Surviving Motherhood

The Dentist

2011-10-26T21:49:00.002-04:00

Today was Gavin's first visit to the dentist. When I asked my dentist when I should start bring the kinds for cleaning, she asked, "How are they at getting their hair cut?" At the time, they screamed bloody murder. Her advice—wait. Wait until they are no longer screaming at the barber, then bring them here. Well, the last several haircut have gone great so I decided it was time to go.

He came with me last week to watch me get my teeth cleaned, took a ride in the chair, got a balloon and a prize for behaving so well. And today, he did GREAT! No tears, hopped right up into the chair, opened his mouth when told too, and was had fun learning about all the tools the dentist uses to clean his teeth. His teeth looked good, plenty of space between them for his adult teeth to come in. She also mentioned that he might lose his teeth a little earlier than most because of all the space, they aren't wedged together and may loosen more easily. He was excited to get a new toothbrush, a green balloon and a purple squirt gun from the treasure chest.

Next up—Luke. His appointment is in two weeks. Never a dull moment.

Karate

2011-10-25T13:33:00.004-04:00

At the beginning of September, I signed both boys up for Karate. The first two classes were free, so there was nothing to lose and I was hoping to find an activity that Gavin would enjoy since he had no interest in soccer. The first class is a one-on-one with the instructor to assess which class they will be in and there ability to follow in class. The both loved it. Luke would be in the little Tigers class and Gavin would be in the little Dragons class. Luke loved his second class. there are two other boys in his class, and one of them is his best friend. Gavin, on the other hand, decided he didn't want to do it unless he could be with Luke in his class. So we are waiting until he is older and ready to do it on his own. But Luke is loving it and doing really well. This past weekend, he tested for his yellow belt and passed! I'm very proud of him.
Here he is in his uniform and white belt.

Soccer is winding down for the season. Luke really enjoys being the goalie, and is pretty good at it too. Last practice was last night, and the last game is on Saturday. Following the game, is the end of season pizza party at 12:30 and then Luke has a birthday party at 2pm. Whew! And here I thought things would get easier as they got older…and it does in some aspects, but then you are running from here to there blah, blah, blah.
And it's only going to get worse when Gavin decides he wants to start activities too.

Day Trips

2011-10-10T15:04:00.007-04:00

Last weekend, October 1st, Mike and I took the Kids to Edaville for "Day out with Thomas" where the kids get to ride a train pulled by everyone's favorite engine. It was a fun trip and the boys had a blast. The forecast was rain, but we lucked out and the rain had ended before we got there. The grounds were wet and a bit muddy, but that really doesn't matter to preschool boys. Edaville is a train themed amusement park, so there were plenty of other rides to enjoy after their trip on Thomas. Here are some photos from our trip.

This past Saturday, with the weather being like summer, we decided another day trip was in order. So we hopped in the car and went to the Dinosaur State park in Connecticut. We saw real Dinosaur fossils, mined for Gems, pet some kind of Blue-Tongued lizard, and went for a hike in the woods. There was a craft room and each of the boys made a dinosaur door hanger with their names on it. It was nice to spend time together as a family. We are enjoying having Mike home for the next 2 months.

Its the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2011-09-22T13:52:00.007-04:00

Nope, I'm not talking about Christmas. I'm talking about Back to School. And Yes, I know I am behind in this post, but I've been very busy. Last week was back to school for Luke and Gavin. The preschool that they are attending starts about 2 weeks after the public school does. So while all my friend's children were back I had two more weeks of Summer vacation. It was nice to take the kids a few more places and not have to worry about a big crowd.

Luke is attending preschool for a second year and will be going every morning from 9-11:30 and Gavin will be joining him on Tues. and Thurs. in a different classroom. I could have put them in the same class, but part of the reason they need school so much is to get a break from each other. And I need a break from them. And the First day of School could not happen without the traditional back-to-school photo taken on the front porch. So here they are:

Luke's First Day: 9/12/11

Gavin's First Day: 9/13/11

I signed both boys up for a week long soccer camp this summer, which Luke really liked. It was for one hour a day, perfect for this age group. Gavin said he wanted to do it too, but played about 5 minutes the entire week. Luke has decided he wants to play Soccer again this Fall, and now that he is on the U6 team, he has one practice a week and a game on Saturday. Luke Also started Karate, which was an activity I was really hoping Gavin would pursue, since he is not interested in Soccer. They both met with the instructor for a 15 minute lesson and evaluation of their skills. They both listened and followed directions. Luke was put into the little Tigers class and Gavin in the Little Dragons. Luke continues to enjoy it, and Gavin decided he didn't want to do it unless he could be in Luke's class. So Looks like he is just not ready for activities, and wait for him to show more interest. I just don't want him to feel over-shadowed by the older sibling. As a second born, I'm more sensitive to that.

OK enough about the kids. I have been studying my butt off to take the Primary Group Exercise Certification Test through AFAA, which is why I have not posted. My test was on Sept. 9th. I think I did well. Fingers crossed, I find out in 4-6 weeks.

I started teaching Zumba® at the YWCA one night a week and at Curves one morning a week, plus some subbing. I have been getting good reviews at both locations from the participants, which is very good considering the reason I got the job(s) in the first place is because they didn't like the instructor before me. Talk about pressure. Im hoping to pick up 2 more classes a week while both boys are in school, but I'm really enjoying having some free time to do the things I can't do with 2 children in tow—like get my hair cut. And I got it CUT—short.

And I'm loving it—so far. I've only had it for about 3 hours. Tomorrow will be the real test when I roll out of bed, stumble into the bathroom and see a boy staring back at me in the mirror. Hopefully I will be able to recreate this look. The inspiration for this cut was my gal pal Lyndsay. I suggest you pop on over to her blog if you haven't yet. She rocks the pixie cut like no other and will give you tips on how to do the same!

Holy Smokes—A blog update

2011-07-17T14:01:00.002-04:00

So I'm sure many of you have been wondering if I was ever going to post again. I've got some very cute and funny stories to share. First I will share what I have been up too. The Ankle is mostly healed, and I'm still working on getting my full range of motion back, but I don't have to wear that awful brace anymore. I'm teaching Zumba® on Saturday mornings at 8am for the months of July and August and subbing for my current instructor once a month and whenever else she may need me. I'm also studying to get my Group Exercise Certification in the fall. I haven't studied since grad school, and it is hard to get motivated when you are taking care of children for 12 hours a day and have an absent husband. But I really need to buckle down and get it done.

Gavin turned 3. I am officially the mother of two preschool boys. They are busy and do everything at full speed. Its exhausting. And fun. And frustrating. And I wouldn't trade it. The big gift was a big boy bike like Luke's with training wheels. He loves it and is getting really good at riding. Luke has asked if he can take off his training wheels, but then quickly retracts and says he's not ready. I agree.

Gavin said he wanted to wear big boy underwear instead of diapers. 5 hours later, 3 changes of
pants, a poop on deck and he was back in diapers per his request. We'll try that again in 2 months.

OK, now for the good stuff. Funny stories involving the boys. One night, as I'm getting the boys out of the tub, Luke asks me, "What are these called?" me: Those are your nipples. Luke: Do You you have nipples? Me: Yes. Luke: No you don't, you have breasts. Me: Yes, but I also have nipples on my breasts, that's how Mommies feed babies, that's where the milk comes out. That's how I used to feed you. Luke: How Could you DO THAT TO ME! (in a completely appalled voice. The look on his face was pretty priceless too). Mike is down the hall dressing Gavin and I seriously thought he was going to give himself a hernia he was laughing so hard.

The Pool is open! and we have been enjoying it just about everyday that we can. One morning as I was getting them ready to go outside. Gavin looks at me and says, "Look at my cute butt!" at which point he turns around and starts to shake it. Then I almost gave myself a hernia from laughing so hard. And of course it would not be complete until Luke drops his pants and joins the cute butt shaking event.

Gavin says Damn it! when he is frustrated. Any advice on how to get him to stop would be greatly appreciated.

I have jury duty next week. That should be fun. Can't wait for that.
OK Thats all for now. I promise to try and post more regularly.

Suck It Sunday

2011-04-11T10:41:00.003-04:00

Remember that feeling when you were a kid when Sunday evenings would roll around? I used to call it Sunday Night Anxiety. Ugh, back to school, uniforms and the dreaded nuns with rulers. And that feeling would continue until I found a job I loved. They Monday didn't seem so bad. Now, I loathe Sunday nights for an entirely different reason. It is the night Mike heads out of town to whatever city he happens to be working that week. As of late he has been traveling to DC on a long project. This is week 5 and there are 3 left for a total of 8 weeks straight. Since Jan1st, 2011, Mike has spent a total of 4 weeks maybe 5 at home—one of which was spent with pneumonia. I never sleep well when he is gone, and sunday night is the worst night. I can never get to sleep and I can never stay asleep. Friday and Saturday night, I sleep like a rock.

Sunday seemed worse this week than usual, probably because I'm hurt. (see previous post) But I also feel blessed. When news spread of my situation, the MOMS® Club that I belong to sprang into action and organized Sunshine meals for me. Sunshine meals are delivered when a member needs some extra support, such as after the birth of a baby, illness, injury or other family situation. In two hours, every slot was filled and people were still volunteering. How lucky I feel to be a part of this group that would help out any and all of its members in a time of need. Thank you. It is so appreciated.

See?! They ARE Trying to Kill Me!

2011-04-09T15:44:00.002-04:00

I've always joked that the kids are trying to kill me—with their bickering, sleep issues, eating issues, keeping them safe, etc. If you are a parent, you know what I'm talking about. I've also joked that the way I'm going out of this word is via stepping on a one of their toys and breaking my neck. Well, the latter came true this week. I didn't break my neck, just a grade three ankle sprain that involves an ACE bandage, an air cast and crutches that I've decided I don't need.

It all went down wednesday evening when I SHOULD have been at Zumba®. But Luke has been having a hard time with me leaving and my regular sitter had something come up for school anyway. So I stayed home. After putting the kids to bed, I came down the two steps that lead to the playroom and OUCH OUCH OUCH! I stepped on a truck with my left foot, rolled my ankle and fell. Snap, crackle, pop. CRAP! I crawled to the freezer and got some ice. crawled to the couch, put my leg up and iced for 2 hours. I'll be fine, I thought. I just pretend I didn't hear anything and there is nothing really wrong with my potato-sized ankle.

I drove Luke to the allergist the next morning, Thursday, and limped around. My neighbor is a nurse and was outside. I had her take a look at it. When I pulled off my sock, she said, "Oh My GOD! you should really go to the ER!" My response, "I will, when I have time."

When I got the kids home, fed and off to nap, I called my mom. She came down that evening and I drove myself to the ER. Two and a half hours and several X-Rays later, I was released with a Grade-Three sprain, which means that a little piece of bone was pulled off when the ligament tore. (Well, that would explain the pop.) I have to wear the ACE bandage and air cast for 2 weeks, then just the air cast for another 2 weeks. After that I only have to wear the air cast when I'm doing any kind of activity where I might re-injure it—for 2 months. Super. I'm going to be in major Zumba® withdrawal. This sucks.

But it is amazing to know that I have good friends that have offered to help with meals or anything else I might need, trips to the store, etc. So even though I have hit a bit of bad luck, I feel blessed to have such amazing friends to lean on.

Where Did March Go?

2011-04-02T15:03:00.003-04:00

So my cousin called me out on my lack of Blog posts, and was all, "Don't you know this is how I stay updated while away at college? Is the next blog post going to be, "Where did March Go?" yes. yes it is. Thanks for the title idea Erica!

So last post I said that I had something in the works that I wasn't ready to share. Well here goes…drum roll please…yours truly is officially licensed to teach Zumba®! I sub taught my very first class this morning for the instructor whom I currently take class with. When I told her I was going to get my liscense, she was super supportive and all, "hmmm…I might have some date I need covered in April. I thought no problem, I know all this choreography. Well, I do know it…when I have Melissa to watch. Totally different when you are up there leading everyone and all eyes are on YOU. But I've been in class this many of these people, and they were super gracious, supportive and happy that I can now sub whenever Melissa can't make it to class.

I'm attending another training workshop in 2 weeks, and hopefully will have my own classes up and running in the fall. Perhaps my MOMS Club® friends will let me use them a guinea pigs this summer. hmmm

In other news: The Hubby has a completely insane travel schedule that is totally wearing me out—and him too. He has been gone every week in March and will be gone for the next 4 weeks. That's 8 weeks straight!! boo hiss. Missing him like crazy, and so are the boys. Luke told him last night that he doesn't want him to work anymore. It was super sweet—and really nice for Mike to know that they are missing him too. Most of the time they are all MOMMY, MOMMY, MOMMY!

Luke started swimming lessons. Mike will be taking him to those on Saturday so that they can have special Luke/daddy time. Our Best friends and neighbor's son turned 4 last week and we had our first trip to Chuck E Cheese. The boys thought that was the best place on earth. We had a hard time dragging them out of there. I had never been to one before either. It wasn't what I was expecting, and I was happy to see that they had different areas for different aged kids. And of course we had to document the first trip with some photos.

Spring had sprung, but not before mother nature enjoyed playing an April Fool's Day joke on all us North Eastern Folks with one last snow storm. Luckily, it was less snow then they said it was going to be—at least where I live, and it is almost all melted. Can we PLEASE be done with snow now? Thanks.

Well, I'm off to enjoy the quiet house now.

Where did February Go?

2011-03-02T13:48:00.003-05:00

I cant believe I have not posted since January. Where did February go? I'll tell you. It was spent caring for sick kids, sick hubby, doctors appointments, birthday parties—yes, parties and shoveling snow. Not to mention a bachelorette party, spa day, broken furnace, new tires for the car and what seemed like the endless baking of cupcakes. Mike was gone most of the month and the week he was home, he had pneumonia. Luke had a stomach bug with a high fever, and Gavin got an ear infection. Everyone is on the mend and I seemed to have escaped without injury—for now.

Luke turned 4 on Feb. 13th—which was a Sunday. Mike arrived home on Friday night early enough that we were able to have a birthday celebration with Nana. Luke wanted pancakes and I HAD to make them—no going out for them. I had baked cupcakes that morning while waiting for the furnace guy to show up and repair the heat (at least with the oven on it kept the kitchen warm). So we had pancakes and cupcakes for dinner.

On Saturday, we went bowling with our good friends and neighbors for Luke's birthday followed by lunch at McDonald's. I was sure to bring more cupcakes for the kids to have after their happy meals had been consumed. Sunday, my brother and his family came by to bring Luke a gift and wish him a happy birthday. We had cupcakes, and Mike flew back to DC for the week.

Monday, Valentines day, Luke had a party at school for all the kids whose birthday were in Feb and to celebrate valentines day. Luke brought cupcakes—dairy and nut free cupcakes to school to share with his friends.

I got both boys registered for Preschool next fall. hooray! Luke will be going 5 mornings a week and Gavin will be going 2. I'm starting to think about how I want to spend my time while they are both in school. I have one thing in the works, which I'm not ready to share, but promise to share soon.

All I know is that Spring is around the corner and cannot get here soon enough. There is still about 2 feet of snow on the ground and I hope it is gone before my spring flowers decide to pop up.

Random Act of Kindness—I See You, you are doing a good job

2011-01-26T15:11:00.003-05:00

This story was shared with me by my good friend and neighbor. Her son is the same age as Luke, so we spend a lot of time at each other houses having play dates and discussing hot topics like potty training and the perfect preschool. Anyway, we are tight.

Last week she had a dentist appointment and it would also be her son's first visit. Taking a child for a first anything always seems to create a bit of anxiety, at least for me it does. Not knowing how you child is going to react, and trying to plan ahead the the best possible experience for all. Anyway, "C" did great. He sat right in the chair, opened his mouth for the dentist, let her clean them with the electric toothbrush, did a fluoride treatment—the whole 9 yards. This is the same child that won't open his mouth for his mother to brush his teeth, but will do all this for a perfect stranger. For a reward, she took him to the pancake house for breakfast. When they were done, she asked for the check. The waitress replied, "it's taken care of. " Confused, my friend replies, "OH do I go to the counter to pay." The waitress replies , "No, that gentleman over there paid you bill." My stunned friend got their stuff together to leave and approached the elderly gentleman to thank him for his kindness. His reply, "You totally put a smile on my face. I can see how much you love your son and it is wonderful to know that there are mothers out there raising their children and spending time with them. You made my day. "

My friend came home and told me the story. "I feel like I am on cloud 9. How amazing to be recognized and 'seen' by a complete stranger."

So, to all the stay-at-home moms, Work-at-home moms, working moms, you are doing a good job. Keep up the good work.

Mo More Binky Either

2011-01-22T19:22:00.002-05:00

Looks like I have finally gotten Luke to give up his binky. Last night, while getting ready for bed, there was no binky to be found. I have one stashed away with Gavin's extra, but it was getting late, so I said to Luke, either I keep looking for you binky or you get stories, but it is too late now and you can't have both. He chose stories. So I read him a couple of extras, and promised that since binky got lost and wasn't able to be given to the Binky fairy to give to a baby, he could pick out something at the toy store tomorrow. That seemed to cheer him right up. Five minutes later after I leave his room I can hear something in the kitchen. I go out there and there's Luke, "I'm looking for my binky now." Sorry kid, back to bed you go. He went to sleep without tears, and today, as promised we went to Toy R us, and he picked out an R/C Hiro from Thomas & Friends. HE also decided that Gavin needed one too (or rather that he wasn't going to be sharing with Gavin so he should get his own—smart kid). Unfortunately, there was only one Hiro, but plenty of Molly's. So Gavin got an R/C Molly instead. Luke ran up to everyone in the store to tell them about his R/C Hiro. It was pretty cute and everyone was getting a kick out of his excitement. Pure joy out of something so simple. How wonderful to be a child.

ON a side note, I didn't chuck the binky—it IS lost somewhere in this house. Hopefully I will find it before he does. Otherwise, our progress will be obsolete.

NO More Pull-Ups…Hooray

2011-01-20T16:43:00.002-05:00

Almost a year ago, Luke said good-bye to diapers and hello to big boy underwear. Almost immediately he started getting up at night to go pee in the potty, which I never told him he had to do. I figured we would master day time and tackle night time later on. And to be perfectly honest, I was almost a little annoyed that he was, since now I also had to get up in the middle of the night to help him. I was finally getting Gavin to sleep through the night which between both boys, it had been almost 3 years without me being woken up in the middle of the night. (And I'm not counting the 3 month prior to Luke being born where I suffered serious insomnia. But what was I going to say, "Just go in your pants. You are wearing a Pull-Up!" Kind of counter productive. So While mastering daytime, we were working on night time too. And most mornings, he woke up dry. As of late, he has been hounding me to wear big boy underwear at night. So I told him that when this bag of Pull-ups was empty, he could wear big boy underwear to bed.

We are on night 3 of No more pull-ups, and he has done great—which I knew he would.

Watch What You Say

2011-01-17T19:28:00.002-05:00

I know that I haven't posted in a while…OK more than a while…almost a whole month! I was having some troubles with my computer. My Mac lap top, which just celebrated it's 4th birthday, on it's last leg. I'm already on battery # 2, it has a dent on its side from Luke dropping it over the gate and the power cord finally broke. So my hubby the hero, ordered another one for me and it seems to be working OK. Although, I am going to need a new battery…again, real soon me thinks.

The kids are keeping me on my toes as usual. Luke gets up from his quiet time the other day and politely asks fro some juice. I give him some, which he sucks down in 5 minutes before asking for more. I tell him he already had juice and he can now have some water. He slams his cup down on the counter and says, "Damn it!" before running off to play in the other room. I start to chuckle because he catches me off guard and his mannerisms just killed me. He must have heard me chuckling, b/c then I hear, "damn it, damn it, damn it" from the other room. I start to tell him that that is not nice to say, which just makes him say it more. So I drop it and I haven't heard it since. I really need to watch what I say.

We went Candlepin Bowling today. It was the first time the boys had ever been. It was the first time Mike had ever been as well. It was a lot of fun. Luke had a great time. Gavin had fun too, but he seemed over it about half way through our game and didn't seem to have much interest in playing. They wanted to go to the arcade area instead. So we did that for a few minutes also. It was great to spend time as a family, especially since Mike is going to be gone for the next 3 weeks. boo hiss.

I'm starting to look at some preschools for the boys next year. I really like the school Luke is at now, but their schedule doesn't really fit my needs with both boys attending. Gavin will be going in the morning and Luke in the afternoon. I'll be spending my day driving back and forth. So I'm trying to find a new place where they can both go in the morning. Wish me luck!

Also Luke will be turning 4 next month. How that happened, I have no idea, but I'm trying to figure out what to do for his birthday. I'm open to suggestions. Please post some!

Miscellaneous Thoughts

2010-12-21T07:50:00.004-05:00

The post is basically a bunch of random thoughts and events of the past several weeks. None long enough to post on their own, but many of them amusing.

About a week ago, Mike called me downstairs to meet his new furry friend,"brown field mouse."
Perfect. So the next day I went to the store to get some mouse traps. Mike set both of them, one by my dryer and the other near his tool bench. Nothing. Sunday he left for Buffalo and all I can think is, "I hope that mouse moved out b/c I really don't want to deal with dead mouse trap. Yesterday I checked them—both empty—but right in front of the tool bench there is the mouse—laying on his side, dead. Don't know what caused him to pass, but was happy it wasn't a trap. So I got the shovel and put it outside in the woods. Fun.

The other night the boys wanted to use the window markers to draw on the windows. So I got them out. As I was watching them, I started to think about the differences between boys and girls. We all know they are different—for obvious reasons—but how they learn, play and grow are different that just their "physical" difference. Case in point: if you give 8 markers to a 2- and 3-year-old girls, they will happily create beautiful pictures. If you give those same markers to a 2 and 3-year old boys, they will scribble a big ball of "crash" before fitting the markers together cap to end, create a sword and begin dueling.

It is snowing here today. It has been very cold the last few weeks. Mike has been working from home, which has been really nice. This week, he is in Buffalo—returning in time for Christmas eve. However, it is also snowing. I do not know how to use the snow blower. Figures the week he is gone we get our first snow fall of the year. Shoveling…grrr.

I made Christmas countdown calendars with the kids this year. Luke can't have the traditional "chocolate behind a paper door" calendar that you get in the store because of his peanut allergy. So this year, after a friend told me how she makes them with her kids, we did the same. We glued some Heresey Kisses to poster board, and the kids decorated them. Gavin doesn't quite get the conept of one a day and has been liberating them whenever he feels like it. I finally had to hang it out of reach.

The countdown to Christmas is on and I'm starting to have a bit of a panic attach about it. Will keep you posted.

Reason for the Season

2010-12-10T14:32:00.003-05:00

I read something yesterday about a Mega-church in Texas that is calling out businesses as being Grinchy if they say, "Happy Holidays" to it's customers instead of Merry Christmas, since the REASON for THIS SEASON is Christ. I wish I could find the link to share, but I couldn't. Let me start off by saying that I'm a christian and that I celebrate Christmas. And that I'm well aware that Jesus is the reason I celebrate the season. But I'm also aware that there are others that believe something different and celebrate something different than I do this HOLIDAY season. This country was built on freedom to worship as one chooses. So when so called Americans persecute others for their beliefs, in the name of "Their god" well, then you are not behaving as a child of God, a true American—or even as a decent human being.

The reason for this season as a whole should be kindness—to family, to friends to strangers. Maybe this country and the world would be a better place if we could all agree that we are humans and deserve to be treated with respect and kindness. And I'm not talking about big donations to charities or grand gestures. I'm talking about holding the door for someone, offering a meal one family in need, helping someone put groceries in their car.

I was a recipient of a random act of kindness today, and boy did it make my whole day. I was in line at BJ's, with the kids in the car shopping cart. Well, don't you know, the minute I try to scan my items, both kids jump out and want to help. I try to get them back in the cart, since Gavin is all about running away, and I can't chase him through the store—but I'm not having any luck with that. So the woman in the line next to me, can see me struggling with them, and jumps over and begins to scan my groceries for me. "I have twin boys and I know how hard this can be. I have had many strangers help me, so I'm paying it forward." I was so thrilled to have her help. For 5 minutes, she was my angel. And that my friends is what being a good neighbor/friend/person is all about.

Santa Visit

2010-12-09T14:44:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, we wrote letters to Santa and headed to the Mall to put them in the Macy's Santa Mailbox. Their "Believe" campaign will donate $1 to the Make-a-Wish foundation for every letter they receive up to $1,000,000. They are currently around 650,000, so if you haven't written to Santa yet, you better do so. I child's wish depends on it.

When we arrived at the mall, Santa himself was there—and there was NO line. Luke was very eager to speak with Santa and tell him all about the things he wanted for Christmas. Gavin on the other hand would not even look at him. This was their first real visit with Santa. We took Luke when he was a baby and he screamed bloody murder. After that we decided not to take the kids unless they said that they wanted to go. Of course I didn't have my camera with me, so I paid a small fortune to have Luke's picture taken. There was a christmas train there too for the kids to ride. So we did that as well. They HAD to sit in the engine so that they could ring the bell. Two trips around the track just weren't enough and it was difficult to pull them away. But we needed to get to Macy's to mail our letters, so I convinced them to leave. By the time we left, it was dark so the kids were able to enjoy all the Christmas lights on the houses. The night before we actually went for a drive after dinner to look at lights. It was a great way to end the day, entertaining the children without TV, together in the car as a family.

And just to give you a little chuckle, I sent my phone through the washer—AGAIN. Luke stuffed it in one of his pant pockets. It is currently drying out. Let's see if it will even turn on after this.

Moronic move while at Disney

2010-12-04T07:13:00.003-05:00

So I forgot to mention that while I was in Disney, I accidentally put my cell phone through the washer. It was Friday morning, our last full day there. We had to check out of our current hotel and were staying at a Marriott by the airport that night. Our flight left Saturday at 11am. Of course Gavin decided to wet his pack and play sheet—the only one I had brought, so I decided to do a quick load of wash before we checked out of the hotel—which we needed to do before 10am. And the green person I am can't run a washing machine for one item, so in my haste to quickly fill it, I grabbed my shorts that I had worn the night before to Magic Kingdom. 10 Minutes into the wash cycle, I decide, "Hey I better charge my phone." I went to look for it and realized that I had probably just put it in the washer—and I did. I found it at the bottom, retrieved it, removed the battery to dry it out and kept my fingers crossed that it would work again.

No such luck. It turns on, but it doesn't get a signal anymore. So that's the end of that, I officially need a new phone. No, this doesn't mean I get a new fancy phone for Christmas.

Back from Disney!

2010-11-29T14:36:00.009-05:00

This year we decided to meet Mike's family in Disney World (that's the one in Florida). My mom joined us, (she had never been) so it was a great opportunity to spend some quaity time with the grandchildren. I was a bit nervous about taking the boys on a plane, wondering how they were going to behave and react, but they did great. The watched their shows and played games on the iPad which kept them completely entertained. I didn't even have to pull out any of the other toys/coloring books to entertain them. (now I have some stocking stuffers) I wasn't too thrilled about lugging 2 car seats through the airport and will probably not fly with the boys again until they are done with them.

We spent 2 days at Magic Kingdom, 2 days at Animal Kingdom and one day at Epcot. We spent one day at the hotel so that the boys could play in the pool and take naps, which they did. They also had a water slide which Luke begged me to take him on, which I had to do while Gavin was napping since he was too short to ride on it. I had to bribe him with ice cream to get him off the slide.

It was a wonderful and exhausting trip and I was glad that we were able to go. But I'm also glad to be home. It will be nice to go back when the kids are older— a LOT older—maybe in 10 years.
Until then, we have some nice pics to remember the trip.

They are really into parades at Disney. I think we saw about 5 of them.

Mike's sister Jill and her hubby Justin. They are high school sweethearts. Aren't they cute? They make cute kids too.

Mike, my Mom (nana), Mike's mom (Grandma) Luke and Gavin at Epcot.

Gavin enjoying a Mickey Lollipop. Yes I totally bribed him to stay in the stroller with that lolly too.

Toy Story

2010-11-08T07:32:00.002-05:00

My children have recently discovered the joy of a little movie called Toy Story. They have only seen the first one, and Gavin requests to watch the "Buzz Light-year movie". Yesterday, I treated them both to Buzz Light-Year figures. Just small ones that were $8 at Target. Well this morning, at 5 am, I hear Gavin from his crib, "To infinity… and beyond!"

North Conway Photos

2010-11-02T21:30:00.012-04:00

Here are just a few of the photos from our North Conway adventure.

Santa's Village, Jefferson NH

This ride looks like fun.

Gavin Doesn't think so. The operator stops it so he can get off. About 5 more kids get on and no one else cries.

View of Mount Washington on the way home. Yes, that's IS snow.

North Conway Scenic Railroad. Me and Gavin

Listening to the announcer and looking out the window.

we stopped at the Cider Mill and got a pumpkin. Then it's back on the train.

View from Mount Washington as we are making our way up on the Cog Railroad.

Luke and Gavin at the Children's Museum.

Happy Halloween!

2010-10-31T22:35:00.006-04:00

Yes, I know I have been a very bad blogger. But last week I was on vacation with the kids—actually anyone who has kids will tell you that going on "vacation" with kids really isn't a vacation at all. Anyway, long story short, we had a time share week that was "use it or loose it". So I packed the kids up and took them to North Conway NH. Mike had to work so I dragged my mom with me because there was no way I was going to endure a week long vacation by myself.

But we had a great time. We went to Santa's Village, took a ride on the North Conway Scenic Railroad, took the Cog Train up Mount Washington, visited the Children's Museum, the weather museum, lots of shops, and even saw a friend from college that I hadn't seen in a decade. It was great to experience the kids first train ride, which they loved. There were melt downs and Luke was pretty homesick, asking to go home everyday. So by Thursday, we had done everything we had planned to do, so decided to head home a day early.

Luke had his final soccer game on Saturday, which he had a great time playing and even got a medal for participating this season. Maybe he will want to play in the spring. We shall see.

Happy Halloween! All month Luke refused to participate in Halloween. He wanted nothing to do with it. No costume, no trick-or-treating. They last night, he decided that dressing up is something NOT SCARY and knocking on doors to get free candy could be really fun. So he decided he wanted to be a firefighter (same as last year) and Gavin decided he wanted to be the same. So off to Target I went at 8:30pm on Oct 30th to get a costume. Gavin fit into Luke costume from last year, so I only needed to buy one. I was able to find on and get it at 15% off. SCORE!

We went trick-or-treating with some friends that live is a safe quiet neighborhood. The boys were excited to go and when the friends heard we were coming they were just as excited. I decided to go as the cat they rescued from a tree. Hear are some pics from the evening:

Nothing in This House Belongs to Me

2010-10-17T12:22:00.002-04:00

I've come to the conclusion that since having children, nothing in this house belongs to me anymore. All of my stuff has become playthings, weapons (sword fights with wooden spoons), Musical instruments (all the lids on my pots and pans are now dented) drawing implements (eyeliner and make-up) and the list goes on. I can't even eat of bowl of raisin bran without Gavin reaching across the table to steal all the raisins out of my cereal. "Thanks for taking all the good stuff and leaving me the 'Bran'". But since Luke is such a super picky eater, I let this behavior continue to keep Gavin interested in trying new foods. Luke never went through this stage, never wanted to eat off my plate. Now he hardly eats anything. I can't for the life of me figure out how he is the tallest kid in his class—he lives on Chocolate Milk and air.

Back to the point–my stuff. In one breath, I'm saying how they need to share and in the next breath I'm all, "That belongs to me, please put it down!" Of course Luke's rebuttal is, "Mommy, you need to share!" Sorry Luke, I'm not sharing the sharp kitchen knives with you. They are not a toy! "BUT I WANT TO HAVE A TURN!" Now I'm totally exhausted trying to explain why he can't have it. I know it will sink in eventually, but saying the same thing over and over 50 thousand times a day really beings to wear on you.

Fall Festival and an Anniversary Weekend

2010-10-11T06:36:00.006-04:00

Yesterday was our 6th wedding anniversary. A lot has changed in 6 years, but somethings remain the same like how lucky I feel to have found him to share my life with. It isn't always easy, like any marriage, we have our ups and downs, good times and bad, but I know that we are always on the same side… Team Taber. I know that no matter what life throws at us, we have each other to lean to to get through it.

Saturday we went to a fall festival with a hay ride, mini train ride, moon bounce houses, lots of vendors selling yummy treats and handmade items, and more. It was a beautiful fall day and the kids seemed to have fun. Here are some pics from the day.

I Made Good on My Bet…as Promised

2010-10-04T12:19:00.003-04:00

Me in a Jets jersey…as promised, after my Pats lost to them 2 weeks ago. Other than the 2 minutes i was in this jersey, I had a great weekend. My big brother got married friday night. I spent the day with Jen, one of my good friend's from high school and her husband, Mr. Lewis. Jen met Luke when he was 8 months old, and that was the last time I had seen her. Michael had never met the kids and within 5 minutes of meeting Michael, Luke decided he was the best thing since sliced bread. "Micheal, will you come outside and play soccer with me? will you watch TV with me, will you go potty with me?" All day it was, "Micheal will you …". It was pretty darn cute, and Jen got a big kick out of it.

We went apple picking and then Jen made an apple pie while I cooked dinner. ALL the boys sat on the couch and watched TV.

After dinner we got the kids ready for bed, but not before Luke asked Michael to give him is tubby and read him a story. Once the kids were in bed, the adults played board games and ate apple pie. Yum.

It was great to see old friends this weekend and catch up. I have some wedding pics to show too, but I will have to do a separate post for that.

By the way Jen and Micheal, you forgot to take some apples with you and now I've got about 50 apples to eat. Thanks.

Update on Jets Jersey

2010-09-26T07:50:00.002-04:00

OK, I know some of you are anxiously awaiting my humiliation in a Jets jersey (ahem, Mr. Lewis) But I have been to 4 sporting good stores and 2 department stores with no luck. I did however manage to amuse the sales guy in Footlocker about my ordeal. He suggested that I wear my friends jersey, and I explained that he lives in Florida. BUT, He is married to my fabulous friend from high school and they will be making the trek north on Friday for my brother's wedding. So, if you can all wait just a few more days, Mr. Lewis said he would bring me a jersey to wear and I promise to post the pics ASAP.

I DON'T WANT TO GO TO SOCCER! —either

2010-09-25T15:09:00.002-04:00

Luke was about to burst into tears this morning when he asked what we were going to do today and I told him that he had soccer this morning. The bottom lip turned over and he said in the most pathetic sounding voice, "But I don't want to go to soccer!" I asked why, and all I got was, " Because I don't know they other team." I tried to explain that you will meet them and play soccer together and it will be fun. He wasn't buying it. I asked if he would just to support his team, but that he didn't have to play if he didn't want to. He didn't buy that either. So we missed soccer this morning. We will miss soccer next week too because my brother is getting married. So I am hoping that after 2 weeks, he will want to give it a go again. But with the new found, "I don't want to go to school" I wasn't going to compound it by making him go to soccer. So we shall see where this leads. So glad I didn't buy cleats!

I DON'T WANT TO GO TO SCCHHOOOOLL!

2010-09-24T09:47:00.002-04:00

This was the cry I heard all morning on Wednesday as I prepared to get Luke to school. Gavin was throwing himself on the floor and having a fit because I changed him out of his PJ's and Luke was lying on the floor crying about how much he doesn't want to go to school. What a perfect way to start the day. " I don't want to go to school, I want to stay home with you!" He cried all the way to school. HE calmed down a bit once we got there and were waiting on the benches for his teacher to come out and get all the students. Policy is that all parents wait on the benches and the teachers take them to the classroom. Parents are discouraged to escort children to the classroom—they feel this only makes separation worse. Luke wanted me to go to school with him. He asked Mrs. J if I could and she explained that Mommies and daddies don't come to school, that school is just for boys and girls like him. Then she picked him up and carried him kicking and screaming to class. I stood there wanting to cry too, but was able to hold it together. Gavin, of course, is sitting in the stroller screaming as well, and Luke's escapade sent a bunch of other kids into fits of crying. Nice.

About an hour later, I got a call from his teacher to let me know that he was doing OK and that he finally calmed down—it took a little longer than usual, but he was fine. I really appreciated that call. When I went to pick him up, I was able to chat with his teacher for a few minutes. She said this was pretty typical—the honeymoon period is over, now they realize that this is what they are doing every Monday and Wednesday, now it is a control thing. They have to follow rules, directions and can't just do what ever they want. But I'm hoping this phase will pass quickly—actually he seemed so excited about school, I was hoping to by pass this all together.
Can't wait to see what next year holds with Gavin. Maybe I'll get lucky.

Sunday Rituals

2010-09-21T14:49:00.003-04:00

Yes, I am aware that it is Tuesday, but something dawned on me Sunday while I was driving Gavin to the Doctor's office—Sunday Rituals. I passed an elementary school on the way and the parking lot was packed. As I drove by, I realized that Football was the main event. It was 9:30 in the morning and all I could think was—doesn't anyone go to Church anymore? Growing up, our Sunday ritual was the same—Church, then to Grandma's house to play with cousins and eat a big Italian feast. Even after Grandma passed away, we still made the trip to the south shore of Long Island to spend the day with our cousins. Once we got older, and we started participating in sports, games were ALWAYS on Saturday. Sunday was considered a family day.

I'm not sure what my plans will be when the kids get older and their activities are scheduled when they are scheduled, but Church and Sunday school will be on the list and non-negotiable.

A Bet Gone Bad

2010-09-20T16:01:00.002-04:00

So the inevitable happened—the Patriots lost yesterday's game to the stinkin' NY Jets. Now I have to locate a Jets jersey and take a picture of me wearing it and post on this blog. Not only can I NOT rock green, but it may be next to impossible to locate anything NY in NE. I have only had time to make it to one sporting good store and they didn't sell any other jerseys. So I will continue to try and locate one because a bet is a bet and I plan to make good on it. But my friend Mr. Lewis will be getting on a plan in about 10 days and coming here for my brother's wedding, so if I'm unable to find one here, I'm sure it will be his pleasure to bring me his to wear for the photo. And then he will get to delight in seeing me wear it in the flesh and blood, not just a photo.

In other crazy news, Gavin is allergic to penicillin—which was discovered this morning after I gave him the medicine for his double ear infection and his face broke out in hives. So now i'm on the phone with the doc, while I try to get the kids out the door so that Luke gets to school on time—my sitter is calling to tell me her son is sick and won't be able to watch Gavin while I go to meet the seamstress to try on my bridesmaids dress to make sure it fits OK before bringing it home! Seriously, I thought my head was going to explode. But the dress fits great, Luke made it to school on time and I'm off to get Gavin new medicine for his ear infection. Never a dull moment.

Friendly Wager

2010-09-19T07:27:00.003-04:00

With Football underway, Mike and I have a weekly tradition—we Tivo the Patriots game, I make wings, ("Buffalo" wings for all you non-western New Yorkers) cut up celery, poor some blue cheese dressing and we watch the game after the kids go to bed and eat our feast. We stay away from all forms of communication, FB e-mail and news while our game is recording so that it doesn't get spoiled.

I also get to talk smack with a good friend, fellow blogger, sports writer and JETS fan. If you haven't checked out Michael Lewis's Blog, I suggest you do so. It is smart, interesting and funny. I often get my "news" there, since being a stay-at-home mom often leaves me feeling disconnected from the outside world.

The result of last weeks verbal exchanged resulted in a friendly wager. If the Patriots win, Mr. Lewis must wear a Brady jersey, take a picture, and post it on his blog for a week. If the Jets win, I must find a Mark Sanchez jersey to wear, take a pic and post it on my blog for a week.
I'm feeling pretty confident that MY boys in blue will not let me down. But I'm also a Red Sox fan, so I'm totally used to getting my hopes up, only to have them crushed.

Game on Mr. Lewis. Can't wait to see you in BLUE!

Cold & Flu Season Arrives—already

2010-09-13T18:36:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, Mike left for California, and I was left home with 2 cranky children. Gavin cried on and off all day at 20 minute intervals. Last night he was up every 2 hours crying and somewhere around the 2am mark I noticed he was all congested. Perfect. I wasn't really prepared for this. Today he is sneezing and clear/green goo is falling from his nose. I took his temp a few minutes ago and we are at 100.1. I'm just waiting for Luke to come down with it now, and will probably be missing school on Wednesday. Fingers crossed he won't—but 'tis the season.

Luke's First Soccer Game

2010-09-11T19:43:00.002-04:00

I'm not really a huge advocate for organized sports for preschoolers. I think their time is better spent playing and exploring on their own, not filled with tons of "structured" activities. But the U4 team in our town is one hour a week on Saturday from 9am-10am every week. The first half hour is a warm up and "clinic" and the second half hour is a "game". The perfect amount of time to keep their interest. Enough time to learn and follow the rules of a game, have fun, play with friends, get exercise and learn about team work and sportsmanship.

Luke decided about 2 months ago that he wanted to play, so I signed him up—something I wasn't too sure about, but he insisted. He was very excited about his shin guards, new soccer ball and playing with his friends. He is part of the "red shirt team". Coach Mike is so great with the kids—I applaud his patience and ability to relate the game to them.

Luke had a really great time, although there were a couple of times where I had to coax him back on the field. Unfortunately, the soccer fields are right near a playground, so that's all Luke wanted to do. I promised that after soccer, we would go over there to play. He made it through the hour of soccer and off to the playground we went.

I found my crappy camera and was able to snap a few shots. I'm almost a little depressed that I found it, I really wanted a new one—a fancier one. While this one still works, it is over 6 years old and a want a sleeker model that will take better photos.

He's Luke standing by the net before the game.

Luke's First day of Preschool

2010-09-01T22:22:00.002-04:00

The day I have been waiting for finally came…Luke's first day of school. He did great. Gavin on the other hand, didn't handle it so well. I didn't even get to see Luke go into his classroom b/c Gavin was throwing a fit that I wouldn't let him run up the stairs. So there I am holding a screaming 30 lb toddler while all the 3 year-old line up to go into their classrooms. I didn't have time to be upset, I was to busy. I wanted to get a picture, but that didn't happen. I did get the traditional photo on the front steps of the house wearing the backpack. At was cute. But sine I lost me digital camera and have not replaced it yet, I had to use an actual camera with FILM! can you believe it?! I really miss my digital camera.

So we left school and off to the pediatrician we went for Gavin's 2 year check up. The whole way there, Gavin kept asking, "Where's Luke?" I kept telling him that Luke was at school and that he had the whole morning with mommy! Once we got to the pedi office, Gavin began to cry—and cried the whole hour we were there. And to top it off, he had to get shots. Like he wasn't already pissed off enough, now we are going to hold him down and stick needles in him. Brilliant.

We left there to head to Target to get EpiPens for Luke to keep at school. Gavin fell asleep for the last 5 minutes in the car. Of course he was tired, I'm always exhausted after I scream for an hour. The script wasn't fill, and so I had to leave empty handed b/c it was time to pick up Luke.

Luke was happy to see us. He made a First day of school certificate that had his teacher's name on it, the date, and a picture of a school to color in. Teacher said he did well—no tears but had some trouble following the rules and even said "NO!" a few times. So I have already started talking to Luke about following the rules and listening to his teacher.

Should be an interesting year.

Busy Bee

2010-08-31T20:59:00.003-04:00

I have been a busy bee planning a wedding shower for my brother and bride-to-be. It took place this past Sunday, and I couldn't be happier that it is over and done with! It seemed every time I turned around a wrench was thrown into our plans. It was a luau themed co-ed shower. We had a Hawaiian style buffet and served up some delicious foods. My friend and pastry chef extraordinaire made a beautiful cake—vanilla cake with passion fruit filling, french butter cream frosting with real edible orchids. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves.

And for the past 2 days I have been running here and there trying to get everything in order for Luke to start preschool tomorrow. Life with an allergy kid means extra paperwork for the nurse and EpiPens and Benedryl etc. Fun. Today there was a one-hour orientation where the kids go to the classroom and the parents go off to the library to hear the basic rules and procedures from the principle and be introduced to some key staff members—nurse, school psychologist, guidance counselor, etc. When I returned to the room, Luke seemed to be doing just fine without me there. He decided that the water fountain is his new best friend and took 3 drinks in the 2 minutes I was there to get him. I had to convince him to leave and that he could come back tomorrow for a whole morning. He seemed excited about the idea. We shall see how it goes.

Random Thoughts

2010-08-15T21:34:00.003-04:00

It's been a long time since I've posted and I apologize for my absence. Mike has been gone for the past 5 weeks straight and I'm tired. Here are random stories and thoughts.

In the hour following Luke's "bedtime" he made 4 -5 trips to the bathroom to go "pee pee", each time letting a few drops go. ON the last trip, he was standing there, waiting for the pee pee to come out and I'm standing there giving him the "I know you are lying to me about having to pee" look. Then he says, "I love you mommy. Happy Mother's day!" I chuckle and giggle and luke gets away with lying to me about having to pee. I'm a sucker…and he knows it.

Earlier today, I made a quick tip to the store to get some things to cook dinner. I come home to a squatting Gavin saying, "Mommy, it's a buggy" pointing to the tiniest ant. Mike yells from the kitchen, I'm coming to get the buggy. I walk to the kitchen to get dinner going and I hear Mike from the next room, "Gavin, Where's the buggy." (Gavin responds by opening his mouth and points inside) Mike: "Did you eat the buggy?" Gavin: yep

The Boys have decided that being naked is awesome, especially outside.

The socks and shoes totally make this a fashion statement.

I have to say that I'm not really a big fan of the 3 and a half age. Luke is supper sweet and mostly a really good kid, but his whining and temper tantrums are getting old and so is the talking back and "fresh" attitude. I can't wait until school starts. Granted it's only 2 mornings a week, but the thought of being able to grocery shop with just ONE child in tow is like going on
vacation.

Gavin's "terrible twos" are also in full swing. He is testing limits and when he makes up his mind about something, there is not stopping him. I'm pretty sure I look completely ridiculous as I try to wrestle a 30 LB 2-year-old into a shopping cart seat. And I ALWAYS end up with a bruise.

I've decided that etiquette and proper social behavior is at an all-time low and that everyone needs a copy of Emily Post Etiquette, and also refer to it when they do not know how to behave.

That's all for now. Enjoy.

Are we THERE Yet?

2010-08-02T16:22:00.002-04:00

Seriously, I wasn't expecting to hear these words from my two-year-old, and certainly not on the way to the playground, which is less than 10 minutes away. On a long car trip? Yes. Plane ride? yes. Not a 10 minute car ride. I know I uttered these same words as a kid, as I'm sure many kids did before me. In fact, I will bet that even during the great expansion west in the 1800's, somewhere from the back of a horse drawn wagon, a child was asking "Are we there yet?". And then when the parents patience finally wore out, the said, "YES WE ARE HERE! Get out and build a house!" and that would determine where people would end up, not where they were actually headed, but how long their patience could last the nagging of, "Are we there yet?"

Can't wait for the plane ride to Disney. I will probably purchase another 100 pairs of ear plugs for all the passengers on the plane, so at least they don't have to listen to it.

Mike's Contribution

2010-07-26T07:13:00.004-04:00

I think my hubby is a great dad. He enjoys playing with the boys and taking them to Home Depot for "man" stuff. Occasionally he will contribute to the boys wardrobe. This arrived in the mail a few days ago.

And one for the big brother too.

He also enjoys teaching the boys new words. While I was putting Gavin to bed the other night he looks at me and says, "Uncle George is a Goofball." Which is true and I begin to chuckle, which in turn makes him chuckle and now every night before bed, we talk about all the goofballs in the family, "Mommy is a goofball, Luke is a goofball…etc."

Are you a goofball?

Swim Lessons

2010-07-15T15:49:00.003-04:00

Luke had his first swim lesson yesterday at the house while Gavin was napping. He LOVED it. He was thrilled when his instructor, Kaitlyn showed up. As she is coming up the stairs, Luke says in a very excited tone, "Hi Kaitlyn, are you going to teach me how to swim? I'm so excited." He did great. She got him to blow bubbles in the water, spit water out of his mouth and swim by kicking his legs. He was very sad to see her go, but the promise that she would be coming back to swim with him again seemed to keep the tears at bay. We will be seeing her every Wednesday for the next 5 weeks. I'm not sure how Luke is going to take it when these lessons end. I might need to find some for him to take this fall and winter—at an indoor pool.

Gavin Turns TWO!

2010-07-12T20:15:00.003-04:00

Gavin turned 2 last week and we had a party for him on Saturday. All the usual suspects were there, minus my brother b/c he had to work. It was a poolside Bar-B-Q,—well, it was supposed to be a poolside bar-b-q. But after 3 weeks of no rain, it decided to show up on the one day I had an out door event planned. Grrr. But we had a great party anyway and were able to sneak outside for some pool time fun. Gavin receieved some very thoughtful gifts that he really loves; the dinosaur from Toy Story from uncle George and Auntie Marianne, Chuck the talking Truck, a Red Sox tee and book from the Linstrom clan, money and two bubble makers from Nana, a beachball sprinkler from Luke, some trains from his best friend, and a tricycle from mommy and daddy.

I made a choclate cake and decorated it with a beach theme and some cupcakes for the kids with swedish fish on them. Everyone seemed to enjoy it. I took a few pictures with a disposable camera because I STILL can't find my digital camera (I think I better chalk that one up as permently lost) so it will be a while before I have some pics to show. It was a great day.

So I have officially said good-bye to my "baby" and hello to my little boy.
Happy Birthday Gavin.

Making Wine

2010-07-07T14:47:00.003-04:00

Any mother will tell you that their car is a disaster. Crumbs, toys, juice boxes and cups always seem to litter the car, no matter how much you try to keep it clean. It is the first place I look whenever something goes missing, like a snack cup, binkie, or sippy cup. The second place I always look is my stroller. Well Luke's sippy cup went missing—for at least a week. And I looked in the car, but I didn't look way under the front passenger seat for his cup, especially since he sits behind the drivers seat and that is where it usually ends up. Last night I found it, brought it inside and opened it to put it in the dishwasher. Clearly, there had been grape juice in it—and now there was wine. Or at least something that smelled like wine. I put it in the dishwasher thinking, "If this still smells like wine tomorrow, I'll throw the cup away. I don't people to think I give me children wine and call DSS."

The New Urinal

2010-07-01T08:13:00.003-04:00

Luke has decided that peeing in one of these is way cooler than peeing in the toilet. And I have to admit, I'm kind of liking it as well. Now he doesn't get pee all over the toilet. Let me back up and explain how this came to be. And it wasn't my idea, it was the ingenious idea of a 3-year-old.

The Boys have a water wheel that they play with in the tub. They have big red party cups to fill with water and pour over the wheel while in the tub. One evening, while I was drying Gavin off and Luke was still in the tub, he had to relieve himself, and what better place than in the cup. (He doesn't want to pee in his nice clean tub water after all). He fills the cup and then says, "Here you go Mommy." I take it from him, expecting water, and it's not. From then on, he MUST pee in the cup. Now I have red party cups in both bathrooms.

My only fear now is that the will fill it and drop it while trying to pour it in the toilet. I help him with this, but he is getting pretty insistent that he CAN DO IT HIMSELF. Hopefully I won't have to mop up any puddles.

Special Request

2010-06-29T12:43:00.005-04:00

Yesterday was my birthday. My husband sent me flowers. He is in Germany. It was a delightful surprise.

I also talked with and old friend for over an hour on the phone. She lives in Florida, so we don't get to see each other much, and when we get on the phone, it is usually for an hour or 2. While we were chatting, her husband is hounding her in the background, "Who are you talking to? Who are you talking to?" She tells him its me, and he yells, "HI! I want more orgasisms!" What?? I say. She repeats to me, "he wants more Gavinisms." "OH I thought he said he wants more orgasisms, and that really isn't my department." So, to fulfill the request of more Gavinisms, here goes:

… hab it: This is said when he wants something… he wants to HAVE it. Usually he is reaching for seomthing and yelling, "I WANT TO HAB IT!!" "I WANT TO HAB IT!!"

Dumb fuck: This is what he calls his DUMP TRUCK. It's embarassing to go to the store with him screaming this. I wish I were making this one up.

Be quiet yuke: Be quiet Luke… as if I really needed to explain this one.

That's all I got for now, but I'm sure there will be more.

Post Edit:
I knew I would think of more Gavinisms. Enjoy.

Ride Mommy: This means that he wants me to crawl around on the floor with him on my back…like a pony.

'Dere you go: Is said when he is trying to give something to me or Luke. Usually he is trying to force a toy into my hand. And he is very insistent.

Long Week

2010-06-27T05:24:00.003-04:00

The hubby is gone again. He left last Saturday for Germany and will be there another week. It's already been a long week and I'm only at the half way point. It's 5:30 in the morning and I have already been awake for a half hour and have decided that no one should be awake at this hour. Ever. But Luke woke up to go pee and now I can't get back to sleep. So I will enjoy these moments of quiet, have some coffee and decide how I'm going to conquer the day. Mmmm…coffee.

Post Edit: Gavin woke up 10 minutes after I posted this. So much for my morning of quiet and coffee.

Gavinisms

2010-06-21T18:42:00.002-04:00

I thought I would jot down some of the most adorable things that Gavin is saying and doing right now.

Daddy's cheese: This means string cheese stick, one of Mike's favorite snacks. And so the saying was born, and will probably continue for a long time. Even Luke refers to it as "Daddy's Cheese"

Sunshine… please: This means that he wants me to sing "You are my sunshine." When he wants me to stop, he puts his hand over my mouth and say, "No song mommy."

Toy Section…pleeeassse: is said when we go to Target and he wants to go and look at the toys. However he said it in Toys R Us the other day. Umm, this whole store is a toy section, I'm not sure where you want me to go.

It's a buggy!!: This means he has spotted a bug or something he believes to be a bug. Could be a crumb, a stain, or a nic or blemish on something. I can't tell you how many times I have gone looking for imaginary buggys. In fact he is trying to get one right now.

He has also started using me as his personal ladder. When he wants something, he grabs my leg (always my right one) and "drags" me to the location he desires. Then he puts his hands up and says "Up Mommy" until I pick him up. The one time I ignored him, he bit my inner thigh. So not cool or adorable. But I can't resist his cute curls and my anger quickly fades.

Ahhh… the joy of a boy at 2.

Dizzy

2010-06-16T14:45:00.003-04:00

The Boys have discovered the thrill of spinning around and around to get the dizzy effect. Then they "fall down" and giggle and chant, "DIZ--ZY, DIZ--ZY". It's quite amusing.

While they were doing this, I saw a spider crawling along the wall. I quickly ran to get my Dyson Hand Vac to suck him up. As you can see from the picture below, the canister is clear, which is kind of cool and kind of gross. You can see everything you suck up spinning around in there.

The boys watch me suck up the spider and because I'm a little sick and twisted, I always like to watch the insects I suck up with this thing spin around. Luke wants to see too, so I show him.
"Mommy, what is he doing?" ME: He's spinning around. Luke: Oh. Do you think he's getting dizzy?" ME: Umm … probably.

I "Heart" Laundry—not

2010-06-08T14:15:00.004-04:00

Every mother I know has the same love for laundry that I do. I don't know why I loathe this task so much, but I do. It's not like it was 100 years ago when everything was washed by hand and dried on a line. I have a nice machine that basically does this task for me and yet, I can't help but complain about it. Perhaps it because there is always an endless pile that needs to be washed, dried, folded/ironed and then put away. Maybe it is because I know I have to do it everyday or face the consequence of it all piling up and suffocating me. What ever the reason, I know I'm not alone.

Two active boys that find dirt awesome has taken laundry to a whole new level. I've tried pre-treating with sprays before putting them in the machine. (time consuming and annoying since it didn't always remove the stain. I felt like I wasted my time.) I've tried adding a scoop of Oxy-clean to the wash. Worked OK. I've tried Tide stain booster. Works OK too, but I've found that putting something directly on the stain works best. So here is a new little gem.

I've started using–Resolve Max Stain stick. I can apply it directly to a stain and leave it there for up to a week before washing. So I keep it in my bathroom, treat the kids clothes at the end of each day at tub time and wash it whenever. I've had pretty good luck with it so far—it removed ketchup from a white shirt. So if you are sick of spending time pre treating the kids clothes, I highly recommend this product. What are your laundry secrets?

Does This Crap Happen to Just Me?

2010-06-06T15:14:00.003-04:00

The other day, the boys were playing around in my room, something that I don't usually let them do. They decided my alarm clock was most interesting and continued to turn the radio on and off. Fast forward to 12am when I am startled awake by some blaring music. In my state of confusion I realized that the kids set my alarm clock to go off—at Freakin MIDNIGHT! I also forgot how to turn the alarm off and hit the snooze button instead only to be startled awake again 10 minutes later. I quickly turned it off again and wondered, "Does this crap happen to anyone else, or is it just me?"

WHAT are YOU Doing?

2010-06-04T16:26:00.002-04:00

So I'm sitting here with Luke. He is watching TV while Gavin naps and I am reading my friends blog about how he discovered that he only has one kidney. I look over at Luke and catch him trying to stuff a Trix up his nose. I immediately say, "What are YOU doing?" and start to chuckle. Luke also starts to chuckle while he continues to try and lodge a piece of cereal up his nose. "Stop trying to shove a Trix up your nose!" Seriously, when was the last time you thought you would ever say that to another human being? It's right up there with, "Stop licking the toilet!"

Invasion

2010-06-01T13:34:00.002-04:00

The half bathroom off my living room has been invaded by black ants—the large ones. Everyday I find several of them lurking around. I promptly pick them up with a piece of toilet paper and toss them in the toilet. Luke does not appreciate these little visitors either, and has witnessed my disposal method. Do you see where this is going? I'm sure all the mothers have guessed and dads are anxiously awaiting to hear how this ends. Let me end your suspense—it ends with a 3-year-old unraveling about a half a roll of toilet paper and putting it in the toilet. The explanation I received for this action was, "I needed to cover up the buggy!" I quickly gave "The Look" to "The Offender" and he realized that this was probably not a good thing to do. I got the "I'm sorry look" and a big hug. I explained that this is too much toilet paper and it will clog the toilet, and made him promise to never do it again. I then put on a rubber glove and fished all the paper out of the toilet. I found the lone ant too.

The Joys of Boys

2010-05-28T15:00:00.002-04:00

Ahhh, the joy of being a boy, as we continue along this potty training journey, is the thrill a three-year-old will get when he realizes he has the ability to pee on stuff. And not just ANY stuff, but to be able to actually aim and fire at will—on rocks, on bugs, on just about anything one pleases. As a female, I cannot relate to the apparent "awesomeness" of this particular skill, but it is one that has become increasingly popular in this house. And not just by the potty training child. The younger brother has also decided that being able to pee on stuff is really cool and would like to join in. And has. And not always outside or in the bathroom. The hubby's only contribution to this new found fascination has been, "Wait until you can write your name in the snow."
Perfect. I can't wait for that either.

Rock Climbing

2010-05-21T13:15:00.006-04:00

Earlier this week, I planned a MOMS Night Out event for the MOMS club I belong too. The adventure: Rock Climbing. Six of us headed over to the Central Rock Climbing Gym to have a go at Rock Climbing. What a thrill! We started with an easy climb at 30 feet, then 40 ft. then 60ft. Next goal is to get me Belay Certification so that I can climb when my heart desires. Belaying is controlling the rope in a safety system while the climber is on the taller walls in the gym.
Here are some pics from the evening.

Here I am about half way up the 60 ft. wall

Just finished the 40 ft wall.

The group 5 moms and 1 dad.

Mysterious Rash

2010-05-15T08:13:00.003-04:00

You might remember a post from a few weeks ago that I found a tick feeding on Luke. Well 2 days ago I found a mysterious looking rash near the bite site; a symptom of Lymes Disease. So back to the Doc we went. The rash was hard to see, because Luke's hair was covering it and Luke is not real cooperative with having us "look" at his scalp. The Rash didn't follow the typical Bulls-eye shape that is associated with Lymes, but lots of times the symptoms of Lymes do NOT follow the "rules'. She said we could do a test, but false negatives are pretty common and given that he has this mysterious rash near a recent tick bite site, she is just going to treat him. The treatment is amoxicillin for 21 days. You should see the size of this bottle. It looks like a pint liquor bottle. One tsp, twice a day for 21 days. hopefully that will do the trcik. You don't want to mess with untreated Lymes Disease.

Healing Kisses

2010-05-14T10:15:00.002-04:00

I always kiss the boys "boo-boos" to make them feel better. Today, I bumped my elbow, pretty hard. Hard enough for an "ouch" to cross my lips. Luke asks, " Mommy what happened?" I bumped my elbow, pretty hard and it hurts. "OH—can I kiss it better for you?" Yes, please.
Luke kisses it better and then says, "I think you need a band-aid."

Hope this is a sign I'm raising compassionate kids who care about others, their feelings, and how they can help to make others feel better. It certainly made my elbow feel better.

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T15:09:00.002-04:00

This is me, three years, three months, and three days before I became a mother. Like many woman, I felt like a mother the minute the line on the stick turned pink. I loved "him" (yep I knew it was a him too, call it mother's intuition) that second, and knew I would do anything to keep him safe. But the reality of motherhood didn't really begin until the second he was born with a whole new wave of love—a Love that has no words to describe it, and only those who have also embarked on this adventure called motherhood, can understand its depth. And with that Love, came Fear and Worry. Fear that they would be safe in an unsafe world, Worry over ever sniffle, every scrape, every choice you made for them that it is the right choice, and the list goes on.

And I would not trade a second of it.

God Has a Sense of Humor

2010-04-29T12:16:00.002-04:00

So after an amusing event, which I will fill you in on in a minute, I posted on Facebook that "God hates me." A friend posted back, "God doesn't hate you, he just likes a good chuckle at our expense." Well, my life seems to be God's personal Comedy Central.

So last night's event was me locking me out of my own bedroom, which I did on purpose to keep the kids out of my room. Well, when I went to unlock the door after the kids were in bed, the lock broke and I couldn't get it open. First thought, "Maybe I can climb through the window. Hope I didn't lock it. But I did, because I'm all responsible like that. grrr. Try and pry the door knob off. NO luck. Call mike so he can laugh at me and give me some advice over the phone. He suggests going through the attic access panel in his closet. We have an attic entrance with a drop down ladder in the hallway right outside our bedroom. Bingo. Luckily, my rock climbing friend was over for a girls movie night and she was able to lower herself down with ease and get my door open.

Other fun things happening around here. I have a broken well pipe, which I need to have replaced. It is going to be expensive. Good thing we didn't spend our tax refund yet.

Gavin can climb out of his crib. The one place I could put him to keep him safe is now gone. He is only 21 months and the mattress is at it's lowest setting! I put him in there the other night while I was getting the boys ready for bed. I ran downstairs to get his froggies out of the dryer (after he chucked them in the tub full of water) only to be greeted by a jumping toddler yelling, "I did it, I did it!!" Super. Now what?

Luke pooped in his pants. He hasn't done this since the first week he was learning to potty train. I won't get graphic, but that underwear went right in the trash. There was no saving it.

I let a profanity slip while I was driving after I was cut off by someone. I try really hard not to do this, but it happened. Now, it seems Luke never listens to anything I say, so why did he HAVE to be listening then. He has repeated it several times as well. I tried to ignore it and hope he wouldn't ever say it again, but the last time he said it, I said, "Luke that is not a nice word. Mommy made a mistake when I said that word. We do not call people names." I haven't heard it since. I hope that worked.

Gosh, I'm exhausted. Hope you had a good laugh at my expense.

Stomach Bug. Round 2. Ding.

2010-04-25T11:35:00.002-04:00

Last night, after dinner I wasn't feeling so hot. I took some tums, hoping to settle my stomach, but no such luck. I was up half the night trying not to barf. I still feel nauseous, but no barf.

Sometime in the night Gavin Barfed in his bed. He went back to sleep though. When Mike got up with him this morning, there was dried up vomit in his bed. He proceeded to barf up all the juice Mike gave him and then his breakfast. I got up to find all this out, and instructed Mike not to feed him anything else. He barfed once more since breakfast, but has been keeping the pedilyte down that I have been giving him. Hopefully, we are past the worst.

Mike leaves for another business trip today and will be gone until Friday. Kicking off another super swell week in about T-minus 29 minutes.

Up All Night

2010-04-22T08:41:00.002-04:00

I wished that was followed by "sleep all day", but it isn't. Luke has caught some stomach bug and thus I was up all night with a barfing preschooler. The fun started at 11pm when Luke started crying. He said his tummy hurt and I asked if he was hungry (he's not a great dinner eater). He said yes. So to the kitchen we went for a bowl of cereal. He ate a few bites, said he didn't want anymore b/c his tummy felt better. Back to bed we both went.

Five minutes later a run to a screaming Luke and discover puke all over his bed, pillow and puppies. Into the tub he goes, strip bed, throw everything into washing machine—except the pillow—that went straight to the garbage can.

I get him cleaned up, bed remade and back in it. He wants puppies, and I try to explain that puppies needed to be cleaned, but that I would sleep with him tonight. He proceeded to barf again about 30 minutes, but we made it to the toilet. I decided we needed a barf bucket in the room, just in case we weren't as lucky next time—and we weren't. He proceeded to throw up about every hour. I think I got about 30 minutes of sleep all night. I hope whatever this is, gavin or I don't get it.

OH and the comedian Bill Engvall is right, an alarm clock that sounds like a baby barfing will get you out of bed in no time.

We Had a Date

2010-04-19T07:03:00.003-04:00

Mike and I finally had a date on Friday. We have had a $100 gift card to a local seafood restaurant for about a year, which my brother and his fiancé gave to us for throwing them a baby shower. Yes, it has taken us a year to have a date—sad but true. I not really comfortable leaving the kids when they were babies. Now that they are older, I feel better about it and hope that Mike and I will get back to having more couple time outside of the house. We need to do it to stay connected to each other.

So off to The Sole Propriator we went. I have crab cakes with asian coleslaw, mixed vegetable and rice pilaf and a skinny Mojoito to drink. Mike had the "Land and Sea" which was a steak, scallops and shrimp, mashed potatoes, and red onion "jam". We also had Shrimp Rangoon for an appetizer, super yum. When we were done it was only 7pm. I say to Mike,
we can't go home now, the kids won't even be asleep. So I suggested we head over to the dessert bar in town called "Sweet". And sweet it was. The desserts were good, but the atmosphere was a little weird. I don't think I woudl ever eat there again, but I would definately take out from their bakery.

By the time we were done here, we were both significantly "stuffed" and ready to roll home. It was after 8 and I was anxious to releave Nana from her babysitting duties.

And it is a good thing we planned our date when we did, because as stated in yesterday's post, he was off to another client this week and will be gone again next week. The back to back weeks kill me. I can handle a week at a time, but when they "pile up" I get thin. I can't complain, it is better to be working than not working and I am greatful that Mike is able to do this, but it is what it is and I'm tired. All I can do is the best I can.

Not in a Blogging Mood

2010-04-18T10:57:00.002-04:00

Sorry I have been away so long. Mike has been traveling a lot lately and it is taking all my strength just to get through the day in one piece. The kids have been off the wall and we have entered a new stage—fighting. The Boys seem to find joy in taking toys from each other. Gavin's lack of language usually results in him biting Luke, and then Luke bites him back because he is mad. It is getting old and exhausting, and I know I have at least another year of this before Gavin will really be able to communicate with words.

Here are some highlights in the past weeks:
Gavin probably has seasonal allergies and has aggravated his "asthma", so I have to continue steroid treatments via the nebulizer, which has been a real treat. Gavin just absolutely hates this and it is a struggle everyday.

I found a tick on Luke's head, sucking away. I couldn't tell if it was a dog tick or deer tick and was completely grossed out. Not feeling comfortable with pulling it out myself, off to the doc we went. She removed it and was certain it was a dog tick, but that I should keep an eye on the bite area.

I also found a tick on me—crawling on the INSIDE of my underwear! That's it! I'm getting pesticides for the back yard.

I was hanging with Luke in the back yard, reading a magazine while he played with his sand table and Gavin was napping. Luke starts yelling, "what is the worm doing?" I look down to see a SNAKE trying to slither up me. I totally freak out and jump up. The snake freaked out too and started "running" in the other direction. I don't know who was more scared, me or the snake. It crawled under the fence into the neighbors yard and Luke wanted to chase it. I said "no."

Mike bought me an iPod Touch for an early Mother's day present. I've been using the "Lose It!" App. and have already lost 3 lbs.

I'm a bridesmaid in my Brother's wedding coming this Fall. So I have been busy helping to plan a shower and a bachelorette party, at least starting to get ideas, nail down a date etc., as well as be a good bridesmaid and support the Bride.

I broke my toe. Ina fit of exhaustion, I slammed my foot into the couch leg and broke my middle toe—at least I'm pretty sure I broke it. I have broken enough bones and toes before to know what it look and feels like. So I just taped it up.

I finally cut down my enormous Rhododendron. Hopefully it will grow back as a much smaller bush.

Other than that, it has been business as usual. Gavin is talking up a storm, which is super cute. He really wants to talk and seems very motivated to do so. I'm really hoping this will cure some of the fighting with the boys. Fingers crossed. Mike is getting ready to leave. I will try to post more soon.

Signs of Spring

2010-03-11T06:55:00.002-05:00

I have been anxiously awaiting any signs of spring. The weather has really started to warm up, so I thought I would venture into my garden beds to see if any little "friends" were starting to appear.
My crocus were beginning to pop up as well as a few tulips. I love this time of year. It isn't my favorite, but I really like it. I didn't appreciate it as much until I was home with 2 kids. And winter is long when you are home with 2 little ones, battling illnesses, boredom and sanity in general. And since taking an interest in gardening, I really look forward to this time of year when the signs of warmer weather are on their way and proof that I know how to bury a bulb. Anyone who knows me, knows that I have a special gift with killing house plants, so seeing anything grow in my gardens gives me hope that I'm not a lost cause. I'm curious to see how my spring garden will look. Will post a pic if I ever find my camera.

Dear Winter

2010-03-08T18:21:00.002-05:00

Dear Winter,
Please go away and come back in about 7-9 months. Thank you for my farewell cold. The snow has finally started to melt, the sun is out, the air was warm (yes 55 is warm) and my nose if running like a faucet. Thanks for getting the kids sick too and making my weekend complete. Seriously, I'm done with you. Please go away.
see you in November.
love, Me

Bookstore Battle—Mommy Wins

2010-03-04T15:46:00.003-05:00

This morning, Luke woke wondering what we were going to do today. We usually have a playdate with the neighbor and her son on Thursdays. He wanted to to the bookstore to play trains—evil trains. So I asked Luke if he would rather play with his friend here or go to the Bookstore. His answer: Go to the bookstore with his friend to play trains. So I called my neighbor and she was up for the trip. Off we would go, but NOT with out taking the advice from my peeps who left comments on my last post. I brought the stroller, we talked about the behavior Luke exhibited the last time and his punishment for such behavior and I planned to use the promise of going home to watch Thomas when it was time to leave. He seemed intent on watching TV at some point that day and avoid being punished again.

S-U-C-C-E-S-S— That's the way we spell success! While Luke still put up a stink when it was time to go, I didn't have to chase 2 children as Gavin was already secure in the stroller. I was able to get to Luke and talk to him about his behavior and the consequence he was going to endure if he didn't get himself straightened out. Worked like a charm—at least this time.
Thanks again for all the advice. I really appreciate it—and I will be looking into that book Michele!

What a Nightmare

2010-03-02T19:49:00.004-05:00

For the past few days, Luke has been hounding me to take him to the Bookstore to play trains. They have a Thomas and Friends train table and many trains to choose from. The last time we went there, Luke ran through the stacks screaming when it was time to leave. I was not amused. But I thought that if I tell him what kind of behavior I expect, this might help, as it has in the past. Boy was I wrong. When it was time to go he threw the biggest fit thus far. I have never been so embarrassed in all my adult life. I had Gavin in my arms (all 30lbs of him) and Luke pulling with all his might on my hand, refusing to walk. I seriously thought he was going to dislocate his arm from his shoulder he was pulling so hard. A nice woman came over and offered to hold Gavin while I got Luke under control. Thank you God, you sent me an angel! I took her up on her offer, Managed to get Luke to stop pulling scooped him up in the arms, Gavin in the other one, and walked out with Luke screaming. He broke lose in the parking lot, and I had to put him down, he tried to take off running and I grabbed him by the arm and Gavin too before they ran into traffic.

I've never been so angry with Luke's behavior. For punishment, he was allowed no TV for the rest of the day. But lets face it, that is just as much a punishment for me as it is for him. If anyone has any suggestions on how to reel in this behavior, I'm all ears. I always give him a warning when it is almost time to go. I talk about what I expect from him before we go somewhere. None of it works anymore. Is it that he is 3 and this comes with the territory?
Grrrr.

Potty Training Must Have

2010-02-22T13:21:00.002-05:00

I know, I know—you are tired of reading about pee, poop and potties. But for all those in potty training mode, especially if this is your first time around, then you MUST have this potty—Potette Plus 2-in-1 Portable Potty & trainer. As mentioned in this post, I returned my first portable potty seat and got this one instead. This thing is awesome—so far. I have not yet had to use it as a potty chair, just as a seat in public restrooms—many times. Luke is totally comfortable on it, it doesn't move around on the toilet and is easy to use and clean. It even comes with a little plastic tote to keep it in. It does take up a decent amount of space in my diaper bag, but I don't care, because it works! It comes with 3 bags and absorbant pads to use as a potty chair, and you can buy replacements for it. But read the reviews on the Babies R US website. Some user's of this chair had some great alternatives to buying the replacement bags and liners.

OH Gee, Look Who's Three!

2010-02-18T13:28:00.005-05:00

Luke celebrated his third Birthday on Saturday, and I am a bit behind in posting. Today he had his 3-year wellness check-up at the Docs. He is 39 inches tall and 34 lbs. He is above average height and average weight. Doc couldn't be happier with his health, growth and accomplished potty training. At three, they start taking blood pressure, which Luke wanted nothing to do withit and wouldn't let Dr. H near him with that cuff, so we skipped that. They also so an eye exam. Luke did the first half of the test, which is basically matching, but he wouldn't do the dept perception test, which requires him to wear "special" glasses. No worries, he will repeat the test next year.

All in all, he is doing great.

He had a couple of friends over on Monday to celebrate his birthday. Very small and simple. I made him a train cake. My friend Melissa took some pics. Here are a few.

Potty Training is Exhausting

2010-02-11T08:24:00.002-05:00

Among the other things I didn't expect when we started this potty training journey was how exhausting it was going to be—for me. I expected extra laundry, but not from Gavin as well. Yesterday, Luke went in the potty all by himself, which is fantastic, but he didn't tell me before Gavin decided it looked like a great place to "splash around" in. Gross.

I also didn't expect Luke to be going potty after bedtime as stated in another post. I figured he would wear pull-ups and we would tackle bedtime potty training later. Nope. Last night I was woken up at 3:30am to a "I have to go potty!" Then Mike got up with him again at 5:30 to go again. While I think this is great that Luke can do this, I really don't want to be woken up in the middle of the night. I'm really tired of interrupted sleep. Grrrr…

Picking a Preschool

2010-02-10T13:27:00.002-05:00

As Luke's third birthday rapidly approached, I started to look at preschools for him to attend in the fall. Luke has not spent much time away from me, and so I feel that it would benefit him to have 2 years of preschool before kindergarten.

One of the many benefits to being a MOMS Club member, is that I have a network of moms in my town who I can turn to for advice about anything. One mom had put together an area preschool list that included moms experiences at these places. This was the first reference I needed to start looking for preschools. We looked at three schools. The first one, Luke seemed to like very much, but it was a bit expensive. The second place was more affordable, but Luke cried when we were there and said he wanted to go home and never go back. The third place was perfect; close to home, affordable, good program, and Luke loved his visit. So it is a no brainier where Luke will be going to school come September. I just hope he gets in now. Fingers crossed.

POST INFO: For more information about MOMS club and to find a chapter near you head to http://www.momsclub.org/

Potty Training—one week down!

2010-02-08T11:52:00.002-05:00

This week in potty training was nothing like what I was expecting. I didn't expect Luke to really get it. I didn't expect that he would go all on his own without any prompting. I didn't expect him to go poop on the potty all by himself. I didn't expect him to wake up in the morning asking to go pee on the potty and being able to "hold it". I didn't expect him to wake up an hour after going to bed at night to go pee pee on the potty—I REALLY didn't expect that. I didn't expect him to want to wear underwear so much, but he does. To say the least, I had really low expectations. I had heard all the horror stories from friends and their wows in the potty training world. I figured, if I kept them low, then I wouldn't be rattled when things didn't go as I planned them. I simply didn't plan. I decided to take it as it came, and let him work through it. It seemed to work.

But, I also learned that Luke is capable of more than I give him credit for, and perhaps I need to let go a little more and let him fly. My "baby" will be three on Saturday. Where the time went, I have no idea. Hard to believe that when he was 3 days old, all I wanted to do was return to work and let someone else care for him because I wasn't capable. I didn't know what to do, how to do it and I stressed over every decision. Three months later, and I couldn't bare to not be with him every minute of the day, and knowing that no one would care for him like me. It's amazing what our children can teach us in such a short amount of time. Luke has taught me a lot about myself and life. I will cherish it always—even while cleaning poop out of underwear.

Potty Training—day 4

2010-02-03T14:25:00.000-05:00

More poop in the pants today. That's all I have to say about that.

Potty Training—day 3

2010-02-02T12:23:00.004-05:00

Potty training is going much better than I thought it would. Perhaps it is because I waited until both Luke and I were really ready to take this step together.

When Luke got up this morning, he immediately said, "I have to go pee pee on the potty. " We ran to the potty together, got the Pull-up down (which was almost completely dry) and pee pee in the potty. This was something that I completely did not expect from Luke, but it was a very pleasant surprise and confirmation that he IS really ready for this.

After he is done, he starts to whine, "I want to put on underwear. " Yes, you are going to wear underwear." Luke: I want to wear Thomas underwear. ME: Well, you had one accident yesterday, and you need to go one whole day with no accidents before you can wear Thomas." Luke: OK. So back into Gerber training pants we went.

We also were attempting a short outing today as well. We have Beginning Years playgroup on Tuesdays. I prepared for this by getting a portable potty seat but plan on returning it because the reviews are right, it doesn't stay on the toilet. So if anyone can recommend one, I'm all ears. But at least I felt like I was prepared and didn't worry about accidents. (i packed extra pants and underwear too.)

We have been accident free all morning, and Luke caught himself at lunchtime, said he had to go and off he went to the potty. His training pants were a little wet, but it didn't make it all the way through to his pants. I don't think Luke or I are ready for long outings yet, at least not by myself. I could do it if Mike were with me, so that I wouldn't have to drag Gavin into the bathroom too. He is kind of nightmare right now. But we will get there.

POST Edit: While I was typing this, Luke was pooping in his pants in the next room. Oh well, I knew that was coming. I've heard many parents say that this takes longer. Any tips on how to wash poop out of underwear?

Potty Training—Take 2

2010-02-01T11:14:00.002-05:00

Luke and I have been discussing going on the potty like a big boy for quite some time now. Now that he is on the mend from being sick, I thought this would be a good time to try and tackle this before some other obstacle pops up. So yesterday, we went to the store and he picked out a new potty and some big boy underwear, Thomas and Cars. I also got some Gerber training pants which have some extra absorbency so they can wet a little without it soaking their pants.

We get home with our new purchases and Luke wants to wear Thomas right away. Off comes the diaper, on go the underwear. I get him some lunch and milk, so I know after lunch, he is going to need to use the potty. So I start asking him every 15 minutes, "DO you have to go pee pee?" He keeps telling me NO, and then he wets his pants. I get him changed and he wets himself again 15 minutes later. Then it is time for a nap, so I put him in a pull-up and tell him he wears these when he is in his bed, but when he gets up from nap, we will put Thomas underwear back on.

When Luke gets up from his nap, I tell him that this is his last pair of Thomas underwear, and if he pees in them, there are no more. 45 minutes later, he pees his pants. Time for the Gerber training pants. He pees in these also. It is now 6pm, and I decide I have had enough of this for one day. So I get him into the tub, put a Pull-Up on and tell him we will try again tomorrow.

Today has been going great. He wanted to wear Thomas, but I told him that he has to make it one whole day without wetting his pants and then he can wear his Thomas underwear, but for today, we are wearing the training pants. I got him some juice and let him watch TV. As soon as it was over I said, Luke do you have to go potty. He said no, but he sat on the potty anyway, and he peed!!! I was very excited told him how proud I was of him and gave kisses and hugs. We flushed the pee pee, washed hands and had breakfast. After breakfast, I was cleaning up and it got very quiet in the living room. Then I hear, "No Gavin No!" Luke had done pee pee in the potty all by himself and Gavin was now playing in it. Again we did the celebration dance and got everyone washed up.

I'm thinking,"This is great, maybe this will be easier than I thought." Then Luke peed his pants. OH well, this is still pretty good I think. Fast forward a little bit and Luke started to go in his pants, caught himself and then went on the potty. So now it is almost noon, we have had one accident and 3 successful trips to the potty. I hope he handles going poop ok. I have a feeling he will be going in his pants, or constipate himself by holding it in. I'll keep you posted on the poop progress, I know you're all dying to know.

Back to the Doc

2010-01-30T12:23:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, I took Luke back to the Doc. He still had a fever on day 5 of this virus, and I started to think he had a secondary infection like an ear infection. I was able to leave Gavin with Mike so that I didn't have to cart everyone back to the doc. It worked out since it was Gavin's nap time, and Mike really didn't lose any work time.

As Dr. H opened the door to the exam room, she has this look on her face like, " I can't believe you are back here again." She says, " I almost cried when I saw your name on the list." You and me both. So then she sits down and starts talking to Luke. (she just thinks he is the cutest funniest thing, plus her son's name is Luke too.) Luke says, "You have to listen to my heart." She agrees and gives a listen. Luke says, "I don't think I can hear anything." She got to his ears and low and behold, his left ear is just at the beginning of getting infected. So she wrote us a prescription for "pink medicine" which Luke was very excited about. I think I have the only 2 kids on the planet that LOVE taking medicine.

So hopefully this is the end of our visits to the doc for a bit. I can't believe how much I spent in co-pays this week.

The Inevitable and a Funny Story

2010-01-27T13:35:00.004-05:00

So After my last post, the inevitable happen…the kids got sick too. Thursday afternoon rolls around, I'm still feeling under the weather and Gavin is a super cranky pants. Not a good combination, I get dinner together and Gavin decides he is not going to eat. Weird, Gavin not want to eat? Something is off. I scoop him up, and notice he feels hot…very hot. I get the thermometer. 102.8. Tylenol and a call to the doctor. I heart my doctor's office. One of the reason's I picked this place is because they have extended care hours until 9pm. I got Gavin an appointment at 6:45pm. He got checked out and doc didn't find any other cause for the fever—ear infection, strep throat, none of that. So he concluded to give him Motrin for the fever, humidifier for the runny nose and bring him back if the fever continues for 5 days or anything changes for the worse.

I get Gavin home, some Milk before bed, since he didn't eat any dinner, and then he proceeded to vomit all the milk up all over his bed and floor. Fast forward to 10pm, when Mike and I check on him, give him some motrin and take his temp. 103.8. Call doc. Gavin vomits all the motrin up. Doc calls back, Gavin's fever came down, and he gave me some things to look for in the night to make sure his fever wasn't getting worse.

Saturday comes and Luke now has a fever, runny nose, cough—just like Gavin. Mike was working most of the weekend, so I was just me and the boys holding down the fort trying to make everybody and comfortable a possible and not kill each other.

Tuesday morning rolls around, Gavin wakes up, still has a little fever and just sobs in my lap for 20 minutes. Perfect, now he has a ear infection. So I call the doc and decide to have her look at Luke too as long as I'm going to be there. Luke is fine, no ear infection or sore throat, but Gavin has the beginning of an ear infection brewing. So she gave him some antibiotics. We get home and boy boys take killer naps, Luke slept for 2 and a half hours and Gavin slept for over 3and a half hours, which they both really needed since neither one has been sleeping well at night or napping much during the day. Plus I really needed the break too.

And now for the funny story I promised. Yesterday afternoon, after Luke got up from his nap, he was watching TV while I put some laundry away while Gavin is still napping. While I'm doing this Gavin wakes up from his nap, so I get him out of his sleep sack and change his diaper. I come out to the kitchen and I see Luke standing on the playroom step holding the phone and talking into it. "Umm, Luke, Who are you talking to?" Luke: "I'm just talking to daddy." oh, can I walk to daddy too? OK. I get the phone from him, and I realize that the phone is actually on and there is someone on the line. I hold it up to my ear, and say hello. Mike's voice replies, "Thank God! finally! I have been telling Luke to go and get you for like 5 minutes. Well, I guess Luke does know how to answer the phone.

This Isn't as Easy as it Looks

2010-01-19T12:13:00.003-05:00

While I was away this past weekend, Mike was in charge of the boys—all by himself—for 24hrs—for the first time. Mike as always appreciated what I do, wondering how I do it and knowing that he would not what to be in my place 24 hrs. a day, 7 days a week. But after this weekend, he has a whole NEW appreciation for me and all stay-at-home moms. He knew the job was tough, but knowing it and living it are to separate things. He couldn't believe how exhausting it was looking after them. He says, "I can't believe that you have the energy to have sex with me more than once a month!" I just smiled and nodded before adding, "And that was just watching the boys, you didn't have to do any laundry, cooking, cleaning or errands. " "Oh believe me," he says, "that thought crossed my mind!"

Now take that 24hrs of exhaustion, times 3 years, times being pregnant with a second child for 9 months of those 3 years, times having a newborn and toddler, times all the weeks you were traveling and I was by myself with 2 kids under 2, times being sick and you will begin to understand the depth of my exhaustion.

Sad Weekend

2010-01-17T21:07:00.003-05:00

Thursday morning, I got a call from my good friend Maryann. Her mother had lost her battle with cancer on Wednesday evening. Maryann and I are childhood friends, my oldest friend. We lived one house apart from each other for more than 20 years, and even after I moved off Long Island, we have continued to be good friends. She did my hair for my wedding, I helped her study for History in HS, and she held my hand when Dad was sick. I had to go and hold her hand now. So Friday afternoon, I packed an over night bag and headed "home". It's amazing that I still know the way, the roads all too familiar, even after all these years.

I arrived at 5:30pm, with plenty of time to eat and change before the second viewing. We headed over to the funeral home by 7pm. As I walked through the doors, the fragrance of all the flowers hit me like a Mack truck and a flood of memories came back in a flash. It was a long 2 hours. We headed back to Maryann's house, had another bite to eat, and went to bed at midnight. We had an early morning—we had to be back at the funeral home at 8am for a final viewing and the funeral service at 9:15. It was weird to be at St. Gertrude's. I haven't been in that Church since my dad's funeral 13 years ago. It was exactly the same, nothing had changed.

I hugged Maryann good-bye after the funeral, wishing I could stay longer to go to the burial and funeral reception, but I had to get home to my boys. And I had a 3 and a half hour drive ahead of me. That is a long time to be in a car by yourself with nothing but your thoughts. It was a tough drive home. I came through my front door completely exhausted. I forgot how tiring grieving can be. I was greeted by a sleepy faced Gavin who had just woke up from his nap. He had a big smile for mommy and I was glad to be home. Two hours later, I began to sneeze and my nose began to run. Perfect. Now I'm getting sick.

So today I have a full-blown cold complete with a runny nose, sore throat, cough, sneezes and sinus congestion. I take Ny-Quil and go to bed now.

Gavin 18 month check-up

2010-01-13T16:03:00.004-05:00

Today was Gavin's 18th month check-up. He is 28 lbs and 34.5 inches tall, at the top of the curve for both weight and height. Doc said he looks awesome, best ears she has seen all week, heart sounded as it should (hoping that means the heart murmur closed) and passed the 18 month evaluation questions with flying colors. But we did have to get a shot because at his last visit, he kicked the nurse and the needle came out, so he didn't get the full dose.

So the doc leave to send the nurse in, and the kids were being pretty good—until they decided to escape. So they are both pulling on the door handle, get it open, I go to close the door and keep them in the room, Gavin loses his balance, falls backward, bangs his head on the pull out step stoll at the base of the examine table and cuts his head. He starts screaming, I didn't know he was bleeding until I had blood all over my hands. Great. I open the door to get help and the Dr. is right there, but she is on the phone. She hangs up and I tell her what happened. She starts to clean the wound and says, "I think he is going to need a staple for this." Really? Super. Can you do it here. Nope you have to go to the ER.

Then she says, let me see if I can close it with a butterfly bandage, but that didn't work because of all his hair. However, the bleeding just about stopped, so she said that we probably didn't have to go to the ER, but keep an eye on it and if continues to ooze, I would have to go to the ER.

Long story short, the bleeding eventually stopped and I didn't have to take him. What a friggin' nightmare though. Never a dull moment. I have a feeling this is the beginning of stiches, staples and trips to the ER. Someone once told me that mothers of multiple boys are a shoe-in to heaven. I'm beginning to understand why.

Milestones

2010-01-08T07:33:00.003-05:00

As a parent, I have been marking the milestones of the boys; first smile, first tooth, crawling, first steps, first words and the list goes one. Luke is on the brink of a major milestone—potty training. Yesterday we had two successful "events" on the potty. Luke did poop and pee on the potty by telling me he had to go before going in his pants, and then again before his tub time. I asked him if he wanted to go to the store to pick out big boy underwear to wear instead of diapers. He said yes. So I will be attempting to get him to go on the potty a few times today as well before I go full force in having him in underwear.

Anyone have any advice/tips or things that worked for their kids? I'm all ears.

Holiday Hoop-la

2010-01-03T19:40:00.010-05:00

While the rest of my friends have caught up on their holiday blogging, I have yet to do so. This year seemed to have left me more haggard than last, and I have a feeling that as the years continue, the more haggard I will get.

We kicked off the holiday festivities on Christmas Eve day, when Nana arrived to bake cookies with us for Santa. Luke, Nana and Gavin had a grand time rolling, icing and decorating festive treats for the man in red.

Then we ordered Chinese food, had a neighbor stop by with even MORE treats, and prepared for the evening. Luke and Gavin got into their pj's, got their stockings hung and put cookies out for Santa. I was a bad mom and forgot to buy carrots for the reindeer—oops. But the kids didn't know the difference anyway.

Getting the kids to sit for a picture was next to impossible. This is the best I could get. It was like taking the holiday photo all over again…GRRR.

Twas the Night Before Christmas was read and the kids were nestled and snug in their beds. Sometime in the night, Santa paid us a visit and left wonderful things for the boys to enjoy, including a kitchen, trains and many, MANY trucks—in all sizes.

As you can see, the trains were the biggest hit, and all the boys wanted to do was play with them. They could have cared less about all the other stuff under the tree. I had to coax them to open up their other gifts.

We eventually got through all the stuff, and then Mom and I prepared to make our traditional Christmas morning breakfast, while Mike played with the boys and their new toys. This is the same breakfast MY Nana made every year on Chirstmas morning; Fried dough, bacon, sausage, scrambled eggs and fruit. mmm, mmm good. Gavin seemed to enjoy breakfast very much, and Luke ate nothing, as usual. (I think I made him a eggo waffle). Then mom was off to my brother's house to catch him before he had to go to work and see her other grandchildren. The boys went down for early naps and Mike and I got everything together to go to my Uncle's house for dinner. The Boys were up by 2:15, so we packed them into the car and off we went. We got there a little after 3pm, and I new I was going to have my hands full with Gavin. Their house isn't exactly "child proof" and Gavin is curious to say the least. We had a nice dinner, the works, turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes, peas, corn, squash, cranberry sauce etc. Plus more dessert then a bakery. The perks of having a cousin learning to be a pastry chef at CIA.

All my aunts cousins were there from out of town, and it had been years since I had seen many of them, so it was great to catch up. We left the party around 7pm, and Gavin passed out in the car. Luke stayed awake the whole way home, how I have no idea, I was exhausted.

The next day, we got to do it all over again. The kids were happy to play with all their new toys, so I was able to hustle and bustle to get the house together and dinner cooked for the whole family. Since George had to work Christmas eve and Christmas day, we didn't get to see him and his family. So I had everyone at the house to celebrate and exchange gifts. We had a simple dinner of baked ziti, salad, meatballs and rolls. Plus my Aunt and Uncle brought all the left over desserts from the day before. Talk about being "stuffed". After dinner he exchanged gifts.

The boys got matching Ambulances—with lights—and sirens. Thanks George. I needed more stuff in this house that requires batteries and makes noise. But the boys loved them, and Luke slept with his that night.

Everyone left around 7pm, boys were in bed by 7:15, and I was in bed by 8:30. I was so exhausted.

The next day, I felt refreshed and ready to tackle taking down the Christmas decorations. I usually leave stuff up until after new years, but I was tired of the boys liberating all the ornaments from the tree. No matter what I did or said, they continued to remove Christmas ornaments. My patience was tissue paper thin, so in the best interest of everyone's well being, I thought it best to get everything put away.

The morning went well. The boys were too occupied with all their stuff to notice that I was busy packing stuff away; stockings, garlands, lights etc. I would tackle the tree during nap time. Well, Gavin woke up shortly after I got Luke down for his nap, so I only got the ornaments off the tree. The boys didn't pay much attention to the tree now that all the ornaments were down, so I figured I would leave it up with just the lights until after new years. Well, that when right out the window 2 days later. I was making dinner. The TV was on, but it was still unusually quiet. Luke gets engrossed, and won't make a peep, but Gavin could care less, so I can usually hear "what" he is doing. So when I hear NOTHING, I know they are up to NO GOOD. I poke my head around the corner, and see this

And this

Luke is yanking down the lights and gavin is chewing on them.
The tree came down that night. I had all the "Christmas" I could handle—'til next year. Can I sleep for a week now?

Oh yeah and Happy New Year everyone.

Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus

2009-12-24T22:34:00.000-05:00

Dear Editor—

I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, “If you see it in The Sun, it’s so.” Please tell me the truth, is there a Santa Claus?

Virginia O’Hanlon

Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men’s or children’s, are little. In this great universe of ours, man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus! It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies. You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if you did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. Did you ever see fairies dancing on the lawn? Of course not, but that’s no proof that they are not there. Nobody can conceive or imagine all the wonders there are unseen and unseeable in the world.

You tear apart the baby’s rattle and see what makes the noise inside, but there is a veil covering the unseen world which not the strongest man, nor even the united strength of all the strongest men that ever lived could tear apart. Only faith, poetry, love, romance, can push aside that curtain and view and picture the supernal beauty and glory beyond. Is it all real? Ah, Virginia, in all this world there is nothing else real and abiding.

No Santa Claus! Thank God! he lives and lives forever. A thousand years from now, Virginia, nay 10 times 10,000 years from now, he will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.

NO, you can not have your juice in THAT

2009-12-15T17:59:00.002-05:00

You might remember THIS post, where mike and I got away for a weekend to attend a friend's wedding. We had a great time. Before we left, Mike decided that he was going to bring his flask filled with Crown Royal, just in case it was a cash bar.

Well last night he finally decided to empty it and wash it out. So this morning it was sitting in the dish rack and I put it on the counter. Luke comes along, swipes it and says, "ooooo, mommy, what is this?" I said, "It is daddy's Flask." Luke: "Oh, can I drink my juice out of this?"
ME: "No you may not."

How on earth he knew it was for drinking liquid out of, I will never know, but it quickly became the object of affection for both boys. Let me paint the scene: one toddler and one preschooler standing in the middle of the kitchen, both screaming at the top of their lungs while trying to yank a stainless steel flask out of each others hands. It was like watching an episode of Cops. I tried to contain my laughter as I confiscated the flask.

Holiday Photos— GRRRRR…

2009-12-09T12:19:00.002-05:00

On Saturday, we took the kids to get their pictures taken. I usually go to Kiddie Kandids, but this year I thought I would try someplace different and one that is a little LESS expensive. So off we went to the Sears Portrait Studio. We also planned to have a family photo taken as well, since we have never had this done. What a nightmare. Gavin wanted NOTHING to do with having his photo taken. All I did was chase him around while he was screaming and crying, and try to hold him in place. long enough for them to get a pic. No Dice. Luke did OK, and I got one nice photo of him by himself. I got one photo of both kids where neither one of crying, but they aren't smiling either. They look like someone told them their puppy just died. Gavin did better with the family portait, since he was sitting on my lap, but still no smile.

Part of me is glad that I didn't take them to kiddie kandids, since I would have spent more, but part of me wonders if they would have been able to get better shots of the kids. Gavin is just at that age. Better luck next year.

Bravo!

2009-12-08T16:30:00.003-05:00

I saw this on my friend Jennifer's blog, and I was so impressed with the senator's words, I thought I would pass them along. Bravo on the side of Equality for ALL.

A Mother's Voice

2009-12-03T11:55:00.002-05:00

When I first became a mother, there was a flood of emotions. Some I expected, like the instant love you feel for your child the moment they are born. Some I didn't expect—feeling completely overwhelmed for the responsibility of this child. All I knew was that I loved him more than anything in the whole world and it was my job to love, care for, protect and speak for this precious Gift which had been entrusted to Me. And I would walk through fire to do it.

But does a mother's voice stop with her own children? There are woman and children all over this world screaming to be heard and there are few listening. I encourage you to listen to their stories and be their voice. In Half the Sky, authors Nicholas D. Kristof and his wife Sheryl WuDunn expose a horrific truth about life for women and girls around the globe. Half the Sky lays out an agenda for the world's women and three major abuses: sex trafficking and forced prostitution; gender-based violence including honor killings and mass rape; maternal mortality, which needlessly claims one woman a minute.

Wondering how you can help? Oprah has made it easy for anyone to get involved and many ways to do it. Please visit her site HERE to find out how you can be a voice for millions of women and girls around the world.

Maybe start by spreading the word.

Fraternity Flashback

2009-12-01T13:20:00.004-05:00

Occasionally, Mike will tell me stories from his glory days in the fraternity house. One of rules to fraternity living, is that you are not allowed to pass out (from drinking) in any part of the house except YOUR room. If you do, your face will become a canvas for many brothers to draw on…with Sharpie marker. Needless to say, many profanities, inappropriate images and all kinds of "gestures" will end up on your face. And good luck getting it off your face before class Monday.

Mike decided that the kids are not immune to this kind of hazing. Poor Gavin got "tagged". Thank goodness he only used ball point pen. For all the fathers out there looking to get out of watching the kids, this is a good way to do it.

(note: It says "Daddy Rules" on his face.)

MIA Frying Pan Found

2009-11-28T12:33:00.002-05:00

So about 2 months ago, I went nuts looking for my small skillet pan. I have locks on all my kitchen cabinets—except one—the one with all my cookware. I let the kids play with my pots, pans and lids. Of course, many of them now have dents and dings in them, but I'll do just about anything to keep them entertained for 10 minutes.

After one of their "jam" sessions on the pot and pan drums, I could NOT find my small skillet. I went crazy looking for this thing, wondering where the kids could have hidden it. Days went by, until I finally decided that I was NEVER going to find this thing and I should just get a new one. It was pretty old, all the Teflon was coming off and it had so many dents in it, was wasn't even remotely round any more. So off I went to Target and got myself a new one for 6 bucks. Score.

Well, the remote went missing the other day. And in the frantic search for that item, I found my SKILLET. It was BEHIND the refrigerator! (don't ask me what I was doing looking for the remote behind the fridge) WOW this pan is even grosser than I remember. Good thing I got a new one. Into the trash it went.

Note to self, when things go missing, check behind the fridge first.

I Survived Black Friday

2009-11-27T14:52:00.003-05:00

I don't remember the last time I went shopping on Black Friday. It's been awhile. But for years, Mom and I would wake at the crack of dawn and head out to the stores. We did "Santa" shopping for my Grampie so that his "little dolls" would have plenty of surprises under the tree. George (my brother) and I would sport elf hats as we put together many a mountain bikes, scooters, princess castles, you name it, we built it. The "little dolls", (my cousins) are now 16, 18 and 19…not so little anymore. Now I have MY little ones to" Santa" shop for and it has rekindled the joy and excitement I once felt for Christmas.

So, it the spirit of Santa shopping, I braved the stores this morning…well one store. I was only out for a little over an hour, and was able to finish up all the Santa shopping , plus some things for myself, the hubby, and the neighbors kids. I have a a little more to do, but I'm feeling really good about my progress. Next stop, Christmas decorations and tree. Hmm, think i'll wait 2 more weeks before putting the tree up. One less thing for the kids to destroy.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T07:27:00.003-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! We are off to my brother's house to celebrate food, family and football. And it is Makayla's first turkey day!

I'm thankful to have a loving supportive husband, 2 beautiful healthy children, the opportunity to stay home and care for them (as hard as it is some days, I wouldn't trade this time with them for anything) a roof over my head and food to eat. Remember that there are plenty of people in this country, never mind the world, that don't have even that. Try to remember how lucky you are and give thanks.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Tips on Getting Picky Eaters too EAT

2009-11-23T12:04:00.003-05:00

After reading my friend Lyndsay's blog about the eating habits of her children, (one good eater, one picky eater…hmmm sounds familiar) she posed the question, "How do you get your kids to eat?" After dealing with a picky eater for almost 2 years now, I have tried many things including begging and pleading (not recommended). I was going to post all my tips in her comment section but then decided it needed it's own post. So here goes:

1. Make food fun any way you can. Could be using your cookie cutters to cut sandwiches pancakes, waffles into shapes, adding a few sprinkles to a whole grain bread, letting them dip veggies into dressing, making faces or animals our of food, etc. Whatever might inspire them to take a bite. Some of this has worked on Luke, and some of it hasn't.

2. Let them help prepare food. My neighbor's son is a great eater. And from a very young age, she let him help in the kitchen; adding ingredients, stirring, smelling foods etc. Of course this is MUCH easier to do when you only have one child. I couldn't imagine doing this with Luke AND Gavin, but when they are a little older, I plan to do this. You can get a safe knife that kids can't cut themselves with to let then chop veggies. they are more likely to take a bite while they are cutting. See HERE for safe knife.

3. Let them help shop for food and pick items out to try. If they pick out the food that they want to eat, they are more likely to try it. I have let Luke do this. Sometimes he'll eat what he picks out and sometimes he won't. Hit and miss, as usual.

4. Don't feed babies baby food. This was a comment from Lyndsay's blog, and I have to agree. I gave Gavin a lot more table food at a young age, and he is a great eater. Sometimes I would just puree whatever we were having for dinner in my Magic Bullet and he would eat it right up. So start EARLY and expose them to as many flavors, colors and textures as possible.

5. When all else fails, get sneaky. Check out The Sneaky Chef and Deceptively Delicious for recipes and tips on how to sneak fruits and veggies into your kids favorites meals like mac and cheese, grilled cheese and even COOKIES! The healthier versions of these dishes will give you some peace of mind that there is some nutritional value in there, not just sugar, fat and salt!

Hope you find some of these tips useful. Happy eating!

Steroids

2009-11-19T13:58:00.003-05:00

Looks like Gavin will be on steroids this winter. Even though he is doing well, she thinks that every time he gets a little sniffle, he is going to have wheezing and difficulty breathing. So everyday I will need to give him a steroid treatment via the nebulizer. Not something I'm looking forward to, but there are worse things in life.

Gavin Update and World Map

2009-11-18T19:53:00.003-05:00

Quick Gavin update. He is doing MUCH better. Amazing what a little fluid, a lot of sleep and a humidifier can do. We have an appointment tomorrow with his doc for a follow up as well as to discuss putting him on steroids for asthma. If he has asthma, the steroids will help. If not, then they won't. So we shall see. Like I said, it is going to be a long winter.

On to some humor. We have a world map in our family room above the couch. It is the "Taber Family Travel" map. It has various pins in it to mark where we have been as a family.

Fast forward to this afternoon, Mike and I are having a conversation on the other couch in the living room while the boys are napping. Mike says, "Wait don't move!" and pulls a pin out of the cushion behind my head. We both look at it and then the map on the wall, where we notice ALL the PINS are MISSING. I then fish all the pins out of the cushion. When Luke did this, I have no idea. So after dinner, while we are having some family time playing, Mike asks Luke, "Hey Luke, did you take the pins out of the map?" Luke: "Yes, I put them in the couch cushion so Gavin couldn't get them." Mike and I look at each other and have to chuckle under our breath. Now whether or not Luke did this because Gavin was after the pins or if it was for sheer boredom, we'll never know.

I look at Mike and say, "See, this is why we can't have nice things!"

Gavin is Sick…again

2009-11-16T22:01:00.002-05:00

3am this morning I woke up to a coughing crying child. Gavin had been up a couple of times already and had started this cough yesterday afternoon. By 4:30 am this morning, the wheezing had started as well. I whipped out the nebulizer and with Mike's help got the kid some relief. By 9am I was giving him a second treatment and on the phone with the doc. Off we went to the pedi office by 11:30. He's got broncialitis again was given tamiflu just in case he has the flu. we got home by lunch time and he wasn't all that interested in eating. I thought some yogurt would entice him, since he wouldn't have to chew. he ate a little then proceded to barf it all up. Luckily he barfed on his tray, so it was easy clean up. I attemped to put him down for a nap around 2pm. He barfed again. All over BOTH of us. Off to the tub we go, get us both cleaned up and clothes in the wash.

I drop Luke at the neighbors and go to CVS to get Gavin's medicine. Gavin sleeps in the car. sweet.
I get home and Gavin decides he is hungry, so he begins to munch on Luke's goldfish. He is getting fussy, so I bring him down to his room to sit in the steam, and he barf's again, all over BOTH of us. Back to the shower and another change of clothes for both of us.
it is now 4:30 and he hasn't really eaten anything all day and hasn't had anything to drink since noon, and has been barfing up EVERYTHING, even the tylenol I gave him for his fever.

Rang the doc and she said to give him a tsp. of flavored pedilyte every 5 minutes. hmmm, don't have any pedilyte, so Luke and I go off to the store while Mike chills with Gavin. He seems to be doing better, and hasn't barfed since we started the pedilyte. Hopefully he will do OK tonight and get some sleep. He needs it, and so do I.

Defusing a Bomb

2009-11-12T13:49:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I took the boys over to Barnes and Noble to play with the train table in the children's section. The last time I took the boys there, it was a disaster. Let me clarify, LEAVING was a disaster. Playing there was actually not that bad. Luke will stay right at the table while I chase Gavin around, replacing all the books he rips off the shelves and making sure he doesn't cause too much damage. But when it was time to go, melt down city. I didn't have my stroller with me, so long story short, I ending up carrying two kicking and screaming boys out of there, one under each arm. And as I left, I could feel the eyes of pity as every head whipped around to see where the screaming was coming from.

So I tried something new, now that I know what to expect from Luke when it is time to go. Before we went into the bookstore, I said to Luke, "We are going in to play with the train table. We will stay there for a little bit. But when it is time to go, there will be no kicking or screaming. Understand?" I say this in my firm but loving voice. "I understand," Luke replies. OK then off we go. I get a little resistance from Luke when it is time to go, but remind him of our conversation. He cooperates, and leaves without making a scene. Will this work all the time? One can hope, but I know better. But, I will put it in my "mommy" tool box and keep using it.

What are your bomb defusing methods?

Presented for Baptism

2009-11-08T20:54:00.002-05:00

Today we baptized Gavin…finally. It was a wonderful ceremony, and he did great. Didn't even cry then she poured water on him. Luke was good too. He wanted to join the choir and play the drums, organ and guitar. I'm going to have to get that kid in a music class soon I think. Pics to come. They are on the disposable camera that mom used to take the Halloween pics. My digital camera is on the fritz…again. Wish I could afford a new one. oh well. Santa is coming soon. Maybe if I'm good, he'll bring me one.

Wild wedding weekend + ER visit

2009-11-05T19:55:00.006-05:00

So it have been a whirl wind of fun and not so much fun since my last post. This past weekend, Mike's good friend Mel, got hitched in PA. The last wedding we went to, we took the kids. That was almost a year ago. We made a promise to each other then that we would NEVER do that again. We had Z-E-R-O fun and it was more work than it was worth. So this time, we decided to leave the kids with Nana. The down side, we were going to miss Halloween. This would have been the first "real" Halloween, and we were going to miss it. But Mel is only going to get married once and there would be plenty of Halloweens with the kids.

So here are some wedding photos taken with my crappy camera

The Groom waiting for his bride

Brides-man and brother of the bride, Jim, with Matron of Honor, Keri

The princess bride, Mel with her father, Dennis.

This was the best time we have had in a REALLY long time. Even though it was a short visit, it was great to see our friends and celebrate Mel & Matt's wedding.

OK now onto the ER visit. We get home late Sunday afternoon (around 4pm). Gavin and Luke are VERY excited to see us. Gavin had a little snotty nose on Friday, but nothing to be concerned about, or at least that's what I thought. As soon as we got through the door, he turned into super whiny clingy child. We had dinner and he ate well, took a bath, gave him some Motrin because he a 99 temp. As I was getting ready to put him to bed, I could hear him wheezing when he breathed. But I couldn't tell if it was a nose wheeze or a chest wheeze. So I called the pedi. She said to look at his chest, and if it was pulled in under his ribs then he was really working to breathe and that is a big red flag. I said, that his stomach was going in and out a lot, but his ribs weren't sticking out. She said that it was probably just nose congestion and to run a humidifier in his room and try to keep him as comfortable as possible. He woke up about every hour crying and fussing and his breathing seemed to be getting worse. Finally at 11pm, I decided that he was really working to breathe and took him to the pediatric ER. Long story short, they did a chest x-ray, put in an IV and drew blood. ER doc decided that there was a "suspicious" spot on his lower right lobe and she would give him antibiotics for pneumonia just to be safe. Respiratory also came in and gave him a nebulizer treatment, and she said that if he responded well, she would discharge us with an inhaler. Gavin's beathing improved a lot after that and off we went at 3am. We saw the pedi the next day, and he was till wheezing a lot. She said that he did NOT have pneumonia, but broncialitis. She also decided that the inhaler was not working and he needed a nebulizer instead. So we got a nebulizer. 2 days later, and he is doing SOOO much better. I don't have to give him nebulizer treatment anymore. But the doc did say that she thinks Gavin is going to have a hard time this winter, and every time he gets a virus, he is going to wheeze. Super. Hopefully it will NOT turn into asthma, which is also a possibility.

Never a dull moment.

OK Halloween. Since I took my crappy camera with me to the wedding, mom took photos of the boys with a disposable camera. I have not gotten them developed yet of course, but check facebook for some halloween photos when I get them back.

Family Size

2009-10-30T15:14:00.002-04:00

Why do they label the large box of diapers "Family Size"? Last I checked, the "family" isn't wearing diaper, just 2 members are. I think "Value Size" would make more sense. Thoughts?

Fairy Godmother

2009-10-25T19:35:00.003-04:00

Today I became a Godmother. My beautiful niece, Makayla Rose, was baptized today.
Pics to come.

Gavin's 15th Month check-up

2009-10-23T15:20:00.005-04:00

Gavin had his 15-month check-up yesterday. (yes, 15 months, I don't know where the time went either.) He is doing very well hitting his milestones and growing FAST. He is 28.8 lbs. and 33 1/2 inches tall. That puts him at 85% for weight and off the charts for height. He is running and trying to jump already. He is quite the little climber which can lead to some dangerous situations (caught him standing on the kitchen table!)

He is starting to talk and has about 5-8 words; mama, dadda, bye-bye, ball, hi, grape, more and all done ("more" and "all done" he does with sign language). He can follow simple directions (when I say, "It is tubby time!" he goes right to the bathroom.) He enjoys playing with big brother Luke, being chased and tickled. He also likes to play peek-a-boo with mommy. It makes us both laugh.

More back tracking, Wednesday was the MOMS club Halloween party. I got a few pix of the kids in their costumes, and will post as soon as I get them off the camera…as usual.

Old Friend

2009-10-20T22:12:00.002-04:00

Today I was happy to see an old friend. My friend and former co-worker and I had a great time catching up. I haven't seen her since she visited me in the hospital when Gavin was born, 15 months ago. We had plenty to catch up on and probably could have chatted all day. But the children did need tending too. So I'm hoping that we will be getting together more often than we have in the past. Catching up with old friends always invigorates me.

I'm feeling : )

Super Swell Slacker

2009-10-18T20:46:00.011-04:00

Yes that's ME! So now I have a week of blogging to catch up on, since I was unable to get my butt to the computer to write it down.

On my previous post, I said that I would be waking at 5:30am to workout. I got many kudos for this. I wish I could say that I deserved them and that I got up every morning like I said I was going to. But I didn't. I start every day with good intentions, but they seemed to get lost in the shuffle. Gavin decided he was going to get up every night last week and just hang out for a couple of hours. Laughing, talking, basically goofing off. And being the light sleeper I am, I heard every giggle, and coo…for 2 hours. Kinda hard to get up at 5:30 when you have been awake from 2-4am.

Tuesday was a rainy day. What to do. So I decided to let the kids do finger painting with pudding. Luke helped me make and tint the vanilla pudding into several different colors. They had a ball eating and "painting" with pudding.

mmmm…pudding

Wednesday, I decided to take the boys to the MOMS club social. What a nightmare! There are only a few things in the church social room that are off limits to the kids. Gavin is ripping the grass out of the fake tree pots, trying to remove the fire extinguisher from the wall, I see Luke reach up and try to pull the fire alarm…AHHHH. THAT'S IT! We are out of here. I've had all the fun I can handle.

Thursday, I went to a healthy eating seminar. Luke's super picky eating is really starting to get to me. I know I shouldn't let it, but it frustrates me. He won't even TRY anything. The kid has been eating yogurt every night for the last year because he refuses to eat the family meal and I am NOT a short order cook. It was given by a woman who is just a mom, passionate about healthy eating. She had many good tips about trying to "jazz" up food to make it appealing for kids to try. (like using a cookie cutter to cut a sandwich into shapes.) And when all else fails, get sneaky. (like slipping vegetable purees into tomato sauce etc.) Check out The Sneaky Chef for ideas. We all wrote down one food that our child will eat. Someone wrote down french fries. Luke is a big french fry eater. This is the only way he will eat potato. Not mashed, baked or roasted. She suggested serving sweet potato fries instead. I decided to give this a try. It was the first thing he picked up to eat and ate every one, then asked for more. I couldn't believe it. Another suggestion was to substitute half of your white pasta for whole wheat. I also gave this a go when I made Mac and cheese this week. Another success. He ate it all. I even fooled Mike with it! I'm feeling confident about making more "changes" and having success.

Friday morning, Luke had a play date at the house with a friend. It went very well, until the friend bit Gavin, hard. His mom stepped right in, and when Gavin was done crying, he got a big hug and "I'm sorry for biting you, Gabin", from his friend. The rest of the play date went without incident.

In the afternoon, I took the boys grocery shopping…GRRRR. This is a trip I typically loathe. But this week's trip was even more "trying" than usual. Let me start off by saying that if you ONLY have ONE child shopping with you, can you PLEASE leave the large shopping carts with TWO seats for those of us with MORE than one child? Really, it is just a courtesy, since many stores only have a FEW of these.

So I finally get a shopping cart. Luke and Gavin start fighting over who is going to sit where. Really? We're at THAT point already? Apparently so. I get them strapped in and we are 2 aisles into the trip and they start kicking each other. Apparently, we are at that point too. I get them to stop. Then they start screaming at each other at the top of their lungs. Not because they are fighting, but because they think it is funny. So there they are, giggling and screaming at each other. I try to get them to stop, but all I can think is "hurry up and get the heck out of here!" I fill my cart in 30 minutes. I get to check out and it is packed. We are going to be here awhile. I start rummaging through my bag looking for toys to entertain the kids. I suddenly realize that I have FORGOTTEN MY WALLET. Are you freakin' kidding me right now?!?! I get out of line and head over to costumer service. I explain that I forgot my wallet. She says to leave my cart here and that I have one hour to get back before they put all my stuff away. Super. Let me just book it home with 2 kids and book it back. Could this trip get any suckier? I make it back in 30 min., pay for my stuff and get home to cook dinner. I need a drink and a nap at this point.

But instead I catch this on video. Hard to believe they were kicking each other a few hours ago.
Enjoy!

5:30 workout

2009-10-12T11:26:00.002-04:00

Last week was a bust trying to make it to Curves. Construction men were coming at 6:45 to fix the roof and I didn't feel confident I would be back and showered before they arrived. (last thing I need is a bunch on strange men seeing me naked). But I'm committed to taking advantage of my free month, starting this week. So I was up and out of the house by 5:50am this morning. I was home by 6:45 and out of the shower by 7am ready to start my day. The goal is to do this every morning they are open this month. We see how that goes.