Kind of....
So I've been thinking about this for the last two months and I'm really going to push forward. I am NOT calling this a New Year's Resolution because it's not. It's more like a lesson in discipline.
A friend often refers to herself as the "least disciplined person I know." I've contemplated her statement several times and wondered how disciplined I am. And the answer was not a positive as I'd hoped. I am disciplined in certain areas of my life, but when it comes to coffee, especially Starbucks coffee, I am so undisciplined it is not even funny.
Over the past year, I have often used a "bad day" as an excuse to get a coffee. My definition of a bad day varied widely. So what it really came down to is that I wanted a coffee and I found any excuse to get one. My bank account can't afford my "bad days" anymore.
Now the reason I am saying "kind of" is that I am allowing for a few exceptions. For example, when we go out of town, we often get a coffee on the way out. This is allowable. Or if Ryan and I go on a date and end up talking over coffee, that is allowed also. But by and large, I will not be stopping by Starbucks as part of my weekly routine (I used to stop every Thursday before Moms group).
I am committed to becoming a more disciplined person and the only way to start is to give up the hardest habit I have.
See ya later, Starbucks.
Sunday, December 28, 2014
Monday, December 1, 2014
Reagan and Kyleigh - November 2014
Notes from last month:
Reagan:
Kyleigh:
Reagan:
- Bringing learning concepts from preschool (recognizing letters, counting everything, etc)
- Requests to play Duck, Duck, Goose daily
- Has moments where he seems uncontrollable, like a force of destruction!
- Still has competition moments with Kyleigh
Kyleigh:
- Does an almost perfect forward somersault
- Loves jumping, especially on a trampoline
- Says "Is me?" instead of "Am I" for all questions
- My earliest riser :( Climbs in my bed every morning (usually around 6/615) and says "I need to be covered" as she lays next to me
- Decided on 11/18 she wanted to use the potty, so we've been working on it the last half the month
- Trying (and doing fairly well) to dress herself
- Miss independent - knows what she wants and when she wants it
- Doing better with obeying, but still likes to run off
Monday, November 24, 2014
Potty Training Anniversary
I can't believe it was a year ago today (Monday) that I woke up and decided to potty train Reagan. I usually don't make rash decisions like that, but I did on that Monday morning! Reagan caught on to the pee part fairly quickly. Of course, he still had accidents, but it was great to have him learn so fast.
However, the poop part took a little bit longer to train. I knew that was likely, but around this summer, I was at my wits end trying to get him to poop on the potty. He just resisted like no other. Then, it finally clicked!!! It took a lot of various types of bribing (and some nakedness if I knew he needed to poop!) and it was like a light bulb went off and he just started pooping on the potty.
Back in July, he was potty training at night also. He only had one accident at night after he stopped wearing night time pull ups and was night time trained very quickly.
I'm happy to report that I have one completely diaper/pull up free child!!!
However, the poop part took a little bit longer to train. I knew that was likely, but around this summer, I was at my wits end trying to get him to poop on the potty. He just resisted like no other. Then, it finally clicked!!! It took a lot of various types of bribing (and some nakedness if I knew he needed to poop!) and it was like a light bulb went off and he just started pooping on the potty.
Back in July, he was potty training at night also. He only had one accident at night after he stopped wearing night time pull ups and was night time trained very quickly.
I'm happy to report that I have one completely diaper/pull up free child!!!
Friday, November 21, 2014
Potty Training Kyleigh, Round 2
As I was nursing Rylan on Tuesday morning (November 18th), Kyleigh walked into her room and announced to me that she needed to go pee pee on the potty. I told her to take off her diaper and sit on the potty. I didn't expect her to actually go pee, but she ran back into Rylan's room enthusiastically stating "I went pee pee on the potty, Mommy!!!!!" I checked and sure enough, the water in the toilet was slightly yellowed (sorry for the graphics!). I gave her a treat and thought nothing of this one time incident.
Later that Tuesday, I asked her several times if she wanted to go pee pee on the potty again and she had virtually no interest. I admit, I was a little bummed, but wasn't going to push her.
Wednesday morning after she woke up, I suggested she try going potty again and she willingly walked into the bathroom and stripped off all her clothes and successfully went pee pee again. Again, I thought nothing of this. That is until a few minutes later she ran back into the bathroom, ripped off her fresh diaper and began going potty again. She repeated this a few times on Wednesday morning. I think she had 3 successful trips to the bathroom. Since I still had pull ups from our last go around, I decided not to use a diaper the rest of the day so attempting to use the potty would be easier. I did notice that after naptime on both Tuesday and Wednesday, she had no interest in trying to use the potty.
Then Thursday came. She again had successful trips to the bathroom in the morning prior to leaving for preschool. However, we spent a significant portion of the morning away from home, so I put her in a pull up before leaving the house. She never told me she needed to go potty while we were out and about, and she definitely peed into the pull up at least once, if not more. After naptime on Thursday, though, she was more interested in using the potty. I told her about wearing "big girl" underwear and that if she needed to go, she had to use the potty. She very much seemed to understand what I was saying. She did have her first accident (on her bed, of course!) shortly after I put the underwear on her. She was very apologetic, "I'm sorry, mommy, for going pee pee in my underwear." I reassured her I wasn't upset, but that next time she needs to go to the bathroom. She had a few more successful trips before heading to bed on Thursday night.
Here I am typing this post half-way through Friday. Once again, Kyleigh had a very successful morning - at least four or five trips to the bathroom and only one accident right before lunch. She did have her first poop accident this morning, and she was again very apologetic about it. And I again reassured her I wasn't upset with her for the accident. At this young age, she is fairly predictable with her BMs, so I'll need to keep a close eye on her around the time I think she needs to go.
If you would have asked me at the beginning of the week what my plans were, potty training would NOT have been a part of it! I find myself in the throws of potty training again, but that's okay. I wouldn't have picked this week, but Kyleigh did. And she's doing a fantastic job!
If there is one thing I've learned from potty training, it's that you can't expect one method to work for every child. You might be saying "you're just now figuring that out?!" but I really thought I could approach potty training the same with all of my kids. I tried what worked with Reagan on Kyleigh and initially, it did work. However, it didn't stick. Kyleigh just needed a little more time and that's fine. She's learning now and I'm so excited for her!
Later that Tuesday, I asked her several times if she wanted to go pee pee on the potty again and she had virtually no interest. I admit, I was a little bummed, but wasn't going to push her.
Wednesday morning after she woke up, I suggested she try going potty again and she willingly walked into the bathroom and stripped off all her clothes and successfully went pee pee again. Again, I thought nothing of this. That is until a few minutes later she ran back into the bathroom, ripped off her fresh diaper and began going potty again. She repeated this a few times on Wednesday morning. I think she had 3 successful trips to the bathroom. Since I still had pull ups from our last go around, I decided not to use a diaper the rest of the day so attempting to use the potty would be easier. I did notice that after naptime on both Tuesday and Wednesday, she had no interest in trying to use the potty.
Then Thursday came. She again had successful trips to the bathroom in the morning prior to leaving for preschool. However, we spent a significant portion of the morning away from home, so I put her in a pull up before leaving the house. She never told me she needed to go potty while we were out and about, and she definitely peed into the pull up at least once, if not more. After naptime on Thursday, though, she was more interested in using the potty. I told her about wearing "big girl" underwear and that if she needed to go, she had to use the potty. She very much seemed to understand what I was saying. She did have her first accident (on her bed, of course!) shortly after I put the underwear on her. She was very apologetic, "I'm sorry, mommy, for going pee pee in my underwear." I reassured her I wasn't upset, but that next time she needs to go to the bathroom. She had a few more successful trips before heading to bed on Thursday night.
Here I am typing this post half-way through Friday. Once again, Kyleigh had a very successful morning - at least four or five trips to the bathroom and only one accident right before lunch. She did have her first poop accident this morning, and she was again very apologetic about it. And I again reassured her I wasn't upset with her for the accident. At this young age, she is fairly predictable with her BMs, so I'll need to keep a close eye on her around the time I think she needs to go.
If you would have asked me at the beginning of the week what my plans were, potty training would NOT have been a part of it! I find myself in the throws of potty training again, but that's okay. I wouldn't have picked this week, but Kyleigh did. And she's doing a fantastic job!
If there is one thing I've learned from potty training, it's that you can't expect one method to work for every child. You might be saying "you're just now figuring that out?!" but I really thought I could approach potty training the same with all of my kids. I tried what worked with Reagan on Kyleigh and initially, it did work. However, it didn't stick. Kyleigh just needed a little more time and that's fine. She's learning now and I'm so excited for her!
Tuesday, November 11, 2014
A Date with Kyleigh
I couldn't work out this morning because there was a Fall Festival planned at Reagan's preschool that started at 10a. So I had about 45 minutes of time to kill before needing to get back to the Y for the festival.
What better way to spend the time with Kyleigh than get a treat (aka cookie) from the bakery at Mariano's? I did have Rylan with me, but she's still in the infant carrier and didn't make much of a fuss. It was a short, but very special time for me to spend with Kyleigh.
I try very hard to prevent her from feeling like the middle child, but at this point, I think some of her negative behavior stems from not getting enough attention. She can keep up with Reagan, but isn't allowed to do everything he does (preschool, AWANA, etc). And she's older than Rylan, but Rylan gets a lot of attention for the new skills she's learning. Enter middle child syndrome. I am acutely aware of this and do my best to make sure Kyleigh doesn't get the shaft just because she's the middle one.
Even though Rylan is with us on Tuesday mornings, I would like to continue this date hour with her. She's not competing with her big brother for my attention or for conversation. It's just the girls and for now, at least, Kyleigh's the only one who can do the talking with me! This is a great time of bonding that I intend to do throughout the remainder of Reagan's school year.
What better way to spend the time with Kyleigh than get a treat (aka cookie) from the bakery at Mariano's? I did have Rylan with me, but she's still in the infant carrier and didn't make much of a fuss. It was a short, but very special time for me to spend with Kyleigh.
I try very hard to prevent her from feeling like the middle child, but at this point, I think some of her negative behavior stems from not getting enough attention. She can keep up with Reagan, but isn't allowed to do everything he does (preschool, AWANA, etc). And she's older than Rylan, but Rylan gets a lot of attention for the new skills she's learning. Enter middle child syndrome. I am acutely aware of this and do my best to make sure Kyleigh doesn't get the shaft just because she's the middle one.
Even though Rylan is with us on Tuesday mornings, I would like to continue this date hour with her. She's not competing with her big brother for my attention or for conversation. It's just the girls and for now, at least, Kyleigh's the only one who can do the talking with me! This is a great time of bonding that I intend to do throughout the remainder of Reagan's school year.
Sunday, November 2, 2014
Reagan and Kyleigh - October 2014
Notes from last month
Reagan:
Reagan:
- Prefers reading princess books
- Comes to talk to me with a "sad" face when things happen
- Starting to see an introverted side (mostly when he's over tired)
- Very concerned about others (needs to tell me everything about other kids)
- Showing competition with Kyleigh
- Still having difficulty when I leave him at preschool
- Doing great with letter recognition (R is a letter in my name; L is a letter in Kyleigh's name, etc)
- Gives me a kiss on the cheek immediately after I give him a kiss
- Obsessed with pumpkins (aka punkins)
- Says everything needs to be done with a happy heart
- Kisses her own boo boos
- Pats her own back if she's "choking"
- Picks her nose constantly
- A very sweet side is coming out, especially with Rylan (talking to her, giving her toys if she's upset, etc)
- Throws things across the room if she's upset or doesn't get what she wants
- Walks backwards away from you if she's in trouble
- Fighting naptime-will come out 4-5 times before giving in and falling asleep
- Becoming a daddy's girl
- Refers to Reagan's bed as his "boy big bed"
- Loves to undress herself
- Trying to become independent and do things Reagan does (like wanting to dress herself)
- Says "Watch this, Mom" several times a day
- Competes with Reagan for my attention
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
My Current Calling in Life
In a very round about way, I was reaffirmed of my current calling in life as a stay at home mom. It was very refreshing to get this affirmation., as the past month has been very difficult in this house!
Reagan awoke around 4:45am Tuesday morning with a very high temperature. No one likes to have a sick child and things never go as planned when you unexpectedly wake up to a warm child with slightly difficult breathing. However, that's what happened yesterday. You would think I received my affirmation because I was able to stay home and comfort Reagan while he was ill. But, no, that's not when I found myself thinking about my calling. Rather, it was begrudgingly accepting the fact that Reagan and I would need to stay home from Parents Night and Fairmont Fair that was occurring at AWANA this particular Tuesday night. Ryan and I decided Kyleigh should still get to attend the Fair, despite being to young to be in the AWANA program. This was for all kids and their families. Ryan got home from work just in time to change and take Kyleigh to church for the festivities.
That's when it hit me. I was very disappointed that Reagan and I would have to stay home and miss all the excitement of Parents Night and Fairmont Fair. After all, Fairmont Fair is a lot of fun for the kids. As I reflected on my disappointment on missing out and not observing Kyleigh's excitement at the Fair, I realized I wouldn't want my life to be any other way. I love being able to experience life with the kids. I love watching their every reaction to new things and discovering what this thing called life is all about. I love the squeals of telling them we're going to the park. I love the jumping around when I tell them we're making cookies in the afternoon. I love it all and I get to be a part of their life. Every day. This is what I'm called to do in my life right now and for that, I am incredibly thankful.
It was a sweet reminder from the Lord. Over the past month, I have often questioned if I should go back to work because I didn't like my life and the difficulty of raising two toddlers and a baby. However, the Lord took a high fever to remind me I am exactly where He wants me to be.
Reagan awoke around 4:45am Tuesday morning with a very high temperature. No one likes to have a sick child and things never go as planned when you unexpectedly wake up to a warm child with slightly difficult breathing. However, that's what happened yesterday. You would think I received my affirmation because I was able to stay home and comfort Reagan while he was ill. But, no, that's not when I found myself thinking about my calling. Rather, it was begrudgingly accepting the fact that Reagan and I would need to stay home from Parents Night and Fairmont Fair that was occurring at AWANA this particular Tuesday night. Ryan and I decided Kyleigh should still get to attend the Fair, despite being to young to be in the AWANA program. This was for all kids and their families. Ryan got home from work just in time to change and take Kyleigh to church for the festivities.
That's when it hit me. I was very disappointed that Reagan and I would have to stay home and miss all the excitement of Parents Night and Fairmont Fair. After all, Fairmont Fair is a lot of fun for the kids. As I reflected on my disappointment on missing out and not observing Kyleigh's excitement at the Fair, I realized I wouldn't want my life to be any other way. I love being able to experience life with the kids. I love watching their every reaction to new things and discovering what this thing called life is all about. I love the squeals of telling them we're going to the park. I love the jumping around when I tell them we're making cookies in the afternoon. I love it all and I get to be a part of their life. Every day. This is what I'm called to do in my life right now and for that, I am incredibly thankful.
It was a sweet reminder from the Lord. Over the past month, I have often questioned if I should go back to work because I didn't like my life and the difficulty of raising two toddlers and a baby. However, the Lord took a high fever to remind me I am exactly where He wants me to be.
Wednesday, October 1, 2014
Reagan and Kyleigh - September 2014
Some notes:
Reagan:
Reagan:
- Took a big interest in Rylan this month (playing with her, comforting her when she cried, tried picking her up, etc) and really loved on her
- Talks to Rylan and says, "You think you're so funny" several times a day
- Cries when I leave him at school, but the teacher insists he stops within a minute after I leave
- Every time I pick him up from school, he tells me first about snack time and then I ask about his friends and he only tells me about the girls he plays with (Jasmina and Alexis)
- Starting to act like a baby at times (refuses to use words and just grunts or squeals to try to communicate)
- Started Cubbies and really enjoys it
- Still loves to read; memorizes books so he can "read" to himself
- Favorite movies are Thomas movies
- Obsessed with her toothbrush (or any toothbrush for that matter!) and brushing her teeth
- Likes to take empty hangers from her closet and hang them on the dresser knobs
- Fell out of her bed after sleeping successfully in it for 2 weeks
- Still being very disobedient and naughty (although, I've seen mild improvement)
- Takes her socks and shoes off as soon as she can (even on our way to places)
- Can recite most of The Lord's Prayer at bedtime
- Saying "sorry, mom" more often (last week of Sept)
- Sometimes climbs into Reagan's bed at night and will sleep there for a time
- Tries to be very helpful and brings things to you, even if unwanted (water, phone, etc)
- Gets annoyed with Rylan if Rylan gets in her space (like on the step stool)
- But also tries to comfort Rylan with toys if she's upset
- Took a nasty fall off the playground (6'+) and landed flat on her back
- Loves to cuddle up on your lap and read book (or watch movies)
- Still loves to read and has begun memorizing books
- Loves Thomas movies
- Does NOT like to have a dirty diaper and removes it promptly, even if I am unable to change her at the moment. It often happens while she's playing in the basement and I'm upstairs feeding Rylan or doing stuff upstairs. She'll come upstairs diaperless and often poop has gotten on the carpet...grrrr!
Monday, September 29, 2014
Cleaning Up
I'm always trying to find a balance between keeping a clean (haha!) home and just letting go for the sake of enjoying my kids while they are young. It is a VERY difficult balance because I can't stand living in clutter and unclean countertops, but I also LOVE watching the kids play and observing their imaginations at work. So...I'm sure I'll continue on the never ending circle of finding the right balance that works for my family.
I've read on blogs and seen pins on Pinterest about just letting the mess go and embracing it for this time in my life. They are only little once, right? I've let myself believe that the last 2 1/2 years I've been home (side note - crazy that I've been home for almost 2 1/2 years!!!!). I've bought into the idea that enjoying them while they are little is more important than a clean house. And, while yes, I often choose my kids over cleaning, I believe there is nothing wrong with making the kids entertain themselves for awhile in order to tidy up a bit.
And then I read the most freeing blog post EVER! The jist of the post is that her house is picked up every night before going to bed. ALL FAMILY MEMEBERS ASSIST IN THIS PROCESS! Everyone gets assigned a task (or a room) to tidy up and the entire family is done within a 15 minute window. HOLY SMOKES, this lady is a genius! It dawned on me that I don't have to CHOOSE between a "tidy" house and spending quality time with my kids. I can have BOTH!
It's amazing how quickly the basement can be torn apart. I mean literally, it can happen in less than 5 minutes. Every single toy we own is scattered on the carpet. When those days happen, and they happen often, I assign each kid one set of toys to clean. Reagan is usually in charge of putting the trains and tracks away and Kyleigh is in charge of putting the kitchen away. I pick up the odds and ends (let's be honest - they "need" to be put into the correct bin, so I take care of those!) and the basement is cleaned in about 10 minutes or less. I had been doing this months prior to reading the post, but I always had some sort of guilt along with it. I'm not sure why I felt guilty, but I did. I never get any complaints about cleaning up the basement - the kids just know that this is part of our daily routine. In fact, after I assign Reagan his task, he's very quick to ask what MY task is!
While my house will never be as clean as I want it to be with young children in the house, I'm okay with that. BUT, I'm also okay with have the house tidy and the kids picking up their toys to be put away at the end of the day.
I've read on blogs and seen pins on Pinterest about just letting the mess go and embracing it for this time in my life. They are only little once, right? I've let myself believe that the last 2 1/2 years I've been home (side note - crazy that I've been home for almost 2 1/2 years!!!!). I've bought into the idea that enjoying them while they are little is more important than a clean house. And, while yes, I often choose my kids over cleaning, I believe there is nothing wrong with making the kids entertain themselves for awhile in order to tidy up a bit.
And then I read the most freeing blog post EVER! The jist of the post is that her house is picked up every night before going to bed. ALL FAMILY MEMEBERS ASSIST IN THIS PROCESS! Everyone gets assigned a task (or a room) to tidy up and the entire family is done within a 15 minute window. HOLY SMOKES, this lady is a genius! It dawned on me that I don't have to CHOOSE between a "tidy" house and spending quality time with my kids. I can have BOTH!
It's amazing how quickly the basement can be torn apart. I mean literally, it can happen in less than 5 minutes. Every single toy we own is scattered on the carpet. When those days happen, and they happen often, I assign each kid one set of toys to clean. Reagan is usually in charge of putting the trains and tracks away and Kyleigh is in charge of putting the kitchen away. I pick up the odds and ends (let's be honest - they "need" to be put into the correct bin, so I take care of those!) and the basement is cleaned in about 10 minutes or less. I had been doing this months prior to reading the post, but I always had some sort of guilt along with it. I'm not sure why I felt guilty, but I did. I never get any complaints about cleaning up the basement - the kids just know that this is part of our daily routine. In fact, after I assign Reagan his task, he's very quick to ask what MY task is!
While my house will never be as clean as I want it to be with young children in the house, I'm okay with that. BUT, I'm also okay with have the house tidy and the kids picking up their toys to be put away at the end of the day.
Tuesday, September 2, 2014
Reagan and Kyleigh - August 2014
Notes from August 2014:
Reagan:
Reagan:
- Very helpful when I ask him to do something for me
- Can basically dress himself now, but has a hard time removing his t-shirt
- Tall enough to pee into the toilet without a stool - yay!!
- Pooping into the potty instead of pants has improved
- If I tell him something, even if Kyleigh is standing right next to him, he insists on repeating what I said to Kyleigh
- Pronouncing three correctly now (no longer "free")
- Getting better at taking dishes to the sink without me reminding him
- Listening better to things I ask of him (ex: if he's downstairs and I call his name, he'll come right away and say "Yes, mom?"
- Can still be very hyper and it's hard to get him to listen when he's like that. He is also much rougher with Kyleigh in this state!
- Very naughty and sassy right now (yells no or screams at me)
- Wants to know where "the line" is and is constantly trying to push it further back
- Takes her diaper off during the night and then pees in the bed (first half of month)
- Good days and bad days of potty training (first half of month)
- Drinking water from the toilet - who does that????
- Still eating the cat food, but not daily
- Climbing out of crib or pack-n-play during nap or bed time
- Proficient at opening doors and uses this skill the most at bed time
- Obsessed with airplanes. Points them out EVERY time she sees one
- Stopped potty training (last week of August)
- Still loves reading Thomas books
- Still sniffing/blowing through nostrils on people
- Runs to where I am and announces "Reagan went poops on the potty" EVERY TIME
- Can be very sweet and loving. ON HER TERMS!
Friday, August 29, 2014
Potty Training FAIL
I am so discouraged as I type this post. After struggling the last three weeks, I have decided to take a break from potty training Kyleigh. And I can't tell you how much this feels like failure.
Kyleigh was doing such a great job before we left on vacation. I knew it was risky to start training her before vacation, but I went ahead anyway because she was so interested. The three long days of potty training over the Fourth of July turned out to be a success and Kyleigh seemed to catch on rather quickly the rest of the month.
Fast forward to the first week of August when we were on vacation. I continued to put her in underwear, unless we were going to be out of the house for an extended time period. Of course she had accidents, but I expected that. What I didn't expect was the MAJOR regression that followed once we returned home. Initially, I thought it would just take a week or so to get back into our routine. However, we've been home for almost 3 weeks and there is no sign that she remembers "the urge."
Sure, if I put her on the potty, if she needs to go, she'll go. However, if I've lost track of time or if we're out and about and she needs to go, there is no warning. She just pees wherever she is (yes, first time ever we had an accident while at the store). She won't alert me until after she's peed. I've been observing her over several different scenarios and there is no indication she remembers the urge. She'll only pee if I happen to get her on the toilet in time.
I'm trying to now figure out why I didn't stop her training a week ago when she peed while sitting in the cart at Target. I was at my wits end already, but I plunged forward. Did I continue because I thought in another week she would remember? Or did I continue because I already put in so much hard work that she was going to be trained whether she was ready or not? Or did I continue because I couldn't bear that thought of buying her diapers again? Or did I continue because I felt that in some way I failed as a mother (whoever is reading this - I am saying I felt this way, not that it is true. There is a difference!!)
If I'm truly honest with myself, it's the last reason. I thought she was ready by her interest, so I went ahead with the training weekend. It turns out that her body isn't really ready (if it was, she would remember the urge, how can anyone forget that?), and how can I as a mother not know that? I kept telling myself that I failed in this area of parenting. Now I know this isn't true and for the health of my family and my own sanity's sake, I am not believing this lie any longer that I've failed. She's only 2y 3 months (on Tuesday). potty training can wait a few more months.
I'm not going to lie and say it's okay. Or that I feel a burden has been lifted off my shoulders now that I'm not training her anymore. No, that's not at all how I feel. I still feel discouraged. Were the last two months for naught? I'm trying to learn from this situation how I can be a better mother in the future, despite that I don't like how this situation is ending.
Kyleigh was doing such a great job before we left on vacation. I knew it was risky to start training her before vacation, but I went ahead anyway because she was so interested. The three long days of potty training over the Fourth of July turned out to be a success and Kyleigh seemed to catch on rather quickly the rest of the month.
Fast forward to the first week of August when we were on vacation. I continued to put her in underwear, unless we were going to be out of the house for an extended time period. Of course she had accidents, but I expected that. What I didn't expect was the MAJOR regression that followed once we returned home. Initially, I thought it would just take a week or so to get back into our routine. However, we've been home for almost 3 weeks and there is no sign that she remembers "the urge."
Sure, if I put her on the potty, if she needs to go, she'll go. However, if I've lost track of time or if we're out and about and she needs to go, there is no warning. She just pees wherever she is (yes, first time ever we had an accident while at the store). She won't alert me until after she's peed. I've been observing her over several different scenarios and there is no indication she remembers the urge. She'll only pee if I happen to get her on the toilet in time.
I'm trying to now figure out why I didn't stop her training a week ago when she peed while sitting in the cart at Target. I was at my wits end already, but I plunged forward. Did I continue because I thought in another week she would remember? Or did I continue because I already put in so much hard work that she was going to be trained whether she was ready or not? Or did I continue because I couldn't bear that thought of buying her diapers again? Or did I continue because I felt that in some way I failed as a mother (whoever is reading this - I am saying I felt this way, not that it is true. There is a difference!!)
If I'm truly honest with myself, it's the last reason. I thought she was ready by her interest, so I went ahead with the training weekend. It turns out that her body isn't really ready (if it was, she would remember the urge, how can anyone forget that?), and how can I as a mother not know that? I kept telling myself that I failed in this area of parenting. Now I know this isn't true and for the health of my family and my own sanity's sake, I am not believing this lie any longer that I've failed. She's only 2y 3 months (on Tuesday). potty training can wait a few more months.
I'm not going to lie and say it's okay. Or that I feel a burden has been lifted off my shoulders now that I'm not training her anymore. No, that's not at all how I feel. I still feel discouraged. Were the last two months for naught? I'm trying to learn from this situation how I can be a better mother in the future, despite that I don't like how this situation is ending.
Tuesday, August 26, 2014
Reagan's First Day of Preschool
We've been anticipating this day since the beginning of summer. We talked about going to preschool several times this summer and every time we discussed it, Reagan was thrilled! A few weeks ago, though, something changed and he wasn't as excited. I started to get a little nervous that when the day arrived, he wouldn't be emotionally ready.
Fortunately, that was NOT the case! Last Tuesday, we met his teacher, Miss Jessica. Last night, we read two stories about going to school: Curious George's First Day of School and Clifford's Day at School. I also talked with Reagan about the process of dropping him off in his classroom (hang backpack in hallway, hugs and kisses goodbye outside of class). Nothing seemed to phase him about this new chapter in our lives!
I asked what he wanted for breakfast and he requested poppy seed muffins and waffles! A little carb heavy, but it's a special day and I wanted to make him what he wanted. The morning was more than chaotic! Even though we were up early, the time seemed to slip away rather quickly. I got the muffins made, but Ryan had to make the waffles while I was juggling getting ready and getting the girls dressed. Reagan couldn't get dressed until he was done eating. Mom couldn't take a chance of getting syrup on his new shirt before the pictures were taken ;)
After breakfast, the melt down came. Reagan was very upset that Mom and Dad were not going to stay at preschool with him. Even though we discussed this several times, he still thought we would leave the girls at the FAC (supervised care in the Y) and hang out with him during school. I was able to calm him down and he seemed to finally get that we weren't staying with him.
We took a few pictures in front of the house before dropping the girls with Katie and heading over to the Y. Despite the craziness of the morning, we left the house on time and arrived at school about 5 minutes before class began. Originally, Miss Jessica asked the parents not to come into class because it would make the transition more difficult, but all parents walked their kids in class, so we did, too. Since Ryan hadn't been to the classroom before, Reagan showed him where some of the toys were. After a few minutes of us standing in the corner watching him play, Ryan suggested we leave. We waved goodbye to Reagan and he ran over to us for a hug and a kiss goodbye. We walked out of the classroom and there were no tears - he seemed very happy.
(Random sidenote: when we left the room, Miss Jessica still wasn't there! Kinda strange that on the first day, the teacher was late)
Fast forward 2.5 hours....I walked into the classroom to sign Reagan out (you have to sign in and out every time) for the day. He was so excited to see me :) I took a picture of Reagan, Miss Jessica, and Miss Nicole (the aide) right before leaving and Miss Jessica said he had a great first day. I was so relieved! We decided to celebrate his first day by taking the kids to lunch at Chick-fil-A! On our way to lunch, Reagan didn't really say too much about school. The only info we got was that they read a story about school buses, they didn't play outside because it was raining, and they had goldfish and banana for snack (I asked him about snack). I tried to pry more information from him, but he had nothing else to say.
All in all, I would call today a success! I am handling this new chapter okay, but then again, I had Ryan home all day and I also got to eat lunch at CFA :) It helps that Reagan wasn't crying when I left, so I feel very encouraged. There is a small piece of sadness, but mostly just happiness. I have to remind myself that kids are going to grow - they won't stay small forever. This is a natural phase of parenting and instead of being sad that Reagan is growing so quickly, embrace this moment. Cherish the huge smile and hug I receive when I pick him up.
The two sweetest moments of the day: after bringing the girls home from Katie's house, Kyleigh walks down the hall and then back to the kitchen and asks, "Where's Reagan?" I never considered how much of an impact this was going to be on her. Then, when Reagan climbs into the van after school is over, the first thing he said to Kyleigh was, "Kyleigh, I couldn't have done it without you." I don't quite know what prompted that sentence because Kyleigh had nothing to do with school, but that's what he said. I think they missed each other. (Tear, melt my heart!)
Fortunately, that was NOT the case! Last Tuesday, we met his teacher, Miss Jessica. Last night, we read two stories about going to school: Curious George's First Day of School and Clifford's Day at School. I also talked with Reagan about the process of dropping him off in his classroom (hang backpack in hallway, hugs and kisses goodbye outside of class). Nothing seemed to phase him about this new chapter in our lives!
I asked what he wanted for breakfast and he requested poppy seed muffins and waffles! A little carb heavy, but it's a special day and I wanted to make him what he wanted. The morning was more than chaotic! Even though we were up early, the time seemed to slip away rather quickly. I got the muffins made, but Ryan had to make the waffles while I was juggling getting ready and getting the girls dressed. Reagan couldn't get dressed until he was done eating. Mom couldn't take a chance of getting syrup on his new shirt before the pictures were taken ;)
After breakfast, the melt down came. Reagan was very upset that Mom and Dad were not going to stay at preschool with him. Even though we discussed this several times, he still thought we would leave the girls at the FAC (supervised care in the Y) and hang out with him during school. I was able to calm him down and he seemed to finally get that we weren't staying with him.
We took a few pictures in front of the house before dropping the girls with Katie and heading over to the Y. Despite the craziness of the morning, we left the house on time and arrived at school about 5 minutes before class began. Originally, Miss Jessica asked the parents not to come into class because it would make the transition more difficult, but all parents walked their kids in class, so we did, too. Since Ryan hadn't been to the classroom before, Reagan showed him where some of the toys were. After a few minutes of us standing in the corner watching him play, Ryan suggested we leave. We waved goodbye to Reagan and he ran over to us for a hug and a kiss goodbye. We walked out of the classroom and there were no tears - he seemed very happy.
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| Miss Jessica is on the left |
(Random sidenote: when we left the room, Miss Jessica still wasn't there! Kinda strange that on the first day, the teacher was late)
Fast forward 2.5 hours....I walked into the classroom to sign Reagan out (you have to sign in and out every time) for the day. He was so excited to see me :) I took a picture of Reagan, Miss Jessica, and Miss Nicole (the aide) right before leaving and Miss Jessica said he had a great first day. I was so relieved! We decided to celebrate his first day by taking the kids to lunch at Chick-fil-A! On our way to lunch, Reagan didn't really say too much about school. The only info we got was that they read a story about school buses, they didn't play outside because it was raining, and they had goldfish and banana for snack (I asked him about snack). I tried to pry more information from him, but he had nothing else to say.
All in all, I would call today a success! I am handling this new chapter okay, but then again, I had Ryan home all day and I also got to eat lunch at CFA :) It helps that Reagan wasn't crying when I left, so I feel very encouraged. There is a small piece of sadness, but mostly just happiness. I have to remind myself that kids are going to grow - they won't stay small forever. This is a natural phase of parenting and instead of being sad that Reagan is growing so quickly, embrace this moment. Cherish the huge smile and hug I receive when I pick him up.
The two sweetest moments of the day: after bringing the girls home from Katie's house, Kyleigh walks down the hall and then back to the kitchen and asks, "Where's Reagan?" I never considered how much of an impact this was going to be on her. Then, when Reagan climbs into the van after school is over, the first thing he said to Kyleigh was, "Kyleigh, I couldn't have done it without you." I don't quite know what prompted that sentence because Kyleigh had nothing to do with school, but that's what he said. I think they missed each other. (Tear, melt my heart!)
Monday, August 25, 2014
Learning Time Update
I am very happy to report that the kids LOVED learning time this summer! There were times they weren't so interested, but by the end of July, Reagan was asking for Learning Time. This was such an encouragement for me :) I didn't go in the exact order I originally laid out, but we did cover lots of subjects. Below are some of my favorite picture from our various activities!
Shapes:
Even though the kids know their shapes, we did a few activities regarding shapes. I gathered several different sized squares and circles and had the kids sort the squares together and the circular items together. I also drew on papers and had the kids trace the shapes with marshmallows - one of their favorite activities of the summer!
Transportation:
Cars, planes, boats...what else could a kid ask for? I really wanted to take the kids to the Palwaukie Airport because they can listen to approaching planes communicate with the Control Tower, but we just didn't make t. We did make some paper airplanes and fly them through the house - that was fun!!
I only worked on letters with Reagan. The only reason for this was due to Reagan's refusal to take naps in the afternoon, so this was a perfect time to work together while the girls slept. Hands down, this was Reagan's favorite. I incorporated matching and gluing, tracing, and Do-A-Dot paints for every letter. It took us several afternoons to go through the entire alphabet because we only got through 3 worksheets a day. Again, Reagan LOVED this and always asked to do this Learning Time. It was also a special time for me to spend with him because I was just as involved as he was.
Shapes:
Even though the kids know their shapes, we did a few activities regarding shapes. I gathered several different sized squares and circles and had the kids sort the squares together and the circular items together. I also drew on papers and had the kids trace the shapes with marshmallows - one of their favorite activities of the summer!
Weather:
The highlight of the weather week was the song "What's the Weather Like" The kids are still singing this song randomly. "What's the weather like? What's the weather like? What's the weather like today? Is it sunny? Is it rainy? Is it cloudy? It is cold? What's the weather like? What's the weather like? What's the weather like today? Is it stormy? Is it windy? Is it snowy? Is it hot? What's the weather like today?
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| Reagan is working on his Cloud Jar and watching the "rain" go through the clouds |
Cars, planes, boats...what else could a kid ask for? I really wanted to take the kids to the Palwaukie Airport because they can listen to approaching planes communicate with the Control Tower, but we just didn't make t. We did make some paper airplanes and fly them through the house - that was fun!!
Sports:
Honestly, I don't really remember what we did for sports week :( I know we talked about sports and we went outside to "play" basketball, but that's all I remember!
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| A great jump shot! |
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| Our little dunker! |
Zoo Animals:
We focused primarily on lions during zoo week. This was a lot of fun because our main activity after zoo week was visiting Lincoln Park Zoo and seeing the lions there. The kids really enjoyed making their lion faces and then telling everyone about the marshmallow eyes ;)
Letters:I only worked on letters with Reagan. The only reason for this was due to Reagan's refusal to take naps in the afternoon, so this was a perfect time to work together while the girls slept. Hands down, this was Reagan's favorite. I incorporated matching and gluing, tracing, and Do-A-Dot paints for every letter. It took us several afternoons to go through the entire alphabet because we only got through 3 worksheets a day. Again, Reagan LOVED this and always asked to do this Learning Time. It was also a special time for me to spend with him because I was just as involved as he was.
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| Matching letter and then gluing into correct spot |
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| Tracing letter with pen |
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| Using Do-A-Dot paints |
Learning Time this summer was a success!!
Friday, August 1, 2014
Kyleigh's 2nd Birthday
It dawned on me the other day that I never wrote a post about Kyleigh's second birthday. I feel like a terrible mom!! Just one day shy of 2 months late, here I am writing a post about it!
The main celebration was about a week before her birthday in Lodi. We were already in CA for a wedding and it was really nice to be able celebrate with the whole family (less Uncle Jeffrey and Aunt Megan). So, on Sunday May 25th we had a backyard BBQ with Grandma/Grandpa, Uncle Brandon, Aunt Michelle, Jacob, Cooper, Mimi/Papa, Great Grandma/Grandpa Hust and Great Grandma Jones. We made gourmet burgers - sweet onion BBQ with smokey cheddar cheese and bleu cheese burgers. I don't remember all of the sides, but I remember there were a lot!
We didn't really have any special plans for the afternoon - just eating and opening gifts. It was just a very relaxed afternoon spent with family.
On Kyleigh's actual birthday, we had dinner at home and then I bought gourmet giant cupcakes from Mariano's. Let me just say Kyleigh LOVED her cupcake! After she ate, she opened the gift we gave her (puzzle and shoes). It was a simple, but wonderful night with just our family of five.
The main celebration was about a week before her birthday in Lodi. We were already in CA for a wedding and it was really nice to be able celebrate with the whole family (less Uncle Jeffrey and Aunt Megan). So, on Sunday May 25th we had a backyard BBQ with Grandma/Grandpa, Uncle Brandon, Aunt Michelle, Jacob, Cooper, Mimi/Papa, Great Grandma/Grandpa Hust and Great Grandma Jones. We made gourmet burgers - sweet onion BBQ with smokey cheddar cheese and bleu cheese burgers. I don't remember all of the sides, but I remember there were a lot!
We didn't really have any special plans for the afternoon - just eating and opening gifts. It was just a very relaxed afternoon spent with family.
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| Backyard BBQ with Family |
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| Sweet Kyleigh |
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| Yum...Cake!
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| Happy Birthday, Kyleigh! |
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| Dig in, big girl!! |
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| So happy |
Reagan and Kyleigh - July 2014
Here are my notes (a lot of them!) from this month:
Reagan:
Reagan:
- First night of wearing "big boy pants" overnight was 3rd into 4th and he was dry the next morning!
- Very bossy; tells Kyleigh what to do
- Improved pedaling on his tricycle (early month)
- Rides tricycle very well (end of month)
- Pooping his pants again (see previous post) - possibly jealous of Kyleigh's success at potty training
- Picked up Kyleigh's poop and brought it upstairs to me (cupped in his hands)
- Pooped behind a tree at Kilmer School
- Had his first sugary cereal and LOVED it (Golden Grahams)
- Had his first cavity filled and it did not go well :(
- Tells people about everything - from mice in the basement to his hospital stay in January
- Started talking back to us and giving us attitude
- His mind moves faster than his mouth - ends up saying "and then" 10x before he can finish the sentence
- Often talks about "when I'm a grown up..."
- I love listening to Reagan recap the day for Ryan - it's always interesting to see what he remembers and what he decides to tell Ryan
- Sometimes really sweet with Kyleigh; at church he saved his last veggie straw because he wanted to give it to Kyleigh
- Still saying "Saturway" instead of "Saturday" Can say all other days of the week just fine
- Favorite movie (end of month) is Blue Mountain Mystery DAILY! Recounts the story and repeats word for word sections of the movie
- Obsessed with telling me how to drive. "Go" "Red light, green light"
- Can now open doors around the house - oh boy!
- Insists on removing all clothing, including underwear, from waist down to use the potty
- "No, it's called a mooooooootorcycle"
- Loves nail polish and asks to see it on any woman. Also touches strangers' toes if she sees it
- Talks about people's eyebrows constantly
- Trying to "read" books on her own
- After 3 weeks, she will now use the toilet and doesn't need the insert
- Makes a statement and when you acknowledge or repeat what she said, she responds with "no, it's a ____________"
- Delay tactics at the table; won't eat and then says she's all done and when we take her plate or milk away, she wants it back
- Rarely gallops anymore; mostly runs everywhere
- Takes her pull up (or underwear) off when she poops BEFORE telling us
- Really good at saying "thanks, mom" after I give her something
- Yells "Scout, dinner time" every night after filling the cat bowls
Monday, July 28, 2014
Poop, Poop, and More Poop
Disclaimer: read if you want, but as you can tell from the title of this post, it's all about poop!
I can't even begin to describe how frustrated the month of July has been when it comes to poop. I've been changing diapers for over three years and I feel like I've dealt with more poop in the last four weeks than I have in the past three years. Exaggerating a little, maybe. But it's how I feel.
If I really think about it, the pooping problems with Reagan began right about the time we started potty training Kyleigh. I don't know if it was jealously over her success at potty training or if he just wanted more attention from me or what else it could be. Whatever the cause, the month of July, Reagan has just chosen to poop in his underwear rather than the toilet. The first few times were annoying, then it just got out of control. He wouldn't poop for 3 days; he would just hold it in. And when he couldn't hold it in any longer, he would poop just a little tiny bit in his underwear. He would do this THREE TIMES in a day. Then the big poop would come and into the underwear it went. Reagan would go through 6-8 pairs of underwear in two days. It was ridiculous and incredibly frustrating. I would get so mad at Reagan and then I would feel bad about getting angry. But I was so sick of cleaning poop out of his underwear three or four times a day.
I finally asked JS what she did and she thankfully gave me a few pointers. I really didn't want to head down the negative reinforcement path because I generally don't like to parent that way. So the positive reinforcement plan to was allow Reagan to watch Fireman Sam (his favorite show and one I rarely let him watch because I don't approve of the main character) if he pooped on the potty. We told him a week ago and I thought for sure he would poop the first day. Well, he didn't and he also pooped in his pants again. I really thought that would do the trick.
Then I headed to the park with Vanessa. I was planning to put Reagan in a pull up because he pooped in his pants earlier that day and I didn't want to deal with any issues at the park. Of course in my rush to get out of the house, I forgot. And you better believe when we got to the park, I looked over at Reagan and he was squatting and bending over in the "I can't hold my poop in any longer" position. I didn't know what to do, but Vanessa suggested I take him behind the tree. I quickly got to him and told him he was going to poop behind the tree and sure enough the biggest turd came out of his tiny butt! So I can't get him to poop in the potty, but he'll poop at the park at Kilmer School....
A few days later, I decided I couldn't take the poop in the pants any longer and decided it was time for nakedness. On Sunday afternoon after quiet time, I took his underwear off and let him play in the house naked from the waist down. Within 45 minutes of being naked, he said he had to poop 3 times. He tried twice to no avail, and then finally, on the third attempt, he pooped IN THE POTTY!!! You don't even know the excitement I had at that moment. And when we got home from the birthday party, he got to watch Fireman Sam.
So we'll see what happens over the next week and if there is any improvement.
Now Kyleigh....oh Kyleigh. She's been about 50/50 when it comes to pooping on the potty vs pooping in her pants. She started off really well and has digressed a little. She's a little quirky when it comes to BM's. If she poops, she insists on removing her underwear or pull up immediately. Like she drops her drawers right where she is; it doesn't matter if I'm there to help clean her or not. As I'm sure you can imagine, this is not a good situation.
By far my most hilarious parenting moment happened last week. I was nursing Rylan when Reagan ran up to the room and told me Kyleigh had pooped on the carpet downstairs (really, she pooped in her underwear, but took off her underwear and the poop fell onto the floor). I told Reagan I would be downstairs in a minute to clean it up. After putting Rylan down in the crib, I walked out of her room to find Reagan walking down the hall carrying Kyleigh's poop cupped in his hands!!!!!! He picked up her poop from downstairs and brought it up to me. He was honestly trying to be my little helper because he knew how frustrated I was she had pooped on the carpet. I can't believe he didn't think it was disgusting to pick up her poop and carry it upstairs, but what a great little guy to help mama out ;) Ah, this will be a good story someday in the future!
So my month filled with poop, poop, and more poop has not been fun. I am hoping we'll get past this hurdle soon and my days of cleaning out poopy underwear are a distant memory...until Rylan is trained, of course ;)
I can't even begin to describe how frustrated the month of July has been when it comes to poop. I've been changing diapers for over three years and I feel like I've dealt with more poop in the last four weeks than I have in the past three years. Exaggerating a little, maybe. But it's how I feel.
If I really think about it, the pooping problems with Reagan began right about the time we started potty training Kyleigh. I don't know if it was jealously over her success at potty training or if he just wanted more attention from me or what else it could be. Whatever the cause, the month of July, Reagan has just chosen to poop in his underwear rather than the toilet. The first few times were annoying, then it just got out of control. He wouldn't poop for 3 days; he would just hold it in. And when he couldn't hold it in any longer, he would poop just a little tiny bit in his underwear. He would do this THREE TIMES in a day. Then the big poop would come and into the underwear it went. Reagan would go through 6-8 pairs of underwear in two days. It was ridiculous and incredibly frustrating. I would get so mad at Reagan and then I would feel bad about getting angry. But I was so sick of cleaning poop out of his underwear three or four times a day.
I finally asked JS what she did and she thankfully gave me a few pointers. I really didn't want to head down the negative reinforcement path because I generally don't like to parent that way. So the positive reinforcement plan to was allow Reagan to watch Fireman Sam (his favorite show and one I rarely let him watch because I don't approve of the main character) if he pooped on the potty. We told him a week ago and I thought for sure he would poop the first day. Well, he didn't and he also pooped in his pants again. I really thought that would do the trick.
Then I headed to the park with Vanessa. I was planning to put Reagan in a pull up because he pooped in his pants earlier that day and I didn't want to deal with any issues at the park. Of course in my rush to get out of the house, I forgot. And you better believe when we got to the park, I looked over at Reagan and he was squatting and bending over in the "I can't hold my poop in any longer" position. I didn't know what to do, but Vanessa suggested I take him behind the tree. I quickly got to him and told him he was going to poop behind the tree and sure enough the biggest turd came out of his tiny butt! So I can't get him to poop in the potty, but he'll poop at the park at Kilmer School....
A few days later, I decided I couldn't take the poop in the pants any longer and decided it was time for nakedness. On Sunday afternoon after quiet time, I took his underwear off and let him play in the house naked from the waist down. Within 45 minutes of being naked, he said he had to poop 3 times. He tried twice to no avail, and then finally, on the third attempt, he pooped IN THE POTTY!!! You don't even know the excitement I had at that moment. And when we got home from the birthday party, he got to watch Fireman Sam.
So we'll see what happens over the next week and if there is any improvement.
Now Kyleigh....oh Kyleigh. She's been about 50/50 when it comes to pooping on the potty vs pooping in her pants. She started off really well and has digressed a little. She's a little quirky when it comes to BM's. If she poops, she insists on removing her underwear or pull up immediately. Like she drops her drawers right where she is; it doesn't matter if I'm there to help clean her or not. As I'm sure you can imagine, this is not a good situation.
By far my most hilarious parenting moment happened last week. I was nursing Rylan when Reagan ran up to the room and told me Kyleigh had pooped on the carpet downstairs (really, she pooped in her underwear, but took off her underwear and the poop fell onto the floor). I told Reagan I would be downstairs in a minute to clean it up. After putting Rylan down in the crib, I walked out of her room to find Reagan walking down the hall carrying Kyleigh's poop cupped in his hands!!!!!! He picked up her poop from downstairs and brought it up to me. He was honestly trying to be my little helper because he knew how frustrated I was she had pooped on the carpet. I can't believe he didn't think it was disgusting to pick up her poop and carry it upstairs, but what a great little guy to help mama out ;) Ah, this will be a good story someday in the future!
So my month filled with poop, poop, and more poop has not been fun. I am hoping we'll get past this hurdle soon and my days of cleaning out poopy underwear are a distant memory...until Rylan is trained, of course ;)
Sunday, July 13, 2014
End of a Decade
Okay, I know I'm being just a little dramatic here when I've titled the post "End of a Decade." But the truth is, I am finishing off the end of my 20s decade. I can't believe that tomorrow I will be 30. It sounds so old :( I mean when I fill out a questionnaire now, I'll have to mark 30-39.....that's too much to think about!
I'm being silly when I over dramatize the fact that I'm turning 30. It is just a number, after all. I don't really think I'm old when I joke about this birthday. However, there is a little sadness, too. I sometimes still think I'm the young college graduate who is just getting started. Don't ask me why I think this way sometimes, but it happens every so often. Then I come back to reality and think "I'm going to be 30" and I just get a little bummed out, I must admit!
I have one regret from these past ten years. I wish I would have taken better care of my skin, especially my face. There is nothing wrong with my skin, but I want it to look nice many years from now.
As I reflect on my 20s, it was a HUGE decade for me. I graduated college, got married, moved two-thirds across the country, bought a house and bore three children. That's a lot of life packed into ten years. It was a great decade and I'm so grateful for everything that happened the last ten years.
I know the next ten years will be just as fulfilling as the last. No more jokes about how old I am :) Time to embrace my 30s...
I'm being silly when I over dramatize the fact that I'm turning 30. It is just a number, after all. I don't really think I'm old when I joke about this birthday. However, there is a little sadness, too. I sometimes still think I'm the young college graduate who is just getting started. Don't ask me why I think this way sometimes, but it happens every so often. Then I come back to reality and think "I'm going to be 30" and I just get a little bummed out, I must admit!
I have one regret from these past ten years. I wish I would have taken better care of my skin, especially my face. There is nothing wrong with my skin, but I want it to look nice many years from now.
As I reflect on my 20s, it was a HUGE decade for me. I graduated college, got married, moved two-thirds across the country, bought a house and bore three children. That's a lot of life packed into ten years. It was a great decade and I'm so grateful for everything that happened the last ten years.
I know the next ten years will be just as fulfilling as the last. No more jokes about how old I am :) Time to embrace my 30s...
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| At the Signature Lounge, the last day of being 29 |
Saturday, July 5, 2014
Kyleigh's Potty Training - Day 3
Day 3 is (finally) here! As I said in last nights post, I am encouraged by the progress Kyleigh has made and had very high hopes for the day. I slept much better last night - didn't wake up in sheer panic of Kyleigh having an accident! Anyway, here is the rundown of today:
7a diaper removed
9:45a pee (didn't tell us, but went when we told her to sit on the potty)
11:10a accident (we think she was trying to get to the potty, but just didn't make it in time)
12:15p pee (she told me)
12:45p diaper for naptime
3:05p diaper removed
4:40p pee (she told me)
6:15p accident
7:10a pee (she told me)
7:30p diaper for the night
I have to admit I was a little disappointed in the two accidents; although one shouldn't count since she was on her way to the potty and couldn't make it in time. I was bummed with the second accident because it just happened and she made no attempt to get to the potty. The positive, though, is that she knew right away what happened and came to tell me.
Other than the accidents, the day went really well. We still followed her all over the house and tried not to be more than 5 feet away from her. This is the worst part of this method, following her every move, but it is only 3 days. That's it; it's emotionally draining, but well worth it.
After she peed this morning, she went on a 45 minute outing with Ryan to Target to buy some big girl pants ;-) They went to the store and returned home accident-free!!! When she was done with her afternoon pee, we took a walk around the block and she was again accident-free!
All in all, I am very happy to have potty trained Kyleigh this weekend. It's an exhausting 3 days, but so worth it. I just hope that she truly knows the urge to go and will let us know. Tomorrow will be the true test when we head out for church in the morning.
The only complaint I have is that Chicago had the best weather possible for the Fourth of July. Mid to upper 70s with no humidity, no thunderstorms, partly cloudy skies. And we spent our time INSIDE. Major bummer. BUT, I'll take that bummer any day if the end result is a potty trained child and extra help from Ryan since he was home 2 of the 3 days!
7a diaper removed
9:45a pee (didn't tell us, but went when we told her to sit on the potty)
11:10a accident (we think she was trying to get to the potty, but just didn't make it in time)
12:15p pee (she told me)
12:45p diaper for naptime
3:05p diaper removed
4:40p pee (she told me)
6:15p accident
7:10a pee (she told me)
7:30p diaper for the night
I have to admit I was a little disappointed in the two accidents; although one shouldn't count since she was on her way to the potty and couldn't make it in time. I was bummed with the second accident because it just happened and she made no attempt to get to the potty. The positive, though, is that she knew right away what happened and came to tell me.
Other than the accidents, the day went really well. We still followed her all over the house and tried not to be more than 5 feet away from her. This is the worst part of this method, following her every move, but it is only 3 days. That's it; it's emotionally draining, but well worth it.
After she peed this morning, she went on a 45 minute outing with Ryan to Target to buy some big girl pants ;-) They went to the store and returned home accident-free!!! When she was done with her afternoon pee, we took a walk around the block and she was again accident-free!
All in all, I am very happy to have potty trained Kyleigh this weekend. It's an exhausting 3 days, but so worth it. I just hope that she truly knows the urge to go and will let us know. Tomorrow will be the true test when we head out for church in the morning.
The only complaint I have is that Chicago had the best weather possible for the Fourth of July. Mid to upper 70s with no humidity, no thunderstorms, partly cloudy skies. And we spent our time INSIDE. Major bummer. BUT, I'll take that bummer any day if the end result is a potty trained child and extra help from Ryan since he was home 2 of the 3 days!
Friday, July 4, 2014
Kyleigh's Potty Training - Day 2
I was completely exhausted after Day 1. I remember feeling this way during Reagan's potty training as well. When I went to sleep last night, I was dreading waking up this morning for fear of how the day would go. I had several dreams about potty training last night and I woke up in a frenzy trying to get Kyleigh to the potty in time! Ironically, the same thing happened after Day 1 with Reagan as well.
Today was a very long day. Every hour seemed to pass so slowly and we were not having much progress. Below is an account of the days events:
7:15a diaper removed
11:20a pee (Ryan put her on the potty)
11:50a accident
12:45p diaper for naptime
1:50p diaper removed
3:25p pee
4:45p pee (she went to the potty on her own)
5:15p pee (she told me she needed to go)
6:10p accident (during dinner)
7:10p pee (she told me she needed to go)
7:45p diaper for night
You'll notice that we took her diaper off at 7:15a and the first time she peed was 11:20a. Those were FOUR excruciating hours. The first hour or so wasn't too bad, but then I was expecting her to need to go and she just didn't. We were watching her like a hawk and just wanted her to go, but she just kept holding it. Ryan finally put her on the potty and she went. It was such a relief because at least we figured she wouldn't have an accident. Unfortunately, even after she peed, she had an accident only 30 minutes later. I was feeling really discouraged and wondered how the remainder of the day would play out.
Shortly after 3p, I questioned whether this was a good decision to train her. I thought if she's holding her pee for so long and basically waiting for us to put her in a diaper, maybe she isn't ready. THEN, the breakthrough moment! She felt the urge to go and went in the potty. I can't even convey the excitement I felt at this moment! It was just the right amount of encouragement that I needed to keep pushing forward. The next two times she indicated she needed to go and got to the potty in time. I was a little disappointed she had a accident during dinner, but progress is being made.
I am so glad today is over because it was seriously one of the longest days ever. I am very encouraged with Kyleigh's progress and hope tomorrow goes well. Maybe now that she understands the urge to go, she won't hold it for four hours tomorrow morning! I think we're all looking forward to getting out of the house tomorrow.
Today was a very long day. Every hour seemed to pass so slowly and we were not having much progress. Below is an account of the days events:
7:15a diaper removed
11:20a pee (Ryan put her on the potty)
11:50a accident
12:45p diaper for naptime
1:50p diaper removed
3:25p pee
4:45p pee (she went to the potty on her own)
5:15p pee (she told me she needed to go)
6:10p accident (during dinner)
7:10p pee (she told me she needed to go)
7:45p diaper for night
You'll notice that we took her diaper off at 7:15a and the first time she peed was 11:20a. Those were FOUR excruciating hours. The first hour or so wasn't too bad, but then I was expecting her to need to go and she just didn't. We were watching her like a hawk and just wanted her to go, but she just kept holding it. Ryan finally put her on the potty and she went. It was such a relief because at least we figured she wouldn't have an accident. Unfortunately, even after she peed, she had an accident only 30 minutes later. I was feeling really discouraged and wondered how the remainder of the day would play out.
Shortly after 3p, I questioned whether this was a good decision to train her. I thought if she's holding her pee for so long and basically waiting for us to put her in a diaper, maybe she isn't ready. THEN, the breakthrough moment! She felt the urge to go and went in the potty. I can't even convey the excitement I felt at this moment! It was just the right amount of encouragement that I needed to keep pushing forward. The next two times she indicated she needed to go and got to the potty in time. I was a little disappointed she had a accident during dinner, but progress is being made.
I am so glad today is over because it was seriously one of the longest days ever. I am very encouraged with Kyleigh's progress and hope tomorrow goes well. Maybe now that she understands the urge to go, she won't hold it for four hours tomorrow morning! I think we're all looking forward to getting out of the house tomorrow.
Thursday, July 3, 2014
Kyleigh's Potty Training - Day 1
A mere 7 months later and I'm at potty training again! Wow! Reagan was about 32 months when I started potty training and Kyleigh is 25 months. It seems a little early to me (although the 3 day method I use recommends doing it before 28 months, so I'm not that early), but Kyleigh has been asking to use the potty multiple times a day for the past week.
About a week ago I decided to have my 3 day weekend be over the Fourth of July because Ryan would be home for 3 straight days. With Rylan around and me still nursing her, I knew the extra day was crucial. I went ahead and started today even though Ryan worked today because I still want to go to church on Sunday. So my 3 days are Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
Here is the run down from today's training:
7a diaper removed
8:50a pee (half on carpet, finished in potty)
10:15a accident (in highchair during snack time)
10:55a accident
11:05a accident
11:10a accident
11:15a accident (while I was nursing Rylan) and she peed right on my leg!!
11:35a pee (small amount on carpet, finished in potty)
12:35p diaper for naptime
2:45p diaper removed (peed and pooped during nap)
3:20p accident (in highchair, which I was nursing)
4p accident
4:30p accident
4:50p accident
5:05p pee
7:10p accident
7:15p diaper for the night
A lot of accidents today, but I have to say I am really happy about the 3 times she peed in the potty! I never cried today, which is better than when I trained Reagan. However, I am absolutely exhausted from the day. Having Rylan here and needing me a lot today (she was off her normal nap schedule, so that made the day so much harder) made the whole process more challenging than the first time around. However, I'm glad I'm doing this and Kyleigh gets really into the potty dance after she's peed successfully!
Thankfully, Ryan will be home the next 3 days and even if I do all the training with Kyleigh, at least I'll have some help with Reagan and Rylan!
Onto Day 2...
About a week ago I decided to have my 3 day weekend be over the Fourth of July because Ryan would be home for 3 straight days. With Rylan around and me still nursing her, I knew the extra day was crucial. I went ahead and started today even though Ryan worked today because I still want to go to church on Sunday. So my 3 days are Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.
Here is the run down from today's training:
7a diaper removed
8:50a pee (half on carpet, finished in potty)
10:15a accident (in highchair during snack time)
10:55a accident
11:05a accident
11:10a accident
11:15a accident (while I was nursing Rylan) and she peed right on my leg!!
11:35a pee (small amount on carpet, finished in potty)
12:35p diaper for naptime
2:45p diaper removed (peed and pooped during nap)
3:20p accident (in highchair, which I was nursing)
4p accident
4:30p accident
4:50p accident
5:05p pee
7:10p accident
7:15p diaper for the night
A lot of accidents today, but I have to say I am really happy about the 3 times she peed in the potty! I never cried today, which is better than when I trained Reagan. However, I am absolutely exhausted from the day. Having Rylan here and needing me a lot today (she was off her normal nap schedule, so that made the day so much harder) made the whole process more challenging than the first time around. However, I'm glad I'm doing this and Kyleigh gets really into the potty dance after she's peed successfully!
Thankfully, Ryan will be home the next 3 days and even if I do all the training with Kyleigh, at least I'll have some help with Reagan and Rylan!
Onto Day 2...
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Reagan and Kyleigh - June 2014
Notes...
Reagan:
Reagan:
- Likes to play rough with Kyleigh
- Claims everything he does is an accident
- Can be a very great big brother (telling K something is dangerous) or really mean (hitting K on the head with sticks)
- Acts so much like the first born big brother
- Definitely my son - afraid of bugs!!!
- Has a major foot fettish - loves to touch people's feet
- Loves corn
- Learned "why" from Reagan, oh boy!
- Favorite phrases: "What's that noise?" or "Hello down there"
- Improving on taking off her shoes on her own
- Talking ALL THE TIME
- Loves Thomas books and Disney books
- Interested in Minnie Mouse
- Learning her ABCs
- Likes to say "No way" after I state something obvious
- Very interested in potty training
- Obsessed with toe nail polish and will touch strangers' toes if she sees nail polish
- Sniffing and blowing on people
Wednesday, June 18, 2014
"Learning Time"
For awhile now, I've been feeling like I should have some structured teaching time with the older kids. Both are at an age where they soak in everything and this is a prime time to guide them in the learning process. I haven't forced it because I know Reagan will start school soon and I think free play and learning through play is also very valuable. You are only a kid for so long and I want the kids to remember playing, not Mom forcing school on them before preschool even begins. However, I decided this summer I really want to focus in on some structured time.
Enter "Learning time." Ryan and I discussed a very loose curriculum I will follow this summer. And by curriculum, I mean I came up with a few ideas and we'll learn about them throughout June, July, and August. At the kids' age, it is more important for them to show an interest in what I'm teaching them instead of having a forced time to sit and learn. So with this in mind, I have decided to only do "learning time" Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays each week and my goal is about 15-20 minutes (if I can keep them engaged that long!).
This past Monday, June 16 was our first official day of "Learning Time." I talked it over with the kids at breakfast that morning to let them know what we were going to do that day. Reagan was beyond excited! He kept asking me if the big "hand is straight down?" (I told them "Learning Time would be at 9:30a) because he couldn't wait to start learning. This just reinforced that this was a good idea and it would help structure our day.
I have a tentative calendar of things I'd like to teach them. Some of our subjects are already familiar, but I want to incorporate different aspects into it so they get a better understanding of the subject matter. Below I have a list of things we'll be discussing:
Week Of:
6/16 - Shapes
6/23 - Transportation
6/30 - Weather (not sure if I'll do this or not)
7/7 - Farm Animals
7/14 - Zoo Animals
7/21 - Sports
7/28 - ???
8/11 - ???
8/18 - ???
I'm really excited to do this with the kids and I hope they will enjoy it!
Enter "Learning time." Ryan and I discussed a very loose curriculum I will follow this summer. And by curriculum, I mean I came up with a few ideas and we'll learn about them throughout June, July, and August. At the kids' age, it is more important for them to show an interest in what I'm teaching them instead of having a forced time to sit and learn. So with this in mind, I have decided to only do "learning time" Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays each week and my goal is about 15-20 minutes (if I can keep them engaged that long!).
This past Monday, June 16 was our first official day of "Learning Time." I talked it over with the kids at breakfast that morning to let them know what we were going to do that day. Reagan was beyond excited! He kept asking me if the big "hand is straight down?" (I told them "Learning Time would be at 9:30a) because he couldn't wait to start learning. This just reinforced that this was a good idea and it would help structure our day.
I have a tentative calendar of things I'd like to teach them. Some of our subjects are already familiar, but I want to incorporate different aspects into it so they get a better understanding of the subject matter. Below I have a list of things we'll be discussing:
Week Of:
6/16 - Shapes
6/23 - Transportation
6/30 - Weather (not sure if I'll do this or not)
7/7 - Farm Animals
7/14 - Zoo Animals
7/21 - Sports
7/28 - ???
8/11 - ???
8/18 - ???
I'm really excited to do this with the kids and I hope they will enjoy it!
Sunday, June 1, 2014
Rylan Update
It just occurred to me that I rarely post about Rylan and the only reason for this is because all of her milestones and exciting things are being entered into her baby book. After she turns 1y, I'll post more about her on here.
But a little update about her will do :) For whatever reason, she has decided to stop sleeping through the night. This began at the beginning of May and I assumed it was just a few nights, but out of the 31 days, she probably slept through the night (8p-5a) only 5 times. Now, a disclaimer: I know I shouldn't complain at all that my 3 month old (that's how old she was during May )was only getting up once a night. Most moms are still getting up at least 2x at this stage. However, when she started sleeping through the night at 7 weeks and then all of a sudden stopped, it has been a hard transition for me! I am much more tired and less patient with the other kids because my sleep is disjointed. I'm hoping this is just a phase and she'll start sleeping through the night again soon!
In more exciting news, she finally rolled over! She's been trying to roll for the whole month, and on May 30th, she finally did it! I wasn't home to see this milestone and I was so bummed. However, Ryan was able to see it and I was happy for him; I often get to see the milestones first, so for him to see it first was special. She rolled over for me today and I was thrilled! And now she's acting like a pro-front to back, back to front. Anytime you leave her on the floor now, she's rolling all over :)
She's growing up so fast, and it's really fun to watch her achieve new things.
Up next...sleep training!
But a little update about her will do :) For whatever reason, she has decided to stop sleeping through the night. This began at the beginning of May and I assumed it was just a few nights, but out of the 31 days, she probably slept through the night (8p-5a) only 5 times. Now, a disclaimer: I know I shouldn't complain at all that my 3 month old (that's how old she was during May )was only getting up once a night. Most moms are still getting up at least 2x at this stage. However, when she started sleeping through the night at 7 weeks and then all of a sudden stopped, it has been a hard transition for me! I am much more tired and less patient with the other kids because my sleep is disjointed. I'm hoping this is just a phase and she'll start sleeping through the night again soon!
In more exciting news, she finally rolled over! She's been trying to roll for the whole month, and on May 30th, she finally did it! I wasn't home to see this milestone and I was so bummed. However, Ryan was able to see it and I was happy for him; I often get to see the milestones first, so for him to see it first was special. She rolled over for me today and I was thrilled! And now she's acting like a pro-front to back, back to front. Anytime you leave her on the floor now, she's rolling all over :)
She's growing up so fast, and it's really fun to watch her achieve new things.
Up next...sleep training!
Reagan and Kyleigh - May 2014
My notes from this month. I don't have as many as I usually do :(
Reagan:
Reagan:
- LOVES reading
- Has many books memorized so he "reads" to himself
- Bedtime is better (in general), but the kids talk to each other for 30 minutes before finally settling down and going to sleep (it's sweet, I think)
- Learning the days of the week and always wants to know what day it is (first half of month)
- Poop breakthrough! Starting going on the potty on his own without even telling me he has to poop
- Very protective of his sisters, especially Kyleigh
- Knows his days of the week (except Wed/Thurs) and calls Saturday "Saturway"
- Obsessed with water
- Wants to see everything (inside cups, or anything you hold)
- Loves to sit on our lap and read stories
- Says "no want to" and throwing tantrums
- Calls motorcycles "goodmorning cycles"
- Gallops instead of walking or running
Thursday, May 8, 2014
"Shame on You"
"Shame on you." These words continue to echo in my mind as I replay what happened earlier today. "Shame on you" the woman said, "Are you her mother or her nanny?"
I've known now for about a year that Kyleigh is a runner After she turned 1, I referred to her as a basset hound because she got her nose on a trail and off she went, no looking back. She runs away from me most opportunities she gets. There have been other close calls (like losing her at the library a few weeks ago), and I've learned to always keep my eyes on her because if I look away, she'll be off in the other direction. Despite her short legs, she is a quick little toddler!
Today alone, even while keeping my eyes on her, she ran from the park into either the open grass areas or the parking lot at least five times. I continued to chase her down (sometimes with Rylan in the carrier - that wasn't fun!) and tell her running away is not a good decision. After finishing lunch, I let both Reagan and Kyleigh play in the playground with their other friends. Already weary from chasing her multiple times, I knew I needed to be extra mindful of her whereabouts or else. Unfortunately, "or else" happened.
I took my eyes off her for 30 seconds (no joke) and when I looked back at the playground only 20 feet away, I couldn't see her. I asked Reagan, "Where is Kyleigh?" but he didn't know. I immediately got up and looked all over the playground, in the surrounding open grass area, and even in the first two rows of the parking lot. Nothing; no sign of her. I looked back at Lauren and she questioned if I found her and I shook my head no. Back in the parking lot, I am searching, scanning the lot for her. I was convinced she had to be back in the playground or open grass area because there is no way she could have gotten further away in the parking lot with as little time as my eyes were off her.
That's when I heard it. "Over here," the woman yells. "Shame on you. SHAME ON YOU! Are you her mother or her nanny? Do you realize how serious this is? I'm surprised there wasn't an accident. She could have been hit by a car or fallen into the lake." Her berating continued on for another minute as I approached her holding my daughter (Kyleigh had made it to the other side of the parking lot, about 4 or 5 rows away from where I was searching). I acknowledged I was her mother and near complete breakdown, she lightened up on me. "If you were her nanny, I was going to be even more upset. But since you're her mother... I'm a grandma and I was just concerned. Have a nice day."
I shamefully walked back to my van holding both girls in my arms and started to cry. Through tears, I told Kyleigh she cannot continue running away. It is too dangerous. The couple that was parked next to me heard everything that happened and asked if I was ok. I barely lifted my head and said "yes, thank you." I quickly walked back to my friends and told them I was going home, refusing to look any of them in the eye. I got in the car, texted Ryan what happened and concluded with "I'm not fit to be a mother."
This episode hit me hard. I seriously questioned my ability to parent. However, I feel the Lord has been so gracious to me throughout the remainder of the day. I was contacted by 3 of my friends who were there to encourage me. They had no idea what transpired in the parking lot; they only knew that Kyleigh had run away. Their phone calls and text messages were such an encouragement to me. In my response to them, I said that I am trying to remember God's faithfulness in protecting Kyleigh and keeping her safe despite the danger she faced. I feel God used this afternoon to teach me this lesson of faithfulness because when I was planning on writing this post earlier in the day, I certainly did not have that perspective. I was angry at the lady, at Kyleigh, and at myself for being such a "horrible" mother. But as the hours passed, God put on my heart that although Kyleigh faced danger, He was faithful to protect her from harm. It's not just my ability as a parent, but it's God's strength that He gives me to parent. And when I make mistakes, He is there to guide me through it. Thank you, my friends, who encouraged me today. You know who you are and you are a blessing to me!
I've known now for about a year that Kyleigh is a runner After she turned 1, I referred to her as a basset hound because she got her nose on a trail and off she went, no looking back. She runs away from me most opportunities she gets. There have been other close calls (like losing her at the library a few weeks ago), and I've learned to always keep my eyes on her because if I look away, she'll be off in the other direction. Despite her short legs, she is a quick little toddler!
Today alone, even while keeping my eyes on her, she ran from the park into either the open grass areas or the parking lot at least five times. I continued to chase her down (sometimes with Rylan in the carrier - that wasn't fun!) and tell her running away is not a good decision. After finishing lunch, I let both Reagan and Kyleigh play in the playground with their other friends. Already weary from chasing her multiple times, I knew I needed to be extra mindful of her whereabouts or else. Unfortunately, "or else" happened.
I took my eyes off her for 30 seconds (no joke) and when I looked back at the playground only 20 feet away, I couldn't see her. I asked Reagan, "Where is Kyleigh?" but he didn't know. I immediately got up and looked all over the playground, in the surrounding open grass area, and even in the first two rows of the parking lot. Nothing; no sign of her. I looked back at Lauren and she questioned if I found her and I shook my head no. Back in the parking lot, I am searching, scanning the lot for her. I was convinced she had to be back in the playground or open grass area because there is no way she could have gotten further away in the parking lot with as little time as my eyes were off her.
That's when I heard it. "Over here," the woman yells. "Shame on you. SHAME ON YOU! Are you her mother or her nanny? Do you realize how serious this is? I'm surprised there wasn't an accident. She could have been hit by a car or fallen into the lake." Her berating continued on for another minute as I approached her holding my daughter (Kyleigh had made it to the other side of the parking lot, about 4 or 5 rows away from where I was searching). I acknowledged I was her mother and near complete breakdown, she lightened up on me. "If you were her nanny, I was going to be even more upset. But since you're her mother... I'm a grandma and I was just concerned. Have a nice day."
I shamefully walked back to my van holding both girls in my arms and started to cry. Through tears, I told Kyleigh she cannot continue running away. It is too dangerous. The couple that was parked next to me heard everything that happened and asked if I was ok. I barely lifted my head and said "yes, thank you." I quickly walked back to my friends and told them I was going home, refusing to look any of them in the eye. I got in the car, texted Ryan what happened and concluded with "I'm not fit to be a mother."
This episode hit me hard. I seriously questioned my ability to parent. However, I feel the Lord has been so gracious to me throughout the remainder of the day. I was contacted by 3 of my friends who were there to encourage me. They had no idea what transpired in the parking lot; they only knew that Kyleigh had run away. Their phone calls and text messages were such an encouragement to me. In my response to them, I said that I am trying to remember God's faithfulness in protecting Kyleigh and keeping her safe despite the danger she faced. I feel God used this afternoon to teach me this lesson of faithfulness because when I was planning on writing this post earlier in the day, I certainly did not have that perspective. I was angry at the lady, at Kyleigh, and at myself for being such a "horrible" mother. But as the hours passed, God put on my heart that although Kyleigh faced danger, He was faithful to protect her from harm. It's not just my ability as a parent, but it's God's strength that He gives me to parent. And when I make mistakes, He is there to guide me through it. Thank you, my friends, who encouraged me today. You know who you are and you are a blessing to me!
Thursday, May 1, 2014
Reagan and Kyleigh - April 2014
My notes:
Reagan:
-Every night he says "let's make good decisions tonight and tomorrow"
-Backseat driver (thanks to Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Road Rally)!
-Walks into rooms and says "Ta Da!"
-Very expressive with his face when talking (especially his eyebrows)
-Always wants the music louder
-Obessed with the Toddler CD from church (The Toddler Songbook) and has every song memorized
-Learned the question "Why?" and asks multiple times a day
-Major bedtime woes for about 1/3 of the month (getting out of bed)
-Very outgoing! Will tell any random person who he is and the names of his sisters
-Says almost the entire "Lord's Prayer" on his own
-Loves to pinch Rylan's cheeks and say "tickle tickle"
Kyleigh:
-Trying to annunciate words with "Ls" like Rylan and Kyleigh
-Says "no" or "no want to" several times a day
-Runs away from me
-Counted to 6 without help
-Wears Reagan's Bob boots daily
-Likes to put my shoes on
-Getting better at saying Reagan's name correctly
-Talks for at least 30 minutes every night (or longer) before falling asleep
-Jealousy issues with Rylan and me (when I need to tend to Rylan), but also loves her by wanting to be around her and kiss her
-Throwing temper tantrums daily
-Yells "no need toodles" at Reagan when he says "ooh toodles"
-Loves to say "tickle tickle" to Rylan and pinch her cheeks
-Sometimes identifies colors correctly, but not always
Sunday, April 20, 2014
Friday, April 11, 2014
Ugly
Forewarning to my few, faithful readers: this is a humbling and difficult post to write. However, my prayer is that as I look back on my posts from time to time, I remember how I felt while writing. I pray that the content of this post will have a lasting impact on my parenting and that it will not soon be forgotten!
Ugliness is the only way to describe the last two nights of bedtime drama in this household. It started off as not pretty and quickly turned to utter ugliness. Not only in the words I said, but also in my heart.
For the past week or so, Reagan has been getting out of bed multiple times. I know this is a toddler phase and I'm sure we'll get through it like many of the other phases that have come and gone. He often doesn't ask for water or to be tucked back in or for his animals. He just comes out for a short visit and we often angrily send him back to bed with strict warnings to not come out again. Two nights ago, he must have come out 15 times (no exaggeration), received several disciplines, was spoken to harshly by both of us, and had the privilege of his movie taken away. The last visit on that night was 9:30p.
Last night was a similar story, but made a different kind of impression. Ryan was at church for a meeting, so I handled bedtime on my own (never a fun thing to do with the kids at this age). Within the first 7 minutes after I closed the door, Reagan was out of his room 5 times. With Rylan already screaming and my attempts at calming her were futile, I quickly became angry with Reagan. I yelled at him and refused to listen to his nightly statement, "In the morning, lets make good decisions. Tonight and tomorrow so I can watch a movie." Of course, since I shut the door and didn't listen to him, he walked right back out of the room, which fueled my anger even more. I walked him back to his room, yelling something, but I have no idea what. With tears streaming down his face, he said, "Mommy, I don't want you to yell at me." Ouch. I stopped in my tracks and let that sink in for a moment. That was one of the hardest sentences I have ever heard.
I put him back in bed and walked out of the room. It was 7:45p. I finally calmed Rylan down and dozed on the couch until Ryan came home. I wish I could say the bedtime drama ended there, but it didn't. At 8:15p, Reagan made another appearance. By God's grace, I handled the situation much better than I did 30 minutes prior. However, Reagan continued to make visits; I believe his last visit was around 9p.
I didn't mention anything to Ryan about the heart wrenching statement until we went to bed an hour later. As our conversation evolved, I am grateful for a husband who lovingly corrected me for my behavior. Although I was upset with myself for yelling, I expected to get sympathy from Ryan for going through this alone. That was not at all what I received. At first, I was a little peeved at him for his gentle criticism of how I handled the situation. I wanted to shoot back and say "You've made mistakes, too. I don't point them out to you, especially when you're already disappointed by your choices." However, Ryan was loving me by challenging me to think through the words I said (yelled) and how I would have felt if I was on the receiving end. Let me tell you, it was humbling. Having this conversation with Ryan was incredibly difficult, but I thank God for the man that Ryan is. He didn't just let this episode fade into the past, knowing it would probably resurface again. He challenged me to think hard about how often I yell and my tone of voice with the kids (not directly, but as a result of some of the questions he asked me).
I am not proud of how I behaved last night. However, God's grace is sufficient. I can bow humbly before the Cross, seek forgiveness, and know that I am forgiven for these choices. I also know that the love of a toddler is bigger than one ugly night. I can scoop him up this morning (PTL, he's still asleep at 6:45a!) and apologize for treating him the way I did and I'm confident he'll forgive me and we'll move on. Many people have said that I'm truly in the trenches of motherhood right now and I feel that every day. I just pray that as the harder days in the trenches occur, I choose to learn from the mistakes I made. I don't want to be a yelling mom and I don't want my children to look back on their childhood and remember how mad Mom got and how much she yelled. I know I can overcome this weakness in my life by relying on the strength Jesus gives. He is perfect and even though I daily fall short of perfection, I am striving to be more like Him!
Ugliness is the only way to describe the last two nights of bedtime drama in this household. It started off as not pretty and quickly turned to utter ugliness. Not only in the words I said, but also in my heart.
For the past week or so, Reagan has been getting out of bed multiple times. I know this is a toddler phase and I'm sure we'll get through it like many of the other phases that have come and gone. He often doesn't ask for water or to be tucked back in or for his animals. He just comes out for a short visit and we often angrily send him back to bed with strict warnings to not come out again. Two nights ago, he must have come out 15 times (no exaggeration), received several disciplines, was spoken to harshly by both of us, and had the privilege of his movie taken away. The last visit on that night was 9:30p.
Last night was a similar story, but made a different kind of impression. Ryan was at church for a meeting, so I handled bedtime on my own (never a fun thing to do with the kids at this age). Within the first 7 minutes after I closed the door, Reagan was out of his room 5 times. With Rylan already screaming and my attempts at calming her were futile, I quickly became angry with Reagan. I yelled at him and refused to listen to his nightly statement, "In the morning, lets make good decisions. Tonight and tomorrow so I can watch a movie." Of course, since I shut the door and didn't listen to him, he walked right back out of the room, which fueled my anger even more. I walked him back to his room, yelling something, but I have no idea what. With tears streaming down his face, he said, "Mommy, I don't want you to yell at me." Ouch. I stopped in my tracks and let that sink in for a moment. That was one of the hardest sentences I have ever heard.
I put him back in bed and walked out of the room. It was 7:45p. I finally calmed Rylan down and dozed on the couch until Ryan came home. I wish I could say the bedtime drama ended there, but it didn't. At 8:15p, Reagan made another appearance. By God's grace, I handled the situation much better than I did 30 minutes prior. However, Reagan continued to make visits; I believe his last visit was around 9p.
I didn't mention anything to Ryan about the heart wrenching statement until we went to bed an hour later. As our conversation evolved, I am grateful for a husband who lovingly corrected me for my behavior. Although I was upset with myself for yelling, I expected to get sympathy from Ryan for going through this alone. That was not at all what I received. At first, I was a little peeved at him for his gentle criticism of how I handled the situation. I wanted to shoot back and say "You've made mistakes, too. I don't point them out to you, especially when you're already disappointed by your choices." However, Ryan was loving me by challenging me to think through the words I said (yelled) and how I would have felt if I was on the receiving end. Let me tell you, it was humbling. Having this conversation with Ryan was incredibly difficult, but I thank God for the man that Ryan is. He didn't just let this episode fade into the past, knowing it would probably resurface again. He challenged me to think hard about how often I yell and my tone of voice with the kids (not directly, but as a result of some of the questions he asked me).
I am not proud of how I behaved last night. However, God's grace is sufficient. I can bow humbly before the Cross, seek forgiveness, and know that I am forgiven for these choices. I also know that the love of a toddler is bigger than one ugly night. I can scoop him up this morning (PTL, he's still asleep at 6:45a!) and apologize for treating him the way I did and I'm confident he'll forgive me and we'll move on. Many people have said that I'm truly in the trenches of motherhood right now and I feel that every day. I just pray that as the harder days in the trenches occur, I choose to learn from the mistakes I made. I don't want to be a yelling mom and I don't want my children to look back on their childhood and remember how mad Mom got and how much she yelled. I know I can overcome this weakness in my life by relying on the strength Jesus gives. He is perfect and even though I daily fall short of perfection, I am striving to be more like Him!
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
Reagan and Kyleigh - March 2014
My notes:
Reagan:
-Loves to feed the cats their dry food every night
-Feels it is necessary to tell us everything Kyleigh is doing, even if we are in the same room (and especially if it is bad behavior)
-Can now unbuckle his high chair
-Likes to get as close to "the line" as possible (standing at the edge of the breezeway, but won't go in, touching things around the specific thing I've asked him not to touch)
-Has really great behavior days and really bad behavior days
-New obsession with sewers and manholes
-Started calling me Kristin
-Every night, he says "Goodnight, Rylan (or Kyleigh). I'll see you in the morning." and then gives a hug and a kiss (melts my heart)
-Loving Curious George books
-"Reads" books to himself if I'm busy (ie, I've read them so many times, he has the pages memorized)
-Favorite question is "What kind?" If I tell him friends are coming over, "What kind of friends?" Or dinner is almost ready, "what kind of dinner?"
-Learned how to spell his and Kyleigh's names
-Helping by setting the table
Kyleigh:
-Throwing her food on the ground again(first two weeks or so)
-Disobedient (standing on tables, etc) yet obedient (stays in timeout until we get her)
-Enjoys feeding the cats
-Unzips her jams multiple times a day (oh so frustrating!)
-Still eating cat food and sometimes drinking water from the cat bowl
-On a food strike, eating very few things (first two weeks)
-Stubborn!
-Began pulling her hair out
-Demanding! "Get down, NOW!" (We're working on an attitude change with this one!)
-Said her first prayer at the dinner table "Thank you, Jesus. Amen."
-Obsessed with getting into Reagan's highchair and buckling herself in (but then can't get out)
-Refuses to let us put her in the her highchair, wants to do it herself.
-Learning independence..."do it" or "Kyleigh do it" is a popular phrase these days
-Calls her piggy bank "pinka pink"
-Tries to charm her way out of trouble after getting caught by smiling and laughing
-Obsessed with buckling things: Reagan's highchair, Rylan's car seat, her car seat, the stroller
-Imitates me by trying to burp Rylan; she walks up to Rylan and starts patting her back
-Jumping ALL the time. Randomly as she's walking along, she'll just start jumping
-Kinda helping by setting the table
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
Reagan Turns 3!!
I can't believe we have a three year old! What's even crazier is that we have three kids :-) seriously, the night before his birthday I was thinking about what I was doing three years ago (last date night as just a married couple at Chili's). When I mentioned it to Ryan, he said, "ya, and did you think we'd have three kids by now?"
Anyway, we had a great celebration; although it didn't go completely as planned. Aunt Muff and Barry were supposed to be out here to meet Rylan and celebrate Reagan's birthday. Aunt Muff got really sick and was hospitalized (still is), so they obviously didn't come out. We're just praying now that she pulls through this infection and is released soon.
Ryan took Friday off so we could spend the day together. After Reagan's checkup with Dr. B we headed to the Choo Choo restaurant in Des Plaines for a birthday lunch. It's always fun to visit this restaurant!
After quiet time, we decided to let Reagan open his present from us a day early. It was in the low 60s on Friday and was only in the 40s on Saturday. We wanted him to be able to enjoy his new tricycle in warmer weather. He really liked it, but didn't really care about pushing the pedals. I know he'll get it soon and he'll love riding it this summer!
On Saturday, we had a fun-filled day planned. We took the kids to the Shedd Aquarium for the morning. Reagan loved looking at all the fish. He even got to touch one with daddy.
We had the Lehmanns over for dinner and cake Saturday night. Reagan didn't specifically ask for a Thomas themed party, but he really likes Thomas, so I went with it. I made him a Thomas cake, got Thomas plates, and a big Thomas balloon. He seemed to really enjoy all of it. And of course, he enjoyed opening all of his presents the most!
I think Reagan really enjoyed his birthday. In fact, today he told me I needed to make him another cake because the Thomas one is all gone. When I explained he had to wait until his birthday, he said "My birthday will be this Saturday and I will be three again." So cute!
We are so blessed to have Reagan as our son, he brings much joy and laughter into our house!
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