S attends a home daycare, which has been great. When he was attending the big daycare center, the poor kid was sick all of the time and since we switched in June, he's only been sick once. What sucks is that she takes the week between Christmas and New Years off. Even worse, my mom doesn't help out with the kids anymore, my babysitter is visiting family out of state, and my mother-in-law hurt her back.
The good thing about this is that I have been able to spend time with the boys. I love my boys. They are absolutely delicious when they are good. Usually when they are home though, they are fighting and whining. I can handle a little of this, but after 4 days, I am done.
This makes me feel very guilty, I can assure you. I happened to open a magazine and read a story about a boy receiving palliative care because it's inevitable he will die. I bawled like a baby and considered myself so very lucky to have two healthy children. And then J screams at me because he lost at Super Mario Brothers that "it's all my fault" because I was talking to S...or some crazy nonsense like that and the moment is gone.
I always daydreamed about being a SAHM. Now I know that I could never do it full-time (though part-time would be great). Maybe it's because I'm not structured enough during the day with them. Maybe I would run a tighter ship if I had to do it all of the time, I don't know. All I know is that I am definitely not SAHM material, regardless of how much I love my children. I have great appreciation for SAHMs everywhere - it is indeed the hardest job anyone can undertake.
Showing posts with label mommyhood. Show all posts
Showing posts with label mommyhood. Show all posts
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Friday, April 01, 2011
Week from Hell
Let me share a little about my week from hell...
Last Friday, S. was diagnosed with Hand, Foot, & Mouth Disease...
Saturday, J. was diagnosed with it.
Sunday, J. developed painful blisters in his mouth and wouldn't eat or drink anything - this lasted through Wednesday.
Monday, I developed blisters in my mouth.
Tuesday, I took him to the doctor and in addition to HF&M Disease, she said she thought he might also have Fifth Disease.
Wednesday, S. came down with another fever so I brought him to the doctor. He was diagnosed with pink eye, an upper respiratory infection, and an ear infection. He was prescribed antibiotics (for the second time in 2 weeks), a steroid, and nebulizer treatments daily for the next few weeks with pumocort and albuterol.
Thursday, I finally got J. to school, but kept S. home with me. When attempting to take his temperature, he scratched the white of my left eye - HARD! Pain like I've not experienced in a long time! My doctor called in a script for hydrocodone for pain and antibiotic eye drops. After taking 3x the recommended dose of hydrocodone, I was able to finally sleep without pain.
This morning, the kids seemed to feel better so they went to school. I went to the opthamologist and was diagnosed with a corneal abrasion. In addition to the drops, I also have to take an antibiotic ointment - in my eye.
This evening, S. developed slapped cheeks and is starting to get a rash on his legs -- he also has a low-grade fever. Logic tells me that it's Fifth Disease. Yes, it's mild, but c'mon now! Enough is enough!
Trying to figure out where all of this bad karma is coming from...thinking it might have something to do with me being a brat when I was a kid. If so, I'm screwed.
Last Friday, S. was diagnosed with Hand, Foot, & Mouth Disease...
Saturday, J. was diagnosed with it.
Sunday, J. developed painful blisters in his mouth and wouldn't eat or drink anything - this lasted through Wednesday.
Monday, I developed blisters in my mouth.
Tuesday, I took him to the doctor and in addition to HF&M Disease, she said she thought he might also have Fifth Disease.
Wednesday, S. came down with another fever so I brought him to the doctor. He was diagnosed with pink eye, an upper respiratory infection, and an ear infection. He was prescribed antibiotics (for the second time in 2 weeks), a steroid, and nebulizer treatments daily for the next few weeks with pumocort and albuterol.
Thursday, I finally got J. to school, but kept S. home with me. When attempting to take his temperature, he scratched the white of my left eye - HARD! Pain like I've not experienced in a long time! My doctor called in a script for hydrocodone for pain and antibiotic eye drops. After taking 3x the recommended dose of hydrocodone, I was able to finally sleep without pain.
This morning, the kids seemed to feel better so they went to school. I went to the opthamologist and was diagnosed with a corneal abrasion. In addition to the drops, I also have to take an antibiotic ointment - in my eye.
This evening, S. developed slapped cheeks and is starting to get a rash on his legs -- he also has a low-grade fever. Logic tells me that it's Fifth Disease. Yes, it's mild, but c'mon now! Enough is enough!
Trying to figure out where all of this bad karma is coming from...thinking it might have something to do with me being a brat when I was a kid. If so, I'm screwed.
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Wow, Long Time!
I have to apologize for taking such a long hiatus from my blog. Life has just been absolutely insane...today is no exception, but I decided to sit down and write something anyhow.
Update from August: my cousin (see previous post) is going to have a healthy baby boy on Monday morning. I couldn't be happier for her and her (now) fiance.
This cold and flu season has been very rough on us, which is the main reason for my lack of blogging. S. has been sick with RSV, ear infections, coxsackie virus, pink eye, upper respiratory infections, and stomach bugs. When he is home with me (which is at least 6 working days out of every month), it's hard to get work done, which means work is reserved for night. Exhausting, but necessary. J. has been healthy, save for this past week when he came down with coxsackie virus and herpeangina. Fun!
In other news, S. turned one last month. You would think, considering that he is always sick, that he would be a scrawny little thing, but not my boy! He loves food...LOVES it! He currently weighs in at close to 26 pounds and wears some clothes that are 2T. He can even fit into J.'s 3T-4T pull-ups when I am in a pinch. He just started walking though, so I expect him to slim down some soon.
I'm sure there is lots more I could share...and I promise I will soon. Hubby and J. just got home though, so it's time to get back to work! These kids, they are slavedrivers!
Update from August: my cousin (see previous post) is going to have a healthy baby boy on Monday morning. I couldn't be happier for her and her (now) fiance.
This cold and flu season has been very rough on us, which is the main reason for my lack of blogging. S. has been sick with RSV, ear infections, coxsackie virus, pink eye, upper respiratory infections, and stomach bugs. When he is home with me (which is at least 6 working days out of every month), it's hard to get work done, which means work is reserved for night. Exhausting, but necessary. J. has been healthy, save for this past week when he came down with coxsackie virus and herpeangina. Fun!
In other news, S. turned one last month. You would think, considering that he is always sick, that he would be a scrawny little thing, but not my boy! He loves food...LOVES it! He currently weighs in at close to 26 pounds and wears some clothes that are 2T. He can even fit into J.'s 3T-4T pull-ups when I am in a pinch. He just started walking though, so I expect him to slim down some soon.
I'm sure there is lots more I could share...and I promise I will soon. Hubby and J. just got home though, so it's time to get back to work! These kids, they are slavedrivers!
Monday, August 16, 2010
J.'s First Day of Pre-School
It is quite bittersweet to think of him starting pre-K, as that means that next year begins the real thing! Something I am dreading for many reasons...one of which is the fact that I am going to have to either fight for a variance because the public school he is supposed to go to is terrible or give up and pay a small fortune for private school (though when I did the math, it was still cheaper than his pre-school).
It also means that he is growing up. Way too fast, if you ask me! Where did all of those years go? When I look at his baby brother, I can see J. in him and it brings me back to when he was that age...it seems like yesterday and a million years ago all at the same time. As a parent, it is SO hard when they are so young, but at the same time, I wish I could keep them this little forever, if only in the moments when they are sweet and loving and good, and if only to kiss those chubby cheeks and legs, and hug and love on them in a way that will someday embarass the hell out of them.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Home Sweet Home
We made it home from our family vacation yesterday, in the early evening. The remainder of the week went by pretty much as the beginning had, with me and the baby indoors while everyone else played outside. A few exceptions: one afternoon, I had lunch with a friend who recently moved to the area and has a son who is three weeks younger than S. Then, our last day in town was spent in Wilmington, where we had lunch at the Pilot House and spent the afternoon at the Children's Museum. J. had an absolute blast there, which was apparent by the size the tantrum he threw when we left. While in Wilmington, we also drove by the house where my grandmother lived while my grandfather was deployed during World War II - I found the address on letters addressed to her from him that she had saved.
As for S., every time he got hungry, I'd have to contortion myself to feed him and beg J. not to put his feet on my arms. We couldn't find anymore ready-made formula in North Carolina, so I had to mix in the car, so the front seat was covered in formula powder and rice cereal flakes. Then, there was the spitting up and occasional vomiting, which called for new bibs...not fun to change while baby is strapped into a car seat! And he kept dropping his binky, so I'd have to keep looking for it. Had we gotten into an accident, the odds that I would have been turned around would have been very high - not a pleasant thought! Anyhow, he also had several very stinky mustard poops which called for immediate changing and usually also - wardrobe change!
But we are home now - thank God! Tomorrow is J.'s first day of pre-school and S. has an appointment with his gastroenterologist, plus I am back to work. There should seriously be a mandatory extra week vacation for either a) just the parents or b) just the mom at a day spa!!!
Saturday, August 07, 2010
Holden Beach or Bust
We made it to our vacation destination, Holden Beach, NC...but not without drama abound, much of which made me think maybe we shouldn't even go. Like, maybe God was trying to tell us we shouldn't go.
It all started Friday when I picked the boys up from day care. The baby's "teacher" told me that he had 6 BMs that day. I was actually surprised that they didn't call me, as the week before they did the Friday before. Especially since, as the teacher told me, "it was mucousy."
Anyhow, S. was pretty sleepy in the evening and didn't really want to eat all that much. Obviously a good sign. I put him to bed at 9:30 and started to pack.
A little while later, I checked on him and realized that he had projectile vomited all over himself. He was freezing cold, which scared the bejeezus out of me. He seemed pretty lethargic and while he didn't have a fever, I was very afraid he was getting dehydrated. The hubby told me not to worry because he ate.
About an hour later, S. started projectile vomiting again. At this point, I wasn't hearing anyone. I was taking my baby to the ER.
Miraculously, by the time I got there, the color started coming back to his face. I almost left, especially since I was a little freaked out by the woman in the waiting room who was screaming and crying, but alas, they called S.'s name, so I decided to have him checked out.
We ended up staying until 3:30 am. I definitely can't fault them for being thorough! They did bloodwork, took a stool culture, and gave him an IV. Turned out his bloodwork was completely normal (no dehydration). I'll find out on Monday about his stool culture. I'm still glad I went.
Okay, so operating on 3 hours of sleep, I finished packing and got the kids ready. Thinking about a road trip with a diarrhea and vomit inflicted baby was not something I was excited about. Luckily, we had a Zofran script from the week prior to cancel out one of the issues.
So anyhow, while we were getting ready, J. was playing on the stairs. I told him to stop and he did. As he walked down the second flight though, he lost his footing and fell down the stairs, flipping and landing on his back on the wood floor below. I stood above him holding the baby and there was absolutely nothing I could do to stop it. It was one of the scariest moments of my life, bar none! Luckily (and again, a miracle), he was not hurt. I, on the other hand, was so freaked out that I couldn't talk about it for the rest of the day without crying.
I was still reeling from that episode when S. projectile vomited on me.
Anyhow, somehow we made it out of the house and got on the road. It took us 9 hours to make a 7 hour trip, but we. are. here! Mind you, we had to endure hours and hours of J.'s "are we there yet?" and kicking my seat, but somehow, by the grace of God, we made it.
Now, I am looking at the ocean, and feeling a lot more relaxed. Life is better!
It all started Friday when I picked the boys up from day care. The baby's "teacher" told me that he had 6 BMs that day. I was actually surprised that they didn't call me, as the week before they did the Friday before. Especially since, as the teacher told me, "it was mucousy."
Anyhow, S. was pretty sleepy in the evening and didn't really want to eat all that much. Obviously a good sign. I put him to bed at 9:30 and started to pack.
A little while later, I checked on him and realized that he had projectile vomited all over himself. He was freezing cold, which scared the bejeezus out of me. He seemed pretty lethargic and while he didn't have a fever, I was very afraid he was getting dehydrated. The hubby told me not to worry because he ate.
About an hour later, S. started projectile vomiting again. At this point, I wasn't hearing anyone. I was taking my baby to the ER.
Miraculously, by the time I got there, the color started coming back to his face. I almost left, especially since I was a little freaked out by the woman in the waiting room who was screaming and crying, but alas, they called S.'s name, so I decided to have him checked out.
We ended up staying until 3:30 am. I definitely can't fault them for being thorough! They did bloodwork, took a stool culture, and gave him an IV. Turned out his bloodwork was completely normal (no dehydration). I'll find out on Monday about his stool culture. I'm still glad I went.
Okay, so operating on 3 hours of sleep, I finished packing and got the kids ready. Thinking about a road trip with a diarrhea and vomit inflicted baby was not something I was excited about. Luckily, we had a Zofran script from the week prior to cancel out one of the issues.
So anyhow, while we were getting ready, J. was playing on the stairs. I told him to stop and he did. As he walked down the second flight though, he lost his footing and fell down the stairs, flipping and landing on his back on the wood floor below. I stood above him holding the baby and there was absolutely nothing I could do to stop it. It was one of the scariest moments of my life, bar none! Luckily (and again, a miracle), he was not hurt. I, on the other hand, was so freaked out that I couldn't talk about it for the rest of the day without crying.
I was still reeling from that episode when S. projectile vomited on me.
Anyhow, somehow we made it out of the house and got on the road. It took us 9 hours to make a 7 hour trip, but we. are. here! Mind you, we had to endure hours and hours of J.'s "are we there yet?" and kicking my seat, but somehow, by the grace of God, we made it.
Now, I am looking at the ocean, and feeling a lot more relaxed. Life is better!
Monday, July 26, 2010
S: 5 Months
At around 8 weeks, he started sleeping for 4 hours at a time, and by 12 weeks he was sleeping through the night.
S. is an absolute angel. I thought J. was an amazingly good baby (and he was), but S. is something else! Sure, he still spits up, but his disposition is so incredibly sweet. He never cries unless he is hungry or uncomfortable. He smiles all of the time, and though he doesn't laugh often, when he does it is heart melting.
And yes, he still sleeps through the night - goes to bed at around 8pm and wakes up at around 6 or 7. It's a beautiful thing, and something that J. STILL doesn't do!
Sizewize, S. is still catching up. He is around 16 pounds, 9 ounces and 23 inches, but he is starting to grow out of all of his 3-6 month clothes, so I think he is going through a grow spurt.
I am really blessed to have such a sweet baby boy...and really, make that two. J. has his moments, but he really is a sweet boy also. One thing is certain; he absolutely loves S. and S. is in love with his big brother! Hopefully, it remains that way when it's time to share toys!
Friday, March 26, 2010
S: One Month
S. is one month old today, though his due date was officially yesterday. The last few weeks since he's been home from the NICU have been great with the exception of his colic and constant spitting up.
He's such a sweet baby boy, and I have to say that I couldn't be more proud of J. for being such a great big brother. I expected jealousy and resentment, but J. has been really loving towards the baby.
S. is now 7 pounds, 6 ounces and getting bigger every day. He grew out of his preemie clothes quickly and I don't think it will be long before he is wearing 0-3 months. My boy can eat!
I am just getting sleep where I can and enjoying this time I have with S. because he is my last baby and I know he won't stay this way for long.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Sleep Deprivation, Stomach Viruses, and Uncontrollable Crying (Oh, My!)
I've been terrible about blogging since the baby arrived. Last night I found myself going through archives from when J. was a baby to get some clue as to how to deal with S.'s colic, and I realized how many milestones were documented for him. It made me decide to get back into blogging.
S. will be a month old on Friday, and this hasn't been an easy month. He was in the NICU for over a week because his lungs weren't getting enough oxygen - during that time, I was an emotional wreck. I couldn't drive, so I'd have my hubby drop me off at the hospital every day and I'd sit for hours, rocking him.
On the day he came home from the hospital, J. came down with the noro virus (a.k.a. stomach flu). As we were getting ready to leave the nursery with the baby, J. actually puked his guts out right there on the floor. He was sick for several days and I had to keep him home from daycare, which meant watching both babies by myself. While S. was spitting up on me, J. was having a blowout in his pants, and all the while I was praying that the baby wouldn't get it. My husband, sister, and mother-in-law all ended up with it, but luckily, the baby and I were spared.
A few days later though, I ended up catching a severe cold, which still hasn't gone away, thanks to sleep deprivation and stress.
From the moment S. came home, he seemed to have his days and nights confused. It didn't make sense to us because at the hospital, he was on such a regimented routine. Nearly three weeks later and I have come to the conclusion that he probably has colic. Some nights are worse than others, and last night was the absolute worst. There is nothing more desperate than a parent trying to get their child to stop screaming bloody murder in the middle of the night.
I find myself crying quite a bit...my husband walked in on me crying this morning and freaked out, thinking I might pose a risk to myself or the baby. I had to explain to him that it's called the "baby blues" -- it's normal and it's a release. If I didn't cry, I might be much worse off. Of course, I know I'm at risk for post-partum depression and I am keeping an eye on things.
I really hope and pray that things get better soon...at least before I have to go back to work. I swear, I wish I could work part-time -- or not at all, but I know that right now, that's not an option, so I will keep hoping and praying.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Baby S. is HERE!
I have been terrible about posting, though I think about doing it often. I could have spent hours bitching and moaning about how miserable and stressed out I was, both physically and mentally during the last leg of my pregnancy...but I spared you.
Instead, I will share Baby S.'s birth story...
The night before last, I was awakened by a rush of stomach acid up my esophagus. At first I couldn't breathe and it scared the holy crap out of me. I then spent the rest of the night waking up every hour on the hour puking my guts out. This same thing had happened right after Christmas too. I was absolutely miserable.
At around 7am, the vomiting stopped and was replaced by "the other end." I couldn't keep anything in and started feeling extremely dehydrated really fast. Excessive thirst, inability to pee, dizziness, weakness, etc.
At 10, I called the OB/GYN's office and the nurse practicioner said, "it's a stomach virus. Take some immodium." I got upset and she appeased me by saying, "if you still feel bad at 2pm, go to Labor & Delivery.
Luckily, I trusted my body more than I trusted her. I called my parents to come pick me up (hubby was working several hours away) and bring me to the hospital. By 1:00, I was on an IV for severe dehydration.
While I can't explain the case of the "cha-cha-chas," there is no way this was a stomach virus. Monitoring of the baby showed that even though my cervix wasn't dialated, my contractions were coming 6 minutes apart.
The doctor decided not to stop labor since I was already 36 weeks and within an hour, I was being prepped for a c-section. My husband made it within minutes to be in the OR with me when the baby arrived.
Baby S. came out easily and was crying almost right away. After a few minutes though, he started turning blue and was very still. Thankfully, they were able to revive him, but they decided to put him in the NICU to be safe.
Stats:
Born Friday, February 26, 2010
4:30pm
6 pounds, 2 ounces
19 inches
While we can't completely tell yet, it looks like he has my eyes (or at least, my brow bones), hubby's nose and chin, and hubby's complexion and hairline. ;)
I haven't had a chance to hold him yet, but am hoping to be able to in the NICU in about 30 minutes. I can't wait! Welcome, beautiful baby, S.!
Instead, I will share Baby S.'s birth story...
The night before last, I was awakened by a rush of stomach acid up my esophagus. At first I couldn't breathe and it scared the holy crap out of me. I then spent the rest of the night waking up every hour on the hour puking my guts out. This same thing had happened right after Christmas too. I was absolutely miserable.
At around 7am, the vomiting stopped and was replaced by "the other end." I couldn't keep anything in and started feeling extremely dehydrated really fast. Excessive thirst, inability to pee, dizziness, weakness, etc.
At 10, I called the OB/GYN's office and the nurse practicioner said, "it's a stomach virus. Take some immodium." I got upset and she appeased me by saying, "if you still feel bad at 2pm, go to Labor & Delivery.
Luckily, I trusted my body more than I trusted her. I called my parents to come pick me up (hubby was working several hours away) and bring me to the hospital. By 1:00, I was on an IV for severe dehydration.
While I can't explain the case of the "cha-cha-chas," there is no way this was a stomach virus. Monitoring of the baby showed that even though my cervix wasn't dialated, my contractions were coming 6 minutes apart.
The doctor decided not to stop labor since I was already 36 weeks and within an hour, I was being prepped for a c-section. My husband made it within minutes to be in the OR with me when the baby arrived.
Baby S. came out easily and was crying almost right away. After a few minutes though, he started turning blue and was very still. Thankfully, they were able to revive him, but they decided to put him in the NICU to be safe.
Stats:
Born Friday, February 26, 2010
4:30pm
6 pounds, 2 ounces
19 inches
While we can't completely tell yet, it looks like he has my eyes (or at least, my brow bones), hubby's nose and chin, and hubby's complexion and hairline. ;)
I haven't had a chance to hold him yet, but am hoping to be able to in the NICU in about 30 minutes. I can't wait! Welcome, beautiful baby, S.!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Time for a Change
So my son has been going to an in-home daycare for the last two years. It's worked out really well for us for the most part, so we've kept him there. I'd always been pretty good friends with the girl who takes care of J, and I felt good about the fact that she was so competent at her job.
Things started to change about a month ago, when my husband came home from dropping J off to tell me that her child might have H1N1. Nothing was confirmed, but it was a possibility. I was upset with my husband for leaving him there, but also upset with her for not letting us know, considering that I am pregnant. Later that morning, she found out that it wasn't H1N1, but I was still upset that I wasn't given notice. Had it been me dropping J off, I would not have left him there. Later that day, she called me, angry because I had said something about it that got back to another parent; a guy who happens to work in my office. I explained why I was upset about the whole thing and she just couldn't see my point of view.
After that, things just haven't been the same. Yesterday, I was a few minutes late picking J up and even though she was busy talking to other parents and there were still other kids there, she made a comment about it to my husband (not me) this morning.
It just seems like there is always some kind of drama...if it's not involving me, it's involving other parents and somehow I end up hearing about it (which means she is also complaining about me to the other parents). I cannot go through this for another 4+ years with the new baby, so I decided to make a phone call.
There is a daycare center in the area I kept hearing about from people. It gets rave reviews for their educational programs, staff, cleanliness and cost. I went ahead and called and found out that not only is it about the same price as what I am paying, but that they also provide a square meal for lunch and two snacks during the day. Additionally, they are open until 6:00pm, which would allow me to be more flexible with my work hours. They also offer VPK, which means I wouldn't have to be picking my son up in the middle of the day to take him to daycare. Another plus...it's located about 10 minutes from our house, and is directly on my way home from the office, if ever I have to go in.
The only downside is that there is a wait list. I went ahead and had J put on the list, along with the new baby. They don't expect any openings until May or June, which is perfect for the baby, but a ways to wait for J.
Anyhow, in the meantime, my husband and I will be going over there sometime to check the place out. I NEVER thought I would be excited about sending my child to daycare, but surprisingly, I am.
Things started to change about a month ago, when my husband came home from dropping J off to tell me that her child might have H1N1. Nothing was confirmed, but it was a possibility. I was upset with my husband for leaving him there, but also upset with her for not letting us know, considering that I am pregnant. Later that morning, she found out that it wasn't H1N1, but I was still upset that I wasn't given notice. Had it been me dropping J off, I would not have left him there. Later that day, she called me, angry because I had said something about it that got back to another parent; a guy who happens to work in my office. I explained why I was upset about the whole thing and she just couldn't see my point of view.
After that, things just haven't been the same. Yesterday, I was a few minutes late picking J up and even though she was busy talking to other parents and there were still other kids there, she made a comment about it to my husband (not me) this morning.
It just seems like there is always some kind of drama...if it's not involving me, it's involving other parents and somehow I end up hearing about it (which means she is also complaining about me to the other parents). I cannot go through this for another 4+ years with the new baby, so I decided to make a phone call.
There is a daycare center in the area I kept hearing about from people. It gets rave reviews for their educational programs, staff, cleanliness and cost. I went ahead and called and found out that not only is it about the same price as what I am paying, but that they also provide a square meal for lunch and two snacks during the day. Additionally, they are open until 6:00pm, which would allow me to be more flexible with my work hours. They also offer VPK, which means I wouldn't have to be picking my son up in the middle of the day to take him to daycare. Another plus...it's located about 10 minutes from our house, and is directly on my way home from the office, if ever I have to go in.
The only downside is that there is a wait list. I went ahead and had J put on the list, along with the new baby. They don't expect any openings until May or June, which is perfect for the baby, but a ways to wait for J.
Anyhow, in the meantime, my husband and I will be going over there sometime to check the place out. I NEVER thought I would be excited about sending my child to daycare, but surprisingly, I am.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Potty Training Savior!
We have been trying to potty train J for well over a year and a half now. He is doing well with going pee-pee in the potty, but has always refused to go poop. He will go all day in underwear, but every evening at around 6:30pm, he will beg for a pull-up so that he can poop in it. Last night, my husband put in a Potty Power DVD ...J watched it about 3 times and suddenly, decided that he wanted to try going poop in the potty! He did twice last night, which is unbelieveable!
Then this morning, he seemed a little negative about peeing in the potty, so my husband put the DVD in again...within minutes, he was back on the potty and asking for underwear.
The video is pretty short, maybe 15-20 minutes, and features a cute young woman who sings, tells stories, and plays games related to potty training. When J saw all of the kids singing "no more diapers for me" while throwing their diapers and pull-ups in the trash, he started singing along. He played the "baby or big kid" game and got them all right. In other words, it's an interactive video that engages kids and gets them excited about using the potty.
I'm not saying it will work that way for everyone, and Lord only knows what J will do tonight when it's time to go poop in the potty, but I swear, that was like witnessing a miracle!
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Mommy, I Have to Gooooooooooo!
So my husband just started his MBA this week, which is great. Tonight he had class, so after I picked up J I decided to take him to the mall.
He said he wanted macaroni and cheese, so we headed to the buffet restaurant -- what does he do? Eat chocolate pudding and leave me to polish off the macaroni.
We walked down to JC Penney, a store I very rarely frequent, because they sell the most divine maternity pants for work and I have graduated from a small to a medium. As we are walking around, J says he has to go potty. I started racing around the store, asking around as to where the bathroom was, but when I finally got there, it was too late.
So here I am, in the JC Penney bathroom with a kid who is soaking wet with urine, and I have no extra clothes to change him into. I had to put the poor child back into his wet clothes and venture over to the kids' department to get him a new outfit, along with some new underwear.
When I took him back to the bathroom, it was closed for cleaning. I almost wanted to cry, but instead, just ignored the sign and took him in anyhow.
This was an enlightening experience that made me realize how hard it is to shop, even with one child. I may never hit the mall once I have two! At least not without an entourage of grandparents and my husband, and not without knowing where all of the bathrooms are in every store!
He said he wanted macaroni and cheese, so we headed to the buffet restaurant -- what does he do? Eat chocolate pudding and leave me to polish off the macaroni.
We walked down to JC Penney, a store I very rarely frequent, because they sell the most divine maternity pants for work and I have graduated from a small to a medium. As we are walking around, J says he has to go potty. I started racing around the store, asking around as to where the bathroom was, but when I finally got there, it was too late.
So here I am, in the JC Penney bathroom with a kid who is soaking wet with urine, and I have no extra clothes to change him into. I had to put the poor child back into his wet clothes and venture over to the kids' department to get him a new outfit, along with some new underwear.
When I took him back to the bathroom, it was closed for cleaning. I almost wanted to cry, but instead, just ignored the sign and took him in anyhow.
This was an enlightening experience that made me realize how hard it is to shop, even with one child. I may never hit the mall once I have two! At least not without an entourage of grandparents and my husband, and not without knowing where all of the bathrooms are in every store!
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
Gymnastics, Take Two
My son's babysitter (for lack of a better word, she takes care of him on weekdays) takes her kids to a gymnastics class at a local rec center, so she suggested I bring J. The theory behind this was that he would be more inclined to participate if her kids were there (since he plays with them every day).
He went in the room and was a little apprehensive at first, but eventually got into it. He seemed to really enjoy it by the end of the class, so I am relieved to say that he will be going back.
He went in the room and was a little apprehensive at first, but eventually got into it. He seemed to really enjoy it by the end of the class, so I am relieved to say that he will be going back.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
GymNOstics
Yesterday, I took J to The Little Gym to try out a gymnastics class for kids aged 3-5. I was so optimistic that he would enjoy it, especially when he saw all of the cool equipment and props that they use.
I decided to try it out because for one, he doesn't have any strutured activities. I don't want to be one of those moms who overschedules their kids, but I do think some activity outside of the everyday is good. Additionally, my poor child is as clumsy as they come. I know his motor skills are still developing, but my God! He has bruises from one end of his leg to the other because he runs into walls and trips over his own feet.
So anyhow, after I picked him up from day care, we stopped at Jimmy John's and each got a sub. He was so cute eating his giant sub, and he was having such a great time. I was certain his good mood would continue on.
When we got to the gym (which I couldn't find on Saturday, but had apparently driven right past twice), he seemed pretty excited. He was anxious to get in there and play, but when the class was about to start, he wouldn't leave my side. The instructor offered for me to come in with him so that he would see that it was okay. I was hoping to slip out unnoticed when he started having fun.
Well, no fun was to be had. He wouldn't go play with the other kids and was stuck to me like glue. I ended up apologizing and taking him home.
Next week, we are going to try this again, but with another tactic. The local rec center is offering gymnastics classes for kids and my babysitter brings her children there. She has offered to take J with her to the class. I strongly believe that the problem is me, but I guess we will know for sure come next Monday.
I decided to try it out because for one, he doesn't have any strutured activities. I don't want to be one of those moms who overschedules their kids, but I do think some activity outside of the everyday is good. Additionally, my poor child is as clumsy as they come. I know his motor skills are still developing, but my God! He has bruises from one end of his leg to the other because he runs into walls and trips over his own feet.
So anyhow, after I picked him up from day care, we stopped at Jimmy John's and each got a sub. He was so cute eating his giant sub, and he was having such a great time. I was certain his good mood would continue on.
When we got to the gym (which I couldn't find on Saturday, but had apparently driven right past twice), he seemed pretty excited. He was anxious to get in there and play, but when the class was about to start, he wouldn't leave my side. The instructor offered for me to come in with him so that he would see that it was okay. I was hoping to slip out unnoticed when he started having fun.
Well, no fun was to be had. He wouldn't go play with the other kids and was stuck to me like glue. I ended up apologizing and taking him home.
Next week, we are going to try this again, but with another tactic. The local rec center is offering gymnastics classes for kids and my babysitter brings her children there. She has offered to take J with her to the class. I strongly believe that the problem is me, but I guess we will know for sure come next Monday.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Bad Morning
Everything was going fine as I drove J to his first Little Gym class until I couldn't find the place. I looked everywhere, up and down the road where it was supposed to be, but apparently I missed it. To make matters worse, my phone was dead and the car charger wasn't working, so I couldn't call them to get the location or to let them know the situation.
I was so frustrated and upset, I even cried. Hormones? Probably.
I decided to run to my office to use the phone there, and wouldn't you know, I had the wrong set of keys so I couldn't get in. At this point, I was about to lose it, which actually did happen when J started asking me for candy that I didn't have. After about the 5th time he asked, I screamed at the top of my lungs. Usually something like this would bring him to tears, but he just looked at me like, "Oh shit, I'd better be quiet" and stopped asking.
Afterwards, when I was able to get some deep breaths in and calm down, I apologized for yelling at him. I really do hate when my temper flares out of control. It doesn't happen often, but it's never a good thing.
So anyhow, when I finally got home and called them to let them know the situation, would you believe I got their damn voicemail? So even if I would have called while I was looking, I probably wouldn't have been able to get in touch with someone anyhow. I left a message and will reschedule for Monday if I can, but man, what a bad morning!
I was so frustrated and upset, I even cried. Hormones? Probably.
I decided to run to my office to use the phone there, and wouldn't you know, I had the wrong set of keys so I couldn't get in. At this point, I was about to lose it, which actually did happen when J started asking me for candy that I didn't have. After about the 5th time he asked, I screamed at the top of my lungs. Usually something like this would bring him to tears, but he just looked at me like, "Oh shit, I'd better be quiet" and stopped asking.
Afterwards, when I was able to get some deep breaths in and calm down, I apologized for yelling at him. I really do hate when my temper flares out of control. It doesn't happen often, but it's never a good thing.
So anyhow, when I finally got home and called them to let them know the situation, would you believe I got their damn voicemail? So even if I would have called while I was looking, I probably wouldn't have been able to get in touch with someone anyhow. I left a message and will reschedule for Monday if I can, but man, what a bad morning!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
J's Dr. Visit
Can I just say how proud I am of my little man? Usually, when I take him to the doctor, he freaks out, screaming his head off as soon as the stethoscope is in plain view.
Today on the other hand, he was such a big boy! The whole event was a piece of cake, without him crying once. Not even when he got a shot!
I attribute part of this to the fact that I have been letting him see me when I take my injections so that he understands that it doesn't hurt that bad. It also helped that he saw an episode of the Penguins of Madagascar last night that talked about the penguins having to get shots. He seemed to understand that it was something he had to do and was great.
I've known adults who handle such things way worse.
Today on the other hand, he was such a big boy! The whole event was a piece of cake, without him crying once. Not even when he got a shot!
I attribute part of this to the fact that I have been letting him see me when I take my injections so that he understands that it doesn't hurt that bad. It also helped that he saw an episode of the Penguins of Madagascar last night that talked about the penguins having to get shots. He seemed to understand that it was something he had to do and was great.
I've known adults who handle such things way worse.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Home at last!
While it was a fun vacation, it is so good to be home! We left this morning at around 9 and got home at close to 7. We stopped outside of Charleston for lunch at this place called Shem Creek Bar & Grill. My husband and I had eaten there when we vacationed in Sullivan's Island, SC a few years ago. I got my shrimp and grits, so I was happy.
The ride home was less than pleasurable. Three year olds and road trips just don't mix. Between him saying "Mommy" 50,000 times and smooshing his Rice Krispies into the upholstery, I was a little more than frazzled when we got home.
We are almost done unpacking and now it is back to the real world! Can't say I am looking forward to going back to work on Tuesday, but I am very happy to be home. Will add pics to my posts tomorrow.
The ride home was less than pleasurable. Three year olds and road trips just don't mix. Between him saying "Mommy" 50,000 times and smooshing his Rice Krispies into the upholstery, I was a little more than frazzled when we got home.
We are almost done unpacking and now it is back to the real world! Can't say I am looking forward to going back to work on Tuesday, but I am very happy to be home. Will add pics to my posts tomorrow.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Beach Vacay, Day 2
Today was a good day. Subdued, but good. I woke up at around 6:30, which is definitely not characteristic, but it gave me some solitude so that I could enjoy breakfast on the deck peacefully.
In the late morning, we all headed down to the beach. I stayed under the canopy the entire time,1qwa but still ended up getting sun somehow. J was being a terror for part of the morning, but behaved better once Zach joined him for play. My husband dug out what equated to a fox hole and the kids had a blast playing in it.
Later, we hung out by the pool for a bit and then took a nap. This is the life! Then, off to the store for groceries and back to enjoy taco night.
Now, to try and calm J down enough to get him ready for bed. He goes to bed late as it is, but he is all keyed up from playing with Zach and is jumping around like a monkey.
In other news, if I am not pregnant, I will be shocked. Current daily occurrences include nausea and fatigue, and today began the frequent urination. Also, I am craving cheese and almonds like it's nobody's business and am repulsed by sweets. Me, repulsed by sweets?!? WTF?!? I ate a Good N' Fruity today because I LOVE them, and it tasted like wax to me.
I think I am going to test tomorrow. But, don't worry - if it comes up negative, I will not assume I am not pregnant (nor will I assume I am). I know it is early. Last time I was pregnant though, the HPTs I used (I buy the cheap ones from eBay - 50 for $15) showed a very faint line several days before I was supposed to test, which got progressively darker each day. I was checking out some other charts on Fertility Friend and those who tested on CD28 and were pregnant got a positive result. Tomorrow is CD28 for me, so I am going to go for it. I just can't stand it!
In the late morning, we all headed down to the beach. I stayed under the canopy the entire time,1qwa but still ended up getting sun somehow. J was being a terror for part of the morning, but behaved better once Zach joined him for play. My husband dug out what equated to a fox hole and the kids had a blast playing in it.
Later, we hung out by the pool for a bit and then took a nap. This is the life! Then, off to the store for groceries and back to enjoy taco night.
Now, to try and calm J down enough to get him ready for bed. He goes to bed late as it is, but he is all keyed up from playing with Zach and is jumping around like a monkey.
In other news, if I am not pregnant, I will be shocked. Current daily occurrences include nausea and fatigue, and today began the frequent urination. Also, I am craving cheese and almonds like it's nobody's business and am repulsed by sweets. Me, repulsed by sweets?!? WTF?!? I ate a Good N' Fruity today because I LOVE them, and it tasted like wax to me.
I think I am going to test tomorrow. But, don't worry - if it comes up negative, I will not assume I am not pregnant (nor will I assume I am). I know it is early. Last time I was pregnant though, the HPTs I used (I buy the cheap ones from eBay - 50 for $15) showed a very faint line several days before I was supposed to test, which got progressively darker each day. I was checking out some other charts on Fertility Friend and those who tested on CD28 and were pregnant got a positive result. Tomorrow is CD28 for me, so I am going to go for it. I just can't stand it!
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Beach Vacay, Day 1
We made it to our destination! It was about an 8 hour drive, which entailed J. asking every five minutes where the beach was. I was grateful for his nap so that I could relax and watch a movie.
I had wanted to stop in Charleston for lunch, but hubby and J. ruined theirs with McDonald's a few hours before we got there. Maybe on the way back. I could do with some shrimp and grits.
Anyhow, we are here. The house is gorgeous! Directly on the ocean with a pool, a giant deck, and a hammock. I don't think I want to leave!
J. is doing great with the other little boy who is here. He has been sharing, which is quite a fete for him. At 2 (and premature), the other boy, Zach, is almost as tall as J., which freaks me out. My husband and I constantly wonder about J.'s height and it appears that he is in the 10th percentile for his age. I am looking forward to his check-up on the 20th to discuss this. But anyways, J. loves Zach, which is great.
At the end of the day, we all sat on the deck - most with drink in hand (except me), while the kids ran around. We ordered pizza for dinner, and headed to bed at a round 10:30.
Looking forward to a fun week on the beach! I seriously could live here forever!
I had wanted to stop in Charleston for lunch, but hubby and J. ruined theirs with McDonald's a few hours before we got there. Maybe on the way back. I could do with some shrimp and grits.
Anyhow, we are here. The house is gorgeous! Directly on the ocean with a pool, a giant deck, and a hammock. I don't think I want to leave!
J. is doing great with the other little boy who is here. He has been sharing, which is quite a fete for him. At 2 (and premature), the other boy, Zach, is almost as tall as J., which freaks me out. My husband and I constantly wonder about J.'s height and it appears that he is in the 10th percentile for his age. I am looking forward to his check-up on the 20th to discuss this. But anyways, J. loves Zach, which is great.
At the end of the day, we all sat on the deck - most with drink in hand (except me), while the kids ran around. We ordered pizza for dinner, and headed to bed at a round 10:30.
Looking forward to a fun week on the beach! I seriously could live here forever!
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