What is that?" which I probaby ask him at least 15 times a night. He relpied with his standard nightly reply, "It's just people outside." I started to tell him that these noises were DIFFERENT really different, but was interupted by a loud snore. His.

Suddenly I could hear someone breathing very loudly outside my window as his feet hit the ground hard. I could see lights flashing all around the house and more people yelling in the neighborhood. I shook Lucas awake and told him that someone was in the back yard. Call 911.

The 911 dispatcher told Lucas that a house a few streets over had been robbed and that the police were swarming the area looking for the other suspect. If I was on the phone I would have replied "I SUSPECT he's in my back yard right now." And he was.

We crouched (in case of stray bullets or something) in the hallway while we decided whether to wake and move the boys and the best place for hiding. We weren't sure if he had run through the yard and left or if he was still there somewhere. Within a few minutes a police officer was shining his flashlight through our windows which were locked but the shades were all up. Meanwhile I heard the guy who was hiding. He was alongside the outer wall to Jack's room and about 3 feet from Dean's bedroom window and on the opposite side of the house from the officer. I told Lucas to grab Jack and bring him into Dean's room. Even though it was so close to where the guy actually was, it seemed to be the room with the least windows and any room far away from him would put us all out in the open. As Lucas was bringing Jack down the hallway, I heard the police officer kicking down our fence (where the suspect was hiding) and the suspect shaking the outside door to our bedroom. I thought he was going to break the glass and come in.

You all know that Dean has sleeping issues and that Lucas and I have placed a lock on his door to lock him in when we're having a particularly rough night. I decided to lock us in at this point thinking that if the guy did make it in, that would be one more barrier between him and our family. He didn't come in.

Lucas and I sat there staring at eachother while I nursed Jack to keep him quiet. Does anyone realize how much more vulnerable a woman feels while she's holding a baby with her boob hanging out? There were a lot more crashing sounds (which turned out to be another section of our fence being knocked down) and a lot of men yelling "___________ City Police!" During all of this we realized that we didn't have a phone with us to call and see when it was ok to come out or to let someone know if he made it into the house. Lucas was going to run down the hallway to grab the phone, only we couldn't find the key that we hide in Dean's room to let ourselves back out in the case of an emergency. You know, like this one. Lucas had to pull everything down from the shelf in Dean's closet. He was still searching when someone began ringing our doorbell repeatedly and knocking.

I was wondering, do we answer the door? If we had a damn phone we could call the police station and ask them if it was an officer or if we should stay hidden. Then I got to thinking, maybe they'll break down the front door and come let us out of Dean's room. (funny). Finally Lucas found the key and went to the door. It was the officer who had knocked down our fences.

He let us know that both suspects of the robbery had been placed in custody. We thanked him for keeping our family safe, closed our door and tried to calm down.

I've had enough drama packed stories for now. I'd like to take a Scary Crap Happening to Members of Our Family vacation if you please.

Oh and this. Dean. Slept. Through. The. Entire. Thing. Not ONE FLIPPIN peep!

Army Pants and Pink Strollers

2009-03-12T21:22:00.000-07:00

The best dollar I've ever spent on a toy for Dean was the one I spent on this pink stroller at his daycare provider's garage sale. Tonight my young man ventured around the block sporting camo pants and a tough guy motorcycle jacket while pushing his baby around in a pink stroller. He's taking a picture of his baby while I take a picture of mine.

Show above: Healthy mom with new short haircut and healthy growing way too fast Jackety Jack as I've been calling him.

Today I had my numbers done. You know for Cholesterol levels, Body Mass Index, Heart Rate...etc. My results came back to show that I was in outstanding health with amazingly low low low blood pressure. Low enough the guy had to redo it 3 times to make sure it was working. At the end of my testing he told me to keep doing whatever it was that I was doing. I responded, "I can totally keep eating a half a bag of chocolate chips every night!" Seriously people...a HALF a bag...almost nightly. The insanity must stop!

Stupefied

2009-03-05T21:00:00.001-08:00

Daddy gave Dean a bath, read him a story, and told him night night. Dean didn't scream. He just WENT TO SLEEP! In the mean time, I fed Jack and placed him in his crib awake. He just WENT TO SLEEP (totally normal for Jack). Oh what a stupendous tear free snuggle with your kiddos and hop into bed without feeling like a total jerk for making your eldest cry his brains out while you nurse the youngest into a comfortable snooze kind of night.

Picture Gazing

2009-03-05T19:45:00.000-08:00

While looking at pictures of himself:

Dean: Who is that little boy momma?

Me: That's you. That's Dean holding his hammer.

Turns page.

Dean: What is that little boy doing with daddy?

Me: That little boy is you, Dean. About 6 months ago. You and Daddy are playing with some toys.

Dean: That's MY daddy. (rather indignant)

Messy Eater

2009-03-01T21:18:00.000-08:00

Jack has started on cereal and would also like to feed himself...thank you very much.

The result of course is his hands in the way and rice cereal drrriiipppiiinggg down his face, eyebrow, hair...well you get (or see) the picture. Man he's a cutie!

Also in our news...
Jack rolled over about two weeks ago at daycare. I missed it. He hasn't done it again since.

And, Lucas' leg seems to be healing, but he's got an icky tummy virus today. Poor guy.

Back Logged

2009-03-01T20:47:00.001-08:00

I've waited too long to post these pictures with proper stories. Here are some clips from February. Also, I've added some new pictures to Dean's Birthday posting.

Looking at airplanes together in the backyard.

Happy Valentine's Day! Heart shaped pancakes for all!

These boots were made for walking (and watching TV). His favorite shows are Kai Lan and Dora.

Washing his "moto-bicycle".

My three boys.

The first birthday party Dean and Jack have been to. I know...bad mommy! I didn't even throw one for Dean on either birthday. Also, Jack's first time in a pool. He digs it!

Sleep Dear Child

2009-02-27T21:04:00.001-08:00

It's been an exhausting week. This weekend is the biggest loser weigh in for the month of February in our household. I am mostly sure that it will be a competition to see who gained the least weight versus who actually lost weight. There has just been too much to do AND keep track of what I'm shoving in my mouth in between. By the way, I think I ate an entire box of Shortbread Girl Scout Cookies today. Yup, pretty sure. Dearest husband, please stop bringing the junkfood into the house. And eldest...Sleep already child. Go to sleep at bedtime and stay that way until at least 6 without all of the fighting, screaming, bed dismantling, pooping on the floor, and other havic you seem to wish to create.

I know Mom, the poop is my payback. I am truly sorry about that...

Blood and Guts

2009-02-22T21:45:00.000-08:00

I have some really cute pictures and stories to tell, but I have been so very busy this month. I'm thinking that next weekend I may have to find some time to load them onto the computer, do some zooming in, picking of favorites, and so forth. For today, I have a story. One that shows an example of our busy, crazy and story filled month of February.

Dean has recently figured out that he can escape the house from our master bathroom so long as mommy and daddy have left their bedroom unlocked. Periodically he will wander back and check the door to see if we've forgotten or been lazy. After a super fun birthday pool party that we attended yesterday, we of course had a ton of chores and catching up to do today so that our work week will function more smoothly. Lucas was very dutifully sorting laundry while I nursed Jack. Dean was suddenly very quiet, which if you know my noisy son, that is a dead give away that something is up...Or in this case, out ... in the back yard riding his new "moto-bicycle" as he calls his bike. Lucas went out and rounded the poor boy up, but before he could make it all the way in the house (via the sliding glass door), Dean was booking it through the house to the bedroom again to make a quick escape. Lucas of course was onto him and bolted quickly to catch Dean before he got away with it again (and to lock the door). When Lucas got to the door to our bedroom, disaster struck.

Dean has a habit (a good one) of closing doors behind him. When Lucas opened our bedroom door, it slammed against the wall and bounced back. Our lever door knob handle rammed into Lucas' thigh/groin area splitting it open.

Dean is a sweet child really. So he tried to comfort daddy by lying on the floor next to him and showing daddy his own owie and Curious George bandaid on his foot. Daddy was in too much pain to even talk at this point, but the little guy trucked on.

Finally Daddy yelled out OW and my wondering out on the couch finally ceased. Yes, someone is hurt. Jack and I went to investigate and what I found was possibly one of the more shocking things I have ever found (aside from the trail of blood in our house when my youngest brother cut off his toe). Lucas pulled back his pants to reveal a gaping wound that had parts of his leg oozing out.

I had never seen the inside of someone's leg before. Anytime something like that is on TV I turn my head and if it continues I ask Lucas if we can PLEASE turn the channel. There was no channel turning this morning. Only quick (and shaky) action.

After taking the boys to the neighbor's house for a long visit, 4 hours ish in the ER, and 15 stitches, the doctor was able to push and pull Lucas back together and send the poor boy home. Dean is very sorry. I know because he's been going around the house telling everyone (and thing). "I sowwy bear." "I sowwy Daddy." "I sowwy dishwasher." My poor boys.

A Birthday Message

2009-02-04T21:07:00.000-08:00

Dearest Dean,

You are two years old today.

I love that you are powerful and spirited. You have an overflowing energy that I sometimes wish I could tap into. This year you have morphed from a little baby who knew what he wanted, but couldn’t express himself to a young boy who can talk and talk. I am excited to finally hear all of those deep thoughts you have and understand the world as you see it.

My favorite moments are those in the early morning when you are willing to snuggle next to me on the couch while you wake up. Often you spend that time patting my arm or leg as though I am in need of comfort.

Along with all of that spirit, you are a kind and generous boy. You are constantly worried about your little brother and often check to make sure he has all that he needs. I love that you care about him so much and look forward to the time when you understand how to do so with the gentleness that you intend.

You like to spend time wrestling with Dad, watching Dora, and cleaning the house. If you decide to always enjoy cleaning the house while you’re growing up, that would be ok with me. I’ll even show you how to sweep things into a pile because I know how frustrated you get when the food ends up spread out all over the kitchen.

Today when I dropped you off at daycare, you didn’t wine or grab my leg to try to get me to stay. You said “Bye Bye Mommy.” and then totally ignored me. I want you to feel that comfortable, but I was a little sad because you’re already growing up and will need me less and less.

Thank you for teaching me how to be a mom. You’ve helped me to become a less selfish person and you’ve taught me to love someone in a brand new way. The way a mom loves her son.

Ouch!

2009-02-02T14:44:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I know I owe all of you a proper posting with a story, pictures, and some deep thoughts. I know this, but you must wait longer because who has time with two sick babies, a full time job, and a husband on his way out of town for a bit.

So quick update. Dean is not the only one with an ear infection...apparently Jack has one too. My poor sweet babies. In the meantime my other babies (the 8 year olds I teach) are giving substitute after substitute havick. Because, you know, the world has ended when you teacher doesn't come to school for a few days.

On a funny note. I've been saying "darn it" a lot lately. Thinking it was a good alternative to some other words I could say when something doesn't go right. Only, Dean can't make to R sound and only says "Damn it". Oooops. Sorry little dude, but I think I taught you your first curse word. And how to say "dude" which you think is hilarious.

Another One Bites the Dust

2009-02-01T21:11:00.001-08:00

Jack's come down with the icky cold! Poor thing. His little cough sounds both horrible and pathetic. I hope both of my babies get well soon! Lucas is the only one who hasn't had this nastiness yet. Maybe he'll avoid it since he's going to be out of town all week.

On a happier note (well for me), Lucas and I are doing the biggest loser here at home. Yup it's time to lose the baby weight (for both of us) and try to live a bit healthier for our kiddos. We've decided to weigh in weekly, but reward monthly. For the month of January I won. I lost 4% of my total weight and was able to keep my milk supply strong. Go me! This month, my reward is that Lucas will change all diapers for 24 hours. If he'd won, he'd get a 3 hour uninterupted nap.

Now...what do I want to win for the month of February. Time to start thinking.

Tone Deaf

2009-01-30T20:06:00.000-08:00

So, I begin to wonder if Dean sings the way he does because he is tone deaf. You know from all of those ear infections. Ok, so I'm totally kidding.

Dean does have another double whammy infection with some concern that his right eardrum may burst during the night. Poor thing! He'd been telling me for the last two nights that he needed an "Eye pah" (ice pack) and was very adamant about it. I gave him one because I was curious what hurt, and he put it on an old scratch on his finger. Confused I am...

Today Dean was yelling at Jack telling him not to pee on him. Jack found this thrilling, so he grinned and grinned at him. Funny.

Sing to Me

2009-01-24T15:16:00.000-08:00

Ok, I had to include a video of Dean too. This one cracks me up. Dean can sing in tune and knows many songs, but for some reason when he plays his Mary Had a Little Lamb puzzle he sings it like this. What a goof!

Meet Jack

2009-01-24T13:10:00.000-08:00

Hobbies:

Sucking Thumb

Sleeping

Eating

Grunting

I haven't written much about Jack for lots of reasons. The main one being that I prefer to spend my time enjoying him instead of taking pictures and typing. The other being that after two months I still haven't figured out how to put what I am feeling into words. He is amazing and I am enjoying him in a way that I never knew I could. What's more is that his addition to the family has given me a different kind of love for Dean. I thought I was already loving him with all of the love I could muster, but apparently that just grows.

Jack's 9 weeks old now. When Dean was 9 weeks old, he finally learned how to nurse. I struggled for every ounce of milk and was never able to give him a full feeding without formula to help us along. With Jack eating easily I don't have that problem, but my thoughts are rooted deeply in the past. This morning I threw away 14 bottles of breastmilk (I have over 20 left the freezer) and I am still having difficulty leaving them in there. It is after 3. Logically, I know that I pump an extra bottle a day at work and freeze it. That's over 20 bottles a month. Jack is not going to starve and I'm prefectly fine with giving him formula if it came to that anyway. But...that milk in those little bags is like gold. The gold of which my precious Dean never seemed to get enough.

Thank you sweet Jack for nursing so easily. I do hope that you have less ear infections than Dean did from all of those antibodies.

Where's the Memo

2009-01-22T19:09:00.000-08:00

Both boys slept for over 8 hours last night...AT THE SAME TIME! It was pretty neat to get 7 hours of uninterupted sleep because it has been almost a year. The only regret that i have was that my breasts didn't get the memo and I'm all blocked up today. OUCH!

Hooray!

2009-01-20T20:04:00.000-08:00

I was ready for Lucas' move. Totally prepared to suck it up and be the best single mommy I could be by week and just take things one moment at a time. We'd even had some inadvertant practice nights when Lucas had to work rather late and I was left to do things by myself after work. I knew that I could do this and survive.

Then, this morning, in the way things like to change in my household, it all changed again. For once, it was a change that was easy to swallow. Lucas was told that a boss had pulled a few strings and managed a position down here for him that would get him through my school year at least. Yahoo! So we'll all be here until June...at which point I imagine we'll move.

Tag Team

2009-01-15T20:48:00.000-08:00

Well, the boys tag teamed us last night, or shall I say very EARLY this morning. Jack's been pretty easy so far and wakes every 3 hours on some nights and has had a few 6 hours nights. I go in and nurse him back to sleep and stumble back to my bed to catch a little of that sweet rest myself.

Last night my night looked a little bit different. Jack went down for the night and was up by 12 ready to eat again. He finally drifted off again about an hour later. Dean was awake within minutes stripping off his PJs and talking about how he was going to get dressed. "I go Miss Su-ey. I go Miss Suey." Miss Suzie is his daycare provider. We tried to tell him that it was night night time and that Miss Suzie was alseep, but he'd see her later that morning...after he slept some more. Well, he did finally sleep some more after screaming until around 3ish. At which point he tagged Jack, who awoke hungry again. I think I was up from 12-4:30. Then up again to get ready for work by 5:30. Man am I tired, but man do I love them.

Poor Dean. I'm upset when he fights me over taking the dearly beloved PJ's off. Then when he's finally ready to do it without a fight, I tell him he has to leave them on. Oh, the confusion.

In Plain Sight

2009-01-13T20:14:00.000-08:00

I often think of Dean as a little advanced after picking him up from daycare or talking about some of the things he's doing with my colleagues at work. For all of his intelligence, sometimes he still just doesn't quite get it. Last Saturday was one of those times. He spent the entire morning looking for daddy, who was hiding in plain sight. I even invited him to help me fold laundry and piled the laundry on top of sleeping daddy before folding it. After a few hours, Lucas' gig was up and naptime ended when I took the pillow off (I needed help.).

Maybe Funny Later

2009-01-09T21:25:00.001-08:00

Tonight's bedtime battles with Dean will probably be a little funny to me when I don't have to deal with it anymore.

Dean is tall enough to reach his light switch, and recently figured out that he was capable of taking off and putting on clothes. I say figured out because I've realized for quite some time that he was capable, and was waiting for the day it dawned on him. I was curious to see what he would do with that information. So far he has the previously mentioned self diaper changing and tonight the PJ dilema.

Dean LOVES his PJs. In the mornings we go round and round about how Ms. Suzie doesn't allow PJ's at daycare and yes Dean must put on other clothes so we can all go. The most common phrase heard in my house early in the AM is "I want my PJs." Well, that and "No, mommy!"

Tonight daddy was having trouble talking Dean into putting his PJs on, so I thought I'd help. I off course just managed to make it worse. I thought that if I offered Dean a choice between two pajama's he'd have more ownership and daddy wouldn't have to pin him down. I offered a choice between the dinosaur pajamas and the train pajamas. He chose dinosuar, so I started to put the train away. Then he said "No, no dinosaur. Choo Choo!" I started to put the dinosaur away. Well, as you can guess he changed his mind again. We had to make the choice for him which of course he didn't like at all.

Well, as I previously mentioned the tall enough to reach the light switch and capable of clothing changes caused a long night of putting Dean to bed. When we would close the door, Dean would get up and turn the light on, begin to change his pajamas, and yell "I stuck!" He was too, stuck with an arm or leg in the wrong sized hole and unable to retrieve said limb.

Lucas had decided after their first battle to go to bed himself, not realizing the light, changing, and getting stuck situation. I ended up in there with nursing baby in tow changing a toddler's PJs and trying to tell him he MUST stay in bed and go night night. It didn't work out so well and I had to go get lazy bones out of bed to help. This whole experience left me wondering how in the world to get the two of them to sleep when I'm here by my lonesome. I'm seriously considering having Lucas move Dean's dresser to the living room.

It Tickles

2009-01-08T19:04:00.000-08:00

Some things that Dean have been doing that give me a good giggle.

Nursing his baby doll after pulling his shirt up like mommy.

Running to find me, then squatting and making pee noises while he pees in his diaper.

Oh dear goodness, there are more, but my mind is all muddled up and tired. I'll try to remember the others for another day.

I've returned to my kiddos at work and miss my kiddos from home dearly while I'm gone. I can't seem to get enough time to spend just playing with them and certainly have said good bye to time when I can relax.

I Miss You Both

2009-01-05T20:15:00.000-08:00

Today I brought the boys to daycare. I had a glorious two weeks with both of them and found myself enjoying motherhood immensely. Well, except the parts where the eldest was naughty and I had to actually be The Parent. That was unfortunate.

I missed both of them so very much. With Dean it was a bit easier for me to cope because we've been through this before. After about a week or so he'll be upset when I make him come home because he's enjoying himself so much. Also, Miss Suzie (his daycare provider) is awesome. She teaches him so many things of which I find myself ignorant.

With Jack I found it very hard to go all day without him. VERY HARD! I remember going through this with Dean on a different level. So, I know I will get used to it and so will he. Today though, it was like a piece of my body was missing, or like I was mourning the death of someone very important to me. I wanted his little snuggly body right next to mine always. Because I know that before too long, his little body will get much bigger. He will be moving with Dean-like energy. The time for snuggling will become less and less. I want to soak up every minute of this stage. My dear readers, please remind me of these feelings when I am totally exhausted, at the end of my rope, and complaining of how he STILL DOESN'T SLEEP through the night. Because, night time snuggling is still...well...snuggling.

Diapers

2009-01-02T14:50:00.000-08:00

It is high time to potty train Dean.

As many of you already know, Dean can pee in a toilet. In fact he has on many occasions, but due to one thing or another (I don't know what those things are) he is not potty trained yet. We have been seeing the signs of his readiness to use the big boy potty since some time last spring. He knows when he wets or otherwise dirties his diapers. He tells us before he does it, while he's doing it, and after. He hates (always has) to be in a dirty diaper. He finds the toilet, toilet paper, and process of hand washing to be a fantastic adventure. One such adventure led to an entire roll of paper in the toilet recently...while we had company for Christmas. He is beyond ready to make the switch.

Today in his latest demonstration of wit, charm, and general awareness of all things potty he set the mark a little higher. We went through our general nap time routine and I left him to drift off into a slumber. He has actually been drifting off into a slumber regularly for almost a month now at both nap time and bedtime. Today he did not drift off. I could hear him doing God knows what as I nursed Jack in dumb hope that they would actually both be asleep at the same time. Finally, I went to check on his mischief. As I peeked under his door one thing stood out as odd. The dirty diaper that was haphazardly placed in my line of sight. Then I spotted his tiny feet as he pranced in circles near said diaper. The one that threw me for a loop though was his bum which was halfway covered with a pull up. That's odd. I wonder if daddy put a pull up on while I was gone. No wait, I took him to the potty before I put him down for his nap and put on a diaper. I distinctly remember putting on a diaper because he'd just be sleeping anyway.

When I opened the door I was greeted with a hearty "I go poo poo!" In Dean talk that could mean he's pooped, peed, or sneezed a juicy sneeze. I frantically looked for all signs of poo poo and was relieved to find a diaper that was full of urine only. The little tyke peed in his diaper (immediately after mentioned trip to big boy potty) and then decided to change his own diaper.

A clear sign that your child is ready to use the big boy potty. HE CHANGES HIS OWN DIAPER.

Moving...again

2008-12-30T12:38:00.000-08:00

Well, I guess we've gotten too comfortable in our current home. About the time we usually get settled in, Lucas' employers like to shake things up a bit. It seems that most of my worries revolve around children sleeping through the night and my family moving. This time, it's another move. Lucas leaves in February to work near the house we bought a while back.

What does that mean for the boys and I? Well, we get to stay put and see daddy on the weekends. My contract doesn't end until June. After that I suppose we'll move back into the house we own and I'll be looking for a job again. I'm not thrilled about parenting two very young children by myself for the next few months, but I'm glad we're looking at a move to a place we've already been.

Oh Christmas Tree

2008-12-27T19:53:00.000-08:00

You want a Christmas full of stories? Well, you've come to the right place. Except that somewhere between when I thought of a ton of stories to write about and now, I seem to have forgotten a few. Let me start with a really good one and see what we get from there.

So as you may have read on my last post. We were without a Christmas tree on the eve of the big holiday because there weren't any left in town. Then, an angel whom we'll call Sarah (otherwise known as Lucas' sister and Auntie Sarah), appeared for her visit with a beautiful tree in the back of her truck. There were still trees where she lives, so she thought she'd bring an extra present. I have to say that I was nearly moved to tears by her kindness. I had never realized how empty and nonfestive a house would be without a tree. The other decorations should be enough, right? Wrong...wrong...wrong. A tree is such an important part of setting the mood. How silly! Thank you Auntie Sarah for helping to make this Christmas such a special holiday.

Though it's not a story, we did have Lucas' parents here for a visit as well. I enjoyed their company, fine cooking, and help around the house. Dean enjoyed their company and creative ideas. I think Lucas was just as excited about being surrounded by his family as he was about the helpfulness of them being here. We were truly blessed.

This Christmas is the first present related celebration that Dean learned that presents have really cool things inside. That made it extra fun and eventually overwhelming for him. He was really excited about so many presents, but the funniest one was a red dog (stuffed animal) that he got from the same auntie mentioned above. When he opened it, he started barking and rolling around with hysterical spasm-like energy all over the living room floor. I tried to get it on camera, but failed. Oh how I failed. It was pretty funny to watch though.

The only other story I can remember is not a funny one. Lucas was pulling the ham out of the oven and managed to spill the liquid on his thigh. Well, ok maybe it was a little funny when I heard him yell ouch and came into the kitchen to find him with his pants around his ankles. That's my preteen since of humor I suppose. After running cool water over it for a bit it turned out fine. Poor Lucas.

A picture of the family (and tree). As always, double click the picture for a larger image.

The boys...

Less Decorating

2008-12-23T20:04:00.000-08:00

Well, the idea of waiting until Christmas Eve to set up the tree seemed great. No fighting toddler to leave the tree be, fun entertainment for the in-laws, and a discounted price as the tree sellers try to get rid of their last trees.

Until tonight when we found out that there were no trees left in our town. None. So, uhh...we don't have a tree this year. We are hosting Christmas for Lucas' family, but thankfully they're not too upset. I do have to say that it doesn't quite feel Christmas like here in the house without the tree. I DO have a sented candle that is supposed to smell like an evergreen. It's something.

Christmas Decorating

2008-12-23T10:00:00.000-08:00

This year's decorations for Christmas are going a bit differently than last year. We still have not set up the tree, and are waiting for Lucas' family to come help us. I didn't want to try to keep Dean out of the tree while nursing a newborn and healing up. By the way, I totally screwed up my shoulder/neck about two weeks ago trying to haul said toddler out of trouble while nursing said newborn. Stupid, stupid, stupid. I still can not turn my head very far to the right.

Today Dean and I set up some of the Christmas decorations. This is what he wore for the occasion. His Halloween costume...he's a "siwwy ba" (aka Silly Bear).

This is what Jack was doing.

The Story of My Life...or Dean's Rather

2008-12-23T06:14:00.001-08:00

Sick...again. Dean has a fever, itchy rash, runny nose, cough, and suffers from general crankiness. Poor little guy. I wonder if he'll always be sick through life.

Relished Sleep

2008-12-21T20:31:00.000-08:00

Just because I like to jinx myself and also because I have been so hyper-focused on a full night sleep for the past 2 years (yes, two years and not one full night of sleep for me...not one).

Dean is still waking up at night, but is easily comforted and goes right back to sleep after daddy visits him, tells him it's time to go back to sleep, and good night. Jack has one chunk of 3 hours solid sleep at the beginning of the night, from there on out it's anybody's guess. But three whole hours people! Sometimes I don't get more than three hours of sleep. To have it all at once...oh how blessed I am.

This week, I begin my normal mommy routine as I'll have both boys home with me full time. We'll of course have Christmas right in the middle of this week with my in-laws around to play with, the weekend with dad, and a neighborhood girl for the beginning half of next week. So I guess I've cheated a bit. I'm excited to have time with both of them though. They grow so quickly. I can't believe that Jack has already been in my life for a full month. Two more weeks and I stop being stay at home mommy. It makes me a bit sad this time around. I'll miss both of them.

In the Land I Find Funny

2008-12-18T14:21:00.000-08:00

I have not been posting because I am so very enjoying my time alone with Jack. In the beginning, I enjoyed our naps the most, but the past few weeks I've been savoring the time I have to study his little fingers, toes, and face. Tomorrow is our last day with this kind of time together. Though it saddens me, I am also a little excited about the time I'll have with Dean and Jack at home with me before I have to return to work and reduce all of my mommy time to but a fraction of what I have now. The poor dears, and their poor mommy.

So, a story maybe only I will find funny because you probably had to be there. This morning, 6:30 am after a long night of feeding, burping, and rocking, I am getting Dean ready for daycare. He finds little Jack's tiny sock and begins some trial and error which leads him to realize that Jack's socks are too tiny for Dean's not itty bitty enough feet. I still think of Dean's feet as small, adorable and soft...I love love love them. Anyway, we get to the part where I am changing Dean's pull up. And Dean finds a place for that tiny sock. A piece of his body that does fit, perfectly...It is very PRIVATE.

Some of you have inquired as to Dean's reaction to little brother Jack. He loves him dearly...maybe a little too much. In Dean's world, Jack is another toy to play with, tackle, poke, and if at all possible smother with every ounce of his being. Sounds lovely doesn't it. Until you are the one trying to protect little brother from 30 lbs of uncontained love. We've been learning ways to play with Jack and ways NOT to play with Jack.

Exhibit A:

Dean: Jack see Ca? See ca? Mooooo!

Jack is very interested until cow ends up in Jacks face at which point he screams. Then Dean screams, and eventually mommy has to remind herself not to scream.

Exhibit B: Dean gets to hold Jack in his lap with Daddy very close by. Jack is screaming...so is Dean because he thinks it's funny that Jack is screaming.

We remind Dean to calm down and be kind to little brother. Be gentle. So Dean gives him a kiss (his favorite thing to do with little Jack, but usually while trying to lean his total body weight on him).

Dean: Uh-oh. pac-ier pac-ier! (He helps put it back in to Jack's mouth.)

Dean gives us one of his ham it up smiles. I think he just took that same pacifier out of Jack's mouth. Poor Jack. So loved, yet mistreated.

A Little More Experience

2008-12-09T15:29:00.000-08:00

You would think that I'd have learned a few tricks with my first child so that I'd not make as many mistakes with my second child. Unfortunately, I've just become more relaxed, less cautious, and maybe a bit more lazy.

Note to self: Be ready with a diaper while examining the circumcision or you're likely to have him pee in your face. Dean never got me in the face. What have I been reduced to?

A cute picture of the boys. Some of you have seen this already on my Facebook page. Sorry for the repeat...again with the laziness.

Jack David

2008-11-26T12:54:00.000-08:00

November 24, 2008 12:27 p.m.
9 lbs 12ounces 21 inches

Dean's reaction to homecoming. Double click to enlarge picture.

Birthing Center

2008-11-24T06:00:00.001-08:00

I'll definantly be making a trip to the birthing center this morning for some painful contractions. Surely I'll come home with a baby.

Something Different

2008-11-23T16:42:00.000-08:00

Sorry, folks still no little one.

Dean has been spending a lot of time with Grandma these past few weeks. She's a pretty fun grandma to be around, but she's also not afraid to discipline. He's at a very honery, push the limits stage, but often his naughtiness makes you want to laugh. But you can't, you've got to keep him in line. He's also picking up language like no tomorrow and runs around parroting everyone.

Dean's been trying out different names for grandma, most of them sound like grandma. Some things he's tried...gam-ma, gram, g, omah, ammy, gammy, ga, and other variations all missing the r sound. The funniest one he saves for when he's really mad at her. Then she becomes "Damn-ma"...seriously.

"Dean, don't hit the glass with your firetruck."
"No, Damnma!"

Defeated

2008-11-23T08:15:00.000-08:00

What's another day or two? I've come down with the stomach virus as of this morning. What rotten timing. So, I think we'll be waiting to induce. Unless stomach ickiness induces babies. Bleh!

Yucky Tummies

2008-11-22T19:05:00.000-08:00

I am the last person standing at the house. Lucas has had the tummy virus, Dean started his round yesterday, and tonight my mom has been taken down by it. I feel horrible for all of them. The timing of course is almost hilarious. Almost. Tomorrow morning is our call to see about my being induced. I do wonder what happens if I come down with it before then. If I don't, my poor mother is at home with my toddler.

I'll try to post again when we've got a baby or something.

The Latest

2008-11-21T20:07:00.000-08:00

Update:

Still pregnant. Officially 1 week over due. Will start day 20 of in and out of labor tomorrow. When I made a visit to the doctor's office today, he set up to possibly induce on Sunday. The directions are to call the birthing center at 10 and see if they're too busy or if they've got some time. So...we continue to wait and see what will happen.

Also, Dean is super, duper, pukey, blow out the pants sick. We've had a constant load of laundry cleanup going since about 11 last night. I sure hope I can steer free of the illness and that our washing machine and dryer don't break. Poor little one. It stinks to be so sick!

Nurses

2008-11-19T21:16:00.000-08:00

Some funny things the nurses/doctors have told me.

The doctor says to come back when things are more intense. 5 minutes apart and 1 minute long doesn't seem to be doing much. (1.5 weeks ago)

If your contractions get down to 10 minutes call the birthing center. (today)

Eat lightly...toast, broth, etc. (2.5 weeks ago, I'd be starving!)

I won't let you go past your due date. (1 month ago)

I'm thinking we'll induce next Thursday because your baby is much to large. (3 weeks ago)

The birthing center seems busy today, maybe we'll induce next week (2 weeks ago).

It seems like your body is handling this labor pretty well. We'll give it until next Friday and then I'll scare the baby out. (1 week ago)

17 Days of Glory

2008-11-18T21:55:00.000-08:00

Well, what is there to say? To all my adoring fans. I am still pregnant.

Some things I've learned these past days:

Most home remedies for inducing your little one cause more irregular contractions than you are already experiencing, but nothing too exciting.

One can enter more serious labor, only to go back to the "calm" stages of labor.

Contractions are tiring.

I can patiently learn to do things like cross stitch while I await.

I maybe even enjoy cross stitching...a little bit.

Ok, I've maybe become the teeniest addicted to my current cross stitching project.

I still do not enjoy shopping, but can manage to do so for nearly 20 hours in two weeks.

After shopping for that many hours, I can somehow manage to buy nothing more than candy for in case my body gets more serious about this labor business.

Labor candy doesn't last very long when you eat it every night and morning during contractions.

Brownies do not increase productivity during labor.

My mother loves me enough to take off of work and leave her family for an eternity.

Walking does not in fact seem to help with dilation in my case.

In other news, Dean has been totally hilarious. He's beginning to speak more clearly and has become one of the most ornery children I know. I love him to pieces. Lucas is still working extra hard at home and work. He's been wonderful. We bought each other a new TV for Christmas and he's spent the last few days mounting it on the wall and running cords in baby safe ways.

The Sun Will Come Up

2008-11-15T18:51:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow will be the 14th day of our little labor adventure and as of yet, it seems that I will still be nurturing my sweet boy inside my tummy. Which is not such a bad thing because Lucas has come down with a nasty stomach virus today. He is sick...sick...sick. Please God, don't let any of the rest of us get sick. And help him to heal quickly of course.

A Visit with Good Ol' Doc

2008-11-13T11:59:00.000-08:00

Well, folks. Our little visitor has not yet visited. He's still nestled tightly in my ginormous ever growing belly. The doc says that sometimes this happens and by the way I had entered Active Labor and returned to Early Labor, but yes I am still in labor. Who makes up these rules anyway? As for what we're going to do about it all. Wait. And probably wait some more. The baby is still large, but my body seems to be handling things ok so far. I have an appointment for Friday of next week at which point the doctor will do something to "scare the baby out". And...that's all folks.

O Baby

2008-11-12T07:20:00.000-08:00

Yup, there's still a baby in my belly. Some great things about this baby: It is still moving...a lot. It has quiet times where it seems to be resting (Dean didn't). He has a fun name and some really cute announcements. He has some little bitty feet and toes. I can feel them through the skin on my tummy. Toes people!

I've started my 10th day of labor, though this one seems less eventful than others because things have really slowed down in my body. My poor mother drove down the night of Day 1 because we thought surely the doc's diagnosis of true labor contractions meant that I'd be having the baby ANY MINUTE. She's still here. Her work office is still wondering when she'll return. I'm still calling my office every day and humiliating myself with the news of still no baby, sorry I left in such a rush 10 DAYS AGO, I just really didn't want to face another day with those cute little third graders.

We have tried some goofy things to get the labor progressing and "just in case". We've made multiple trips to the local drug store for things like jolly ranchers for the hard core labor, baby safe q-tips, raspberry leaf tea (to promote labor, and which we have yet to find), etc. We've been shopping for DAYS looking for Christmas presents my mom needs to buy anyway and crafty Christmas needlework, which we also have yet to find. We've walked, and walked, and walked. We've push pressure points you're not supposed to push. We've eaten spicy foods, gotten pedicures, sat for hours on birthing balls, cleaned, nested, etc. Our baby announcements are all crafty, cute, and ready for us to put the important things on them. You know, like the date of birth and the picture. I very carefully made a sample announcement first complete with the date of the 7th. The 7th came and went, so I changed it to the 9th...AND PRINTED it again. As you can tell, that didn't help things along either.

The funniest part of all of this...

My due date is this coming Saturday. Yes, ladies and gentlemen I have been waiting impatiently for almost 2 weeks for a baby that isn't due anyway. I would not be impatient, and could care less how quickly he comes...except did I mention that I've been having the really strong take my breath away cramps that cause a lot of aching and pain in my nether regions called CONTRACTIONS. I always knew God would teach me patience one day. I hope he is successful this time because I really don't want another lesson like this.

Well my little one. Today would be a great birth day. I know a wonderful person who was born today. She is witty, hilarious, crafty, gentle, creative, soothing, and a great mother. If that doesn't work for you, tomorrow would also be a great day. I know someone (her daughter) who was born on that day. She is spunky, crazy, funny, energetic, always coming up with new ideas, and sees the world through eyes that bring joy and laughter to those around her.

The Waiting Game

2008-11-11T16:27:00.000-08:00

Ok, so this isn't a very interesting post, but rather a quick update. I am still pregnant, exhausted, sore, and ready to meet the little one. My contractions have really slowed down today. We'll be at the doctor's on Thursday at which point I guess I might learn more. Or not. Anyway, sorry to have gotten everyone so excited last week with the beginnings of a long labor.

Frustration Sets In

2008-11-09T09:28:00.000-08:00

Last night I really thought I was going to have the baby. I had contractions every 3 to 5 minutes starting at 8:30 p.m. and they HURT. Lucas and I went to the birthing center while mom watched Dean. I wasn't making any more progress since my exam on Thursday, so they sent me home to get some rest until it got "more intense". About 4:30 this morning, it got less intense. Now I'm back to 6 minute contractions that take my breath away, but aren't painful. The wait continues...

Labor

2008-11-07T20:59:00.000-08:00

I am still pregnant. Still in labor. Still waiting to see those little tiny feet. When I went to the doctor yesterday, he decided not to induce because well, I am already in labor. A long, slow, tiring, labor. So I wait for God to decide and hope that time is before my momma's two weeks with me.

In the mean time, we've been walking, shopping, hopping up and down on birthing balls, and designing an oh so cute birth announcement.

Natal

2008-11-05T08:55:00.000-08:00

I am no longer prenatal, nor am I post natal. Does that make me natal?

I've been having strong contractions 10 minutes apart for over a minute each. For. Two. Days. Yup ladies and gentlemen, two days of early labor. What fun! Mom came down to help out Monday night and we've been waiting and passing the time together since then. We've walked the malls and neighborhood. We've driven quickly over bumpy roads. Not much has changed, but we know the baby is working its way into the world. I'll introduce him when we next have a moment and he's no longer relaxing in my cushy tummy, but rather in my comforting arms.

Healing

2008-10-29T20:54:00.000-07:00

Dean was able to eat dinner tonight and has not had a fever all day. Yay antibiotics! Keep up the good work. I was reading on my sister in law's blog about how we spoil our kiddos when they are sick sometimes. The same is true here at this household. Whatever it takes to help the poor thing fall asleep. It must be pretty rough to have a sore throat, ear, and chest. He's well enough now to head back to daycare where I hope he has a great day tomorrow.

Scheduled Baby

2008-10-28T20:48:00.000-07:00

I had a doctor visit today. Everything is looking well, but the baby is still on the larger side. My doctor is considering inducing the baby next Friday (the 7th), but we won't decide for sure until the day before. He's thinking that would save us from a possible c-section and other complications like we had with Dean. Anyway, until then...I guess I should think about resanitizing the house. Dean's been coughing all over everything.

So Very Sick

2008-10-27T16:33:00.000-07:00

It must be that time of the year again. I am home with my precious Dean because he is so very ill. He has another ear infection (no suprise there), bronchitis, and a very sore throat. The doc thought that the throat might be strep, but didn't test for it because the dear is getting antibiotics either way. He's given me lots of practice for the new baby today. I've spent most of the day holding him andmy arms/back are very tired. A few months ago, he wouldn't have allowed me to hold him when he was feeling poorly. I'm glad I'm able to comfort him now.

Ankles?

2008-10-26T20:55:00.000-07:00

Has anyone seen my ankles? I seem to have lost them. At first I thought I just couldn't find them cause my belly was in the way, but, when I propped up my feet, they were still missing.

I am still pregnant, still contracting, and still tired. It's not terribly bad as I've got my little goof ball and husband around to keep me entertained. They've been pretty funny lately. Though I can't think of any stories at the moment.

Also, I have officially finished my Christmas shopping! What? Haven't you? Don't look at me like that! Christmas is just around the corner! If you don't get your little patootie out there and start doing the same, you might miss the entire holiday. It will just slip right by.

Seriously though, I just know that I won't want to deal with it after I've had the baby. Shopping early this year kept it as a fun activity for me. Thank you all for allowing me to use you to achieve my nesting instincts. To clarify, I only bought for family members, and even then, just Lucas' and my parents, siblings, nieces, and nephews. Those of you from his side of the family might not realize how that creates a list of 20 something people for us. So, uh, if you're not one of those people. We still love you dearly, and if we ever win the lotto, we'll go berserk buying gifts for all. If I was a really good girl, I'd be typing out a Christmas letter to attach a picture of family and new baby to. I'm not a really good girl. I wasn't last year either.

What's in a Name?

2008-10-23T21:14:00.000-07:00

Ok...so we might change the name. My hormonal self has created doubt in my own head and sent us back to the name search. Poor Lucas.

I went to the see a nurse practitioner today for my weekly checkup. Everything is ok. The baby's heartbeat sounded wonderful. And, yes, those are contractions that started on Saturday. Not to worry though, just call us if they get to be under ten minutes and cross your legs honey. Baby needs at least a week more of incubation. If this son is anything like my other darling, we'll have contractions for WEEKS and then he will show up right when he's due. Until then, I just keep plugging along.

Still Chubby

2008-10-19T20:30:00.000-07:00

I've got pictures. I've got ideas, but I've been to tired (or maybe it's lazy) to post much lately. Mostly I just want to sleep, or prop my feet up with a book. Which I don't usually have the chance to do between work and my little lovely one here at home.

We had a visit from Dean's great grandma, grandma, and granddad this weekend. It was so nice to have them here entertaining Dean and helping to keep him out of trouble (and to get into some). I had a lot of time to sit on the couch with my book. Pure bliss.

So, in the news that is no news. I am still pregnant. I have 4 weeks left of countdown. The doctor has informed me that I am anemic which seems super easy to fix...take some iron pills girl! Dean has been sleeping mostly through the nights. The nights he doesn't he crawls into our bed and goes back to sleep...no screaming banshee. My husband has been a doll and super helpful, patient, and all around a great guy. I have found myself wanting to sit on the couch with either my dad or my mom during the past few weeks. I think so that I can be a non-parent again and just someone else's kid. I miss that, but wouldn't trade the new bond I have with both of my parents through becoming one myself. Life has been treating me well.

Oh...and we've chosen a name. Unless of course I take a look at our new bundle and change my mind.

Chubby Chunkins

2008-09-24T20:59:00.001-07:00

Some of you have been wondering what my tummy might look like now a days. No, I am not pushing it up, just making sure that my skirt doesn't hang straight down so you can really see the shape and size. Pretty big huh?

I am in my 7th month and happy to say that my gestational diabetes test came back with good results. I just barely scored under the qualifying blood sugar marks. Yay me!

I am finally cool enough at work to have earned a nickname. Cause you know, when people give you a nickname it usually means that you are part of the group and well likes. Even if your nickname is Chubby Chunkins...

In other good news that I'm absolutely obsessed with: Dean has been sleeping through the night for about a week. And he's not been waking up until 5:30. And he's happy most of the time. Well, until tonight when daddy accidentally cut off the tip of his finger. Blood, oh so much blood. But I think the little kiddo's going to be fine. Hormonal mommy needs to take a chill pill though.

2008-09-23T20:17:00.000-07:00

Some evenings we all lay on the quilt and watch airplanes and birds fly overhead. Daddy lies with us too, but somebody had to take the picture. Yes, I am wearing a work shirt paired with Lucas' gym pants. Ahhh, the comforts of home after a day at work. Also, we're on the quilt I made Lucas for our first Christmas. Let me rephrase that. We're on the only quilt I've ever made.

Dean likes to take the road less traveled on. You'll notice the huge area of flat grass he could easily ride his bike on.

Sugary Sweetness

2008-09-18T20:05:00.001-07:00

Well, no more sugary cereal snacking for me. I've been cut off. My glucose test results came in today and they didn't look too hot. I have high blood sugar and have to go in for some more tests to determine if I've got Gestational Diabetes. In the mean time I'm to have no simple sugars. Bummer. I guess I'm hoping to go in and take the fasting blood sugar test and have them tell me that I'm not a diabetic, but need to be a bit on the careful side.

On better news, I think Dean may actually be healthy again. I totally base this on the fact that he actually ate his dinner tonight. He hasn't done that in a few days. He also played after dinner...yeah, he PLAYED. How totally cool!

Not so Robust

2008-09-13T20:03:00.000-07:00

When I was a department store today a woman stopped me to ask about Dean's age. When I told her that he was 1 1/2 her jaw dropped and she actually gasped. As she started to look embarrassed about her reaction, I quickly laughed and told her I knew he was rather large. Apparently she was hoping to compare him to the size of her 4 year old grandson so she'd know what size clothes to get for him. She said that Dean was much taller. I guess we weren't much help. She did say something about how he must be healthy and robust...

Funny that later in the evening he broke out in some funky face rash and started telling me that his ear hurt. Then he began vomiting up a storm. With all of his illnesses (mostly ears), I can't help but think that my little monkey isn't so robust after all.

Also this: We were at the department store Christmas shopping. I think that's my way of nesting, because I know I won't be able to go shopping much once the baby comes...then a month later it's Christmas. What a nerd! I am finding some gifts on sale. I also bought Dean's presents already with him right there with me. By Christmas he'll have forgotten all about them I suppose. We got a toy phone, vacuum, and one of those boxes with the holes in different shapes to match the cubes in different shapes to. Already I want to pull them out and let him play with them because I'm curious if he'll like them or not.

Washing Dishes

2008-09-13T19:56:00.000-07:00

We're trying to train him to do the dishes early so that it's not an issue later in life. Some one must have been reading Shel Silverstein to him. He dropped a glass yesterday and he doesn't have to do the dishes anymore.

Note: We're not really trying to teach him to do the dishes...he pulled the chair over and gave it a shot all by his lonesome. And, he did break a glass yesterday.

Chew 'em Up and Spit 'em Out

2008-09-11T20:37:00.000-07:00

We had Back to School Night tonight. By we I mean that I as the teacher had to get up in front of a bunch of parents and give a little power point presentation. I talk all the live long day in front of little kiddos with no problem, but stick me in front of a bunch of adults for 30 minutes and the pressure is on.

This is my 5th Back to School Event flying solo. I went in all cool and collected expecting the normal questions and a few concerns about me leaving their poor babies with a substitute while I'm on maternity leave. I've been teaching long enough (and enough grades) to feel confident and knowledgeable about my subject matter. I knew what to expect...or so I thought.

I have never been grilled quite the way I was tonight. The parents came at me hard with questions ranging from our state budget and student standards to questions about the lunches and recesses. I came out of it a little burnt around the edges, but thankful that I at least knew what I was talking about. When a parent came to me at the end and apologized for putting me on the spot, I thanked her for being so interested in her child's education. And I meant it!

Never Ending

2008-09-10T04:40:00.000-07:00

I find myself wondering if Dean has some sort of sleeping disorder. For the past month and 1/2 he has woken from every nap or bedtime screaming and running around like a crazy boy screaming his head off in hysterics. When he came down with a fever about 2 weeks ago, we took him to the doctor and sure enough, he had yet another ear infection. Well, his medicine is all gone, he seems to be acting like normal, but the kids still doesn't sleep well. Sleep training be damned.
Yesterday we were fooled as he only woke at 2, was easily comforted back to sleep and didn't wake again until 6. I thought that maybe things were headed back to what passes for normal in some people's lives. I say "headed back" because we did experience this bliss ourselves for a month or two this summer. Then, 3:30 AM screaming toddler that can't seem to go back to sleep, but is very obviously tired. I've been thinking that maybe his ears are still infected, but some of this time he's been awake he has been trying to jump up and down on daddy while singing his favorite version of "Old Mcdonald". Yes, there is more than one version. Dean has created his own unique words and tune, but there is clearly an EIEIO. It is 4:50. He has been quiet for maybe 5 minutes. But...he's fooled me a few times tonight.

It's Potty Time!

2008-09-07T20:10:00.000-07:00

After partying all weekend at Grandma CC's house, Dean came home and used the big boy potty! Lucas changed his very stinky diaper and Dean hopped off of the changing table demanding to use the potty. Then he really did! Way to go little champ. I look forward to more of these...events.

When It Rains

2008-08-26T19:54:00.000-07:00

The past few days have been rather hectic with my setting up of a new classroom, again, and starting a brand new class, also again. Just when I thought I was so exhausted that I couldn't possibly add one more thing to my list, God reminded me of the strength I have in Him and that anything is possible.

Dean was up all night with a HORRIBLE fever and what turned out to be yet another ear infection. Poor, poor boy. After some crazy scheduling to get Lucas to work and back and me to work for the day, I went and taught my new 3rd graders. At the end of a challenging day, I went to get in my truck and run home to my boys. Only...the truck wouldn't start. The battery was D-E-A-D, dead, deeeaaad! I couldn't get a hold of my dearest husband, my emergency roadside assistance card had expired, I had no water, and it was over 100 degrees.

But, I had a win today. Lucas gallantly dragged my poor sick son over to my school and jump started the truck about an hour later. While I took Dean home, that same husband who spent an entire day with a screaming toddler, two hours in the doctors office with same screaming toddler, and had also been up ALL NIGHT LONG!, went to my favorite burger joint bought us a yummy dinner and surprised me with a milk shake. Not just any milkshake, but a vanilla shake...yummy in preggo lady's tummy! I am so glad that the worst of my problems right now are an ear infection, a job change, and a dead battery. After all, my son is still relatively healthy, I have a job in an economically difficult time, and our truck is not broken. Praise God!

Flexible, It's My Middle Name

2008-08-20T20:00:00.000-07:00

Many of you know that I often have to change things in my life. Where I live...the school that I teach at...the grade level I teach...

This school year is no exception. I've been teaching a lovely Kindergarten class for the last 3 days, only to find out today that I will start teaching a third grade class on Monday. Huh. My goal is nearly complete. I have taught K, 1st, 4th, 5th, and 6th grades. After this year, I will only have 2nd grade left to tackle and then I'll be a REAL elementary school teacher I guess. Those of you who don't know, most teachers teach maybe 1 or 2 grades most of their career. I seem to be the exception.

This week I am reminded of how much my life has changed since I've become a mother. I seem to be able to do more before 6:30 A.M. than I ever thought possible. I started this morning at 4:30 with a crying toddler. I spent the next few hours trying to calm said toddler down as he ran around the house screaming bloody murder (because he woke up too early), unloading the dishwasher, showering, getting dressed, doing my make up, packing lunches, getting Dean dressed, cleaning the kitchen counters, picking up toys, loading up the car, and taking out the trash (and of course keeping the screaming toddler out of trouble). Granted, most days do not quite start like this, but gone are the days when I could get up and out of the house in 20 minutes with blissful silence as I struggled to awaken fully. Of course, I am often rewarded for all of my hard work and my change in life style with images like this:

Note: I always laugh at how many grammar and spelling mistakes I make whenever I post that I am a teacher. Please forgive my sleep deprived (and did I mention pregnant) self. Oh, and I never did learn how to spell. *grin*

Missing

2008-08-16T19:50:00.001-07:00

One can always tell when my vacations are over and I return to school. How do they know? I go missing in action. Sorry about that.

I've been in trainings, orientations, and staff meetings for the past two weeks. On top of those fully scheduled days, I've also had to set up my classroom and prepare for the first week. Lucas has been wonderful as he always is every start of the school year. The last few nights he's had toddler duty while I stayed at work until they kicked me out.

This next week should be interesting for all three (or four) of us. On Monday I start my new class of Kindergarteners, Lucas starts his new project and crew at work, and Dean will hopefully finally settle in during his 3rd week at his new daycare. Yes, once again, we all have to figure out how to juggle hectic schedules, family time, and sanity. I'm hoping I don't drop the ball on that middle one.

Interesting baby news:
Ummm...still in there. I know this because he has squirmed his way under my ribcage and into the joints of my hips oh so many times. This one has been kind of fun because I see some things I didn't get to see with Dean. While taking a bath earlier this week, I am pretty sure I saw an elbow come lurching out of my stomach with a seemingly thin piece of my skin stretched over it. Amazing! With Dean my stomach looked more like a wave pool at the local water park.

The Name Game

2008-08-02T09:12:00.000-07:00

I've been looking at baby names on the internet, because, uh, I've got to pick one in the next few months. Some of the names give me a good giggle by themselves, but placed with my last name are hilarious. Those of you who know my last name, try and pair these with it...

Bandana
Banjo
Baker
Barr
Base
Beauchamp
Christian

Yeah, ok so I AM looking at the B and C sections. I'll be in letter D next.

Left Out

2008-07-30T20:32:00.000-07:00

I enjoy adding a little challenge to my day by feeding my son the most sugary cereal I can find. Unfortunately for Dean, his brother's the only one that gets to partake. Oh pregnancy and bad for you foods. When will I stop!?

Tiny

2008-07-30T19:40:00.000-07:00

I absolutely love to look at Dean's little feet. His tiny toes are absolutely adorable and I often cannot refrain from reaching out and tickling them.

Today, those thoughts were absolutely crushed...destroyed even...as I unpacked all of Dean's newborn clothes for the new baby. Just look at those socks. Can human feet really truly come in that size? I'm having a really hard time imagining Dean's chunky feet squishing into those tiny finger puppet socks. And yet, I know that they used to fit him, even with a little room left over. I'm finding that I feel as though I have lost that part of Dean. I guess I have, but what I've gained is so much more fun.

Which brings me to my next flow of thoughts and hormonal feelings. I am going to have another little tiny baby with the cutest little toes that can absolutely swim in those same petite socks. And he will scream and cry...a lot. Only this time, I'll have that big toddler boy running around causing ruckus to remind me to enjoy all of the "little" things about new baby while they're still little. Entering my third trimester, I'm feeling a little freaked out by the whole thing. Mostly, I'm feeling so very, very blessed. I am one lucky woman to experience this not only once, but twice. Not everyone gets that chance. Sniff. Does anyone have a tissue?