Just reviewing my last year list (I'll probably continue several of these in 2011)
1. Get in Better Shape, Live Healthier
-I think I did well at this but unexpectedly ended up being pregnant and that of course limited some of what I wanted to do on this front. Since E was born I have lost my PP weight but am now really realizing what a number I did on myself last December with emotional eating because of all that was going on. I hope to continue to work on this and fully accomplish this in 2011.
2. Find a church and start a Weekly family worship time.
Found a church! Thanks to my wonderful doula who attends there. We are now a bit further from it but I still have received support from the Moms' group there and hope to continue to develop our relationship with our church family. We will have to see if we end up in the Atlanta area or not come May to see if this will be our permanent family church though.
3. Budget better
I have done much better at this. Now the holidays did mess me up some of course but compared to the year before I feel much better about our finances and think I can continue to save more in 2011.
4. Keep in better touch with Friends and Family
Yes and no....I've made more friends locally and feel I've kept up more with them thanks to ICAN but my long distance friends and family who are both across the country and nearby I haven't been as good about contacting or visiting (other than via FB). I know this is a hard one with everyone with kids and at different places physically and in life but I do hope this resolution happens more in 2011.
5. Be Positive and don't stress the small stuff
I've gotten better about this, a huge difference came with my natural birth and our family growing to five. I also think my blogging has helped me put things in a different perspective and I've grown more in general this year as a person. I hope I continue to appreciate the small great things even more in 2011 and not stress the little issues but grow and learn from them instead.
A place to record family moments, memories, recipes, & the general random thoughts of Mrs. Baker
Friday, December 31, 2010
A long drive to the Mountains
So we did it! We made it to visit Hubby's grandparents in NC.
The three hour trip was exponentially longer than our gps estimate of 3 hours thanks to potty breaks for 2 kids, pauses through the curvy mountain pass for Mommy dizziness, and finally a long break after J unfortunately did get car sick but we made it and we're all in one piece and surprisingly relaxed. E was perfect sleeping through everything, and C and J were content to watch Robin Hood and Beauty and the Beast. Hubby chose the movies based on which ones he could stand to hear but not see lol.
I'm hoping J's experience was just a fluke and not a trend. A couple trips ago when he was 18 months or so we had the same thing happen. Luckily this time I knew he wasn't feeling well and acted before hand and shall we say caught it just in time....
Anyway, we're here and even at almost 3am you can see lots of beautiful thick snow which the kids are super excited about. Tomorrow we will be celebrating Christmas with Great Grandma and Great Grandpa (Christmas #3) followed by New Year. Seeing as I'm up now I'll most likely be up to watch the ball drop tomorrow.
This past year has been so wonderful and I can't wait to see what the next year holds!
Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed new year!
The three hour trip was exponentially longer than our gps estimate of 3 hours thanks to potty breaks for 2 kids, pauses through the curvy mountain pass for Mommy dizziness, and finally a long break after J unfortunately did get car sick but we made it and we're all in one piece and surprisingly relaxed. E was perfect sleeping through everything, and C and J were content to watch Robin Hood and Beauty and the Beast. Hubby chose the movies based on which ones he could stand to hear but not see lol.
I'm hoping J's experience was just a fluke and not a trend. A couple trips ago when he was 18 months or so we had the same thing happen. Luckily this time I knew he wasn't feeling well and acted before hand and shall we say caught it just in time....
Anyway, we're here and even at almost 3am you can see lots of beautiful thick snow which the kids are super excited about. Tomorrow we will be celebrating Christmas with Great Grandma and Great Grandpa (Christmas #3) followed by New Year. Seeing as I'm up now I'll most likely be up to watch the ball drop tomorrow.
This past year has been so wonderful and I can't wait to see what the next year holds!
Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed new year!
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
A second Christmas and a Third to come
This year due to the snow we didn't get to celebrate with my in-laws on Christmas Day so they came over on the 27th instead. This wasn't the original plan but it worked out perfectly because for the kids it was like a second Christmas.
Daddy's Dad is in the states now (for the first time in several months) and he got to meet E and re-meet C and J. It was so fun to watch not only the kids react with each other and their new gifts (an inflatable climbing wall in particular) but to watch them interact with their grandparents and Aunts as well.
Tomorrow we are planning on heading up to NC to visit Daddy's grandparents, the kids Great Grandparents. Though we will be celebrating new year while up there I'm sure for the kids this will seem like one more Christmas.
Maybe we should make a tradition of celebrating Christmas every month for the next year or so? Jesus is definitely worth celebrating all year round for sure.
And here's some pictures of the 2nd Christmas get together.
Daddy's Dad is in the states now (for the first time in several months) and he got to meet E and re-meet C and J. It was so fun to watch not only the kids react with each other and their new gifts (an inflatable climbing wall in particular) but to watch them interact with their grandparents and Aunts as well.
Tomorrow we are planning on heading up to NC to visit Daddy's grandparents, the kids Great Grandparents. Though we will be celebrating new year while up there I'm sure for the kids this will seem like one more Christmas.
Maybe we should make a tradition of celebrating Christmas every month for the next year or so? Jesus is definitely worth celebrating all year round for sure.
And here's some pictures of the 2nd Christmas get together.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
A Matching Hat for C and joining Ravelry
Another step in my crochet career working with sizing. C wanted a hat like E's but purple so I had to adjust the pattern to work it out. Finished it last night. Turned out pretty well and now she's planning her next mommy commission lol.
I love that I can use this blog to write down memories, traditions, and thoughts as well as share the projects I create and craft. I hope that years from now this blog will be a source of information for my children on their childhood and help them see how certain traditions were developed and acccomplished, as well as give them another glimpse of their mother and what I did when they were little and how I grew as they did often. Even my little crochet ventures like this for them to look back on and compare to what I'm creating 20 years from now should be fun.
I will continue to post a lot of these projects here I'm sure but I've also joined ravelry.com to extend keeping track of my crochet (and soon knitting)endeavors. I'm babybaker on there so if yall join or already have accounts, feel free to add me if you want!
I love that I can use this blog to write down memories, traditions, and thoughts as well as share the projects I create and craft. I hope that years from now this blog will be a source of information for my children on their childhood and help them see how certain traditions were developed and acccomplished, as well as give them another glimpse of their mother and what I did when they were little and how I grew as they did often. Even my little crochet ventures like this for them to look back on and compare to what I'm creating 20 years from now should be fun.
I will continue to post a lot of these projects here I'm sure but I've also joined ravelry.com to extend keeping track of my crochet (and soon knitting)endeavors. I'm babybaker on there so if yall join or already have accounts, feel free to add me if you want!
Monday, December 27, 2010
Rollin
E rolled over from back to tummy the first time on December 9th but I didn't decide to get video till today so adding the video here now. It's funny she actually prefers being on her belly and is so desperate to get as close as she can to big sis and big bro.
An exciting slow day
I will probably do another update late tonight or early tomorrow (and add pics to this post later) since my in-laws are coming over to celebrate Christmas with us at 7 tonight, but I wanted to do a quick update for now too.
Today has been fairly relaxed. The kids are still having so much fun with their new toys. C and J and I have been bowling, doing pretend animals and dressup, working in their activity books, and playing with E on her new play mat. And amidst the play I even had time to start another hat for C to match E's one I made last night and blog about our animal games.
However even on our most relaxed of days we still have some exciting moments. This started late last night when I heard a little voice mumbling sleepily from the kids room. Thinking it was C up for a midnight bathroom trip since she'd drank a lot of water yesterday hubby got up to help her to the bathroom only to be completely surprised that it was J! He did need to go to the bathroom and his night time pull ups were completely dry. He went and then went right back to bed. I was amazed since I didn't expect him to be able to have dry nights and want to get up instead of just wetting his pull ups for awhile yet (though he has had dry pull ups when he awakes we still weren't sure he'd be safe without them in this very situation), but sure enough he's got it. Tonight we're going to let him wear big boy underwear to bed too. I'm hoping we won't need any late night sheet changes.
One more step in our potty training excitement was when C and J woke up and came into our room hand in hand and we asked them if they needed to use the potty (morning ritual). C went to our bathroom and J went to the hallway one and shortly after we hear "Mommy, Daddy, I pooped!" from both of them. Now from the non-parents this may seem silly or unfortunate even but for us this was a moment of great pride (and thankfulness we have two bathrooms lol). It was also a reminder how big both C and J are now and that E is my only baby in diapers now. It's another step in this whole growing up thing, exciting and a little sad as well, but wonderful.
Another bit of excitement for the kids and I was playing with E today. Her big Christmas gift was a playmat (link, it's awesome and on sale right now). And all three kids love that now she can be down on the floor with big sis and big bro playing. This makes things more exciting for her and her seem more exciting to her big siblings too.
C, J, and I sat with E playing with her. C even got out her magnadoodle and told E she was going to draw her lol. It was so cute and so much fun to have them all playing together. E loves her mat and loves to kick the toys, grab them and pull them towards her mouth, and of course roll all the way from back to belly and back again across the mat. When she reached the edge of the mat she would push up on her belly and attempt to kick her legs while lifting them up and down (in what I call her flying position). She would reach towards C or I and try to pull and push her way closer and closer and got so angry when she couldn't get as far as she hoped then would calm down, roll some more, and attempt it again. I really saw today how much E already wants to be mobile and closer to big sis and big bro and I know in years to come they'll have to put up with her lovingly trailing them wherever they go. I can't wait to see them interact more and more as they all get bigger (the good and bad, but hopefully more good than bad).
I know I've said this time and again, but it still amazes me how fast children grow and change. Each one so unique, beautiful, and amazing in their own way. Once again I'm reminded how blessed I am to raise these three miracles, to teach them, and to witness their growth and change as they develop into wonderful people.
Today has been fairly relaxed. The kids are still having so much fun with their new toys. C and J and I have been bowling, doing pretend animals and dressup, working in their activity books, and playing with E on her new play mat. And amidst the play I even had time to start another hat for C to match E's one I made last night and blog about our animal games.
However even on our most relaxed of days we still have some exciting moments. This started late last night when I heard a little voice mumbling sleepily from the kids room. Thinking it was C up for a midnight bathroom trip since she'd drank a lot of water yesterday hubby got up to help her to the bathroom only to be completely surprised that it was J! He did need to go to the bathroom and his night time pull ups were completely dry. He went and then went right back to bed. I was amazed since I didn't expect him to be able to have dry nights and want to get up instead of just wetting his pull ups for awhile yet (though he has had dry pull ups when he awakes we still weren't sure he'd be safe without them in this very situation), but sure enough he's got it. Tonight we're going to let him wear big boy underwear to bed too. I'm hoping we won't need any late night sheet changes.
One more step in our potty training excitement was when C and J woke up and came into our room hand in hand and we asked them if they needed to use the potty (morning ritual). C went to our bathroom and J went to the hallway one and shortly after we hear "Mommy, Daddy, I pooped!" from both of them. Now from the non-parents this may seem silly or unfortunate even but for us this was a moment of great pride (and thankfulness we have two bathrooms lol). It was also a reminder how big both C and J are now and that E is my only baby in diapers now. It's another step in this whole growing up thing, exciting and a little sad as well, but wonderful.
Another bit of excitement for the kids and I was playing with E today. Her big Christmas gift was a playmat (link, it's awesome and on sale right now). And all three kids love that now she can be down on the floor with big sis and big bro playing. This makes things more exciting for her and her seem more exciting to her big siblings too.
C, J, and I sat with E playing with her. C even got out her magnadoodle and told E she was going to draw her lol. It was so cute and so much fun to have them all playing together. E loves her mat and loves to kick the toys, grab them and pull them towards her mouth, and of course roll all the way from back to belly and back again across the mat. When she reached the edge of the mat she would push up on her belly and attempt to kick her legs while lifting them up and down (in what I call her flying position). She would reach towards C or I and try to pull and push her way closer and closer and got so angry when she couldn't get as far as she hoped then would calm down, roll some more, and attempt it again. I really saw today how much E already wants to be mobile and closer to big sis and big bro and I know in years to come they'll have to put up with her lovingly trailing them wherever they go. I can't wait to see them interact more and more as they all get bigger (the good and bad, but hopefully more good than bad).
I know I've said this time and again, but it still amazes me how fast children grow and change. Each one so unique, beautiful, and amazing in their own way. Once again I'm reminded how blessed I am to raise these three miracles, to teach them, and to witness their growth and change as they develop into wonderful people.
The Baker Family Zoo
Often times I feel our house is a bit like a zoo or jungle at least. Now this is not in the sense that we're wild or caged by any means but pretty much on my children's love of animals, and my use of them.
When pregnant with each of my little ones I had a specific animal I was attracted to. This led to nursery themes, nicknames, and countless stuffed animals.
C had giraffes from the start. The week I found out I was expecting I went to the school store and bought a little giraffe for her (my first purchase for my baby, followed by a pink luvie when I found out her gender). This became even more more appropriate when we found out she had a spot on her neck and it became a big part of her nursery decor. Later when she started talking she loved "Zee-bas" so that became another of her animals.
At the end of my pregnancy with C I started collecting some kangaroos and this became the animal for J's pregnancy. He was definitely my strongest kicker and jumper as well and after we chose his name he became even more of my little joey.
As he grew teddy bears and puppy dogs were added to his toys and decor and now of course there's kitty cats and dinosaurs, and anything else he wants but in the beginning it was kangaroos for me.
And for E of course it has been bunnies. Her two nicknames in utero were Blessing and Bunny and Bunny has stuck even more outside the womb. This has already led to many bunny outfits, hats, stuffed animals, etc. It all started right after I found out I was expecting (already 9 weeks along) and I mentioned something about her being my Baby bunny and the kids picking up on it and using it (along with blessing) to refer to her. I bought a sweet plush bunny at Target shortly after (gender neutral at that point). When I felt her movement at 12 weeks (earliest yet, C was at 15 weeks and J was at 14 weeks) the kids seemed to think the use of Bunny was even more appropriate though J did have some confusion that I might actually have a baby rabbit in my belly and after she arrived C asked if she would be a real bunny when she grew up lol. Then when I found out she was a girl around Easter my bunny craze got to go even farther and has continued since her arrival.
Extending the collection of animals in our house recently, one of C and J's favorite games is to pretend they're animals. This could be pretending one is a doggy and the other walking him/her. This could be them saying one is a Kitty cat and one is a doggy while they go on all fours up in down the hallways. We've also had Lady and the Tramp pretend of course. And finally there's the random yelling of "There's a _(insert animal name)_ in the house" which we play almost daily.
"There's a froggy in the house!" And in hops J.
"There's a duck in the house!" In comes C in her duck hooded bath towel usually.
"There's a dinosaur in the house" "Roar!" goes J in his hooded towel.
And even "There's a bunny in the house! Isn't she cute." When E has one of her hats on.
When Ami comes to visit the zoo always has an owl or three added to it. And after she leaves the kids are playing making nests for the baby owls for days.
Oh the adventures of our wild life, of childhood, of parenthood, at the Baker Family Zoo.
When pregnant with each of my little ones I had a specific animal I was attracted to. This led to nursery themes, nicknames, and countless stuffed animals.
C had giraffes from the start. The week I found out I was expecting I went to the school store and bought a little giraffe for her (my first purchase for my baby, followed by a pink luvie when I found out her gender). This became even more more appropriate when we found out she had a spot on her neck and it became a big part of her nursery decor. Later when she started talking she loved "Zee-bas" so that became another of her animals.
At the end of my pregnancy with C I started collecting some kangaroos and this became the animal for J's pregnancy. He was definitely my strongest kicker and jumper as well and after we chose his name he became even more of my little joey.
As he grew teddy bears and puppy dogs were added to his toys and decor and now of course there's kitty cats and dinosaurs, and anything else he wants but in the beginning it was kangaroos for me.
And for E of course it has been bunnies. Her two nicknames in utero were Blessing and Bunny and Bunny has stuck even more outside the womb. This has already led to many bunny outfits, hats, stuffed animals, etc. It all started right after I found out I was expecting (already 9 weeks along) and I mentioned something about her being my Baby bunny and the kids picking up on it and using it (along with blessing) to refer to her. I bought a sweet plush bunny at Target shortly after (gender neutral at that point). When I felt her movement at 12 weeks (earliest yet, C was at 15 weeks and J was at 14 weeks) the kids seemed to think the use of Bunny was even more appropriate though J did have some confusion that I might actually have a baby rabbit in my belly and after she arrived C asked if she would be a real bunny when she grew up lol. Then when I found out she was a girl around Easter my bunny craze got to go even farther and has continued since her arrival.
Extending the collection of animals in our house recently, one of C and J's favorite games is to pretend they're animals. This could be pretending one is a doggy and the other walking him/her. This could be them saying one is a Kitty cat and one is a doggy while they go on all fours up in down the hallways. We've also had Lady and the Tramp pretend of course. And finally there's the random yelling of "There's a _(insert animal name)_ in the house" which we play almost daily.
"There's a froggy in the house!" And in hops J.
"There's a duck in the house!" In comes C in her duck hooded bath towel usually.
"There's a dinosaur in the house" "Roar!" goes J in his hooded towel.
And even "There's a bunny in the house! Isn't she cute." When E has one of her hats on.
When Ami comes to visit the zoo always has an owl or three added to it. And after she leaves the kids are playing making nests for the baby owls for days.
Oh the adventures of our wild life, of childhood, of parenthood, at the Baker Family Zoo.
Another Day, Another Hat
Playing with another crochet pattern, and making it 2 colors, and giving it a 'star flower'
I'm pretty happy how it turned out and it went really quickly. Now trying to work on a version for C (working with sizing)
Here's E modeling her newest hat.
E needed a hat to match her shoes and this was the result.
I'm pretty happy how it turned out and it went really quickly. Now trying to work on a version for C (working with sizing)
Here's E modeling her newest hat.
E needed a hat to match her shoes and this was the result.
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Snow Day!
After a White Christmas this year we had another Snow Day! With less to do today we got to spend more time outside in the snow. Daddy was a little disappointed that with it being more cold today the snow was no longer "snowman worthy" compared to the sticky snow of the day before, but it was perfect for snowballs as it burst into tiny bits on impact lol. Yes my husband takes snow very seriously.
Anyway the kids loved it. E was cozy and happy napping in my new ergo while C and J chased Daddy with snowballs and made snow angels! It was another beautiful wonderful day!
Mommy and E using one of Mommy's Christmas gifts, the new ergo!
Daddy Making Snow Angels lol
Anyway the kids loved it. E was cozy and happy napping in my new ergo while C and J chased Daddy with snowballs and made snow angels! It was another beautiful wonderful day!
Mommy and E using one of Mommy's Christmas gifts, the new ergo!
Daddy Making Snow Angels lol
A few Christmas Pics 2010
We have many many pics from the day but here are a few of the especially sweet and fun moments. Many more are on FB.
Celebrating Jesus' Birthday!
Making Snickerdoodles (another tradition for Christmas Eve)
Christmas Eve PJs-My Princess and Sheriff Woody
C teaching little sis how to use her new toys :)
Sharing Tea (I'm sure this is the start of years of tea parties to come)
Snow Christmas Night!
And the kids favorite present was Ami coming to celebrate with us!
Celebrating Jesus' Birthday!
Making Snickerdoodles (another tradition for Christmas Eve)
Christmas Eve PJs-My Princess and Sheriff Woody
C teaching little sis how to use her new toys :)
Sharing Tea (I'm sure this is the start of years of tea parties to come)
Snow Christmas Night!
And the kids favorite present was Ami coming to celebrate with us!
Christmas 2010
We had an absolutely wonderful holiday this year. C and J loved every bit of the celebrations and E had a great First Christmas as well.
Christmas Eve my mom aka Ami (my children's shorted version of Grami) arrived to kick off the celebrations. We painted a few more ornaments with Ami. Then we celebrated Jesus' birthday with cake and the true story of Christmas. Then I made Snickerdoodles for Santa (with C and J's help).
While the cookies were in the oven we did our Christmas Eve tradition of opening one gift each, our special Christmas pajamas. We got Ami some with owls of course. Ami got C a beautiful Beauty and the Beast nightgown and J Woody and Buzz Lightyear ones. C's only complaint came the next day when we didn't let her wear her dress all day. J chose to be Woody for Christmas Eve and Buzz Lightyear for Christmas night. They were both so cute! E had her 1st Christmas onesie on for Christmas Eve of course.
After a long night with lots of work for Santa and his helpers we awoke to a snowy (well slushy at first) Christmas day. The kids loved checking to see if Santa had come and seeing that he had eaten his cookies (and left one with a bite taken out) and the reindeer had thoroughly gnawed their apples.
Santa definitely came to our house and left lots of goodies for three very good little ones. C got a tea set with tea cart (Beauty and the Beast style) and a baby doll she's named Alice. J got a dump truck and train. And E got a play mat which she loves so much (she's been laying kicking and rolling on it often while giggling of course). They also got several other goodies each as you can see in the pics.
Daddy's big gift was a sander. He also got some rockets, a hexbot, gloves, safety gear, and astronaut ice cream. My gifts were an ergo carrier, a pretty amber necklace (which can help teething pain for E, and a beginner knitting kit and some extra needles! My mom gave me an immersion blender too which I can't wait to use often. My gifts definitely say a lot about my lifestyle it seems lol, baby carrying, natural, crafty, SAHM. I love it and the new gifts.
After opening gifts and Santa stuff Daddy made us our classic holiday meal of Eggs Benedict! It was so yummy and C even was licking her plate while waiting for seconds.
The rest of the day was filled with more good food, and fun with Ami. The snow kept coming and we somehow ended up making a quick adventurous romp in it before getting ready for bed (with no shoes on!). It was a great memory though very cold. Daddy got so excited about the snow he went into what he calls "snow blindness" and he was throwing snowballs back and forth at the kids and Ami got caught in the fray. It was hilarious! And then he reminded me (in my pajamas) how to roll in the snow. Again a lot of fun though very cold.
It was a great beautiful day that we will enjoy warm memories from in the many cold months ahead.
C and J loved everything for sure. Today C asked Ami "Is it Christmas today too?" Ami said "No it won't be Christmas again till next year." C replied, "But Ami it's snowing! And snowing means it's Christmas!" She wishes lol.
I will upload the pics later, I'm trying to get Picasa to put them in a slide show rather than just making a super long pic post.
Christmas Eve my mom aka Ami (my children's shorted version of Grami) arrived to kick off the celebrations. We painted a few more ornaments with Ami. Then we celebrated Jesus' birthday with cake and the true story of Christmas. Then I made Snickerdoodles for Santa (with C and J's help).
While the cookies were in the oven we did our Christmas Eve tradition of opening one gift each, our special Christmas pajamas. We got Ami some with owls of course. Ami got C a beautiful Beauty and the Beast nightgown and J Woody and Buzz Lightyear ones. C's only complaint came the next day when we didn't let her wear her dress all day. J chose to be Woody for Christmas Eve and Buzz Lightyear for Christmas night. They were both so cute! E had her 1st Christmas onesie on for Christmas Eve of course.
After a long night with lots of work for Santa and his helpers we awoke to a snowy (well slushy at first) Christmas day. The kids loved checking to see if Santa had come and seeing that he had eaten his cookies (and left one with a bite taken out) and the reindeer had thoroughly gnawed their apples.
Santa definitely came to our house and left lots of goodies for three very good little ones. C got a tea set with tea cart (Beauty and the Beast style) and a baby doll she's named Alice. J got a dump truck and train. And E got a play mat which she loves so much (she's been laying kicking and rolling on it often while giggling of course). They also got several other goodies each as you can see in the pics.
Daddy's big gift was a sander. He also got some rockets, a hexbot, gloves, safety gear, and astronaut ice cream. My gifts were an ergo carrier, a pretty amber necklace (which can help teething pain for E, and a beginner knitting kit and some extra needles! My mom gave me an immersion blender too which I can't wait to use often. My gifts definitely say a lot about my lifestyle it seems lol, baby carrying, natural, crafty, SAHM. I love it and the new gifts.
After opening gifts and Santa stuff Daddy made us our classic holiday meal of Eggs Benedict! It was so yummy and C even was licking her plate while waiting for seconds.
The rest of the day was filled with more good food, and fun with Ami. The snow kept coming and we somehow ended up making a quick adventurous romp in it before getting ready for bed (with no shoes on!). It was a great memory though very cold. Daddy got so excited about the snow he went into what he calls "snow blindness" and he was throwing snowballs back and forth at the kids and Ami got caught in the fray. It was hilarious! And then he reminded me (in my pajamas) how to roll in the snow. Again a lot of fun though very cold.
It was a great beautiful day that we will enjoy warm memories from in the many cold months ahead.
C and J loved everything for sure. Today C asked Ami "Is it Christmas today too?" Ami said "No it won't be Christmas again till next year." C replied, "But Ami it's snowing! And snowing means it's Christmas!" She wishes lol.
I will upload the pics later, I'm trying to get Picasa to put them in a slide show rather than just making a super long pic post.
5 Toys I Would Buy Again
The last few days I've been thinking about this topic. Last week I went through C and J's toys and gave the age appropriate ones to E. I realized that a few toys have lasted more and have really been enjoyed by each child now. There are more than the following but these are 5 of the big ones at our house. (Also I'm linking to Amazon but our models are mostly 2007-2008 and a lot cheaper price than those listings)
1. Boppy Travel Swing-link(now Bright starts is making the current version thus the boppy listing having a crazy price on it comparably)
I received this as a gift when C was born and it is amazing. I love that I can easily move it between rooms and take it on trips. I even put it in the bathroom with me with C so I could get a shower without leaving her in the other room. With J and E it has been wonderful that it's so close to the ground so it allows them to be close to the older siblings and I don't have to worry about the older children pushing it too much like you do with taller swings. Also it easily folds up and slides under the bed out of the way when not in use. It's so easy to clean, you just take off the cover and throw it in the wash, no crazy accessories or velcro etc. And every child has loved to sleep in it and swing in it of course.
2. Johnny Jump Up-link
A toy loved by my husband and his sisters when they were little as well as my children. E hasn't gotten her turn to use it yet but C and J loved it and I think it helped their legs development and encouraged them to start walking(though I'm sure this wasn't the only factor), plus it's a lot of fun.
3. Little Music Box/Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes- link
This toy has needed 1 battery change in three years but all 3 kids have loved it. It's one of E's favorites right now, though C and J still seem to enjoy it too.
4. Seahorse/Glo Worm-link
Now this just recently finally stopped working and we had to buy a new one, but it's worth it to purchase in my opinion. I loved the classic glo worm as a child and this is the new popular version. Awesome for sleeping with and playing with when awake too.
5. Brightstart Links-link
Something all my babies have enjoyed. Great to add to a playmat or attach to a carseat for a travel toy. Simple and great. Only issue try to keep storage package to keep them together in one place when cleaning up because as the kids get older the links can become more easily scattered throughout the house and amidst other toys.
1. Boppy Travel Swing-link(now Bright starts is making the current version thus the boppy listing having a crazy price on it comparably)
I received this as a gift when C was born and it is amazing. I love that I can easily move it between rooms and take it on trips. I even put it in the bathroom with me with C so I could get a shower without leaving her in the other room. With J and E it has been wonderful that it's so close to the ground so it allows them to be close to the older siblings and I don't have to worry about the older children pushing it too much like you do with taller swings. Also it easily folds up and slides under the bed out of the way when not in use. It's so easy to clean, you just take off the cover and throw it in the wash, no crazy accessories or velcro etc. And every child has loved to sleep in it and swing in it of course.
2. Johnny Jump Up-link
A toy loved by my husband and his sisters when they were little as well as my children. E hasn't gotten her turn to use it yet but C and J loved it and I think it helped their legs development and encouraged them to start walking(though I'm sure this wasn't the only factor), plus it's a lot of fun.
3. Little Music Box/Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes- link
This toy has needed 1 battery change in three years but all 3 kids have loved it. It's one of E's favorites right now, though C and J still seem to enjoy it too.
4. Seahorse/Glo Worm-link
Now this just recently finally stopped working and we had to buy a new one, but it's worth it to purchase in my opinion. I loved the classic glo worm as a child and this is the new popular version. Awesome for sleeping with and playing with when awake too.
5. Brightstart Links-link
Something all my babies have enjoyed. Great to add to a playmat or attach to a carseat for a travel toy. Simple and great. Only issue try to keep storage package to keep them together in one place when cleaning up because as the kids get older the links can become more easily scattered throughout the house and amidst other toys.
First Crochet Scarf
Made this last week but it was one of my mom's Christmas gifts so just uploading a picture now.
Here's the free pattern.
It's a great pattern because it's not only pretty but it involves several of the most common crochet stitches, great practice on each.
Here's the free pattern.
It's a great pattern because it's not only pretty but it involves several of the most common crochet stitches, great practice on each.
Saturday, December 25, 2010
A Wonderful Christmas
Today was absolutely wonderful. We had a wonderful time celebrating Jesus' birthday. The kids got everything they could want from Santa, and then some, and it was a White Christmas to boot.
We all received so many gifts today and this year, one of the biggest being my baby girl E, who had a wonderful first Christmas today. Earlier this week E gave me the gift of saying Mama (and she's used it so many times since, every time once again a gift). And J has given us the gift of him becoming potty trained! Today he proved he's definitely got it. Another gift, C has been such a wonderful helper and such a great big sister helping J and E whenever she can, and she gets smarter and prettier every day, my little princess. We are so happy, and so thankful to God for all our many blessings. It's been a beautiful year and beautiful Christmas!
Now I'm pretty tired and we're watching a movie so I'll update more on Christmas eve and day later, but in the meantime I wanted to once again wish all our friends and family a wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year, filled with blessings!
And here's a pic of my greatest gifts, my three blessings :)
We all received so many gifts today and this year, one of the biggest being my baby girl E, who had a wonderful first Christmas today. Earlier this week E gave me the gift of saying Mama (and she's used it so many times since, every time once again a gift). And J has given us the gift of him becoming potty trained! Today he proved he's definitely got it. Another gift, C has been such a wonderful helper and such a great big sister helping J and E whenever she can, and she gets smarter and prettier every day, my little princess. We are so happy, and so thankful to God for all our many blessings. It's been a beautiful year and beautiful Christmas!
Now I'm pretty tired and we're watching a movie so I'll update more on Christmas eve and day later, but in the meantime I wanted to once again wish all our friends and family a wonderful Christmas and Happy New Year, filled with blessings!
And here's a pic of my greatest gifts, my three blessings :)
Friday, December 24, 2010
Our Christmas Tree 2010
The result of a months crafting and lots of fond memories and love filled moments with my family :)
We also happened to find one of the most naturally perfect trees I've ever seen. It's perfect and I'd rather have our tree than the most expensive ornaments we could find.
Everything is painted, colored, or cut and glued by the Bakers except the angel, mini-candy canes, the beads, and three silver initials for the kids. We'll have to aim for our own tree topper another year. I love the tree and I'm excited to see how our ornament collection grows and develops as the kids get older in years to come.
We also happened to find one of the most naturally perfect trees I've ever seen. It's perfect and I'd rather have our tree than the most expensive ornaments we could find.
Everything is painted, colored, or cut and glued by the Bakers except the angel, mini-candy canes, the beads, and three silver initials for the kids. We'll have to aim for our own tree topper another year. I love the tree and I'm excited to see how our ornament collection grows and develops as the kids get older in years to come.
2010 Christmas Ornaments
Another one of our new traditions I mentioned in previous posts is I'm painting ornaments for the kids each year. And I finally got some pictures of this years ornaments.
C wanted a doggy in the snow with red flowers, J wanted a kitty cat next to a Christmas tree with a star, and I chose a rabbit snuggled up in the snow for my Baby Bunny, E.
They also each have their names and the year on the back.
I'm happy how they turned out and excited about adding to the kids ornament collection in years to come.
C wanted a doggy in the snow with red flowers, J wanted a kitty cat next to a Christmas tree with a star, and I chose a rabbit snuggled up in the snow for my Baby Bunny, E.
They also each have their names and the year on the back.
I'm happy how they turned out and excited about adding to the kids ornament collection in years to come.
All I wanted to be
Written at 4am when realized during a nursing session. I'm sure other mothers have had similar realizations but this is my personal experience and what I actually wanted to be and am and I felt it was worth writing down. Now I'm going back to bed, enjoy (and excuse any typos etc. since it was written very early in the morning).
When I was a child I often dreamed of what I would be when I grew up
I wanted to be an artist,
A singer,
A teacher,
A lawyer,
A writer,
And a mother.
Then I became a mother and I chose to stay home with my children.
When people ask me my profession I say "Stay at home mom"
or "Domestic engineer"
or Homemaker.
But I have no regrets in my role because
I have the best job in the world and am everything I wanted to be.
You see,
I am an artist.
I see the most beautiful art I've ever created every day,
my children, who God blessed my husband and I to create.
They reflect us and are yet so unique and are each more fascinating
then anything I've ever or could ever paint, draw, or design.
I am a singer.
I sing my children lullabies every night, and throughout the day,
We sing songs of every genre whether sung perfectly or completely off key
they are beautiful to them.
I may have a small group of fans but their payment in smiles, coos,
kisses, and hugs, as they dance with me twirling in circles or drifting off to sleep
Breathing softly against my chest,
Are worth more than any other payment in the world.
I am a teacher.
Every moment I must guide and teach my children about the world,
About God,
About Love,
About everything and anything.
I'm teaching them even when I don't realize it with every action,
everything I say and do in their presence.
I'm showing them how to live their lives in how I live my life
and I'm teaching them what's truly important.
I may never give grades but my impact on them
will be more than any teacher they ever see in school.
I am a lawyer.
No I have no degree and no courtroom but every day I must negotiate
many arguments and find compromises.
I must figure out if the accuser or defendent is the guilty party,
Amidst the accusations of dueling toddlers.
We build the structure of our home on certain policies and rules we feel are important,
I must lead my children in following the laws of the world
As well as teaching them to set laws for themselves which will lead them to be better people.
And if needed I will fight tooth and nail for my children's rights and freedoms
and protect their innocense to the furthest extent possible.
I am a writer.
I don't have any books but I keep track of all the beautiful moments and memories I can.
Whether through notes or journals,
Even the simple notes to my children and husband,
Saying I love you, will bring such joy to them to read.
and someday I hope these words and the hand that wrote them
will mean even more to them than the most timeless verse.
My grandmother was a writer and my mother still clings to the notes in her beautiful, delicate handwriting, and still feels her love in this way.
I also always recognize my mother's handwriting on envelopes before I open them
And it warms my heart no matter what's inside.
They are writers too, as am I.
I realize now that not only did I get my wise of being a mother,
I am everything I dreamed of, and so much more.
I am and artist, singer, teacher, lawyer, and writer.
I didn't know it at the time
But by becoming a mother all my dreams came true,
and then some.
I see now I wanted to be a mother all along.
I wanted to always be there for my children, to love, guide them,
to care for them,
to teach them,
to sing to them,
to fight for them,
to create memories with them that would last a lifetime
and to help them both remember and write their own stories,
And to help them become whatever they want to be when they grow up,
just as I did.
When I was a child I often dreamed of what I would be when I grew up
I wanted to be an artist,
A singer,
A teacher,
A lawyer,
A writer,
And a mother.
Then I became a mother and I chose to stay home with my children.
When people ask me my profession I say "Stay at home mom"
or "Domestic engineer"
or Homemaker.
But I have no regrets in my role because
I have the best job in the world and am everything I wanted to be.
You see,
I am an artist.
I see the most beautiful art I've ever created every day,
my children, who God blessed my husband and I to create.
They reflect us and are yet so unique and are each more fascinating
then anything I've ever or could ever paint, draw, or design.
I am a singer.
I sing my children lullabies every night, and throughout the day,
We sing songs of every genre whether sung perfectly or completely off key
they are beautiful to them.
I may have a small group of fans but their payment in smiles, coos,
kisses, and hugs, as they dance with me twirling in circles or drifting off to sleep
Breathing softly against my chest,
Are worth more than any other payment in the world.
I am a teacher.
Every moment I must guide and teach my children about the world,
About God,
About Love,
About everything and anything.
I'm teaching them even when I don't realize it with every action,
everything I say and do in their presence.
I'm showing them how to live their lives in how I live my life
and I'm teaching them what's truly important.
I may never give grades but my impact on them
will be more than any teacher they ever see in school.
I am a lawyer.
No I have no degree and no courtroom but every day I must negotiate
many arguments and find compromises.
I must figure out if the accuser or defendent is the guilty party,
Amidst the accusations of dueling toddlers.
We build the structure of our home on certain policies and rules we feel are important,
I must lead my children in following the laws of the world
As well as teaching them to set laws for themselves which will lead them to be better people.
And if needed I will fight tooth and nail for my children's rights and freedoms
and protect their innocense to the furthest extent possible.
I am a writer.
I don't have any books but I keep track of all the beautiful moments and memories I can.
Whether through notes or journals,
Even the simple notes to my children and husband,
Saying I love you, will bring such joy to them to read.
and someday I hope these words and the hand that wrote them
will mean even more to them than the most timeless verse.
My grandmother was a writer and my mother still clings to the notes in her beautiful, delicate handwriting, and still feels her love in this way.
I also always recognize my mother's handwriting on envelopes before I open them
And it warms my heart no matter what's inside.
They are writers too, as am I.
I realize now that not only did I get my wise of being a mother,
I am everything I dreamed of, and so much more.
I am and artist, singer, teacher, lawyer, and writer.
I didn't know it at the time
But by becoming a mother all my dreams came true,
and then some.
I see now I wanted to be a mother all along.
I wanted to always be there for my children, to love, guide them,
to care for them,
to teach them,
to sing to them,
to fight for them,
to create memories with them that would last a lifetime
and to help them both remember and write their own stories,
And to help them become whatever they want to be when they grow up,
just as I did.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Wrapping Order, A little Quiet Time, and the Nursing Dance
I probably should break this post into three due to the importance of each of the title topics in our household but because they all overlapped today I'm putting them in one daily update.
Being that tomorrow is Christmas eve, and I hate leaving holiday preparations till the last minute (unlike hubby) today was a day to wrap up some projects and wrap a lot of presents. We did more painting with the kids and I will put up a picture of our completed tree tomorrow. It's really been a month's worth of work and fun and I may have to leave it up till February with all the time and fun the kids and I put into it. I'm sure after this I'm going to have to refocus on an Easter or Spring project marathon to make it through the next few months...and then Fourth of July and Summer projects, and so on until next Christmas.
Anyway I had already wrapped some of the gifts, late at night when the kids were in bed, but this was the first day I did mass wrapping with them awake and wanting to participate. I don't mind the occasional help folding or the reminders that I need tape every 30 seconds...even when I haven't gotten any paper yet but there is one rule of our wrapping order to keep order: the kids presents don't go under the tree until Christmas eve and Santa's arrival. C and J are both very good at not peaking or unwrapping early but they are definitely very very excited about their own gifts appearing. To the extent they have to check each gift I wrap to make sure it's not theirs and I'm not putting the wrong name on it by mistake. C and J both even brought me some of their current toys to wrap so they could unwrap them now lol. I couldn't imagine the torture for them knowing one of the gifts I was wrapping was theirs but they weren't allowed to open it yet.
C has been asking me every day since last week if it was Christmas and Jesus' birthday yet? If I responded it was 7 days from now she'd try and bargain it was 4. If I said "It's on Saturday" she'd say "well tomorrow's Saturday" or "how bout we have it Tuesday?" J has taken another approach saying "I will wait Mommy! I'm a good boy! Santa will come see me soon!", "Christmas is soon!" He doesn't care as much about the countdown but rather simply trusts that it's coming and he's getting ready and not rushing it.
J's been continuing to do great with potty training. We haven't tried a trip outside the house sans diaper or pull ups yet but that's definitely the next step. He's been doing really good and it's definitely another great early Christmas present for Mommy and Daddy. I'm hoping the Christmas excitement doesn't get in the way of this but I'll probably keep the training potty in the living room as a back up reminder just in case (he's been just using the 'big potty' the past couple days).
Another development of the last couple weeks that C has finally accepted for herself is "A Little Quiet Time" and J has followed suit with the concept. Often in the past if the kids had outbursts (usually out of being tired and frustrated) I would take them aside for some alone time to relax and play alone, read, or lay down for a little. When they calmed down they would come out of their room and rejoin the rest of the family playing or they would fall asleep and when they woke up later not even remember what they'd been upset over.
When we were having a playdate a few months ago with some friends their four year old showed us the next step of this practice when he got upset and instead of being told, he told his parents he needed some quiet time. He calmly took himself out of the situation that was upsetting him and came back later relaxed and happy to play again. I was amazed to see the child recognizing this need. Well now C has started recognizing as well. I feel this is definitely an amazing skill to have at a young age when frustration is so easy to come by and I'm very happy that not only C has gotten this but J has too (at two that's a feat). They still don't use it every time but they are doing it most times and it seems to be reducing the issues and frustration between them immensely. I can see how if we nurture this habit even more it will benefit them even more when they start various group activities where Mommy and Daddy won't be there to remind them of quiet time they'll still recognize the need for it.
Along with wrapping, doing crafts (making E her new shoes and several Christmas gifts) and my children asking for "quiet time" I found myself frequently in what I like to call the nursing dance. With C I only had one child while nursing and could sit down and relax with her during feedings. With J I had to learn to nursing walk, as it sounds to walk while nursing him so I could keep up with C. I also often would be sitting on the floor playing and talking to C while J lay in my lap nursing. Well now with E and two toddlers who needs lots of attention too of course E and I have focused on our nursing dance. This means for the majority of the daytime feedings I am moving while nursing. I may be loading laundry, I may have E in the wrap and be playing with the kids, or I may be actually dancing (one of E's favorites) in between the chores and activities. I find myself swaying and rocking as I walk with E suckling contently. And surprisingly we've both gotten so used to this that sometimes she'll get mad if I stop the gentle movements and attempt to nurse her standing still.
At night and first thing in the morning, when C and J are asleep E will nurse and laugh at me while we sit together and occasionally she'll let me sit if we find the time but the rest of the time we spend dancing together. Even with a hundred different things in progress I feel her and I are in our own little bubble of calmness during our "dancing." I will always treasure this memory and skill of sorts and I really hope any more children we add to our family in the future love to dance too.
Being that tomorrow is Christmas eve, and I hate leaving holiday preparations till the last minute (unlike hubby) today was a day to wrap up some projects and wrap a lot of presents. We did more painting with the kids and I will put up a picture of our completed tree tomorrow. It's really been a month's worth of work and fun and I may have to leave it up till February with all the time and fun the kids and I put into it. I'm sure after this I'm going to have to refocus on an Easter or Spring project marathon to make it through the next few months...and then Fourth of July and Summer projects, and so on until next Christmas.
Anyway I had already wrapped some of the gifts, late at night when the kids were in bed, but this was the first day I did mass wrapping with them awake and wanting to participate. I don't mind the occasional help folding or the reminders that I need tape every 30 seconds...even when I haven't gotten any paper yet but there is one rule of our wrapping order to keep order: the kids presents don't go under the tree until Christmas eve and Santa's arrival. C and J are both very good at not peaking or unwrapping early but they are definitely very very excited about their own gifts appearing. To the extent they have to check each gift I wrap to make sure it's not theirs and I'm not putting the wrong name on it by mistake. C and J both even brought me some of their current toys to wrap so they could unwrap them now lol. I couldn't imagine the torture for them knowing one of the gifts I was wrapping was theirs but they weren't allowed to open it yet.
C has been asking me every day since last week if it was Christmas and Jesus' birthday yet? If I responded it was 7 days from now she'd try and bargain it was 4. If I said "It's on Saturday" she'd say "well tomorrow's Saturday" or "how bout we have it Tuesday?" J has taken another approach saying "I will wait Mommy! I'm a good boy! Santa will come see me soon!", "Christmas is soon!" He doesn't care as much about the countdown but rather simply trusts that it's coming and he's getting ready and not rushing it.
J's been continuing to do great with potty training. We haven't tried a trip outside the house sans diaper or pull ups yet but that's definitely the next step. He's been doing really good and it's definitely another great early Christmas present for Mommy and Daddy. I'm hoping the Christmas excitement doesn't get in the way of this but I'll probably keep the training potty in the living room as a back up reminder just in case (he's been just using the 'big potty' the past couple days).
Another development of the last couple weeks that C has finally accepted for herself is "A Little Quiet Time" and J has followed suit with the concept. Often in the past if the kids had outbursts (usually out of being tired and frustrated) I would take them aside for some alone time to relax and play alone, read, or lay down for a little. When they calmed down they would come out of their room and rejoin the rest of the family playing or they would fall asleep and when they woke up later not even remember what they'd been upset over.
When we were having a playdate a few months ago with some friends their four year old showed us the next step of this practice when he got upset and instead of being told, he told his parents he needed some quiet time. He calmly took himself out of the situation that was upsetting him and came back later relaxed and happy to play again. I was amazed to see the child recognizing this need. Well now C has started recognizing as well. I feel this is definitely an amazing skill to have at a young age when frustration is so easy to come by and I'm very happy that not only C has gotten this but J has too (at two that's a feat). They still don't use it every time but they are doing it most times and it seems to be reducing the issues and frustration between them immensely. I can see how if we nurture this habit even more it will benefit them even more when they start various group activities where Mommy and Daddy won't be there to remind them of quiet time they'll still recognize the need for it.
Along with wrapping, doing crafts (making E her new shoes and several Christmas gifts) and my children asking for "quiet time" I found myself frequently in what I like to call the nursing dance. With C I only had one child while nursing and could sit down and relax with her during feedings. With J I had to learn to nursing walk, as it sounds to walk while nursing him so I could keep up with C. I also often would be sitting on the floor playing and talking to C while J lay in my lap nursing. Well now with E and two toddlers who needs lots of attention too of course E and I have focused on our nursing dance. This means for the majority of the daytime feedings I am moving while nursing. I may be loading laundry, I may have E in the wrap and be playing with the kids, or I may be actually dancing (one of E's favorites) in between the chores and activities. I find myself swaying and rocking as I walk with E suckling contently. And surprisingly we've both gotten so used to this that sometimes she'll get mad if I stop the gentle movements and attempt to nurse her standing still.
At night and first thing in the morning, when C and J are asleep E will nurse and laugh at me while we sit together and occasionally she'll let me sit if we find the time but the rest of the time we spend dancing together. Even with a hundred different things in progress I feel her and I are in our own little bubble of calmness during our "dancing." I will always treasure this memory and skill of sorts and I really hope any more children we add to our family in the future love to dance too.
E's first "Shoes"!
Technically booties and made by Mommy :) I had to alter a pattern I found to fit and be more of the style I liked but I'm very pleased with the results. I'll get some more pics of E in them later but since she's asleep currently you just get a food shot :). These also went pretty quickly so I'm hoping to make more pairs soon and a bigger slipper version for C to wear at home.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Early Christmas Gift :)
It's for real now and she calls it seems when hungry or when Daddy isn't giving her as much attention as she wants lol...and after midnight of course.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
E's 3 month shots
This morning we had E's 3 month shots (we do the Dr. Bob Sears Alternative vaccination schedule so the kids don't get as many shots at one time). I love our doctor but the appointment was pretty nerve wracking since they unfortunately don't have a well waiting room I was not comfortable at all with my 3 month old out in the general waiting area so I asked if it would be much longer. The receptionist agreed with my concerns and offered for us to wait in a room instead which I was very thankful for. Well 30 minutes after our appointment time the PA asks what we're waiting for, it seems the receptionist forgot to tell her that we were there for that reason. Not fun.
But anyway, we got the shots and all looks well. E fell asleep during the long wait, woke up for the shots, and then went back to sleep in the car so hopefully that's a good sign she'll have no reaction.
We also did a weight check while we were there and she's now 15lbs 1 3/4oz. Growing like crazy for sure and getting what she needs from Mommy's milk it seems. I wish I'd gotten her length too but seeing how she can't fit into anything under 6 month size with feet I'm assuming she's pretty long now too. It was a little sad when I had to put away her Newborn and 0-3 month clothes (she's now in 3-6 month for all non-footed items) but exciting as well as another sign of a new stage to come.
But anyway, we got the shots and all looks well. E fell asleep during the long wait, woke up for the shots, and then went back to sleep in the car so hopefully that's a good sign she'll have no reaction.
We also did a weight check while we were there and she's now 15lbs 1 3/4oz. Growing like crazy for sure and getting what she needs from Mommy's milk it seems. I wish I'd gotten her length too but seeing how she can't fit into anything under 6 month size with feet I'm assuming she's pretty long now too. It was a little sad when I had to put away her Newborn and 0-3 month clothes (she's now in 3-6 month for all non-footed items) but exciting as well as another sign of a new stage to come.
Quick Update
So I have to get to bed soon since E has 3 month shots in the morning (we use the Dr. Bob schedule) but I wanted to update pretty quickly.
Our prayers have been answered in that C was so much better today. All the snottiness was gone and she acted like there was no issues ever. Also thus far J and E have no signs of any issue. We had the humidifier on in C and J's room last night so I think that helped C but I also think it may have just been allergies after all. I'm still keeping a close eye on this but I'm so thankful for this blessing of healing.
We spent a lot of today working on Christmas gifts and crafts again. I have even more ornaments to add to the tree and we now have several wrapped presents under it too. I don't have any pics right now because I haven't had time to clear out space on my cameras (yep two cameras' large memory sticks are maxed out and I need to back them up). Hopefully I will be able to catch yall up on craft pics tomorrow, though yall will have to wait on a couple till after Christmas to not ruin any surprise.
This afternoon E and I went to Hobby Lobby and Home Depot. Home Depot is one of hubby's favorite stores (I was getting his Christmas gift), and Hobby Lobby is now mine. When we first moved here I wasn't as excited about it being nearby but now I've officially been spoiled in each and every random craft need I could imagine. They have everything! Loads of yarn, decor, wooden items, paper mache everything, a full aisle dedicated to models (both sides), baking gear, kids science projects (you can make a potato clock from a kit), bow making supplies, clothes to decorate, fabric, and even freeze dried astronaut food! Also if I ever get more serious in hat making I know where I can go for Styrofoam heads lol. E had a nice nap in the Moby as I had way too much fun getting some final gifts and craft goods I needed to pick up for Christmas and some new projects I'm working on. Having this and a School Box store near by are definitely too major pluses for our rental house.
On the potty training front all is still great though I don't want to jinx it and say we're fully there yet. No accidents today and everything in the pot. I'm honestly a little sad at the prospect of only having one baby in diapers for a change but excited at the potential for not having to deal with toddler poop again for awhile (newborn poop is so much easier and less foul).
Another new development, E's squeals of delight and "talking" has now become accompanied by even louder squeals almost screams of delight. She is so excited she's found the ability to do this and to get the attention of all of us instantly that she often proceeds to giggle at us immediately after. She has amazingly officially become my loudest child at 3 months (even with big sis and big bro at 3 and 2 years to compete with lol). It's amazing and sure to be a very interesting development.
All is going well as we get closer to the holidays and I pray it continues to do so. Hope to find time to do a more thoughtful post tomorrow lol. Good night and God bless!
Our prayers have been answered in that C was so much better today. All the snottiness was gone and she acted like there was no issues ever. Also thus far J and E have no signs of any issue. We had the humidifier on in C and J's room last night so I think that helped C but I also think it may have just been allergies after all. I'm still keeping a close eye on this but I'm so thankful for this blessing of healing.
We spent a lot of today working on Christmas gifts and crafts again. I have even more ornaments to add to the tree and we now have several wrapped presents under it too. I don't have any pics right now because I haven't had time to clear out space on my cameras (yep two cameras' large memory sticks are maxed out and I need to back them up). Hopefully I will be able to catch yall up on craft pics tomorrow, though yall will have to wait on a couple till after Christmas to not ruin any surprise.
This afternoon E and I went to Hobby Lobby and Home Depot. Home Depot is one of hubby's favorite stores (I was getting his Christmas gift), and Hobby Lobby is now mine. When we first moved here I wasn't as excited about it being nearby but now I've officially been spoiled in each and every random craft need I could imagine. They have everything! Loads of yarn, decor, wooden items, paper mache everything, a full aisle dedicated to models (both sides), baking gear, kids science projects (you can make a potato clock from a kit), bow making supplies, clothes to decorate, fabric, and even freeze dried astronaut food! Also if I ever get more serious in hat making I know where I can go for Styrofoam heads lol. E had a nice nap in the Moby as I had way too much fun getting some final gifts and craft goods I needed to pick up for Christmas and some new projects I'm working on. Having this and a School Box store near by are definitely too major pluses for our rental house.
On the potty training front all is still great though I don't want to jinx it and say we're fully there yet. No accidents today and everything in the pot. I'm honestly a little sad at the prospect of only having one baby in diapers for a change but excited at the potential for not having to deal with toddler poop again for awhile (newborn poop is so much easier and less foul).
Another new development, E's squeals of delight and "talking" has now become accompanied by even louder squeals almost screams of delight. She is so excited she's found the ability to do this and to get the attention of all of us instantly that she often proceeds to giggle at us immediately after. She has amazingly officially become my loudest child at 3 months (even with big sis and big bro at 3 and 2 years to compete with lol). It's amazing and sure to be a very interesting development.
All is going well as we get closer to the holidays and I pray it continues to do so. Hope to find time to do a more thoughtful post tomorrow lol. Good night and God bless!
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Cold before Christmas
Today was a good day but not as nice as it could have been, thanks to the seasonal cold having hit our house. Only C is sick and it's just snottiness (not even enough to avoid school in years to come most likely) but with the extra worries for me whenever C gets a cold due to her rough start, a 3 month old baby, and another toddler to potentially pass it to it makes me nervous none the less. We're all on extra Vitamin C and practicing even more hand washing than usual in an attempt to avoid it catching but I'm not holding my breath.
As my MIL often reminds me when you have multiple kids avoiding "cross contamination" is pretty much impossible. We've been lucky not to have to many colds etc. in the past. I'm sure once the kids are in school I'll have to deal with this more often though despite all the hand sanitizer we go through. In the meantime, here's hoping this cold is gone completely from the whole family by Christmas.
Speaking of Christmas there's now less than a week to go. We have most of the kids stuff done but still need to get some clothes shopping done for a couple parent gifts. I also want to get lots of baking in this week and do a lot of clutter sorting (especially of toys to make room for any new ones Santa will be bringing). We have continued to receive beautiful cards from our friends and family and two early presents from my brother and his family and my sister and hers which are greatly appreciated and have put us in the holiday mood a little more.
I hope sometime this week we can take all the kids out to see lights and maybe a church nativity as well. It will definitely be a busy week ahead so excuse me if my blog posts get scatter brained, shorter, and further apart for a bit. Hope everyone is doing well with their holiday preparations and staying well! And please pray my family is well in time for Christmas too! Wishing everyone many blessings!
As my MIL often reminds me when you have multiple kids avoiding "cross contamination" is pretty much impossible. We've been lucky not to have to many colds etc. in the past. I'm sure once the kids are in school I'll have to deal with this more often though despite all the hand sanitizer we go through. In the meantime, here's hoping this cold is gone completely from the whole family by Christmas.
Speaking of Christmas there's now less than a week to go. We have most of the kids stuff done but still need to get some clothes shopping done for a couple parent gifts. I also want to get lots of baking in this week and do a lot of clutter sorting (especially of toys to make room for any new ones Santa will be bringing). We have continued to receive beautiful cards from our friends and family and two early presents from my brother and his family and my sister and hers which are greatly appreciated and have put us in the holiday mood a little more.
I hope sometime this week we can take all the kids out to see lights and maybe a church nativity as well. It will definitely be a busy week ahead so excuse me if my blog posts get scatter brained, shorter, and further apart for a bit. Hope everyone is doing well with their holiday preparations and staying well! And please pray my family is well in time for Christmas too! Wishing everyone many blessings!
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Lullabies
I was thinking this morning as I was singing to E and J before we got up (C was still sleeping)how all the songs I sing to my children, I remember my mother singing to me when I was little. The main memory I have of her singing to me was at night after my bath before bed. She'd sing "Rise and Shine" as she got me out of the tub and wrapped me in a towel then cradled in her arms she would rock and sing to me. I still feel warm all over remembering those times and those songs. I have sense sang to my children these songs and have wrapped them each up and rocked them to my lullabies. C and J now know the words to many of these songs and will sing along. So I want to write down the songs and lyrics here, since they have meant so much to me and to my children. And I hope someday I get to sing them to my grandchildren.
Here's a few of them, I'm sure I'll be adding more to this list later:
Hush Little Baby
Hush, little baby, don't say a word,
Mama's gonna buy you a mockingbird.
If that mockingbird don't sing,
Mama's gonna buy you a diamond ring.
If that diamond ring turns brass,
Mama's gonna buy you a looking glass.
If that looking glass gets broke,
Mama's gonna buy you a billy goat.
If that billy goat won't pull,
Mama's gonna buy you a cart and bull.
If that cart and bull turn over,
Mama's gonna buy you a dog named Rover.
If that dog named Rover won't bark.
Mama's gonna buy you a horse and cart.
If that horse and cart fall down,
You'll still be the sweetest little baby in town.
Rise and Shine
Rise and shine
And give God the glory, glory
Rise and shine
And give God the glory, glory
Rise! And shine! And!
Give God the glory, glory
Children of the Lord
Sweetest Little Fella (My mom's version for me was for brown eyes, the original is blue)
Sweetest Little Fella
Everybody knows
Don't know what to call her but she's mighty like a rose
Looking at her Mommy
With eyes of shining brown
Makes you think that heaven is coming close to town
When she's there a sleeping
In her little place
Think I see the angels
Peaking through the lace
When the night has fallen and the shadows peep
Then they come on tippy toes to kiss her in her sleep
Sweetest Little Fella
Everybody knows
Don't know what to call her but she's mighty like a rose
Blue Eye Version:
Looking at her/his Mommy
With eyes of shining blue
Makes you think that heaven
is coming close to you
Tura Lura Lura
Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ral,
Too-ra-loo-ra-li,
Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ral,
Hush, now don't you cry!
Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ral,
Too-ra-loo-ra-li,
Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ral,
That's an Irish lullaby.
Banbury Cross
Ride a cockhorse to Banbury cross
To see a fine lady upon a white horse
With rings on her fingers and bells on her toes
She shall make music wherever she goes
Baby Mine (from Dumbo)
Baby mine, don't you cry
Baby mine, dry your eyes
Rest your head close to my heart
Never to part, baby of mine
Little one when you play
Don't you mind what you say
Let those eyes sparkle and shine
Never a tear, baby of mine
If they knew sweet little you
They'd end up loving you too
All those same people who scold you
What they'd give just for
The right to hold you
From your head to your toes
You're not much, goodness knows
But you're so precious to me
Cute as can be, baby of mine
If I had words
If I had words to make a day for you,
I'd sing a morning golden & true
I would make this day last for all time
then fill the night deep with moonshine
If I could make a day for you
I'd give you a morning golden & true
I would make this day last for all time..
then fill the night deep with moonshine
And of course each child's more specific songs I've mentioned before
C: God is Watching over you Phil Joel
I knew I loved you before I met you Savage Garden
J: Your Song Elton John
Hey Jude The Beatles
E: You'll be in my heart Phil Collins
Voice of Truth
Here's a few of them, I'm sure I'll be adding more to this list later:
Hush Little Baby
Hush, little baby, don't say a word,
Mama's gonna buy you a mockingbird.
If that mockingbird don't sing,
Mama's gonna buy you a diamond ring.
If that diamond ring turns brass,
Mama's gonna buy you a looking glass.
If that looking glass gets broke,
Mama's gonna buy you a billy goat.
If that billy goat won't pull,
Mama's gonna buy you a cart and bull.
If that cart and bull turn over,
Mama's gonna buy you a dog named Rover.
If that dog named Rover won't bark.
Mama's gonna buy you a horse and cart.
If that horse and cart fall down,
You'll still be the sweetest little baby in town.
Rise and Shine
Rise and shine
And give God the glory, glory
Rise and shine
And give God the glory, glory
Rise! And shine! And!
Give God the glory, glory
Children of the Lord
Sweetest Little Fella (My mom's version for me was for brown eyes, the original is blue)
Sweetest Little Fella
Everybody knows
Don't know what to call her but she's mighty like a rose
Looking at her Mommy
With eyes of shining brown
Makes you think that heaven is coming close to town
When she's there a sleeping
In her little place
Think I see the angels
Peaking through the lace
When the night has fallen and the shadows peep
Then they come on tippy toes to kiss her in her sleep
Sweetest Little Fella
Everybody knows
Don't know what to call her but she's mighty like a rose
Blue Eye Version:
Looking at her/his Mommy
With eyes of shining blue
Makes you think that heaven
is coming close to you
Tura Lura Lura
Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ral,
Too-ra-loo-ra-li,
Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ral,
Hush, now don't you cry!
Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ral,
Too-ra-loo-ra-li,
Too-ra-loo-ra-loo-ral,
That's an Irish lullaby.
Banbury Cross
Ride a cockhorse to Banbury cross
To see a fine lady upon a white horse
With rings on her fingers and bells on her toes
She shall make music wherever she goes
Baby Mine (from Dumbo)
Baby mine, don't you cry
Baby mine, dry your eyes
Rest your head close to my heart
Never to part, baby of mine
Little one when you play
Don't you mind what you say
Let those eyes sparkle and shine
Never a tear, baby of mine
If they knew sweet little you
They'd end up loving you too
All those same people who scold you
What they'd give just for
The right to hold you
From your head to your toes
You're not much, goodness knows
But you're so precious to me
Cute as can be, baby of mine
If I had words
If I had words to make a day for you,
I'd sing a morning golden & true
I would make this day last for all time
then fill the night deep with moonshine
If I could make a day for you
I'd give you a morning golden & true
I would make this day last for all time..
then fill the night deep with moonshine
And of course each child's more specific songs I've mentioned before
C: God is Watching over you Phil Joel
I knew I loved you before I met you Savage Garden
J: Your Song Elton John
Hey Jude The Beatles
E: You'll be in my heart Phil Collins
Voice of Truth
Christmas around the Corner
Christmas is a week away! I still have to finish the last minute shopping but I'm definitely excited it's so close.
Since it's pretty late I'm just doing a quick post for today. J didn't have any accidents including when he woke up (no wet from the night before). He's done so well and I hope he continues on this path.
C has been full of even more energy than the average three year old today. Yes I was surprised too but it is possible. She ran throughout the house all day, singing, playing with J, running back 2 seconds later (it felt like) to talk to E, and then finding a new book or toy to grab her attention again and then repeating the cycle. I felt a little like the day was in fast forward lol.
E was content to sit and watch her big siblings for the most part and is doing so well at holding her head up and getting so close to sitting. She will sit really well with the boppy or a blanket wrapped up behind her bottom but doesn't have the unassisted version down yet.
Dad and I did get a lot of wonderful time to just relax and play at home with the kids. It was a great day. Tomorrow I hope to get out and getting some of the final shopping done for Christmas but today it was perfect just making the most of us all being at home.
Also E wore one of her Christmas outfits today. The onesie is a little loose but still cute so I wanted to share a couple pics of our Christmas baby :) (please ignore my robe underneath her I took these pretty early before I had cleaned up).
Since it's pretty late I'm just doing a quick post for today. J didn't have any accidents including when he woke up (no wet from the night before). He's done so well and I hope he continues on this path.
C has been full of even more energy than the average three year old today. Yes I was surprised too but it is possible. She ran throughout the house all day, singing, playing with J, running back 2 seconds later (it felt like) to talk to E, and then finding a new book or toy to grab her attention again and then repeating the cycle. I felt a little like the day was in fast forward lol.
E was content to sit and watch her big siblings for the most part and is doing so well at holding her head up and getting so close to sitting. She will sit really well with the boppy or a blanket wrapped up behind her bottom but doesn't have the unassisted version down yet.
Dad and I did get a lot of wonderful time to just relax and play at home with the kids. It was a great day. Tomorrow I hope to get out and getting some of the final shopping done for Christmas but today it was perfect just making the most of us all being at home.
Also E wore one of her Christmas outfits today. The onesie is a little loose but still cute so I wanted to share a couple pics of our Christmas baby :) (please ignore my robe underneath her I took these pretty early before I had cleaned up).
Friday, December 17, 2010
Daddy Time!
I am writing this fairly late at night and no I'm not still up because of any of the kids or just pure insanity. Nope I'm up late because Daddy and I have been celebrating the start of over 3 weeks of Daddy time.
Today Dad took his last two exams and he is now out till next semester begins in January. I know we're all looking forward to this time with all of us home. Next year we most likely won't get as big a break off for the holidays from hubby's job so we're making the most of it now.
Other than the nervousness of final exams and icy roads this morning, and the excitement of Daddy returning home this afternoon, the rest of the day was fairly relaxed. The kids and I played, read books, colored, and C worked on drawing letters again. J had no accidents throughout the day though he did wet his diaper when he woke up just because he woke up early and didn't make it to the bathroom as quickly as he thought. He recognized this and was upset about it but we moved on and he did great the rest of the day. We plan to continue with pull ups at night and real underwear during the day for a bit anyway (as we did with C) so I am so proud of how well J is doing overall.
E thoroughly enjoyed tummy time, rolling from side to side and squealing with the excitement of picking up speed in her movements. She's been getting so much better with rolling and pushing up and this has made her a much bigger fan of tummy time in general. This is exciting but also makes me nervous since this means she's usually on a blanket on the floor with C and J stomping about as well. I don't leave her unattended of course and C and J have done fairly well at slowing down and keeping their play far enough away from her. They also still will stop playing their "big kid" games to get down on their bellies next to little sis. It's still a little nerve wracking none the less lol. I'm sure as E starts interacting more and more with C and J and trying to find her place in their playtime this combination of excitement and anxiety will grow in turn for me.
I painted two ornaments today for the kids. I mentioned this before but one new Christmas tradition for us is I will paint an ornament for each child with a scene of their choosing or something that represents that year. Then when they eventually are having Christmas at their own houses they will have several ornaments painted by Mommy especially for them to remind them of those times. C wanted a "doggie in the snowy woods with red flowers" and I painted a rabbit in the snow for my baby Bunny (one of E's main nicknames). J is still deciding what he wants thus far he's between a "cat" and "dump truck." Mommy's leaning towards cat lol. I will upload pics of them tomorrow when I get all three finished and sealed.
Yep it was a good day and it's still going with hubby and I talking, watching movies, and playing computer games (we consider these digital dates and haven't had time for this random fun in awhile). I just wanted to get this quick update on the blog during a short break. He's calling me off now so I better go. I may be a bit tired tomorrow but I'm sure it will be worth it and I look forward to having fun with all five of us for the days and weeks ahead. Get some sleep for me and hope you and your families are having a wonderful week before Christmas as well!
Today Dad took his last two exams and he is now out till next semester begins in January. I know we're all looking forward to this time with all of us home. Next year we most likely won't get as big a break off for the holidays from hubby's job so we're making the most of it now.
Other than the nervousness of final exams and icy roads this morning, and the excitement of Daddy returning home this afternoon, the rest of the day was fairly relaxed. The kids and I played, read books, colored, and C worked on drawing letters again. J had no accidents throughout the day though he did wet his diaper when he woke up just because he woke up early and didn't make it to the bathroom as quickly as he thought. He recognized this and was upset about it but we moved on and he did great the rest of the day. We plan to continue with pull ups at night and real underwear during the day for a bit anyway (as we did with C) so I am so proud of how well J is doing overall.
E thoroughly enjoyed tummy time, rolling from side to side and squealing with the excitement of picking up speed in her movements. She's been getting so much better with rolling and pushing up and this has made her a much bigger fan of tummy time in general. This is exciting but also makes me nervous since this means she's usually on a blanket on the floor with C and J stomping about as well. I don't leave her unattended of course and C and J have done fairly well at slowing down and keeping their play far enough away from her. They also still will stop playing their "big kid" games to get down on their bellies next to little sis. It's still a little nerve wracking none the less lol. I'm sure as E starts interacting more and more with C and J and trying to find her place in their playtime this combination of excitement and anxiety will grow in turn for me.
I painted two ornaments today for the kids. I mentioned this before but one new Christmas tradition for us is I will paint an ornament for each child with a scene of their choosing or something that represents that year. Then when they eventually are having Christmas at their own houses they will have several ornaments painted by Mommy especially for them to remind them of those times. C wanted a "doggie in the snowy woods with red flowers" and I painted a rabbit in the snow for my baby Bunny (one of E's main nicknames). J is still deciding what he wants thus far he's between a "cat" and "dump truck." Mommy's leaning towards cat lol. I will upload pics of them tomorrow when I get all three finished and sealed.
Yep it was a good day and it's still going with hubby and I talking, watching movies, and playing computer games (we consider these digital dates and haven't had time for this random fun in awhile). I just wanted to get this quick update on the blog during a short break. He's calling me off now so I better go. I may be a bit tired tomorrow but I'm sure it will be worth it and I look forward to having fun with all five of us for the days and weeks ahead. Get some sleep for me and hope you and your families are having a wonderful week before Christmas as well!
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
3 months of Miss E
I can't believe that as of today it's been 3 months. It's also nice that today is Wednesday, even the same day of the week that E chose to be her birthday (she's also 13 weeks old today). I still smile thinking that she got to chose her own birthday rather than have it scheduled.
At 3 months E is:
-imitating sounds and going off on stories in baby talk
-laughing and grinning at Mommy constantly
-Smiling at her big sister and brother and moving her head to follow them
-Squealing with delight when anything excites her, which is almost everything lol
-Pushing up with her arms during tummy time and holding herself up in the position fairly well though if she moves her head to quickly from side to side she's still rather wobbly and will take a few seconds to regain her balance
-Balancing on her tummy while extending her arms and legs to look like she's flying
-Holding her head up pretty well though still wobbly when she turns too quickly
-Pushing against anything that touches her feet (which often will make her scoot a tiny bit and excites her)
-Realizing her feet and hands are extensions of her and trying to put them in her mouth whenever she can
-Grabbing at pacifier and anything else that comes in reach (including Mommy's shirt and crochet work)
-Trying to move towards things on the floor (positioning her mouth over pacifier beneath her etc.)
-Growing constantly, she still fits 0-3 and 3-6 month onesies but anything with feet built in she has to have 6m size (she's long just like big sis and big bro)
-Sucking on her fist
-Still nursing exclusively (hasn't had a bottle yet) and her appetite seems to be growing daily though she gets a lot more easily distracted during her nursing sessions and will continually stop to laugh at Mommy or smile at C and J
-Still waking up for one nightly feeding and taking a couple day time naps
-Still happiest if in Mommy's arms
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
The Countdown, Cards, & Invisible Presents
If you started singing the 12 days of Christmas today you would hit 12 lords a leaping on Christmas day so I think it's pretty sure to say that Christmas is right around the corner and the countdown has begun. Every day the kids continue to ask if it's Jesus's birthday and if Santa is coming tonight.
I still have lots of shopping to do and we are still adding more home made ornaments to the tree but instead of stressed I am just excited about the celebration to come.
This week part of this celebrating started as we began receiving Christmas cards. A few arrived from some of our Georgia relatives Monday, and today we got two from some of our wonderful GT friends in Oregon and Massachusetts. The kids and I both get so excited to open them and especially see the pics of our family and friends. I actually still have the Christmas pictures from my cousins' families from last year on the fridge when their families both had one less member. I love seeing how all the children and families have grown and changed in a year. Most likely all these new pictures will stay on the fridge till next year as well. I want to say how much I appreciate yall taking the time to send these and we do really appreciate them here. I know having just sent out our cards as well that it can be stressful to think about one more thing to do at Christmas time and it's nice to know people enjoy receiving them.
I was having an discussion on what to do with cards after the holidays and I'm leaning towards making the non-photo ones into ornaments (as shown here) and the photo ones I may put in an album eventually (after they leave the fridge next year maybe) or display them as a wreath next year (as Martha recommends here). Also for the non-photo ones if you don't want to do the above you can donate them to a recycle cards program like St. Judes. Or you could let your kids cut the front of the cards off and attach them to a new back and take them to a nursing home or children's hospital even (something I hope to do with the kids when they're older). So if yall are looking for something new to do with your cards those are some options.
Another thing putting me in a mood for the holidays is my children having been giving me presents today. First, C started a new game: Invisible presents. She comes up to me with her hands cupped underneath the imaginary 'package' she's just 'wrapped' and says "Mommy I brought you a present." I say "Thank you it's wonderful" (or something similar)and she says "What is it?" Then I get to come up with something clever. Some of the responses I got that she enjoyed included a kiss (it was blown into the box), a yawn, and a smile from my beautiful little girl. As we played this for quite a chunk of the evening I thought often how the best gifts really are the ones you can't always hold or even always see but we are given in so many simple moments by our children. This memory was a present in itself.
J's early Christmas present to us today continued to be potty training! He is doing well though holding back on pooping. This is better than having accidents I guess but I am looking forward to when he can just get back to his normal play routine minus diapers versus having to continue making so many stops to sit on the pot and wait. He's doing very well though (not as easy as C but like I've said before every child is different for sure and training girls versus boys is very different too it seems).
E has been giving my presents today too, by laughing, smiling, and squealing at me every time I look at her. This included during nursing which made the nursing sessions take a bit longer but was still very cute. I love how excited she gets to see me even if she's with me most of the time, she gets excited again and again and never seems bored. I can't believe tomorrow she'll be 3 months old! It's gone by so fast and she's changed so much already.
I hope you and your families are doing well preparing for Christmas too and enjoying the gifts your little ones give you every day as well, whether or not they're wrappable or invisible. They're definitely the most precious I've received.
I still have lots of shopping to do and we are still adding more home made ornaments to the tree but instead of stressed I am just excited about the celebration to come.
This week part of this celebrating started as we began receiving Christmas cards. A few arrived from some of our Georgia relatives Monday, and today we got two from some of our wonderful GT friends in Oregon and Massachusetts. The kids and I both get so excited to open them and especially see the pics of our family and friends. I actually still have the Christmas pictures from my cousins' families from last year on the fridge when their families both had one less member. I love seeing how all the children and families have grown and changed in a year. Most likely all these new pictures will stay on the fridge till next year as well. I want to say how much I appreciate yall taking the time to send these and we do really appreciate them here. I know having just sent out our cards as well that it can be stressful to think about one more thing to do at Christmas time and it's nice to know people enjoy receiving them.
I was having an discussion on what to do with cards after the holidays and I'm leaning towards making the non-photo ones into ornaments (as shown here) and the photo ones I may put in an album eventually (after they leave the fridge next year maybe) or display them as a wreath next year (as Martha recommends here). Also for the non-photo ones if you don't want to do the above you can donate them to a recycle cards program like St. Judes. Or you could let your kids cut the front of the cards off and attach them to a new back and take them to a nursing home or children's hospital even (something I hope to do with the kids when they're older). So if yall are looking for something new to do with your cards those are some options.
Another thing putting me in a mood for the holidays is my children having been giving me presents today. First, C started a new game: Invisible presents. She comes up to me with her hands cupped underneath the imaginary 'package' she's just 'wrapped' and says "Mommy I brought you a present." I say "Thank you it's wonderful" (or something similar)and she says "What is it?" Then I get to come up with something clever. Some of the responses I got that she enjoyed included a kiss (it was blown into the box), a yawn, and a smile from my beautiful little girl. As we played this for quite a chunk of the evening I thought often how the best gifts really are the ones you can't always hold or even always see but we are given in so many simple moments by our children. This memory was a present in itself.
J's early Christmas present to us today continued to be potty training! He is doing well though holding back on pooping. This is better than having accidents I guess but I am looking forward to when he can just get back to his normal play routine minus diapers versus having to continue making so many stops to sit on the pot and wait. He's doing very well though (not as easy as C but like I've said before every child is different for sure and training girls versus boys is very different too it seems).
E has been giving my presents today too, by laughing, smiling, and squealing at me every time I look at her. This included during nursing which made the nursing sessions take a bit longer but was still very cute. I love how excited she gets to see me even if she's with me most of the time, she gets excited again and again and never seems bored. I can't believe tomorrow she'll be 3 months old! It's gone by so fast and she's changed so much already.
I hope you and your families are doing well preparing for Christmas too and enjoying the gifts your little ones give you every day as well, whether or not they're wrappable or invisible. They're definitely the most precious I've received.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Today and A Reminder/Realization on Parenting
I know I've posted a bit more today then usual but I'm in a sentimental mood and didn't have as much time to blog last week. I'm first giving a quick update on today and then I want to share a realization on parenting.
Hubby's first exam went wonderfully this morning so now we're just waiting for Thursday to be done with the rest of the term. J did have one accident today but potty training is still going well and once is not bad for sure. E rolled over from her back to belly last week and since has been enjoying tummy time a lot more which has been exciting for C and J to get down on the floor with her as she attempts to scoot towards them. C and J both have been working on their writing. J is getting more control with drawing and has done a few letters. C can write most letters but is still getting them down (practice makes perfect) and today she wrote her numbers as well. I know they both will just need practice to get better about it and it's just one more sign they're getting bigger so quickly. I hope to start more seriously on teaching reading with C after Christmas and I'm hoping J's interest will spark from seeing the lessons with big sis. We'll see. I'm not sure if we'll be putting C in school next year or not since it will depend on where we are based on hubby's job, but right now I love that I can teach the kids at home and we have this time together.
FOR PARENTS
The following is a realization I've had on my mind recently that I'm writing to share and as a reminder to me in the coming years. I know this is not perfect but it's something I believe in and feel other parents may be able to relate to if we really think about it.
I realized that no matter how you parent, if you work or stay at home, if you home school or send to public school, if you're older or younger, if you have one child or ten, use cloth diapers or disposables, etc. etc., as long as you educate yourself, make each decision based on what is best for your family, put your children's needs first, and make the most of the situation you're in, you are a good parent. This has taken me three years to really admit and completely understand though it seems simple enough. It's hard as parents to accept that doing the best for us is not necessarily doing the same thing as everyone else.
Of all my friends and family members who are parents, though I agree more with some people's ways of parenting than others, none of us do everything exactly the same and I think in the end whether we agree or not, as long as we put our children first and educate ourselves in making each decision for our kids we're all doing a good job raising our children. And though we don't always agree I think we can agree on the following things we must do as parents.
We must be open to criticism at times and be able to back up what we're doing and what we choose not to do as well as admit when we're wrong. If you don't open yourself to others' ideas you'll never learn and never become better. This doesn't mean you have to agree with every new idea from a fellow parent but you must be open and research I think. I have learned so much from my friends who are parents though I haven't done everything they've recommended.
You must be humble and always always willing to learn and admit you don't know everything. The best parents I've met even though they had several years and/or many children under their parental experience belt have all told me they still don't know everything. You're constantly learning with kids even when they're no longer under your roof. And it's when you think you're most in control that you're proven wrong. If you think you know everything how do you learn anything new? No one's perfect so just be the best you can be at this moment and strive to become better and learn from every challenge. Always make the most of each new day.
You must be adaptable. Every child is different and what works for your first may not work for your second, what works for your friend may not work for you and so on. Also what works today may not work tomorrow. If one thing doesn't work try something else till you find what fits. Once again this is the nature of children, each one is unique and they're constantly growing and changing.
And finally, remember "the grass is always greener on the other side"...well at least it seems to be. We always want what we don't have and when looking at other people's lives we're looking through rose colored glasses. Everyone has challenges they face. Everyone has good days and bad. We usually see people's good days more often when it comes to parenting. I mean honestly no one is posting the pictures of the child crying or the mom pulling her hair out, or the close ups of spit up stains, poop explosions, and bags under parent's eyes on facebook.
I know I've envied parents who seem to always have it all together and recently I realized they don't after all. They're not better than us because they do more or worse because they seem to do less. We're not living their lives each hour and we're not seeing the whole picture and they're not seeing ours. We're all learning as we go, making the best of our situations, and being the best parents possible to our children. No parents are the same but many people with very different parents still have wonderful childhoods and still end up being successful healthy adults with families of their own. My mother didn't have the opportunity to stay home with me but she still is the most amazing mother in the world. I still learned more from her than the fancy boarding school I attended and every parenting book I've read (and there's a lot of them lol). She made the most of what we had, the time, the place we lived, and every other part of our lives.
Don't look at the parents on tv, your neighbors, or even your relatives to see if you're being the best parent possible. All you need to do is look at your children. It is written in every smile, hug, kiss, and even each tear they shed that is so quickly resolved when comforted by Mommy and Daddy. I know I'm not perfect and I will face more challenges in the years to come but I also know looking at my children, even though I'm not doing all I wish I could at all times, I'm doing right by them and I am a good parent. I hope everyone who reads this can look at their little ones and know the same :)
And here's some pictures I took of my three perfect blessings today. Looking at these reminds me how much I love them, how amazing and unique they each are, and that I am constantly striving to be the best mom I can be, for them :)
Hubby's first exam went wonderfully this morning so now we're just waiting for Thursday to be done with the rest of the term. J did have one accident today but potty training is still going well and once is not bad for sure. E rolled over from her back to belly last week and since has been enjoying tummy time a lot more which has been exciting for C and J to get down on the floor with her as she attempts to scoot towards them. C and J both have been working on their writing. J is getting more control with drawing and has done a few letters. C can write most letters but is still getting them down (practice makes perfect) and today she wrote her numbers as well. I know they both will just need practice to get better about it and it's just one more sign they're getting bigger so quickly. I hope to start more seriously on teaching reading with C after Christmas and I'm hoping J's interest will spark from seeing the lessons with big sis. We'll see. I'm not sure if we'll be putting C in school next year or not since it will depend on where we are based on hubby's job, but right now I love that I can teach the kids at home and we have this time together.
FOR PARENTS
The following is a realization I've had on my mind recently that I'm writing to share and as a reminder to me in the coming years. I know this is not perfect but it's something I believe in and feel other parents may be able to relate to if we really think about it.
I realized that no matter how you parent, if you work or stay at home, if you home school or send to public school, if you're older or younger, if you have one child or ten, use cloth diapers or disposables, etc. etc., as long as you educate yourself, make each decision based on what is best for your family, put your children's needs first, and make the most of the situation you're in, you are a good parent. This has taken me three years to really admit and completely understand though it seems simple enough. It's hard as parents to accept that doing the best for us is not necessarily doing the same thing as everyone else.
Of all my friends and family members who are parents, though I agree more with some people's ways of parenting than others, none of us do everything exactly the same and I think in the end whether we agree or not, as long as we put our children first and educate ourselves in making each decision for our kids we're all doing a good job raising our children. And though we don't always agree I think we can agree on the following things we must do as parents.
We must be open to criticism at times and be able to back up what we're doing and what we choose not to do as well as admit when we're wrong. If you don't open yourself to others' ideas you'll never learn and never become better. This doesn't mean you have to agree with every new idea from a fellow parent but you must be open and research I think. I have learned so much from my friends who are parents though I haven't done everything they've recommended.
You must be humble and always always willing to learn and admit you don't know everything. The best parents I've met even though they had several years and/or many children under their parental experience belt have all told me they still don't know everything. You're constantly learning with kids even when they're no longer under your roof. And it's when you think you're most in control that you're proven wrong. If you think you know everything how do you learn anything new? No one's perfect so just be the best you can be at this moment and strive to become better and learn from every challenge. Always make the most of each new day.
You must be adaptable. Every child is different and what works for your first may not work for your second, what works for your friend may not work for you and so on. Also what works today may not work tomorrow. If one thing doesn't work try something else till you find what fits. Once again this is the nature of children, each one is unique and they're constantly growing and changing.
And finally, remember "the grass is always greener on the other side"...well at least it seems to be. We always want what we don't have and when looking at other people's lives we're looking through rose colored glasses. Everyone has challenges they face. Everyone has good days and bad. We usually see people's good days more often when it comes to parenting. I mean honestly no one is posting the pictures of the child crying or the mom pulling her hair out, or the close ups of spit up stains, poop explosions, and bags under parent's eyes on facebook.
I know I've envied parents who seem to always have it all together and recently I realized they don't after all. They're not better than us because they do more or worse because they seem to do less. We're not living their lives each hour and we're not seeing the whole picture and they're not seeing ours. We're all learning as we go, making the best of our situations, and being the best parents possible to our children. No parents are the same but many people with very different parents still have wonderful childhoods and still end up being successful healthy adults with families of their own. My mother didn't have the opportunity to stay home with me but she still is the most amazing mother in the world. I still learned more from her than the fancy boarding school I attended and every parenting book I've read (and there's a lot of them lol). She made the most of what we had, the time, the place we lived, and every other part of our lives.
Don't look at the parents on tv, your neighbors, or even your relatives to see if you're being the best parent possible. All you need to do is look at your children. It is written in every smile, hug, kiss, and even each tear they shed that is so quickly resolved when comforted by Mommy and Daddy. I know I'm not perfect and I will face more challenges in the years to come but I also know looking at my children, even though I'm not doing all I wish I could at all times, I'm doing right by them and I am a good parent. I hope everyone who reads this can look at their little ones and know the same :)
And here's some pictures I took of my three perfect blessings today. Looking at these reminds me how much I love them, how amazing and unique they each are, and that I am constantly striving to be the best mom I can be, for them :)
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