I think one of the hardest parts of being a parent is trusting your instincts, especially when it comes to the health of your children. How many times have I been absolutely certain that one of the boys had an ear infection, only to have the doctor tell me everything was perfectly clear? Or what about the times when I thought it was just a cold but it ended up being a "raging" ear infection?
After a few months of wonder and worry, Abel and I sought out some extra help for Nathaniel last year when he wasn't talking. I'm so glad that we did!
I wrote all about it over at The DC Moms and I'd love for you to go check it out.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Showing posts with label parenting. Show all posts
Showing posts with label parenting. Show all posts
Friday, November 16, 2012
Monday, August 15, 2011
Did you prefer Steve over Joe?
Any and every mom (or dad!) who has sat through an episode (or 1,000) of Blue's Clues while your child jumped up and down and your brains melted out of your ears MUST listen to this segment of the Moth Radio Hour with Steve Burns, the original host of the show. Seriously. Click now.
If you've never listed to the Moth Radio Hour, I highly recommend it.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
If you've never listed to the Moth Radio Hour, I highly recommend it.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Monday, November 23, 2009
Their marketing works but they're missing the mark on their demographic by approximately 30 years
Lucas is obsessed with the Touch and Brush. Have you seen the commercial? He's only seen it a handful of times but can almost recite it word for word. "Now your sink's a mess!" he exclaims. "The Touch and Brush gets the last drop!"He recently told his uncle and grandmother (in two different phone conversations!) that he wants the Touch and Brush when they asked what he wanted for Christmas. We had to translate, of course, because they had NO IDEA what he was talking about. What? Their 3 year old nephew/grandson is asking for a toothpaste dispenser?
When Abel gave me the old tube of toothpaste to put into the recycling the other day, Lucas was seriously alarmed. He said, "Oh no! If we had the Touch and Brush we could get the last drop!"
When we do watch channels with commercials like this (which is rare because I usually keep it on PBS or Nick, Jr.) he tells us that he wants pretty much every toy he sees. But then he promptly forgets. The Touch and Brush obsession, however, has now lasted for almost two weeks!
If he's still talking about it in December, I think we'll have to seriously consider getting it for Lucas for Christmas. It might just be his favorite gift ever.
And, hey, I do like the idea of using up the last drop!
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Friday, November 6, 2009
Sand
The art room at Lucas's preschool contains easels and paints as well as a sand table. In yet another example of why I could never run a daycare or be a preschool teacher, I just can not imagine having a sand table inside. But, they do and he loves it. Obviously I'm thrilled that he loves it but I am not thrilled that he loves it so much that he often comes home with sand in his hair. Have I mentioned that Lucas has incredibly thick hair? He does.
Two weeks ago, we got a note that someone in the class had head lice. AHHHHHHHHH! I kind of freaked and felt certain that if one kid had it that certainly meant that every kid--or at the very least, my kid--would soon get it. Also, I immediately started itching.
The night after the note came home, Lucas asked me to scratch his head. I scratched and little hard white things got under my fingernails. Lice. Damn. I knew it. Abel was on his way home and I met him at the door to tell him to get right back in the car and drive to the store and buy that special shampoo. Not fully buying into my hysterics, Abel came up to take a look for himself. We re-read the paper with the explanation of just what lice and their nits do and look like.
After approximately 10 minutes of inspection, Abel declared that Lucas's head was full of sand.
SAND?!
We asked, "Lucas, did you play with the sand table today?"
"Yes! A. and I were going like this!" (gestures handfuls of sand up to his head)
THANK GOD.
Two nights ago, Lucas's head was again completely full of sand. I gave him a bath and it took two shampoos and many, many rinses to get all the sand out. We--again--talked about not putting sand in your hair.
Abel came home toward the end of the bath and I told him how hard it was to get all the sand out. I also indicated that while I didn't intentionally make the washing and rinsing experience uncomfortable, I wasn't necessarily as careful as I always am about not getting water in Lucas's face and eyes.
Abel: So you basically water-boarded our son?
Smiling Mama: Hey, if that's what it takes to get him to stop putting sand in his hair, then yes.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Monday, November 2, 2009
Operation Commence Disney Education
Thanks to Tech Savvy Mama and Feld Entertainment, we had the opportunity to see Disney on Ice at the First Mariner Arena in Baltimore on Thursday night. Since we had four free tickets we kidnapped one of Lucas's best princess-crazy friends to join us.
The evening started out a bit rocky as Abel, Lucas and I didn't get very good nights' sleep the night before. Abel was having some mouth/jaw pain from a dental procedure and traffic was, well, rush-hour traffic. Not to mention that both kids decided they needed to go to the bathroom at the one swath of road without any gas stations near the exit.
But, we persevered and got to our amazing seats with about 5 minutes to spare before the show began. The evening did a 180 degree turn the moment Mickey Mouse entered the ice. The kids were beside themselves with excitement. And, I'll be honest, as someone who always dreamed of going to an ice show when I was young, the excitement was contagious. Even Abel later commented that he actually really enjoyed the show. Now, that's success, folks!
What really struck me, however, was how little Lucas knows about Disney characters. His little companion was yelling for every prince, princess and character who entered the ice. But Lucas had absolutely no idea who they were beyond the classics: Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy and Pluto. He did recognize Pinocchio, Captain Cook and Ariel but not a single other prince or princess was familiar to him at all.
How could I have let this happen? Well, he is only four and we don't watch that many movies. But, trust me, if Wall-E or any Cars character had skated out, Lucas would have been intimately familiar with them. There just seems to be something Un-American about him not knowing Snow White or Cinderella, doesn't there?
The evening started out a bit rocky as Abel, Lucas and I didn't get very good nights' sleep the night before. Abel was having some mouth/jaw pain from a dental procedure and traffic was, well, rush-hour traffic. Not to mention that both kids decided they needed to go to the bathroom at the one swath of road without any gas stations near the exit.
But, we persevered and got to our amazing seats with about 5 minutes to spare before the show began. The evening did a 180 degree turn the moment Mickey Mouse entered the ice. The kids were beside themselves with excitement. And, I'll be honest, as someone who always dreamed of going to an ice show when I was young, the excitement was contagious. Even Abel later commented that he actually really enjoyed the show. Now, that's success, folks!
What really struck me, however, was how little Lucas knows about Disney characters. His little companion was yelling for every prince, princess and character who entered the ice. But Lucas had absolutely no idea who they were beyond the classics: Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy and Pluto. He did recognize Pinocchio, Captain Cook and Ariel but not a single other prince or princess was familiar to him at all.
How could I have let this happen? Well, he is only four and we don't watch that many movies. But, trust me, if Wall-E or any Cars character had skated out, Lucas would have been intimately familiar with them. There just seems to be something Un-American about him not knowing Snow White or Cinderella, doesn't there?
Hence: Operation Commence Disney Education. It's starting now. (Um, does anyone have a copy of Cinderella we could borrow?!)
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
H1N1 Clinics in DC
Worried about Swine Flu? Yeah, me too. Lucas and I got the H1N1 vaccine last week and I wrote all about it over at DC Metro Moms. If you live in the greater DC metro area and can't find the vaccine in your own city or county, I highly recommend going to one of the DC clinics. We had a very positive experience last week; since then I've heard from several friends and neighbors who had equally good experiences. The lines seem to be shortest at clinics in the NE and SE. Here's the schedule.
Please note, these clinics are not just for children and pregnant women. Caregivers of children under 6 mos, health care provides and anyone with an underlying medical condition such as asthma and diabetes is considered a priority group by the DC government. Off the record, I'll also tell you that they seem to be vaccinating anyone who shows up. Several parents of kids older than 6 mos were told they could be considered "caregivers" and get the vaccine along with their kids.
Recent news reports seem to indicate that the supply may open up this week and so the vaccine may be easier to find through your own doctor, but if it doesn't, or if you are anxious, go to DC. And, let's give them huge kudos for doing this really, really well. (Because you know we all give our capital city enough grief on the many ways they mess things up!)
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Please note, these clinics are not just for children and pregnant women. Caregivers of children under 6 mos, health care provides and anyone with an underlying medical condition such as asthma and diabetes is considered a priority group by the DC government. Off the record, I'll also tell you that they seem to be vaccinating anyone who shows up. Several parents of kids older than 6 mos were told they could be considered "caregivers" and get the vaccine along with their kids.
Recent news reports seem to indicate that the supply may open up this week and so the vaccine may be easier to find through your own doctor, but if it doesn't, or if you are anxious, go to DC. And, let's give them huge kudos for doing this really, really well. (Because you know we all give our capital city enough grief on the many ways they mess things up!)
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
The truth will come back to embarrass you in public
Understandably, Lucas has been very interested in the whole concept of this baby. Specifically, how in the world he is going to get out of my belly. (Thank goodness he hasn't been asking how he got IN.)
First, Lucas asked me if the baby came out of my mouth. Actually, he didn't really ask so much as state in a very incredulous tone that the baby didn't come out of my mouth, did it? That one was easy: no, the baby doesn't come out of my mouth!
Next, Lucas wanted to know just how he does come out. Again, I thought I had an easy answer: the doctor helps the baby come out. Unfortunately, that didn't quite cut it. If only I had a c-section with Lucas or was planning on one (hopefully not) with this baby, I could have agreed when he said, with wide eyes, "The doctor reaches into your belly to pull the baby out??"
Ummm...no.
So, I continued with my easy answers: "Mama has a special place the baby comes out of."
"What special place?"
Okay. So we've always used appropriate words with Lucas: penis, breasts and now...vagina.
"Mama has a special place called a vagina that the baby comes out of."
That seemed to satisfy Lucas. He does still ask and I respond that I have my special place called a vagina and the conversation is over. At least, our conversation is over. Lucas's conversation continues with just about everyone he meets. Here's how it goes:
"I was a baby in my mama's belly and I came out of her special place called a 'gina. Now she has another baby in her belly and he's going to come out her 'gina, too!!!!"
So far the kids at the park don't seem too fazed by this knowledge. The adults get a sort of embarrassed look and just smile and nod. And then I get a little bit of an embarrassed look and smile and nod as well.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
First, Lucas asked me if the baby came out of my mouth. Actually, he didn't really ask so much as state in a very incredulous tone that the baby didn't come out of my mouth, did it? That one was easy: no, the baby doesn't come out of my mouth!
Next, Lucas wanted to know just how he does come out. Again, I thought I had an easy answer: the doctor helps the baby come out. Unfortunately, that didn't quite cut it. If only I had a c-section with Lucas or was planning on one (hopefully not) with this baby, I could have agreed when he said, with wide eyes, "The doctor reaches into your belly to pull the baby out??"
Ummm...no.
So, I continued with my easy answers: "Mama has a special place the baby comes out of."
"What special place?"
Okay. So we've always used appropriate words with Lucas: penis, breasts and now...vagina.
"Mama has a special place called a vagina that the baby comes out of."
That seemed to satisfy Lucas. He does still ask and I respond that I have my special place called a vagina and the conversation is over. At least, our conversation is over. Lucas's conversation continues with just about everyone he meets. Here's how it goes:
"I was a baby in my mama's belly and I came out of her special place called a 'gina. Now she has another baby in her belly and he's going to come out her 'gina, too!!!!"
So far the kids at the park don't seem too fazed by this knowledge. The adults get a sort of embarrassed look and just smile and nod. And then I get a little bit of an embarrassed look and smile and nod as well.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Monday, October 26, 2009
I knew you
On a handful of occasions throughout his short life, Lucas has talked to me about the time before he was born. Just the other night when I was putting him to bed, he told me that he was searching and searching for his mama and dada before he got into in my belly. Other times, he's told me that he was with Jesus until he found me.
There's an oft-quoted bible verse from the Book Jeremiah chapter 1, verse 5, "Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you."
Those conversations with Lucas have always been brief but they are very meaningful to me. Although I don't talk about it much, I do have a strong belief in God and do believe strongly in heaven.
Yet, I feel pretty sure that I've never "planted" those specific thoughts in Lucas's head. Perhaps someone else has; I haven't asked Abel about it. Both our mothers are very religious and his daycare provider was as well. Maybe one of them said something to him once about being with Jesus before he was born and it really stuck with him. Maybe.
Or, maybe this is one of those examples of brilliant truths coming from the mouths of babes. Maybe there is just a teeny, tiny piece of him that does remember his soul searching for his parents. That does know that his soul was with Jesus before his earthly life began. Perhaps this is just a vague memory that gets smaller and more distant with each passing year, until one day, as adults, we can hardly fathom that truth. Perhaps.
It is both comforting and awe-inspiring to think that, of all the millions of egg and sperm and combinations, God did know Lucas and his baby brother before they were formed in my womb. That Abel and I were formed to be their parents. That even though there are times we, as adults, feel so distant from God and from heaven, that the smallest babies know and remember.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
There's an oft-quoted bible verse from the Book Jeremiah chapter 1, verse 5, "Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you."
Those conversations with Lucas have always been brief but they are very meaningful to me. Although I don't talk about it much, I do have a strong belief in God and do believe strongly in heaven.
Yet, I feel pretty sure that I've never "planted" those specific thoughts in Lucas's head. Perhaps someone else has; I haven't asked Abel about it. Both our mothers are very religious and his daycare provider was as well. Maybe one of them said something to him once about being with Jesus before he was born and it really stuck with him. Maybe.
Or, maybe this is one of those examples of brilliant truths coming from the mouths of babes. Maybe there is just a teeny, tiny piece of him that does remember his soul searching for his parents. That does know that his soul was with Jesus before his earthly life began. Perhaps this is just a vague memory that gets smaller and more distant with each passing year, until one day, as adults, we can hardly fathom that truth. Perhaps.
It is both comforting and awe-inspiring to think that, of all the millions of egg and sperm and combinations, God did know Lucas and his baby brother before they were formed in my womb. That Abel and I were formed to be their parents. That even though there are times we, as adults, feel so distant from God and from heaven, that the smallest babies know and remember.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Thursday, October 22, 2009
First Born
More and more I am realizing that Lucas truly is a first-born child. He's already developed so many characteristics of an oldest child. (Of course, as an oldest myself, I see the many positive characteristics associated with this place in birth order!)
You already know how good he is with speaking up and introductions. He's a natural leader on the playground and also loves playing with older kids. Two recent incidents have made me realize that he can also take things in stride pretty darn well.
First, Lucas was talking about show-and-tell at school. What's this? I didn't know there was show-and-tell. I vaguely remember seeing something in some paper about future show-and-tell and that the kids shouldn't bring in items that could easily get lost, etc. But, I was waiting for further notification. According to Lucas, show-and-tell was already taking place so I asked Abel to ask the teachers about it the next day at drop-off. Here's Abel's report:
Yes, they have show-and-tell every Friday. And, Lucas somehow has managed to find something to talk about each week.
That totally cracked me up because it is so Lucas. If every other kid had something to talk about, you'd better believe he'd find something, too. I'm imagining that one week he might have talked about his new Lightening McQueen winter hat. Another week it might have been a stray rock from his pocket. And yet another Friday he may have told the class about his lunchbox. Now that we know that show-and-tell takes place each Friday, I'll remind him to take something special in each week.
Speaking of his lunchbox, I am still adoring the Laptop Lunchbox and think it is even more perfect for nursery school than it was for daycare. He can open it and there aren't any packages that need to be opened for him. (Not to mention no waste!) I always pack his lunch the night before, but lately I've been including a freshly cut pear for his fruit. Since I hate browning fruit myself, I wait until the morning to cut up and add the pear. Yesterday I totally forgot to put it in! The container I use for fruit actually has a lid and it was already in the lunchbox with the lid on so I assumed it was full. It wasn't. That afternoon after school, Lucas very matter-of-factly informed me that his blue container was empty. I apologized and asked if he was sad when he realized he didn't have any fruit. His response:
Yes. I was a little sad. But, in the meantime, I ate my other food.
In the MEANTIME??? Am I sending an 8 year old to nursery school or a 3 year old? Seriously.
I try hard not to fall down on the job very often, but I think whenever I do, this kid will be just fine.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
You already know how good he is with speaking up and introductions. He's a natural leader on the playground and also loves playing with older kids. Two recent incidents have made me realize that he can also take things in stride pretty darn well.
First, Lucas was talking about show-and-tell at school. What's this? I didn't know there was show-and-tell. I vaguely remember seeing something in some paper about future show-and-tell and that the kids shouldn't bring in items that could easily get lost, etc. But, I was waiting for further notification. According to Lucas, show-and-tell was already taking place so I asked Abel to ask the teachers about it the next day at drop-off. Here's Abel's report:
Yes, they have show-and-tell every Friday. And, Lucas somehow has managed to find something to talk about each week.
That totally cracked me up because it is so Lucas. If every other kid had something to talk about, you'd better believe he'd find something, too. I'm imagining that one week he might have talked about his new Lightening McQueen winter hat. Another week it might have been a stray rock from his pocket. And yet another Friday he may have told the class about his lunchbox. Now that we know that show-and-tell takes place each Friday, I'll remind him to take something special in each week.
Speaking of his lunchbox, I am still adoring the Laptop Lunchbox and think it is even more perfect for nursery school than it was for daycare. He can open it and there aren't any packages that need to be opened for him. (Not to mention no waste!) I always pack his lunch the night before, but lately I've been including a freshly cut pear for his fruit. Since I hate browning fruit myself, I wait until the morning to cut up and add the pear. Yesterday I totally forgot to put it in! The container I use for fruit actually has a lid and it was already in the lunchbox with the lid on so I assumed it was full. It wasn't. That afternoon after school, Lucas very matter-of-factly informed me that his blue container was empty. I apologized and asked if he was sad when he realized he didn't have any fruit. His response:
Yes. I was a little sad. But, in the meantime, I ate my other food.
In the MEANTIME??? Am I sending an 8 year old to nursery school or a 3 year old? Seriously.
I try hard not to fall down on the job very often, but I think whenever I do, this kid will be just fine.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Feel the love
This is one of those things that I'm blogging because I never, ever, ever want to forget it.
This morning I woke up to Lucas spreading out his arms and saying, "Mama, I love the baby THIIIIIIIISS much."
And so I said to him, "And the baby loves you THIIIIIIIIIIISSSS much" while spreading my arms as far as possible. And reaching even further, I said, "And I love you THIIIIIIIIIIISSSSS much."
And he said, "And I love you THIIIIIIIIISSSSSSSSS" much.
It was a beautiful way to begin the day.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
This morning I woke up to Lucas spreading out his arms and saying, "Mama, I love the baby THIIIIIIIISS much."
And so I said to him, "And the baby loves you THIIIIIIIIIIISSSS much" while spreading my arms as far as possible. And reaching even further, I said, "And I love you THIIIIIIIIIIISSSSS much."
And he said, "And I love you THIIIIIIIIISSSSSSSSS" much.
It was a beautiful way to begin the day.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Monday, October 12, 2009
Do You Love Me?
At approximately 6:00 am. I was trying to get Lucas to lay down in our bed and fall back asleep but he was having none of it. We had the following conversation.
Lucas: Mama, do you love me when I hit?
Smiling Mama: Yes. I always love you.
Lucas: Do you love me when I'm muddy?
Smiling Mama: Yes.
Lucas: Do you love me when I jump?
Smiling Mama: Yes.
Lucas: Do you love me when I'm messy?
Smiling Mama: Yes.
Lucas: Do you love me when I laugh?
Smiling Mama: Yes.
Lucas: Do you love me when I yell?
Smiling Mama: Yes. Lucas: I always love you. I get sad when you hit or yell but I still love you.
Lucas: You always love me?
Smiling Mama: Yes. Always and forever.
Lucas: I love you forever, too.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Lucas: Mama, do you love me when I hit?
Smiling Mama: Yes. I always love you.
Lucas: Do you love me when I'm muddy?
Smiling Mama: Yes.
Lucas: Do you love me when I jump?
Smiling Mama: Yes.
Lucas: Do you love me when I'm messy?
Smiling Mama: Yes.
Lucas: Do you love me when I laugh?
Smiling Mama: Yes.
Lucas: Do you love me when I yell?
Smiling Mama: Yes. Lucas: I always love you. I get sad when you hit or yell but I still love you.
Lucas: You always love me?
Smiling Mama: Yes. Always and forever.
Lucas: I love you forever, too.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Caution: Mommy Blogging Ahead
Okay, so I am quite certain that you are all on the edge of your seats: Did she or did she not abandon the night training and put a diaper on her 3yo? Did he or did he not wake up dry?
Heavy questions, folks.
Here are your answers: I abandoned the night training. I was on the verge of doing it anyway, but the several supportive comments and complete lack of oh-my-God-your-almost-four-year-old-still-wears-a-diaper comments helped make that decision easier.
So, here's the result: I wasn't up for an hour in the middle of the night. Yay! BUT he still woke up COMPLETELY soaked. Crazy! I'd much rather clean up a wet little boy at 6am or 7am than 3am, however, so I still agree we made the right decision. Maybe we need to make sure he drinks all his fluids for the day before 3pm or something. Who knows.
Also, along the lines of diapers and whatnot, I'm strongly considering using cloth diapers for baby #2. I don't think I'll be militant about it--e.g. Mom, I won't ask to wash poopy diapers in your washing machine. But if I am home full-time why not give it a shot? I'm currently starting to research the whole thing so any advice or comments or even links to other websites and blogs that discuss the topic are more than welcome.
In other exciting baby news, I am now feeling the baby move all! the! time! It is so fun. Abel even got to feel some kicks the other night. We have another sonogram on Friday morning (last time they just couldn't get the angle on the heart that they needed) and we're going to take Lucas with us. I'm not sure that he'll get much out of the experience, but it will be fun to say that he was there AND, immediately following the appointment, Abel's meeting my dad so that Lucas can spend two nights with my parents. Woo hoo!
And, also? I'm pretty confident that anyone who sees me would now officially jump to the conclusion that I am pregnant and not question if I have just consumed a large box of chocolates (which, to be fair, may also be true). That's a nice spot to get to in pregnancy--big enough that you look pregnant, not so big that you can't fit between clothing racks in stores (which will be a future stage, if I recall).
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Heavy questions, folks.
Here are your answers: I abandoned the night training. I was on the verge of doing it anyway, but the several supportive comments and complete lack of oh-my-God-your-almost-four-year-old-still-wears-a-diaper comments helped make that decision easier.
So, here's the result: I wasn't up for an hour in the middle of the night. Yay! BUT he still woke up COMPLETELY soaked. Crazy! I'd much rather clean up a wet little boy at 6am or 7am than 3am, however, so I still agree we made the right decision. Maybe we need to make sure he drinks all his fluids for the day before 3pm or something. Who knows.
Also, along the lines of diapers and whatnot, I'm strongly considering using cloth diapers for baby #2. I don't think I'll be militant about it--e.g. Mom, I won't ask to wash poopy diapers in your washing machine. But if I am home full-time why not give it a shot? I'm currently starting to research the whole thing so any advice or comments or even links to other websites and blogs that discuss the topic are more than welcome.
In other exciting baby news, I am now feeling the baby move all! the! time! It is so fun. Abel even got to feel some kicks the other night. We have another sonogram on Friday morning (last time they just couldn't get the angle on the heart that they needed) and we're going to take Lucas with us. I'm not sure that he'll get much out of the experience, but it will be fun to say that he was there AND, immediately following the appointment, Abel's meeting my dad so that Lucas can spend two nights with my parents. Woo hoo!
And, also? I'm pretty confident that anyone who sees me would now officially jump to the conclusion that I am pregnant and not question if I have just consumed a large box of chocolates (which, to be fair, may also be true). That's a nice spot to get to in pregnancy--big enough that you look pregnant, not so big that you can't fit between clothing racks in stores (which will be a future stage, if I recall).
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Night Training
Okay, folks, I have a confession to make: Lucas still wears a diaper at night. Well, he did as of two nights ago and I think he'll be back in one tonight. Yes, he's almost four years old and has been completely potty trained for months and months now. In fact, he had an accident (literally on the floor immediately in front of the potty) last week and I was so shocked because he hadn't had an accident in . . . as long as I can remember. But, this entire time he's still worn a diaper at night. I mostly chalk this up to my personal laziness and love of a solid night's sleep. I didn't want to bother with him either waking me up to go to the bathroom or having to wake him up to go.
But, then I realized that he was waking up soaked through his diaper almost every night AND I was already waking up 2-3 times a night to pee anyway. So, why just take him to the potty whenever I woke up. There would be no additional waking for me and no cleaning up of a wet boy, jammies and bed in the morning. Easy peasy, right?
Wrong.
Night 1: Lucas went to sleep at 8:30pm, he went to the bathroom several times before bed (we have him try at least 2 times during the whole bedtime routine). Put him on the potty at 10pm when we went to bed. I woke up at 1am and tried to get him to go. He didn't. He wandered into our room completely drenched at 3am. Spent 30-40 minutes cleaning him up, changing him into new jammies. Put him on the potty. Brought him to our bed (to avoid cleaning up his bed at the moment). Spent the next few hours unable to sleep because he was flipping around.
Night 2: Lucas went to sleep at 8pm. He went to the bathroom several times before bed. Put him on the potty at 10:30pm when I went to bed. I woke up at 3am and went to get him to put him on the potty. He was slumbering peacefully but completely soaked. Spent 30 minutes cleaning him up, changing him into new jammies. Put him on the potty. Brought him into our bed (to avoid cleaning up his bed at the moment). We all slept. Woke up at 7am to a wet spot on our bed where he peed.
OMG. Seriously. How in the world does this kid have So. Much. Pee? He does not drink a lot in the evening. In fact, last night he had a small glass of water with dinner and a small glass of milk after dinner. How does that equal so much pee?
I am so frustrated. I know it's only been two nights. But there is a huge difference between me taking one minute to stumble to the bathroom and back when I personally wake up to pee and losing about an hour of sleep (or more) to clean up a wet kid. Should we keep with it? Have any brilliant ideas? Clearly he isn't waking up to a sensation of needing to go or even always waking up when he is SOAKING WET.
At the very least, I am going to put this on hold for a few nights. I'm so exhausted from not sleeping well anyway (waking to pee, unable to get comfortable, etc) and our dryer belt broke the other night. I don't have enough spare sheets and blankets for his bed to keep this up until I can do some laundry!
Advice welcome!
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
But, then I realized that he was waking up soaked through his diaper almost every night AND I was already waking up 2-3 times a night to pee anyway. So, why just take him to the potty whenever I woke up. There would be no additional waking for me and no cleaning up of a wet boy, jammies and bed in the morning. Easy peasy, right?
Wrong.
Night 1: Lucas went to sleep at 8:30pm, he went to the bathroom several times before bed (we have him try at least 2 times during the whole bedtime routine). Put him on the potty at 10pm when we went to bed. I woke up at 1am and tried to get him to go. He didn't. He wandered into our room completely drenched at 3am. Spent 30-40 minutes cleaning him up, changing him into new jammies. Put him on the potty. Brought him to our bed (to avoid cleaning up his bed at the moment). Spent the next few hours unable to sleep because he was flipping around.
Night 2: Lucas went to sleep at 8pm. He went to the bathroom several times before bed. Put him on the potty at 10:30pm when I went to bed. I woke up at 3am and went to get him to put him on the potty. He was slumbering peacefully but completely soaked. Spent 30 minutes cleaning him up, changing him into new jammies. Put him on the potty. Brought him into our bed (to avoid cleaning up his bed at the moment). We all slept. Woke up at 7am to a wet spot on our bed where he peed.
OMG. Seriously. How in the world does this kid have So. Much. Pee? He does not drink a lot in the evening. In fact, last night he had a small glass of water with dinner and a small glass of milk after dinner. How does that equal so much pee?
I am so frustrated. I know it's only been two nights. But there is a huge difference between me taking one minute to stumble to the bathroom and back when I personally wake up to pee and losing about an hour of sleep (or more) to clean up a wet kid. Should we keep with it? Have any brilliant ideas? Clearly he isn't waking up to a sensation of needing to go or even always waking up when he is SOAKING WET.
At the very least, I am going to put this on hold for a few nights. I'm so exhausted from not sleeping well anyway (waking to pee, unable to get comfortable, etc) and our dryer belt broke the other night. I don't have enough spare sheets and blankets for his bed to keep this up until I can do some laundry!
Advice welcome!
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Overheard
Scene: Abel is upstairs giving Lucas a bath.
Lucas: Washing is NOT necessary!
Abel: Washing IS necessary! You are taking a bath!
Lucas: NO! It is NOT necessary.
Hmmm...I didn't check behind Lucas's ears but hopefully Abel won this battle!
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Lucas: Washing is NOT necessary!
Abel: Washing IS necessary! You are taking a bath!
Lucas: NO! It is NOT necessary.
Hmmm...I didn't check behind Lucas's ears but hopefully Abel won this battle!
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
A fresh day
Of course after Monday's post, Lucas was an absolute doll Monday afternoon and evening. He came home from preschool SO EXCITED about his Scholastic book order. I picked the books out and didn't tell him about the order so he was very surprised and pleased to receive the books at school and get to bring them home. First thing after getting home, we sat at the table, had a little snack and read through three of the books. Later, we read two of them again--with him attentively on my lap the entire time.
Ha! That goes to show you, Mama!
After his snack I wanted him to help me make oatmeal cookies because it was his turn to take in the class snack today. I took about 15 minutes to prepare all the ingredients in little bowls (like they do on TV!) so he could help me with minimal mess. There were a lot more dishes to wash afterwards (I've mentioned that we don't have a dishwasher, right?) but having him easily and successfully help me was worth it. And, a good thing I took the time in advance as I had planned to make a double batch but when I got to the oats (critical ingredient in oatmeal cookies!) I barely had enough for one batch. We were bummed that this meant only a grand total of 3 extra cookies after counting out enough for the preschoolers and teachers, but I have a feeling Lucas and I will make them again soon!
I can't wait to get today's report about snack time. He was so excited to take in a snack that he made.
This totally isn't a cooking blog, but I have to share that I'm trying some new things to make my favorite baked goods more healthy. I've switched over to whole wheat flour and recently bought some whole wheat pastry flour, which I'm told is lighter (density wise, not calorie wise!). I've tried incorporating ground flax into recipes in substitution for oil (not much success yet, I will report in when I get something that isn't as heavy as a brick!). With this recipe, I used 1/2 white sugar and 1/2 Sucanat, a natural cane sugar. That worked really well so next time I'll try using all Sucanat in place of white sugar or I may substitute raw honey for the white sugar and Sucanat for the brown sugar. I am very good at following recipes so it is a little stressful for me to try tinkering with them (especially when I get disappointing results!) so I'm trying little changes at a time.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Ha! That goes to show you, Mama!
After his snack I wanted him to help me make oatmeal cookies because it was his turn to take in the class snack today. I took about 15 minutes to prepare all the ingredients in little bowls (like they do on TV!) so he could help me with minimal mess. There were a lot more dishes to wash afterwards (I've mentioned that we don't have a dishwasher, right?) but having him easily and successfully help me was worth it. And, a good thing I took the time in advance as I had planned to make a double batch but when I got to the oats (critical ingredient in oatmeal cookies!) I barely had enough for one batch. We were bummed that this meant only a grand total of 3 extra cookies after counting out enough for the preschoolers and teachers, but I have a feeling Lucas and I will make them again soon!
I can't wait to get today's report about snack time. He was so excited to take in a snack that he made.
This totally isn't a cooking blog, but I have to share that I'm trying some new things to make my favorite baked goods more healthy. I've switched over to whole wheat flour and recently bought some whole wheat pastry flour, which I'm told is lighter (density wise, not calorie wise!). I've tried incorporating ground flax into recipes in substitution for oil (not much success yet, I will report in when I get something that isn't as heavy as a brick!). With this recipe, I used 1/2 white sugar and 1/2 Sucanat, a natural cane sugar. That worked really well so next time I'll try using all Sucanat in place of white sugar or I may substitute raw honey for the white sugar and Sucanat for the brown sugar. I am very good at following recipes so it is a little stressful for me to try tinkering with them (especially when I get disappointing results!) so I'm trying little changes at a time.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Monday, September 28, 2009
So hard
I think one of the main reasons I was hoping for a girl was not really the pretty pink clothes (although: bonus!) but because I just have it in my head that girls must be easier. They play quietly. They sit quietly. They don't have to be moving all the time. They don't pull on you or jump on you or tackle you.
Right? Right?
(I'm sure some mothers of girls are laughing hysterically right now.)
The thing is that Lucas is just so crazy and over the top physical. He doesn't sit still. He is all about big movements--jumping, running, tackling his mama. He is loud.
And sometimes it is really, really hard.
Sometimes I just want a child who will play quietly. Who will sit in my lap for more than four pages of a book before he starts wandering around the room or playing with other toys (while still wanting you to read to him, of course). Someone who will walk next to me when we are out without me having to have a death grip on his wrist (yes, wrist; hand-to-hand is much too easy to slip out of).
This weekend was particularly rough. Allergy season has arrived and with it ended our few month respite from Lucas's respiratory problems. We started nebulizer treatments last week and those inhaled steroids make him crazy. More crazy than usual. Sunday I had to run out to the grocery store for one item before dinner. He came with me. I didn't think about the fact that he had just finished a treatment and let him walk with me instead of getting a cart. One item turned into four, but we still zipped through very quickly. After the 10 minutes it took to get through the check-out line, however, it was all I could do to get to the car before breaking down in tears.
Lucas was running around, jumping, bumping the cart in front of us and grabbing everything in sight. When I tried to hold on to him he started YELLING that I was hurting him. (I was not.) I really can not adequately describe it but I felt like the worst mother in the world. Like I had the worst child in the world. What an awful feeling.
Later at home I was crying again. (Lucas didn't see my tears on the drive home.) And he came over to give me the biggest hug. He opened the living room window (with some help) so that "the birdies can sing you a song and make you happy." He brought me his most favorite cars to cheer me up. He was his wonderful, amazing, kind and loving self.
Later that night, after his bath, he sat on my lap and I cuddled with him. I apologized for yelling at him and told him how much I love him. He said, "I forgive you, Mama. I love you, too."
I wouldn't change Lucas for anything in the world. But sometimes it is just so, so hard.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Right? Right?
(I'm sure some mothers of girls are laughing hysterically right now.)
The thing is that Lucas is just so crazy and over the top physical. He doesn't sit still. He is all about big movements--jumping, running, tackling his mama. He is loud.
And sometimes it is really, really hard.
Sometimes I just want a child who will play quietly. Who will sit in my lap for more than four pages of a book before he starts wandering around the room or playing with other toys (while still wanting you to read to him, of course). Someone who will walk next to me when we are out without me having to have a death grip on his wrist (yes, wrist; hand-to-hand is much too easy to slip out of).
This weekend was particularly rough. Allergy season has arrived and with it ended our few month respite from Lucas's respiratory problems. We started nebulizer treatments last week and those inhaled steroids make him crazy. More crazy than usual. Sunday I had to run out to the grocery store for one item before dinner. He came with me. I didn't think about the fact that he had just finished a treatment and let him walk with me instead of getting a cart. One item turned into four, but we still zipped through very quickly. After the 10 minutes it took to get through the check-out line, however, it was all I could do to get to the car before breaking down in tears.
Lucas was running around, jumping, bumping the cart in front of us and grabbing everything in sight. When I tried to hold on to him he started YELLING that I was hurting him. (I was not.) I really can not adequately describe it but I felt like the worst mother in the world. Like I had the worst child in the world. What an awful feeling.
Later at home I was crying again. (Lucas didn't see my tears on the drive home.) And he came over to give me the biggest hug. He opened the living room window (with some help) so that "the birdies can sing you a song and make you happy." He brought me his most favorite cars to cheer me up. He was his wonderful, amazing, kind and loving self.
Later that night, after his bath, he sat on my lap and I cuddled with him. I apologized for yelling at him and told him how much I love him. He said, "I forgive you, Mama. I love you, too."
I wouldn't change Lucas for anything in the world. But sometimes it is just so, so hard.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Playing the Name Game
Now that we officially know that Baby #2 is Boy #2, Abel and I have started getting serious about names. It took literally hours and hours of reading through lists, vetoing left and right and getting suggestions from family and friends to come up with Lucas last time around. We had one other boy name under consideration, Gus, which despite many people telling us they hated it, we both really liked. (It still bubbles up in conversation these days so be careful not to share your intense hatred if that's how you feel!)
As for a girl, we were all set: Isabel Ramona. Isabel is a name I've loved for years and years, long before I met Abel. And, as it happens to also be his mother's name, I can't think of anything more perfect for a daughter. I was a bit concerned with it's current popularity and had a slight fear that someone would think I named a daughter after the main character in the Twilight novels. So, if we eventually have a daughter in a few more years, maybe those issues will be resolved. Ramona, a name that is s l o w l y growing on me, is the name of Abel's maternal grandmother. For me--and perhaps you?--the first thing that comes to mind when I hear that name is crazy-haired, knock-kneed, Ramona Quimby! Oh how I loved those books when I was younger. But, really, is the the kind of character you want to name your daughter after?
Well, all that is moot anyway.
Back to boys.
As I mentioned, Lucas has been intent on calling the baby Lucas. Just yesterday, however, he got to meet the new baby brother of one of his friends. This baby's name is Thomas. Now, the name Thomas is a wonderful, solid name. One I like a great deal. But what does it evoke in any toddler or preschool aged boy? Thomas the Train! Lucas immediately suggested that we name our baby Percy, a leap that makes total sense: Percy is Lucas's favorite engine.
Let me be clear: Percy is not under consideration!
I've been scanning baby name websites and even borrowed a few baby name books from some moms in town. So far, it looks like we're both leaning toward Old Testament names. They do seem to be en vogue right now, don't they? Lucas is the Latin for Luke, a biblical name. And, of course, Abel fits in the Old Testament category as well.
We've got a few months to figure it all out so who knows what we'll come up with. In the meantime, though, I think it would be funny to start telling anyone who asks that we're naming the baby Cain.
As for a girl, we were all set: Isabel Ramona. Isabel is a name I've loved for years and years, long before I met Abel. And, as it happens to also be his mother's name, I can't think of anything more perfect for a daughter. I was a bit concerned with it's current popularity and had a slight fear that someone would think I named a daughter after the main character in the Twilight novels. So, if we eventually have a daughter in a few more years, maybe those issues will be resolved. Ramona, a name that is s l o w l y growing on me, is the name of Abel's maternal grandmother. For me--and perhaps you?--the first thing that comes to mind when I hear that name is crazy-haired, knock-kneed, Ramona Quimby! Oh how I loved those books when I was younger. But, really, is the the kind of character you want to name your daughter after?
Well, all that is moot anyway.
Back to boys.
As I mentioned, Lucas has been intent on calling the baby Lucas. Just yesterday, however, he got to meet the new baby brother of one of his friends. This baby's name is Thomas. Now, the name Thomas is a wonderful, solid name. One I like a great deal. But what does it evoke in any toddler or preschool aged boy? Thomas the Train! Lucas immediately suggested that we name our baby Percy, a leap that makes total sense: Percy is Lucas's favorite engine.
Let me be clear: Percy is not under consideration!
I've been scanning baby name websites and even borrowed a few baby name books from some moms in town. So far, it looks like we're both leaning toward Old Testament names. They do seem to be en vogue right now, don't they? Lucas is the Latin for Luke, a biblical name. And, of course, Abel fits in the Old Testament category as well.
We've got a few months to figure it all out so who knows what we'll come up with. In the meantime, though, I think it would be funny to start telling anyone who asks that we're naming the baby Cain.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Finding our Groove
This is the first week of the new school and work schedule for Lucas and me and we're still working on finding our groove. Lucas loves school--he's making new friends and brings home new art projects every day.
He also is very, very happy to see me at pick-up time which is such a great feeling. The school is on a big hill and every day (in nice weather) they dismiss the kids from the top of the outdoor steps with all the parents waiting below. (That way they can dismiss the kids one by one without a big crowd of parents and kids getting all mixed up.) The feeling when Lucas spots me, waves, then hurries down the steps wearing his backpack and clutching his latest work of art is just priceless. He gives me a big hug at the bottom of the steps and we walk home.
This next statement will sound crazy to all my full-time working readers, but I've had to go into the office three days in a row now (tomorrow it will be four) and it is exhausting! I'm only at work for five hours each day but just the idea of getting up and out the door early every day without breaks in-between is a real mental shift after having Tuesdays, Thursday afternoons and Fridays off for past three years. Now, I'll most certainly be singing a different tune this Friday when I drop Lucas off and then have 6.5 hours ALL TO MYSELF before pick-up time! I've got a rigorous schedule planned for my first solo Friday: take a nice walk, head home to shower and get ready then meet two fabulous friends for a L O N G lunch. If I am able to squeeze in a pedicure then it will be the perfect day :)
I'm sure I'll get used to is soon enough, but as of now, this going to work every day thing is for the birds!
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
He also is very, very happy to see me at pick-up time which is such a great feeling. The school is on a big hill and every day (in nice weather) they dismiss the kids from the top of the outdoor steps with all the parents waiting below. (That way they can dismiss the kids one by one without a big crowd of parents and kids getting all mixed up.) The feeling when Lucas spots me, waves, then hurries down the steps wearing his backpack and clutching his latest work of art is just priceless. He gives me a big hug at the bottom of the steps and we walk home.
This next statement will sound crazy to all my full-time working readers, but I've had to go into the office three days in a row now (tomorrow it will be four) and it is exhausting! I'm only at work for five hours each day but just the idea of getting up and out the door early every day without breaks in-between is a real mental shift after having Tuesdays, Thursday afternoons and Fridays off for past three years. Now, I'll most certainly be singing a different tune this Friday when I drop Lucas off and then have 6.5 hours ALL TO MYSELF before pick-up time! I've got a rigorous schedule planned for my first solo Friday: take a nice walk, head home to shower and get ready then meet two fabulous friends for a L O N G lunch. If I am able to squeeze in a pedicure then it will be the perfect day :)
I'm sure I'll get used to is soon enough, but as of now, this going to work every day thing is for the birds!
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
The Kindness of Strangers
We had two encounters with very kind strangers today. The kind of encounters that not only renew your overall faith in people but make you vow to try to be kinder to strangers yourself.
First, on our way into Panera for lunch, Lucas's hand got hit by the door. It didn't close on him, but almost did. Lucas started wailing. A man was walking in right behind us and saw the entire thing. He asked if Lucas was okay and then went into the restaurant. To be honest, I would have judged him as someone who wouldn't have given us a second thought. He was in his 30s and was wearing very hip clothing (just the fact that I can't adequately describe his clothes better than that shows you how totally un-hip I am these days!). But, by the time I got Lucas calmed down and started inside to get some ice from the soda dispenser (all I could think to do) he had gone to the counter and had gotten some ice in a little baggie for us. It was so unexpected and completely appreciated.
After Panera, Lucas and I hit up the 'ole Safeway for a grocery store run. As usual, Lucas begged for a toy and, as usual, I gave in. For most of the trip around the store, he was holding two different $1.99 matchbox cars but I repeated several times that he was only getting one and would have to choose. He finally chose and then, of course, regretted it and started begging for the other car as soon as we were through check-out.
Too late, Buddy.
I stopped at the ATM on the way out and he was throwing a not-quite-full-fledged tantrum about wanting the other car. I was ignoring him. About that time, an older gentleman came up and tried to say hello to Lucas. Honestly, I was a little annoyed. Couldn't he see that Lucas was in no state to be polite to a stranger? I finished my transaction and he launched into a story about Opie and Andy from the show Mayberry. I'm thinking, seriously, I just want to get to my car and unload the groceries and Lucas into it!
He continued about an episode where Opie's friend taught him to throw a "fit" so Opie could get a new bike. Long story short, Andy just ignored Opie and he eventually wore himself out and later reported to his friend that "fits" just weren't worth the effort.
The man said that Lucas was a really cute kid and even though these times were hard they sure do go by quickly. After all, his son was about 3 years old just a few months ago and now he's 16!
By the end of our conversation, Lucas was smiling and laughing. And so was I.
Thanks for the reminders, Sirs.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
First, on our way into Panera for lunch, Lucas's hand got hit by the door. It didn't close on him, but almost did. Lucas started wailing. A man was walking in right behind us and saw the entire thing. He asked if Lucas was okay and then went into the restaurant. To be honest, I would have judged him as someone who wouldn't have given us a second thought. He was in his 30s and was wearing very hip clothing (just the fact that I can't adequately describe his clothes better than that shows you how totally un-hip I am these days!). But, by the time I got Lucas calmed down and started inside to get some ice from the soda dispenser (all I could think to do) he had gone to the counter and had gotten some ice in a little baggie for us. It was so unexpected and completely appreciated.
After Panera, Lucas and I hit up the 'ole Safeway for a grocery store run. As usual, Lucas begged for a toy and, as usual, I gave in. For most of the trip around the store, he was holding two different $1.99 matchbox cars but I repeated several times that he was only getting one and would have to choose. He finally chose and then, of course, regretted it and started begging for the other car as soon as we were through check-out.
Too late, Buddy.
I stopped at the ATM on the way out and he was throwing a not-quite-full-fledged tantrum about wanting the other car. I was ignoring him. About that time, an older gentleman came up and tried to say hello to Lucas. Honestly, I was a little annoyed. Couldn't he see that Lucas was in no state to be polite to a stranger? I finished my transaction and he launched into a story about Opie and Andy from the show Mayberry. I'm thinking, seriously, I just want to get to my car and unload the groceries and Lucas into it!
He continued about an episode where Opie's friend taught him to throw a "fit" so Opie could get a new bike. Long story short, Andy just ignored Opie and he eventually wore himself out and later reported to his friend that "fits" just weren't worth the effort.
The man said that Lucas was a really cute kid and even though these times were hard they sure do go by quickly. After all, his son was about 3 years old just a few months ago and now he's 16!
By the end of our conversation, Lucas was smiling and laughing. And so was I.
Thanks for the reminders, Sirs.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Morning Person
10 years ago
At some point toward the end of our freshman year of college, my roommate--who was, by then, a very close friend--confided to me that every single morning all year she wracked her brain trying to think of what she did or said the night before to make me so mad at her.
Well, she did row crew so I was none too pleased about the 4:30am alarm every single week day.
But, mostly, I sheepishly explained, I'm just not a morning person.
3 years ago
When Lucas was just a little guy, just a few months old, he'd wake up first thing and I'd hear him cooing next to me in his little bassinet. I'd pull him into bed and take him all in. We'd stare at each other laughing and giggling together for the next 30 minutes.
This morning
The alarm went off and I hit snooze. A few minutes later I heard a loud "yay!" followed by clapping from Lucas's room. That roused me from bed and I went in to see what all the excitement was about. There was my adorable little boy--rosy cheeks, tousled hair--smiling up at the ceiling.
"Why did you clap, Buddy?"
"Because I love you!"
And so I got into bed and snuggled with him. We played silly make believe games for the next 10 minutes. Indeed, that was a much better use of my snooze time.
I'm still not a morning person--far from it. But I certainly have had some wonderful mornings thanks to my darling son who definitely is.
The alarm went off and I hit snooze. A few minutes later I heard a loud "yay!" followed by clapping from Lucas's room. That roused me from bed and I went in to see what all the excitement was about. There was my adorable little boy--rosy cheeks, tousled hair--smiling up at the ceiling.
"Why did you clap, Buddy?"
"Because I love you!"
And so I got into bed and snuggled with him. We played silly make believe games for the next 10 minutes. Indeed, that was a much better use of my snooze time.
I'm still not a morning person--far from it. But I certainly have had some wonderful mornings thanks to my darling son who definitely is.
Original post by Smiling Mama. Thanks for reading!
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