Journey of Little Footsteps

Funny-isms

2012-01-17T20:50:00.002-05:00

Russ was coming home and surprised Aiden with a choice- what do you want at McDonalds? Aiden replied, "Cheeseburger King.". After a few goings back and forth, Russ said, "Do you mean Burger King?". "Yes, Daddy, Cheeseburger King."

A few days ago, I went to visit a friend, and I got stuck in her driveway. I was VERY frustrated. From the backseat I hear, "Oh, come on!"

I am no longer Mommy. I am Mommy Denicey. Russ is no longer Daddy Russell, he is Daddy Russell-e. Yes, folks, he was Daddy Russell according to Aiden.

Chaos

2012-01-11T14:36:00.008-05:00

I have been missing for a while now...lots going on with both boys. But I had to share this video.

There are many exciting things for us on this video:

The growth of Aiden's language
The growth of Aiden's positive interaction with Elijah
Aiden's ability to mimic our positive language and praise
Plus how cute it is and how funny it is!!!

This was and is a huge deal for us.

We have been working really, really hard with Aiden's school and the outside class I have been taking to work on Aiden's behavior. We have also started Elijah's weekly therapy as well for his speech and developmental delays.

When we have moments like the one we posted, it reminds us that hard work does indeed pay off.

Speech

2011-11-13T20:36:00.001-05:00

Speech is more than just saying words. It is having the tongue in the right spot, the brain triggering so many things to do, the practice, the mimicking, and so on.

Eli has qualified for speech. But you say- he is not even two? Well, folks, my son doesn't even point or try to mimic what he wants or tries to tell us. He just cries and cries and cries.

He hears us, and he can easily go get a toy and bring it to us or put a toy in this toy chest when we ask him to pick up, but he can't point and even grunt.

We will be finding out more in the next few weeks, but I am just thankful that we can get started a bit sooner with Eli's speech.

Looks Like Holland

2011-10-20T13:50:00.009-04:00

Last week, we had Aiden's open house at pre-school. It was a great experience. We learned a lot. Aiden is in the class with kids that have Autism, have seziures, and have lots of needs. Many of our friends, seem to think he just has a speech issue. It goes beyond it, and it is hard to understand unless you live with us and see him day in and day out. We got home that evening and just shook our heads asking each other, "What is it about our brains and our DNA that didn't mesh? Why didn't we see this coming?"

Fast forward to this week. I took Elijah to his 18 month check-up. It came to the list of questions of does he do this, does he do that. The list of broad, standardized questions that make you start comparing your child to the rest... Elijah only says a few words: dog, banana, stuck, ball, read. He doesn't even address us as momma and dadda. Aiden didn't either.

You start comparing, taking notes...Then we did it again. We asked each other, " What is it about our brains and our DNA that didn't mesh? Why didn't we see this coming?"

So I did as the pediatrician recommended. I called my case worker at CDS. She said, "Oh- you really are taking that trip to Holland." She then told me about this following poem:

WELCOME TO HOLLAND
by
Emily Perl Kingsley.

c1987 by Emily Perl Kingsley. All rights reserved

I am often asked to describe the experience of raising a child with a disability - to try to help people who have not shared that unique experience to understand it, to imagine how it would feel. It's like this......

When you're going to have a baby, it's like planning a fabulous vacation trip - to Italy. You buy a bunch of guide books and make your wonderful plans. The Coliseum. The Michelangelo David. The gondolas in Venice. You may learn some handy phrases in Italian. It's all very exciting.

After months of eager anticipation, the day finally arrives. You pack your bags and off you go. Several hours later, the plane lands. The stewardess comes in and says, "Welcome to Holland."

"Holland?!?" you say. "What do you mean Holland?? I signed up for Italy! I'm supposed to be in Italy. All my life I've dreamed of going to Italy."

But there's been a change in the flight plan. They've landed in Holland and there you must stay.

The important thing is that they haven't taken you to a horrible, disgusting, filthy place, full of pestilence, famine and disease. It's just a different place.

So you must go out and buy new guide books. And you must learn a whole new language. And you will meet a whole new group of people you would never have met.

It's just a different place. It's slower-paced than Italy, less flashy than Italy. But after you've been there for a while and you catch your breath, you look around.... and you begin to notice that Holland has windmills....and Holland has tulips. Holland even has Rembrandts.

But everyone you know is busy coming and going from Italy... and they're all bragging about what a wonderful time they had there. And for the rest of your life, you will say "Yes, that's where I was supposed to go. That's what I had planned."

And the pain of that will never, ever, ever, ever go away... because the loss of that dream is a very very significant loss.

But... if you spend your life mourning the fact that you didn't get to Italy, you may never be free to enjoy the very special, the very lovely things ... about Holland.

So, on this journey with Elijah, we will be taking a trip to Holland too! It might be a permanent trip or just a temporary trip, but we will have to not think about our DNA and think about what we can do with Elijah and how we can make the best stay in Holland for him as possible.

Are you and your family in Holland right now? Is it a permanent trip or temporary? How does this poem relate to your family?

Weekend Fun

2011-10-13T10:11:00.009-04:00

This past weekend, we didn't have a lot on the calendar to do. We did have a date night for Saturday night which was wonderful. We actually did dinner AND a movie. It was wonderful! But the weather was just stunning for the Columbus holiday long weekend. We were in the high 70's with no humidity. It was nice to be able to wear tank tops and shorts one last time.

We contemplated going to the Fryeburg Fair on Sunday but was told due to the rain earlier in the week, it was packed, hot and over priced. We tossed some ideas around about what we could do that would be a fraction of the cost. This is what we decided to do:

On our way over to the playground, Eli taught us how to chase squirrels!

After playing on the playground, we picked up some yummy goodies at The Cookie Jar. We continued to go down Route 77 to Fort Williams.

I would say it was a success!!!

Tell me, what do you and your family do for frugal fun?!! Write a blog about it and link it up below!

Apple Picking

2011-10-02T07:14:00.004-04:00

Nothing says autumn like a trip to the apple orchard. It was also a very warm, humid day. This orchard serves warm, homemade donuts that are just divine! All of us gobbled them right up- an apple cider donut, blueberry donut, and pumpkin donut. My favorite was the blueberry! I must add that all of these were made with ingredients found right on the farm! Yes-folks, we are still able to pick blueberries in September because we have had a warmer end to summer.

My Eighteen Month Old (Sort of)

2011-10-02T07:06:00.003-04:00

I say sort of because I in just a few days, Eli will be 19 months old. I feel as though our lives are happening at lightening speed.

Elijah is a funny little boy. He gets into what we call "Crazy mode" where he starts running around and screaming and laughing incredibly hard. It is quite hilarious. He also tends to make these throat noises that I just can't explain.

He is taking after his daddy and his brother with his passion about books. He will turn himself around, back his rear up into you, plop himself down and proclaim his version of the word, "Read." It is absolutely wonderful. One day he was so insistent about reading Brown Bear, Brown Bear that it really sounded like he was saying it really fast. Who knows- maybe he was?!

Look, Daddy, Look!

2011-09-15T20:33:00.003-04:00

Sentences are getting stronger!

Aiden is asking more and expressing more. He actually is telling us when he is hungry now. He is engaging us in discussion. Yesterday, when I asked him how his day at school was, he responded, "Good." He now says, "TV Please, I think!" "YAY!"

Now, he is staring to say things that we can't decide where he is going. It is fun to try to figure it out. It is exciting because it means his language is growing, and he is willing to risk and try.

My three and a half year old is now talking like a two to two and a half year old. It feels good!

Way to go little man!!!

What a Difference One Day and Prayer Makes

2011-09-08T15:23:00.002-04:00

If only you could hear how happy and excited and thankful I am as I type this!!!!

I got a call today from Aiden's school. They want to have him there for five days a week- not three. They also now have a morning spot, so we can put him in that slot. AND- Speech Therapy is starting on Monday. AND- we have requested for a driver so that my mom (his daycare) doesn't have to do it. AND- he is also getting an OT evaluation as well!

THIS IS HUGE!!! I am so thankful for all of it. He needs it, his memere needs it, his brother needs it and his mommy and daddy need it. His behavior and delays affect all of us. This will also mean that Eli will get one-on-one with his memere and will also get fewer pushes and hits. It also means that Eli will have a more consistent nap time schedule. It also means that Aiden can still get a nap in the afternoon and not be so exhausted which just leads to more fighting, etc. It is so HUGE!!!

I am anxious to go to the school at the end of the month so that we can start to implement the behavior modifications they have been using with him at home so that we are all on the same page.

PHEW!

The weight is lifting people...it is lifting!!!

Maybe The Problem is Me?

2011-09-07T14:55:00.005-04:00

Today I am linking up with Shell over at

Even though Aiden has developmental delays, and now that I have two children, I am struggling even more. Monkey see- monkey do. Eli is climbing, so Aiden (the older one) now climbs. Eli doesn't respond to behavior modification. Aiden never did either.

We took a road trip this weekend. A short road trip (meaning two days) of 11 hours in the car. It was fine going out. I packed plenty of books and toys and special treats. The ride back was hell. Aiden had to poop and wouldn't poop on a toilet or in a diaper. (He is 3.5 years old and is terrified of pooping and we can't potty train him or night train him.) Daddy accidentally shut Aiden's finger in the door. So for most of the ride back, Aiden screamed about a throbbing finger or a sore bum.

We got to our event. It was not what we expected but that was okay. But our children can't follow a path and follow others. It turned into a chasing event. It was an art show that took place in a cow field (100+ acres). There was music. Do you think my kids could run and play and dance? No, my kids climbed the car that was in the field and couldn't leave it alone. My kids can't play with toys- they destroy- they didn't want to run through the sprinkler- my oldest screamed as if the thing was trying to murder him. Even after being redirected from things multiple times- they go back. They don't want to play- they want to do the opposite of everything. We were on them constantly- no stop.

Where did we go wrong as parents? I admit- I am so jealous of the parents that have kids that play and respond to redirection. (I spent three days of removing my son off the radiator at our house and giving him a toy and saying no- he never stopped after doing this more than 20+ times a day.) I am fearful of what could be with my 17 month old who isn't taking redirection. Are we on the same path with him as we are with Aiden?

Aiden proceeded to run out of his memere's house and run down the street in the road with 35- 55 mile an hour cars sped past him. Aiden couldn't wait his turn to ride the tractor and burned him thumb.

Please excuse all these rambles but my mind is in a fury. I am starting to feel as though nothing about my life with kids is normal and wondering if it was genetic code or something that we just don't have to make it as parents.

My Boys

2011-09-04T20:58:00.008-04:00

Let me introduce you:

This is Aiden. He is 3 and some months. He can be hilarious, trying, testing, and sweet. He makes me tired and then makes me laugh the next minute.

This is Elijah. We tend to call him Eli. He is almost a year and a half. He is a big boy with a huge dare factor. He is the child that will be having me go to the ER every other week. He has the best belly laugh. He is a horrible sleeper too!

This is Russ. On Tuesday, we will be celebrating our 8th wedding anniversary. We have officially been together for 15. He is a funny man---he can be just as trying but he is my guy. I love him to pieces. He and I work well together.

And lastly, in my house of boys, my two dogs: Tugs and Tanner. Tugs is a sweet thing that has to pee every two hours, and Tanner is timid and sweet and is built like a camel. Russ' favorite is Tugs, and he doesn't understand Tanner. I love both of them equally but for different reasons. Tugs is my teddy bear- literally. Tanner- he is just so sweet.

After a Day of School

2011-08-24T11:37:00.003-04:00

Aiden is no longer napping on days he has school. So when he gets back from school, he is very tired and hungry. Yesterday, he curled up on the chair outside at my mom's house at fell fast asleep. He woke up briefly to get into the car to go home and was fast asleep!

Isn't that so cute!?!

Update on the day

2011-08-14T19:16:00.003-04:00

We went to the party!

We stopped at the mall beforehand, and Aiden wasn't very good! I had put the umbrella stroller behind my car to put it in the trunk...forgot it was there and ran it over! So it meant he had to hold my hand. It didn't go so well.

Party- success! I say this because he did the bounce house for the first time! He was always so scared but not today. I couldn't even get him out of it for lunch. I did eventually!

He was asleep by 7pm...dinner was a bit hard...but it was worth taking him out today. Kept Eli safe and Aiden did something he never dared to do before.

Week 1 of Change

2011-08-14T10:03:00.002-04:00

As I am sitting down to type this, my son is in his room, at 10am for probably the 10th time. We are at a lost. This weekend has been horrible. This week has been HARD. I feel like we are the only ones that go through this even though I know that is far from the truth. Dealing with a child with development delays on top of being a typical three year old or mostly at this time, still a two year old (even though he is 3 1/2 years old) is hard. We are frustrated. I actually just sobbed last night in the middle of bath time. Bath time should be fun- NOT HARD!!

This past week-

Aiden had his new school on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 1:15 until 4:15. That means he missed his afternoon nap. He needs a nap. He is learning how to live without a nap. We are learning how to live with him without his nap. He had his other preschool on Wednesday in the am. By Thursday night, he was asleep in 5 minutes after leaving his memere's house at 5:15pm. The kid is toast.

All week his word has been no. He turns in the dead weight, limp child who is kicking and screaming. Even when he means to say yes- he says no. Even with signs...this isn't working. Nothing works...nothing motivates him...

On Thursday, Eli had the worst day of his life. He looks like he has been put through a meat grinder and that meat grinder is his brother. Black eye and scratches all over his face.

My prayer every night- that some day, some how, his big brother will hug him and kiss him and play with him and really appreciate him for who he is... his little brother who looks up to him and just wants to play with him.

(And that his language delay and cognitive delay will grow 10 fold this year for everyone's benefit and sanity.)

We are suppose to go to a birthday party at 12:30 today. I am not sure how we are going to do this today. I really would like him to get that nap in before a big week again (this is the last week of his Wednesday summer school program).

Seventeen Months Old

2011-08-05T11:13:00.003-04:00

Where does time go???

17 months ago- I had given birth to this little guy.

Now-

I have this adorable, daring, climbing fool, chatter-box of a boy that just cut his upper eye teeth!!!

(Who by the way doesn't like to sleep and who will have us going to the emergency room every other week because of some shenanigan!)

LOVE HIM!

The Aiden That Is...

2011-08-05T11:06:00.003-04:00

About a month ago, I took Aiden to a small lake about 45 minutes away. We had an absolute blast! He and I got to spend a ton of one-on-one time together. The best part- a glimpse into the child that I know is ours and will be again. He was so good, so focused, so wonderful. Now- don't get me wrong- Aiden is a wonderful child but when you are constantly refocusing and recorrecting- you begin to feel weathered and tired.

I came home for the lake ecstatic! I couldn't stop talking about all the things Aiden dared to do! He also errs on the side of caution. He dared to put his face in the water, kick, blow bubbles, even dunk his head under! It was a wonderful, wonderful day.

Yesterday, I took Aiden to the school CDS has enrolled him in. I was on the brink of tears the entire time. It felt so good- so right. We are so excited to see more and more glimpses of the Aiden we know is there...

We know it will take time

We know it will take work

We know it will be awesome to watch

We feel very blessed to have the support we get from our family and friends...and now this new school.

So excited!!!!

Babble, Signs, and Words

2011-07-13T12:19:00.004-04:00

My little Eli has always been loud. His babble is turning into words. He sort of says dada, dog, stuck, ball, and duck. So, okay, maybe stuck and duck are one and the same- who knows!? Eli has also taken to doing some sign language. He can sign, dog, hat, more, milk, ball, all done, and fish!

Go Elijah!

(He refuses to say mom-ma! Just like his brother! What did I do to deserve that?!)

Pre-School and Other Events

2011-06-30T07:38:00.006-04:00

Before I state what has happened in the past few weeks- I just want to say that I am so excited for this weekend. I get to spend the whole weekend with my baby- no daddy- no Aiden- just me and the baby! I am so excited!? Did I say that already? We are going to go for a walk with a friend and spend the day at some family camps...but the rest of the weekend so far is unwritten. I might take advantage of some naps and try to get through my pile of college books that I still have and try to sell them or donate or recycle them or something...not sure yet.

This past weekend, my niece got married, and I made her a wedding cake. It was a four tiered square cake with an extra cake on the side (due to my nervousness and error of removing the cake properly out the first time!). With only a few hiccups, the cake came out great! I was very pleased with the results. She had a beautiful day, and I am so excited that her husband is in our family. I think he is wonderful and sweet!

Aiden started pre-school yesterday. This was the school I had originally signed him up for before I started going through CDS to get him services. CDS agrees with me that this is still a good option for him for socialization and getting him ready. He hasn't been in regular daycare since he was 21 months old. He is now 40 months old. I wasn't sure how Aiden would handle yesterday. Sometimes he can surprise me...but I was the parent with the screaming child. His teacher was really good, and within 10 minutes, he was settled and in the mix. Although, I think he takes after his mom, and he peed 4 times in a 2.5 hour session. Nerves???

Elijah is starting to use more syllables. He still isn't talking but he is making more attempts to get his point across. People always say that the younger one starts to talk sooner because they have someone to copy- and with Aiden being delayed, I am not so sure how that is going to go. Aiden is talking plenty, so it could go either way.

That is the cuteness I get to spend my weekend with!!!!

Let the Skies Open Up and Sing!!!

2011-06-15T09:20:00.005-04:00

I am sharing this post at http://thingsicantsay-shell.blogspot.com

Phew! We have some results! So much weight has come off our shoulders!

Monday, we had an appointment to visit with Aiden's case manager at Child Development Services (CDS). I received a call while at the playground. Our case manager was no longer there, and this new case manager received Aiden's file just that morning. She would not be able to conduct a meeting. I was not thrilled with this because Russ and I took Monday off in order to attend this meeting. I also had lined up a sitter so that we could focus on the meeting and get down to business! I expressed my concerns and asked that she note a few of them while she was reading through the files. I told her that I wanted to find out if Aiden could receive services in the next county over because he has daycare and we have our jobs in the next county. It would be a logistical nightmare to have to drive all over creation if he was to get services almost an hour away from daycare, etc. (Just a reminder- my mom takes care of my two boys, and she is 67...so she is already dealing with them and is exhausted.) I also expressed my concern in speech therapy. I wanted to know ASAP if he would be getting services in the fall or in the summer or none at all. I told her that if not, I wanted to know so I could get him into a program myself, and that I was aware of the fact that most likely, CDS would not provide any program until the fall. She took this all down and told me she would call me back in a few hours. I honestly didn't believe her and was quite disappointed that they would until the same day of his appointment to assign him a new case manager.

Fast forward a few hours...after we left the playground, our play dates came over for lunch. My phone had been charging in my bedroom. When our play date ended, I grabbed my phone to go and do an errand. I had two missed calls. Both were from the new case manager. She wanted to meet Aiden as soon as possible and believed from her reports that he needed to be in an extensive program! I was so giddy with excitement. I called her right back. We talked at length and made arrangements for her to meet us the next morning at my mother's house so she could observe Aiden.

Fast forward to Tuesday...our case manager was promptly at the house at 8am. She observed, we made notes, she made sure all the paperwork was complete, and all the while, Aiden had taken apart my mom's screen door, he let himself out of the house without permission, had a temper tantrum and hurt the dog!

The result: Aiden will be getting three days of school (I am assuming half days), and if speech therapy isn't at the school, he will be getting that separately! And...if she can work it, she will make sure that he can attend the summer preschool program I already set up for him as it is only one day a week, and she believes it will be a good social experience for him!

We are thrilled. We are anxious to see how he blossoms and grows and changes! There is always a chance that as his language grows, his other skills may not follow, but we firmly believe only good can come out of this next step!

Step Three- Results

2011-05-24T09:26:00.002-04:00

Last Thursday, we had the call with the behavioral psychologist. It was a forty minute call! Russ was suppose to be on the phone with me but with two kids with colds, and the kids not ready for bed, it resulted in me taking the call solo while he dealt with the kids.

In a nutshell:

- He recommends that Aiden be put in a special purpose preschool so that he can have more one-on-one attention to help with his attention and behavior. He doesn't understand boundaries.

- He recommends that we see a behavioral psychologist for behavioral counseling. We need to figure out what is that one thing that will motivate Aiden to correct his behavior.

- He recommends that we do keep him at the preschool we signed him up with for at least the summer program.

- He also recommends speech therapy.

- He stated that on the standardized test, Aiden scored in the top 3-5% for attention which doesn't mean "Woo-Hoo- he can pay attention." It means, he is very likely to be diagnosed with ADHD, which didn't surprise us.

- He recommends after much therapy, he gets re-evaluated. He wants to see if as he language grows, his behavior issues, lack of play and lack of social interaction interest changes. If it doesn't, then he wants Aiden to be tested more to see if he needs a diagnosis of some sort. At his young age of three (very early three, I mean), sometimes language development can delay all of the above...sometimes, it doesn't.

How do we feel about this?! Great! We agree, and we are now just crossing our fingers and saying our prayers that he does get put in these programs, and that we can afford what we need to contribute for him.

Ironically enough, after we called CDS- what a month ago, he started trying to link more words together. This week, he has taken an interest in block building and using his tool belt. First time for everything...and man, they know how to try to prove us wrong when they don't even know they are doing it!

Dang kids!

Mother's Day Present

2011-05-18T17:15:00.006-04:00

I am finding it harder and harder to come up with ideas for our parent's for holidays. I feel like all I do is give pictures. I saw this idea online:

I thought it was an excellent idea to capture the moment, and it can be easily replaced every year or so...it was easy and quick! Here is my finished product: (the thread for my hand is an aqua color and can be seen but hard to see in the photo- just click on the photo for a better look)

Step Two and Three of Many in Process

2011-05-18T17:09:00.003-04:00

We had Aiden's speech evaluation on Monday. He did perfect. Meaning- he acted and tested the way I wanted him too. I wanted him to be the way he is for us. It sounds horrible, but I really want him to get services so in order for him to get them, I need him to be at his worst! Don't get me wrong, he was trying so hard to be good and for the most part he behaved, but his personality and lack of attention came through.

It was nice of the evaluator to note that she thought it was great how well I follow through when disciplining Aiden. It is so tiring to always follow through but it was nice to get it noticed.

My mother got the call from the behavioral psychologist this am as well. Do I sink my head in shame when he says to her, "God Bless you," when he was referring to how she has provided daycare for him for most of his life or do I laugh because and smile with glee because he recognizes what we deal with???

Case in point- Aiden is three and knows there are certain things he shouldn't touch. You say but he is three. Well, I have friends that can keep their phones on end tables or on the wall, and their children or child does not play with it. With Aiden- you have to baby proof everything in sight because he just can't resist. He climbed up and got ahold of a Sharpie and wrote all over my mother's rug, wall, oak table, window and window sill yesterday...

The day before, he unlocked the door and went outside where traffic speeds up to 50 or more in a 35 mph zone.

STRESS!!!!!

Great Gift Idea

2011-05-17T10:32:00.006-04:00

Looking to do something different for your hubby this father's day??? Or for an anniversary or birthday??? Hire me to make a video for you! Regardless of time spent- it is a flat rate of $40 with a custom label on your DVD. I will ship it to you or deliver it to you. I just need you to get me the photos you want to use. If you have special music, you can send me a file or let me borrow the CD...or I can download it. I will work with you to make a special video for your special someone. Here is a video I created for my husband for his second father's day...The one I made for last year won't post- I guess it is too big- over 17 minutes long! I have made these videos for each Father's day as well as for our 10 year anniversary. I have also made these for close friends as a special way to say, "I care about us and cherish our friendship."

Step One of Many In Process...

2011-05-12T12:55:00.000-04:00

Aiden had his assessment with the behavioral psychologist yesterday. The doctor went through our own personal history, Aiden's health history, daycare history, etc. Then Russ and E went into the waiting room, while I observed Aiden interact with the doctor. He used Connect Four to get him engaged and get him talking. Aiden quickly lost interest and the doctor took out a playhouse for them to play with. Again, Aiden quickly lost interest when he saw a Sesame Street game. This went on like this with every activity. which didn't surprise me.

Russ and I still have more assessment forms to fill out and mail back. The doctor is going to call my mother since she is the daycare provider, and then we have a call next Thursday evening to hear his report.

His initial feelings- he feels Aiden is very speech delayed and he is concerned about him going into preschool without anyone giving him one-on-one time.

My mind is swimming with thoughts, and I already feel drained. What does this all mean??? I know we are doing the right thing so I am not questioning that---just wondering what else will be determined and how we go from here.

It was interesting because the doctor asked us what we wanted out of this evaluation. We told him we were not sure what we could get out of it but we wanted to know why our child isn't motivated to learn how to talk, why he isn't motivated by any stimuli to change his behavior using both negative reinforcements or positive reinforcements. Why does our child not like to play?

I am anxious to hear his thoughts...

Popsicles!

2011-05-10T15:41:00.006-04:00

Eating rules for babies and toddlers- throw the handbook out on Eli! He was eating peanut butter and jelly sandwiches at 11 months old! (Maybe even 10 months old!)

Well, I buy these great little Popsicles to bride Aiden with to finish dinner- they are the Mighty Minis by Popsicle brand or something like that. They are ultra small, and they don't drip much because they put a bit of gelatin in them.

A few Sundays ago, Aiden was napping, I was outside doing yard work, and Russ was inside with Eli. I happened to go in for something, and Russ just pulled a creamsicle out of the freezer. Well, Eli made it clear that he wanted one. He anchored his feet, stretched his arms straight down and screeched- letting us know that he wanted on too, Dang it!

I suggested to Russ to take Eli outside on the steps to eat the Popsicles together... here are some photos of that great moment shared between Daddy and son...

Looking Back and Looking Forward

2011-05-04T14:26:00.016-04:00

Easter day- We had a great morning, and we were only off by our regular schedule by half an hour. (Aiden thrives on schedule.) All of the running around at Aunt KK's and Uncle Tim's exhausted Aiden, and he was immediately asleep in the car. He woke up when we pulled into the driveway, and he wouldn't go back to sleep. He kept getting out of bed. He pooped twice, had to pee, etc. He threw such a fit that he screamed for 20 minutes and foamed at the mouth! Russ and I felt like failures. Aiden is getting more and more frustrated. We had been celebrating all of his accomplishments, but in reality, his accomplishments in speech and some cognitive areas are way behind. He is very smart- don't get me wrong, but he has just started building sentences and the phrases, "I love you" and "good night" were the only phrases for months.

On Monday am, we decided we had really had enough of Aiden's physical abuse towards his brother. Eli is a scratching post for Aiden. We had enough of the fits. I had emailed Aiden's previous case manager at Child Development Services a week prior without hearing anything back. (Turns out he doesn't work there anymore.) If you recall, he didn't qualify for services because he just squeaked by. If you don't remember, you can read all about it here
. And the results of his day here. I called his pediatrician and asked them for help. I asked for speech referrals and behavior specialist referrals. They called CDS for me, and we learned that the behavior specialists around us are all booked a year out! Nuts, huh?! Well, the past few weeks have concluded in three up-coming appointments, and we will learn if he qualifies for anything. If not, we will be on our own and through private insurance (which doesn't cover most of the services we are looking to get for Aiden). I also learned that CDS doesn't provide services to kiddos during the summer unless they have already had services and shown that they regress. So...no matter what- we will be putting Aiden in speech therapy for the summer.

Ironically enough, Aiden started building sentences last week and has been putting more words together- regardless, he will show that he is behind---but again, I am afraid of him just squeaking by...

It has been hard for me to blog about this. Russ and I have tried so hard to work with Aiden, and we are constantly on him with his behavior. We feel like it is our fault that nothing motivates him and that he is so carefree. Everything just rolls off of that kid, and negative reinforcement, positive reinforcement, etc just hasn't worked. We are frustrated...we wonder what we have done wrong. You might say we didn't, and deep down we know that...but honestly, we feel the way we do because we love him and want the best for him. We feel like we lacked in something in raising him...we wonder...we worry...we are parents.

Hangin' With My Boyee!

2011-04-20T12:05:00.006-04:00

We had a good dinner!!

We had chicken, squash, green beans, and ravioli.

After a nice bath, we played for a bit.

Then I got some good cuddles while he finished up his bottle. By 7:45, he was sound asleep. My hour and forty-five minutes of alone time went by quickly. They were wonderful. I love my little boy. He is as sweet as sweet can be.

BTW- Aiden was so excited about the circus. He seemed to have enjoyed himself! He got to have cotton candy for the first time and loved it! Smart boy!

My Baby, Eli

2011-04-19T09:54:00.008-04:00

I have a 13 month old- did you know that? I didn't! No, I really do know but I feel like I barely know him. (BTW- he is walking!) I have been struggling with this feeling for months now. Just recently after talking to Russ about this, wouldn't you know, this article showed up on Twitter:

http://www.parents.com/advice/parenting/better-parenting/how-can-i-deal-with-the-guilt-of-not-being-able-to-spend-as-much-time-with-my-second-child/

Now, it isn't exactly my case in that the youngest is already talking, but it still drives home the same ideas Russ and I came up with- dividing up the time. This might seem like an obvious idea but honestly, Aiden is very demanding of me. He is finally starting to get comfortable with the idea that Russ can put him to bed too. With us working, there is a very small window of time that we get with the kids that isn't revolved around tasks like dinner, bath and bedtime. We all sit down to eat together, I give the boys baths, Russ gets them dressed, and usually, we both play with the kids. Eli prefers his daddy for his bottle, and Aiden prefers I bring him to bed. I feel like Eli gravitates towards Russ because often, Aiden is not well behaved these days, so I am doing one on one activities in the kitchen with him to keep him from hurting his brother. In the end, it is hurting my time with Eli.

Tonight, Russ is taking Aiden to the circus. I am jealous in that I won't be able to see how excited he gets or how he reacts to the clowns, but I also am excited because I get to have a few hours of one-on-one time with Elijah.

BTW- I tried to find a recent picture of me with Elijah but not one has been taken in months and months!

More Sponge Proof

2011-04-12T13:53:00.006-04:00

Aiden is obsessed with this book:

We went to the library on Saturday to see if it was available. It was not, so instead, we got two other books by the same author. He proceeded to rip one of them up on Sunday am...but my point is this. All he kept asking for was, "Moose, muffin." (I had purchased it on Amazon but it hadn't come in yet and other similar books were being used as brides to poop on the potty. Apparently only Moose, Muffin holds some weight with him.)

Anyways, he wouldn't stop asking for it, even when I explained over and over again that we have to share books and that someone else was reading it. I got so frustrated with him, I asked him to drop it!

Well, I used that phrase again apparently, and later in the day when I asked him what I said, (expecting him to say that he had to share) he responded, "Drop it!"

Currently, he says, "Moose, muffin. Drop it." Not just once, but over and over again. Thank goodness I didn't say anything else. I am anxious for him to use it in the right context when I ask about something else. Then I can laugh at myself for teaching him this new phrase, right???

Sponges

2011-04-12T13:45:00.004-04:00

"They" say that the child's brain is like a sponge and absorbs more than you may realize.

Well, my child's sponge absorbed the word or what sounded like the word bitch, and what is even more amazing is that he knew in what context to use this word. Hmph...where did he learn this?

Let me give you the story.

Sunday

Waking up to the sounds of Aiden on the monitor saying, "Rip it. Rip it." I awoke in fear and shook Russ because I was so afraid it was his library book and insisted that he go look.

Confirmed- library book ripped.

Two hours later, we are in the car returning the books to the library. Run errands at Lowe's and Target. We, Aiden and I, head over to TJMaxx. My mission- find a pair of red pants for Eli for Easter. (I know- it sounds strange but I found this awesome gray blazer that has a guitar stiched in red on it, and I wanted to find a pair of red pants to match.)

I asked Aiden to look at a book so that he would stay put. At that point, I realized my first misatke was not using a cart. Then, I learned my second mistake. When I couldn't find any pants, I asked Aiden to put the book back so that we could leave. Uh Oh! FULL BLOWN TANTRUM!!! The kicking, the screaming, the crying, the pinching, the hitting and him yelling, "Bitch!" as I am pulling him, carrying him, etc out of the store. I wanted to crawl in a hole and die.

Later, we drive to my mom's to drop off outside play toys for them to use during the week. I ask my mom to watch what she says. She says that she doesn't say that word. Between you, me and this blog, her favorite sayings are as follows: Jesus, Mary and Joseph and Son of a Bitch. I said okay and dropped the subject.

Proceed to yesterday:

Dropped the kids off at her house and while there, she was trying to close a shade. It wasn't working. She hollared, "Son of a Bitch!" She gasped and covered her mouth.

Enough said.

:-)

It Was Just the Boys...

2011-04-07T07:35:00.004-04:00

You know when you leave your family, you think of all the things that can't be forgotten or else it just won't be the same or right (even though deep down you know it will all be okay), and you think about all the things that need to be done...

You get where I am going, right?? Well, I got up at 3:45 yesterday morning to get ready for my 6am flight to NY. Started off with a cold shower! We ran out of oil. STUPID!!! So that was a good way for me to start my day. After that though, my day was just fine and uneventful.

Well, something did go wrong and it all ended up being okay. Poor Eli woke up with a cold yesterday, and then last night, he cut his chin. He couldn't catch a break. Russ had to deal with a very fussy baby. He had to figure out how to bleed the lines of the furnace to get heat and hot water. He has done it. I knew he could but the poor guy had a lot of road bumps last night.

I just called him this am to see how his morning went. Russ took a shower, and Aiden proceeded to empty the entire tissue box. One more road bump.

I think he is excited for me to come home. I am not sure I can leave this wonderful shower that is in my hotel room! Ha! Just kidding. I can't wait to go home and be with my boys!

PS- Apparently on the way into the house last night, Aiden tripped and hit his nose resulting in his first nose bleed!

Every Day is Ground Hog's Day

2011-03-30T16:58:00.003-04:00

Structure is very important for kids and babies. I get it; I live it! Aiden thrives on it, and Eli is starting to fit the mold of it as well. But I am miserable. I feel miserable. I love my kids; I love my kids; I do- I really do! But, I am tired. Every day is the same. We get up, have milk, change diapers, go the bathroom, take the dogs out, get dressed, get them out the door, make tonight's dinner, take my own shower, and off to work I go. Work all day. Come home to my children's' worst time of day as we rush to get dinner on the table, fight Aiden to eat, and then bath time...then wind down time and then bedtime. At this point, as I walk down the stairs after putting Aiden down, it is anywhere between 8:20 and 8:45...and Russ and I may or may not have even given each other a hi, how are you kiss. By this time, I don't want to turn on a computer to catch up on personal emails or even do some online shopping. I don't want to organize the millions of recipes I have printed online or paint the trim in my kitchen. Because honestly, then the weekend comes, and I have two kids to take grocery shopping and get the house clean...and maybe find a few hours for play time.

This may all sound like I hate my life or that I am complaining because I have kids and don't appreciate them- trust me. I could have possibly never had children due to my stroke. I am thankful for them. But lately, the same day in and day out with very few moments of personal time, husband wife time or even pleasant moments with my kids because of the constant fighting and inappropriate touching or throwing or whatever other chaos going on.... (that is a horrible sentence that I can't even fix)- my point is- I can't wait for Aiden to learn to love his brother- I can't wait for Eli to be walking and to pinch his brother back- I can't wait until I can actually ask someone to watch the kids for one night- just once- to be selfish- and honestly, I don't' think it is very selfish of me to take care of me for one day. That will make me a better mom, right?

Breast, Breast, Breast! (And more embarassing moments as a parent!)

2011-03-23T09:52:00.001-04:00

Just in this past week, I have had two moments of utter embarrassment.

One- took Aiden to Kohl's where he proceeded to scream, "Breast! Breast! Breast!" as we went past the bra department. There was a man standing there just looking at me as I just stayed silent trying to get us past there as quick as I could.

Two- took Eli to his one year checkup. I got the worst nosebleed of my life it seemed yesterday. It wouldn't stop. I had to pack my nose, try to undress my child to be weighed and mesaured all while keep tissue packed...it looked cute, I am sure. I was pretty self-conscious!

Do you have any embarassing moments with your baby or toddler???

Pooping, Bribes and Popsicles

2011-03-17T09:30:00.002-04:00

It is amazing to me how a bribe will always work for Aiden. He is currently working on potty training, and this week, he is starting to finally do number two on the potty. All it takes is a bribe of getting to go down to the park and play on the swings! Remember- we are in Maine...it has been so cold, and we have had so much snow that going the playground hasn't been an option for a long, long time. What an easy bribe!

Oh- and chocolate always works too!

Last night, we used popsicles for him to finish his dinner. The most surprising thing- Aiden actually formed a sentence!!! He said, "Daddy, milk please." For him, that is a HUGE step! And the finale, Eli, at age one and 11 days, ate a popsicle, and only had one drip on his high chair! He amazes me!

I Belong on Food Network

2011-03-13T22:14:00.008-04:00

We are in the process of redoing our kitchen. Russ and I have been struggling with how we wanted to organize our spices. It is amazing how much space they take up! We contemplated getting round tins and put magnets on the back and mount them either underneath and along the cabinets OR taking a piece of metal and making a piece of "wall art." Instead, we decided to get square tins with clear tops and put them all in ONE drawer. I made labels with clear return address labels...and this is our process:

We are very happy with our new spice drawer. I feel professional; I feel like the chefs on Food Network~! Ha! I think we will like it more and feel more organized when the last bits of this remodel are done, so we can really put things were we want. I still haven't hung up the paper towel holder yet because aren't sure where we want things and don't want to hang it up yet until the work is all done...

My Baby Baby Turned One

2011-03-13T22:06:00.005-04:00

Where has time gone? I just had Eli. And now- he is one! Man, oh man! We had his birthday with Aiden the week before his birthday, but on his birthday, I made homemade meatballs, we got him a little cake and a small present to celebrate his big ONE!

Eli is such a different child than Aiden, and I don't mean that negatively. It is amazing how well they interact and how horrible they interact. Aiden is such a good sleepr; Eli is so horrible. I am anxious to see how they bloom, and the people they become. I keep reminding myself that I can compare for development stones but that they are different people. He is so close to walking. I can't wait to see how fast he runs; his crawling is so fast now!

My Baby Turned Three

2011-02-28T16:20:00.004-05:00

He is growing up so fast...he is potty training, talking more, and gets cuter by the day with his words. He loves running around nakes...and is sweet and mean all in same second. We were going to take him out on his birthday to a fun activity place but Eli got sick...so I, gasp, went out and bought a cake.

We bought him this little radio that plays music, and for days, he carried it around wherever he went. I think he liked it!!!

The Holidays and Time

2011-01-07T15:46:00.011-05:00

WOW!!! Where has the time gone and how come I haven't posted a single thing! Phew!

Here are some highlights from our holiday:

Aiden didn't enjoy Santa- although if you ask him what Santa says...he says, "Ho, ho!"

Eli thought grabbing Santa's beard was a blast!

We made sugar cookies!

Eli enjoyed chewing on any paper he could find!

Thanksgiving and Happenings

2010-11-29T21:19:00.003-05:00

The boys are growing so fast, yet it can be the small things that remind me that they are still my babies. Aiden got his first ear infection- wait- let me correct myself- got a double ear infection for the first time and it is the first time he got any type of ear infection. Besides moving his room around and displacing him, he has been sick. I have been sleeping near him or with him, for days now. He just wants me to be near him. As I type this, I am sitting in his room in the rocking chair listening to his breathing change from being awake to being asleep.

Eli is almost crawling. For weeks, he has been pushing himself backwards or rocking...but tonight, he actually lifted his arm. Crawling will fast be approaching. I was looking at pictures of when I was pregnant with him...it was not that long ago but yet so far away.

I must say, it has been sweet to have Aiden near me only because he has never been a cuddly child...and lately, he has been so close. I am sad it takes him being sick, but I do enjoy the closeness of him.

Trick or Treat

2010-11-03T08:40:00.009-04:00

Aiden had a blast with Halloween this year. We went to visit Russ' coworker first. We then we went to my brother and sister-in-law's church for trick or trunking, which was an absolute blast! My sister-in-law was dressed as a moose, and it scared him to death!

He seems to be afraid of anyone with a costume that has his/her head covered. It took him a bit to get warmed up to the idea of asking people that were dressed up for candy but he got it. We then went to his great grandmother's to visit.

Eli was very ready for his supper, so while Russ fed him, I took Aiden door to door. After the first house, Aiden was ready to go! He knew what to do and was running! It took quite some time for Aiden to calm down and in the process, couldn't eat dinner due to his excitement. At bedtime, he looked at me, said goodnight, and bye-bye. That was my cue! He was one tuckered out boy!

Fall Time Fun

2010-10-22T08:52:00.005-04:00

We took the boys up to Harvest Hill Farms a few weeks ago to find that they weren't open yet. But a nice man told us the petting farm area was open as well as the little cafe. Well, it turns out that is all we needed! Regardless of the cold winds, we played for over an hour just looking at the animals and at the little playground in front of the cafe...and the best part, we didn't pay for a darn thing (except for the multiple handfuls of feed for the animals!). Aiden did a great job feeding the animals; he kept his hands nice and flat. He learned a new word that day too- llama! He loved them! He also thinks of horses now when you say, "Pretty," because I told him that the horse was pretty. :-)

It's Fall

2010-10-04T09:10:00.005-04:00

Eli just had his six month checkup (at almost 7 months old). He is 20.5 pounds and 29 inches long. His brother at 10 months was 21.5 pounds and 29.5 inches. I think Eli will be passing him at 10 months old. Eli also has two teeth!!! So cute! Not the biting his mom part, but his teeth are cute! Eli is also pulling himself up. I think he will be walking before Aiden too. It is amazing how Eli watches everything Aiden does and how he wants to do what he is doing. Just having that model, you can see how differently and quickly the second one grows. I need more snuggle time with that little man because before you know it- he will be as big as Aiden!!!

We went apple picking a few weekends ago, and it was really fun. Here are some shots of our little adventure.

Eli is Eating Solids

2010-09-03T13:35:00.004-04:00

He started a few weeks ago. Rice is delicious but veggies and fruit are not so good, in his opinion.

Aiden's First Trip to the Amusement Park

2010-09-03T13:31:00.005-04:00

We went down to OOB last week, and we decided that Aiden could handle a ride. We put him on one that had different trucks and went up a little hill. Well, he didn't have much of an expression on his face except for his clapping, but when we tried to take him out of the ride, he insisted on going on it again. We then went on the Merry-Go-Round, and he rode on the zebra. He was much more hesitant about this ride, but once it got started, he was pretty thrilled (even though he looks scared to death in the photo below).

Eli's Baptism

2010-09-03T13:28:00.004-04:00

We had a beautiful mass thanks to Father Bob Valiencourt. He sang the entire set of prayers during the preparation of the Eucharist. It was beautiful. Deacon Bob performed the baptism during which Eli slept.

Where Did He Learn That?!

2010-09-03T13:23:00.004-04:00

A few nights ago during this 90+ heat wave, Russ and I took the kids down to the beach after dinner. Aiden was hesitant to go even half way down towards the water, and I saw some small kids playing. So I asked him if he wanted to see the little boy. We were able to get him to at least get towards the somewhat solid sand, so that we weren't stepping six inches down. We were playing with bubbles and sitting on the sand, when a little boy (turns out he was 9) started to say hi and just kept looking at us. He wasn't sure how to engage. So I asked Aiden to say hi back, and I explained that the boy wanted to meet him. With that, he stepped forward holding out his hand! He wouldn't say hi, but he wanted to shake his hand! The little girl that was with this boy came over and said hi as well; Aiden proceeded to also shake her hand! It was so sweet, and Russ and I sat bewildered wondering where he could have learned that. We have two theories- Russ says he shakes his hand as part of their hand shake (I have never seen this handshake). My theory is this book:

30 Pounds for Me!

2010-08-24T09:23:00.004-04:00

This was last June. Hit the photo to make it bigger so you can actually see...

This is me now...

The biggest difference is in my face- hence the now shot. I have a long, long way to go...but every bit helps, right?

Proud

2010-08-23T15:07:00.006-04:00

I am so proud of Russ! He has lost 70 pounds. Check it out!

Before- a size 48 pant and almost a triple xl shirt

After- a size 42 pant and an xl shirt

Look Ma- I won an award!

2010-08-06T11:24:00.003-04:00

I won an award from Meredith! Yippee!! http://thenextinstallment.wordpress.com/

So here are the rules that go along with this particular award:

Thank the person who gave you the award.

1.Share seven things about yourself.
2.Nominate bloggers who you have recently discovered and who you think are fantastic!
3.Let your nominees know about the award.

Well, seven things about myself....I will try to make this interesting...

1. I love anything with peanut butter in it- especially english muffins with butter and peanut butter. My husband thinks it is disgusting, and I think it is pretty close to good sex! OH MY- did I just type that!?

2. I love playing the game, "If I made 100K..." I like to live in la, la land.

3. When I get to a weight I am comfortable wearing a bathing suit, I am going to find a way to get some money and go to an island just with my husband.

4. I require at least 6 hours of sleep, but to make me happy I need more than 7.

5. Even with my sleep requirements, I still think it is important to fit in me time, friend time, family time...I just wish there was more time.

6. I love both of my children for different reasons because both kids are very different.

7. My husband did something recently a lot of men wouldn't do, but did it for us, and I love him even more for it!!!

I haven't really found any new bloggers lately...but a blog that I absolutely love to read is The Pioneer Woman- you will see her on my reading list. She is a lot of fun!

Sleep Upsets

2010-08-06T09:30:00.001-04:00

For Russ' birthday, we went out on a date night- no kids- just us. It was lovely. When we got home, Aiden was still up at 9:15 at night. It happens. He didn't want to go to bed- he freaked out- he wanted to play with the 10 year old that was with her mom watching the kids. I don't blame him. Well, with that and with the fact that he has been getting time outs and being sent to his room, we now have a problem on our hands. He won't go to bed! This is a kid that really never gives us an issue when it comes to bedtime. We can put him to bed before he is ready with a few books to boot, and he will sit quietly in his crib for an hour before dozing off. Now, he screams, hollar and freaks out. Oh- and he only seems to love his mom at bedtime now. No daddy- just mommy. This has been quite difficult for me since I still can't seem to adjust to having no time for myself in the evening to go for a walk or anything.

Last night, he was ready for bed- it was 9:30...so one book, a few minutes of rocking and no problem. But I will not have a child that goes to bed this late. I can't take it and it won't happen. Time will heal this, right?

Our Family

2010-07-26T16:27:00.003-04:00

We had to bride Aiden with a PEZ dispenser so that he would sit long enough for a photo! :-)

I Love You!

2010-07-14T09:16:00.003-04:00

My favorite time of day is when Aiden and I read books together before bed. He and I giggle, give each other kisses and snuggle. It is wonderful.

Last night, after reading, I had him facing me on the rocker, and I asked him if he could say, "I love you." He looked at me, smiled and wrapped his arms around me.

I love you, Aiden. My sweet, little boy.

Aiden's Evaluation Results

2010-07-13T10:27:00.002-04:00

Aiden's evaluation was great! They did a great job! He had a blast showing off for them, plus they had all kinds of neat things for him to explore, which turned out to be his biggest downfall. They way they score is using a standarized test; a score of 85-115 is considered normal. They looked at five areas of development, and he scored well on all of them...but speech- he was at an 87. If we had him screened earlier, he would have been below normal which we knew. He scored low in one other area- cognitive development. His score was a 77, and it was this way because he can't sit and play with something for 5 minutes. He should be able to be enthralled with something and focus on a toy for that long, but he can't. We were not surprised to hear this. I was first noticing this when we would give him a bucket to fill and empty or to stack blocks. He never has liked blocks. If Russ and I build something, he will happily knock it over but he won't take the time to build it. If I give him a bucket, he will happily carry it around but he won't fill it to dump it. He will dump any container we fill though! If he had scored low on speech and cognitive, he would have qualified for services.

They are going to come back and look at his tactile issues. I am concerned about it, and they are happy to do the evaluation. I will keep you posted on the results.

The other thing they mentioned is how he is still walking part time on his tippie toes. This can become an issue because it keeps the leg muscles tight and can inhibit the way his leg muscles grow, etc. So we are doing some physical therapy on his feet by stretching them out when he lets us!

One more thing to note- my lovely son has said dada forever. Wouldn't you know when they gave Aiden some plastic figurines to identify, he said, "Mom!" I was shocked! Now he says, "Mom" all the time!

Aiden Speaks!

2010-06-24T08:56:00.002-04:00

For a long time, our doctor was concerned with Aiden's speech, but we weren't worried. We felt that he knew how to sign to communicate, and we believed that because he is a boy, it would just take him longer. In speaking with others, they all said the same thing, "Boys just take longer to talk and when he does start talking, he will be speaking in sentences!" Well, Aiden turned two, and he was only saying a few words like dog, dadda, and ball (a bit more but that is all that comes to mind right now). Then Elijah was born. Aiden's temper got worse with frustration. We decided we would call child development services like the doctor had suggested. Well...

Wouldn't you know it- in the past month, he seems to have picked up a new word on a daily basis. The best was when was got him to say Vaughn- he can't say the g sound for grandpa or grandma, but on Father's day, he walked right up to Vaughn and said, "Vaughn." It was so cute. Russ loved it when Aiden walked past the trash can and just blurted out, "trash!" I can't wait for the day when he actually calls me momma. He only says it when he is upset but when I ask him who I am, he says nothing.

Next week is the visit from Child Development Services...so let's see what they think.

So Little Time...

2010-06-11T09:15:00.001-04:00

It has been a while since I have had a moment to blog, and really, I need to be paying bills right now, and really, I need to be working at my job- not my personal life. But I want to take a minute or two to just get some thoughts put out there.

1- Having two kids is hard in numerous ways
2- You think your personal life is over after having one child...add a second
3- I just want 10 minutes a day to work out
4- I just want another 10 minutes to go the bathroom and maybe read a magazine too...at the same time or in seperate places
4- I love my children deeply and do not regret them
5- I just regret that my usual organized self can't pull it together
6- I have a call in a few minutes to talk about Aiden's development...hope that we can get him talking- it would help with our struggles with him lately

I have to go pee before this call...see- no time!

My First Week Back

2010-04-30T17:06:00.002-04:00

I am minutes away from leaving work to go home and see my family. What a week it has been! Easy for me...but not for my mom. Elijah had only had four bottles before this week started. It takes my mom over an hour for each feeding- 4 ounces! He was so jolted by me not being home, that the first few days, he would only cat nap 10-20 minutes at a time. By the end of the week, she did get a few longer naps out of him. I have had most nights with 6 hour stretches of sleep because the poor little baby is so tired! Aiden hasn't enjoyed sharing his memere with Elijah. He has been very tempermental and short fused. Last night, he went to bed without supper because he threw such a fit!

Work wise- easy!

Let's see how next week goes!

My Maternity Leave

2010-04-15T13:57:00.003-04:00

I am now in my sixth week home...with last week being my last week home. It has been one crazy maternity leave! With the first week, it was running out each morning by 8am to get Eli's blood work done as well as a two year checkup for Aiden. My hip was really out of whack to the point where I couldn't walk, so I was also fitting in chiropractic appointments...and still am. I can finally walk but it took about three weeks. My second week home, Aiden woke up with a fever of 103! The week Carolyn came to visit, I had a 24 hour flu bug but it was more like 36 hours. The second day consisted of major sweats...it was really fun!

Elijah is a really good baby, but he is not as easy as Aiden. He doesn't like to sleep on his own- he either needs the boob, to be on you, or to be swung in the swing. This has been problematic for my sleeping. A couple of nights this week, I have stayed on the couch because if I move him, he wakes up, and usually from 9-1 or 2, I can get a good stretch in. I remember with Aiden, that was the only sleep I needed...but I think with two kids, I require more- not less. I am really worried what is going to happen when I go back to work. We will see what happens.

It's a Boy!

2010-03-22T13:09:00.004-04:00

Elijah Quinn was born on March 6, 2010 at 12:34pm. My labor started on Thursday night, and he finally showed himself on Saturday! He has been such a joy. His jaundice kept us busy the first week with a blood draw every morning our first week home, but we are getting settled...not into a routine just yet...but we are getting there. Nursing has been super easy this time, which is fantastic. I feel spoiled. Aiden is doing well with the transition. I think if he could talk, life would be even easier!

Check out Russ' blog for all the details! http://www.ourlittlemonkeyboy.com/

Aiden Turns Two!!!

2010-03-03T15:24:00.005-05:00

Last weekend, we celebrated Aiden's birthday! He was fantastic. I was afraid it could go in the other direction. There were 20 people there! All family, too! Aiden was just getting over his cold, and his pregnant mommy got the cold, so I was feeling just super! The night before the party, Russ and I attempted to make these cakepops that were suppose to look like Elmo and Cookie Monster. It was a true cake wreck. So the morning of the party, we had to go order a cake from the grocery store, which I wasn't too happy about. I like my cake! :-)

Aiden was such a joy, and he really knew he was the center of attention. He really hammed it up! The best part was him opening his presents because he has figured out how! Plus, his reactions were just priceless and so humorous! I wish I had remembered the video camera. His ohh's and ahh's and hand clapping were hysterical!

Time to Learn How to be Gentle

2010-01-26T15:31:00.005-05:00

Regardless of what others think about gender, we have introduced a babydoll to Aiden. We have seen him use gentle skills much better with this doll than with the dogs. We have also seen him do imaginative play for the first time. It was pretty incredible. Here he is with his new baby.

Aiden is a Monkey for sure!

2010-01-26T15:28:00.002-05:00

Russ and I sometimes feel like Aiden hasn't changed in weeks, and then bam! over night, he is a new child with new skills. He just amazes us. Well, on Saturday, he turned into a monkey. I found him on top of the entertainment center. I took pictures (not thinking I was encouraging him) to show Russ.

As you can see, he is very proud of himself! The little booger!

The Little One Update

2010-01-26T15:20:00.003-05:00

I haven't forgotten that I am pregnant; there just isn't as much to report! :-) I am seeing a different doctor, so my ultrasounds have been only twice, and when I do go to the doctor, we talk. I had my last appointment yesterday. I am happy to report at 33+ weeks, I have only gained 10 pounds so far! Woo hoo! I am super excited about that. I asked the doctor to check to make sure the baby is head down because when this baby moves in extreme positions- like completely around- I actually lose my breath! And it is usually when I am driving home on the highway! The other night I was sitting on the exercise ball and laying back onto Russ (who was sitting on the couch), and I was able to stretch out my belly. Well, I think the baby liked it too...the baby's bum stuck right out on my right side making me very lopsided! It was hysterical! A few nights earlier, I was feeling my belly for the baby. Well the baby kicked me back! Twice! It was cool but I have to admit, it kind of scared me too! I know there is a baby in there but when you don't see it but only feel it...hard to explain. Anyways!

Lastly, I asked the doctor if he was of the same thought of my last set of doctors about inducing me shortly after my due date if I don't go into labor sooner. He is because of something to do with my blood thinners. So, regardless of what happens- we will have this baby by March 19th or so! :-)

So Many Good Things...

2010-01-17T20:49:00.003-05:00

Aiden is up to so many things these days that are worth mentioning. (Well, I think so anyway.)

He is loving to chase bubbles. He thinks they are great- plus, he can say bubbles! Tonight Tanner ate some bubbles, and Aiden and I laughed and laughed!

He is saying many new things: dog, ball, duck, bubble, up, down- the funny part is is he only says the first half of these words except for bubble. He can say all of that.

He loves to take showers, and really loves them when I splash him with water. He thinks it is hilarious.

Yesterday, we bought him a little doll to teach him how to be gentle. He is not gentle with the dogs AT ALL! So we are trying to get him to be more gentle. Well, he is in love. He loves this doll. Some men out there might have an issue with it but you know what??? This is the first time I have really seen him take on imaginative play. It is really fascinating.

He is asserting himself more--trying to tell us what he wants, how he wants and it when. This isn't the best feature due to tantrums and whining but it is necessary and good to see him grow!

Some Photos of Christmas

2009-12-28T09:16:00.004-05:00

The first two photos are of Aiden after he received his Tonka truck. Aiden is starting to speak but mostly still says his ohhhs and ahhhs. That is what he is doing in the first picture. The second picture is of him inspecting his fork lift. The third photo- well, that was the end of the day! It even looks like Tanner had a hard day even though he was in his crate for most of the day! (BTW- this photo was taken around 5:30 at night!)

Christmas Morning

2009-12-27T20:25:00.005-05:00

I was so excited that it was Christmas morning, that when I woke up at 5am, I couldn't understand why no one else was awake! I laid quietly in bed until 5:30. I heard Aiden starting to stir, so I went downstairs, made coffee, opened all the shades, turned on the Christmas lights and music, and made sure everything was just so. I got my coffee all ready, and I went back upstairs to get Russ up.

We had the video camera all set up, so Russ came down and turned it on. We put a mechanical Tonka forklift under the tree, unwrapped---a way to entice the little one. That did the trick! He was so excited! We would partially open a present, and when he could see what was possibly there, he would finish unwrapping the present.

One of his favorite presents from Santa was a farm book that he has been carrying around now for days. Above is a shot of him reviewing the book right after he opened the present. I can't wait until next year (with two little ones!)

We were so tired at the end of the day that I was in bed by 8:30 and Russ who never goes to bed early, was in bed by 10:30. We were pooped!

Swollen Ankles

2009-12-12T14:28:00.002-05:00

Last time I was pregnant, I remember the first time my feet and ankles swelled, was when I went to NY for work as well as the for the company holiday party. I was seven months pregnant. Well, my feet and ankles have been swelling for about a month now! I am going back to NY this week for the holiday party. We shall see how my feet and ankles hold up this time around. I will be sure to pack some comfy shoes- just in case! Last time, Russ had to bring them with him, but this time he isn't joining me.

I am finding I do not have the stamina or ability to do as much as I did when I was pregnant with Aiden or maybe it was just that I didn't have as much to do! I think the latter part is more true. With my first pregnancy, I could lounge any time I wanted, and I could put my feet up whenever I desired. Not so anymore! I get so tired, so easily!

I had my blood sugar test done last week, and it came back just fine. My issues with my blood have also stayed the same. My stomach is measuring normal, but as the doctor put it, "You don't have much of a torso, so that baby has got to go somewhere."

I am going to work on my belly book too. I have been very bad about it this time around, and I really didn't want to be. I have enjoyed going back to look at it and read from it.

Well, tomorrow is the annual family Christmas party. I can't wait to see how Aiden reacts to Santa. I think his elf told me that he is bringing him a vacuum cleaner! I bet he is going to love it!

The Month of November

2009-12-03T11:32:00.003-05:00

In terms of the little one's progress, all was well. The little one was making lots of movement which I didn't have with Aiden, and now as we enter into December, as I settle in for the night, the baby wakes up and makes my whole belly shake and bump!

Aiden, on the other hand, had a very big month of change! He was sick for over two weeks with a strange virus, which we thought was the swine flu. Thankfully, he didn't have it but whatever he had, sure didn't make him feel well at all! We removed Aiden from daycare because of the scare, as well as for many other reasons: me having to go on Tamiflu, the amount of time we lost from work (Russ now has only a few days off to be with me after the new baby arrives), and many other reasons which I do not care to share on this public blog. Due to him being home, we were able to keep up his routine with the help of his Grammy coming in from Florida. She took care of him for over week which was a tremendous amount of help. My mom also left her job early, and Aiden is now being cared for by Memere 5 days a week.

He has been coping with the change rather well. We were really nervous. I know he misses seeing kids everyday, and I feel really bad about that, but we are working on some playdates and playgroups. We will get it worked into his life because we believe socialization is very important.

As Christmas approaches, Aiden is noticing all the lights! I can't wait for Christmas this year! I always enjoy Christmas, but Aiden has brought magic and awe back! Awesome!

Bottles

2009-10-29T12:25:00.004-04:00

Aiden doesn't really have any attachments to things- he never really enjoyed being breastfed. After I stopped nursing, he never reached or asked for them. He doesn't suck his thumb, he doesn't use a pacifier, and he doesn't get upset about which blankets are in his crib. One thing though he has always enjoyed is the bottle. For months now, we have been using a sippy cup in the morning and for the entire day except for the milk before bed- that has been in a bottle. Well, for the past two nights, we have been giving him a sippy cup. We haven't noticed any significant change in his sleep pattern, and he hasn't really thrown a fit about being given a sippy cup.

I am proud that he can handle change so well. Or maybe we are just patient and know when he is ready for change? Who knows? I am just happy that so far, it has been smooth.

Now, for the hair pulling and tantrums...that is another story!

Elmo!

2009-10-29T12:21:00.004-04:00

On Tuesday, October 27th, Aiden said his first word (excluding Mom and Dad). He actually just started saying momma actively last week. Every morning when Russ and I are getting ready for work, we get Aiden changed, give him a sippy cup of milk, and put on either Elmo or Baby Signing Time. He, of course, has strong feelings about what he is going to watch. He will either sign baby or "raise the roof" for Elmo. I asked him what he wanted to watch, and he said outloud, "Mom, Elmo!" It was as clear as day! I was so excited! I proclaimed my excitement, Russ came running in, and Aiden proceeded to clam up. He would not say a word for his daddy.

People say it is a curse once they start talking because then they do not stop. Well, for right now, I am looking forward to this! :-) Don't quote me on that.

Definitely Siblings!

2009-10-29T12:18:00.004-04:00

Here is an ultrasound of the new little one at 19 weeks.

Here is an ultrasound of Aiden at 23 weeks.

See the family resemblance?

WOW!

Pure Enjoyment

2009-10-23T13:46:00.007-04:00

For weeks, Aiden had a runny nose, and it was mostly due to him cutting eye teeth. He wasn't a horrible child, and most of the time, he was very pleasant. Sleep had been a bit of an issue, but it was all manageable and just fine. Last weekend, Aiden was such an incredible child- easy, laughing, happy, spirited. We didn't know he could be this good! I guess what I am trying to say is that although we thought he was pleasant before, he really impressed us over the weekend.
We took him to see his Grampy at an Irish Pub up in Bath. They preform on the 17th of every month. He is the drum major for The Maine Public Safety Core. I am sure I didn't get the name correct.

I think the picture will help explain what I am talking about. Anyways, we were meeting him and Dee at the pub at three for a snack/ late lunch/ early supper, and they were to perform from 4-5. Earlier in the day, I had Mommy's group, so by the time I got Aiden down, he ended up only having an hour nap. We thought he would nap in the car on the way up since it was an hour ride- NOPE! Russ and I said to one another that it could really go one of two ways once we got there. Aiden would either really love the music or be horrible due to noise and/or exhaustion. (It should be noted that on most days, Aiden naps anywhere from 2- 3.5 hours.)

Long story short- AIDEN LOVED THE BAG PIPES AND THE DRUMS! Grampy would announce, "To the Guinness!" Folks would raise their glasses and proclaim, "To the Guinness!" He would then yell, "Hoist!" Then everyone would repeat that and take a swig of their drinks. Aiden quickly caught on (God- I hope he doesn't act like this when he is 18!) and took sips out of his sippy cup when his Grampy made these proclamations. He clapped along, smiled and thoroughly enjoyed himself. As the end of the performance approached, this lady from across the pub, approached me. She asked me if I was Aiden's mom, and I told her I was. She told me that she thought Aiden was adorable and asked for me to take the money she was handing me to go buy Aiden a present! Russ and I are not sure if that was sweet, morbid or both. What do you think? By the end, Aiden was rubbing his eyes and was quite tired. It was now five, dinner time, and we had an hour drive home. We were about 30 minutes into our trip, when Aiden got fussy. We decided to stop and get a quick bite to eat. He behaved the whole time, ate his dinner, and because we are just on top of our game, didn't know until the end of his supper, that he was sitting in a leaky diaper. We got home, gave him a bath, and he went to bed without a hitch. Needless to say, it was a great day with a child who barely slept. And not to brag, but Sunday was just as good.

I guess, as parents, we all need moments like these to remind us why we wanted to be parents. We all know they are going to be difficult, but it is in these times when they are so fun, you really don't have the stress and can just enjoy.

So Much Going On All The Time!

2009-10-01T12:53:00.006-04:00

It seems like there is always something new going on in our house with Aiden. Lately it has been sleep issues. He suddenly likes to wake up around 1 and not go back to bed until 3am. It is quite a drag. Hopefully, it is just because of teeth or something. We are tired parents.

Last night, Aiden started signing bus all by himself. He also did train! He now signs the following:

- Dad

- Hat

- Horse

- Thank you

- Please

- Flower

- Dog

- Milk

- Bus

- Cold

- Hot

- Cracker

- Baby

- Tree

- Cat

- Bike

- Ball

- Shoes

- More

- Fish

- Eat

- Stop

- All done

- Rain

- and more that neither Russ or I can think of at the moment.

Bath time has become quite the adventure as well. He has found his "you know what." He loves to reach for the toliet paper and get it soaking wet. He loves to splash and lay on his belly and read his bath books. He is quite the site!

Lately, he grunts while in his car seat and reaches out with his hand. He wants to hold my hand while I am driving. It is quite hysterical (and dangerous), but I just can't resist. He gives me the biggest smile when we do it, and honestly, this is the most I get out of him in terms of cuddling. He will cuddle up to me when getting ready for bed but when it comes to actually going to bed, he wants his daddy.

We got Aiden a football a while back, but just took it out for him to play with. He loves to tease Tugs with it...and Tugs will jump up on him, push him over, take the ball and run. Aiden will scream and go chasing after the ball! It is quite a site. They love to play with one another.

He is growing like a weed, and is ready for another haircut. What a big boy!

Kiss the Baby in Mommy's Belly

2009-09-22T12:53:00.002-04:00

Russ and I have been discussing how to introduce the idea of a new baby to Aiden, and at this point, we aren't in any rush to make him understand. He is only 19 months old, and I have 6 more months to go. We have bought a few picture books to use, but for now they are just in his book pile that he looks at.

The other day I decided I was going to show him my belly. Well, he certainly got a kick out of my belly button. (For those of you who don't know this about me, I can't stand anyone touching my belly button. I can feel it all the way through my back! It gives me the hebejebe's! Seriously!) Aiden giggled as he pointed and touched my belly button. It has become quite a game for him. He will come over to me, lift up my shirt and actually pull my maternity bands down so he can see my belly button. Russ and I have seen him lifting up his shirt and pointing to his belly button.

But- there lies a problem with this. The other day at the grocery store, Aiden lifted his shirt and then proceeded to pull my shirt down and flash everyone my chest! It was just fantastic. The kid didn't even do that when I was nursing him. But now- with a baby in my belly, he thinks he can just pull down whatever he wants! :-)

Sleeping Patterns

2009-09-08T12:42:00.003-04:00

So, as adults, we all enjoy going to bed and not waking up to an alarm clock or to an agenda. But, when you become parents, your alarm clock becomes your child which doesn't have a snooze button or an internal understanding that it is a weekend and you want to get another hour of sleep. Then there is the sleep you get when you are pregnant which is very easy to explain- it is the type of sleep that prepares you for having a child. You have to pee three times a night, you can't find a comfortable position to sleep in, and as you get further along, insomnia kicks in.

Well, in my current situation, I have a child and I am pregnant. Just imagine my delight when Aiden decided that he didn't want to sleep from midnight to four am last night! What a way to end a great long weekend before my work week started.

Can't wait to get some zzzz's when I am in the hospital where I will ask that I don't get visitors and my baby sleeps in the nursery. Oh wait- if I am in the hospital- they will be sure to get my vitals every few hours. Crap! I am shit out of luck!

My Other "Children"

2009-08-19T09:20:00.003-04:00

When I was pregnant for Aiden, I seriously neglected our dogs, Tugs and Tanner. Well, I take that back. It wasn't true neglect, but they didn't get walked as much, and I didn't groom them enough. Then we had Aiden. I still didn't groom them enough or walk them. What is going to happen when I have another baby?

(Please note: I consider dressing up my dogs silly. These were gifts, so we thought we better do it and take a picture. And of course, this is the only one I can find on my computer at the moment.)

Well, last night I groomed Tugs. This poor dog had so much hair, and it has been 90 degrees outside. I had to do it even though it sucked all the life out of me. His nails are so long, I could paint them and grown women would be jealous of how long and strong they are! Just kidding. But you get my point.

I am seriously going to have to give myself a kick in the butt---well, I can't reach, maybe Russ can, and he and I can work on giving them some grooming attention and some walking time each week. Poor little doggies. They are my first kids...and I feel I have left them on the wayside.

Lots of Things

2009-08-14T14:40:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, I went to my ob appointment, and met my new doctor. I can officially say, "I really like him." He has a good humor, he laughs and gets excited about babies, and actually sits with you and talks with you. I never had that with my last doctor. Before, my doctor would only ocassionaly come in, with my file in his hand while reading it, and just answer the nurse's concern and be gone. This is much, much better!

I got to hear the baby's heart beat! It was wonderful!

I think I am having a pretty easy first trimester again (knock on wood), but I can't say I haven't felt great either. Last time, I would hit a wall around 2pm. My energy level is much better this time around except for the past few days. I am not having any food diversions this time, so far either. I am getting headaches like last time. Very rare heartburn like last time too. My biggest problem is my digestive system. I think my prenatal vitamins were the culprit, and I have just started only taking folic acid and a few tums for calcium. So far, things have improved a little bit. Like last time, I am going to bed by 9 or 10pm at the latest.

So, I started looking for some books on raising two children under the age of three. I found one on Amazon that was perfect- except for the price tag! It was $67.00! No joke! It must be a book that is out of print. I will see if they have it at the library because there is no way I would pay that for a book. We found some books, and I look forward to getting them. We also got Aiden a few books about becoming a big brother. It will be interesting to see how much he really understands and how he transitions.

Right now, he is so much fun but so hard too. He won't sit in the tub, and he is hitting, biting and pinching. Where do kids learn these things? Most of time when he is being rough, it is when he is so tired he doesn't know what to do with himself or when he can't communicate something. He still isn't talking except for the occasional dada and sit, but he is signing a lot more.

He is signing:
Hat
Dad
Horse
Cat
Eat
More
Milk
Signing Time
Dog
Stop
All Done
Rain

And I am sure I missing some.

My Due Date

2009-07-21T11:03:00.002-04:00

My due date is March 12th! Aiden will have just turned two. WOW!

I have so many thoughts running through my head. I better read some books on how to manage my life with a two year old and a baby.

Oh boy!

Bun In the Oven

2009-07-17T20:37:00.002-04:00

On Monday, July 5th, I confirmed that I am pregnant! On Tuesday, I got the call from my doctor, that I am indeed pregnant. He said the same exact thing to me this time, "You are very, very pregnant." Yesterday, July 16th, I went for my first ultrasound. Everything looks good according to the ultrasound tech, but I will find out more when I go back to my doctor. And the best news---he has found an OB that will take me on even though he isn't a high risk doctor. That doesn't sound good but really it is. This doctor has filled in for many high risk doctors, is familiar with my situation, and is happy to take me on. This is such a relief to me! I didn't want to go through all the hassles and waiting for an hour or more every two weeks at my appointments.

We are thinking the due date is around March 13th. We will see what the doctor says. But that will put Aiden and this little bean just two years and a few weeks apart! :-) I hope they become the best of friends.

And the best part of all....we are NOT finding out the sex of the baby this time either!!! It may annoy or frustrate or whatever adjective you want to use, but it really is the best surprise in the world, and I would like to have that surprise again!

Now, I need to go find my tums...I have a bit of heartburn.

Duct Tape- Cause You Just Never Know

2009-07-04T21:32:00.006-04:00

Last weekend, Russ, Aiden, myself, and our friends Nate and Kim, went camping up in Andover, Maine. (It sounds really good when you put in the Maine accent.)

We have come away from this camping trip with my lessons, and would like to share our lessons with you.

#1. Always pack Duct Tape. As Denise said, "You never know when you might need it."

#2. During a hail storm, always keep your kayak tied down.

#3. During a hail storm, stay in vehicle as stated in tip number 2, as you watch your kayak fall off your vehicle and take out your driver's side mirror.

#4. Pack a spare key in your pocket, so when your dog locks you out of the car during the said hail storm, you can enter your vehicle.

#5. It is not recommended to run in hail storm with shorts on. It hurts.

#6. When a nice lady offers you her pop up as refuge, take it.

#7. After the 20 minute hail storm, erect as many tarps as you possibly can.

#8. Be prepared to do laps around the campgrounds in your car. Hint- Pack many soothing CD's. And take pride as you make your tenth lap knowing that all the onlookers understand why you just keep driving around and around.

#9. HINT- Buy a mo-fo of a tent that will accomodate a pack or play or better yet, a full size crib so your 16 month old cannot figure out that when he or she walks up, he or she can roam the tent and party all night long.

#10. On the off chance that your 16 month old thinks it is 7am, but it is 1:45am and wants to get his or her day started, prepare a bottle before bed and prepare the car as a spare bedroom for a parent to sleep in as well as the mentioned 16 month old to sleep in.

#11. When scouting out a campground 6 months ahead of time, read the Farmer's Almanac. It may help when you pack.

#12. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO BATHE A CHILD IN A RUBBERMAID CONTAINTER at the coin-op showers without help. The end result is a big bruise on the head, a screaming toddler due to the cold bath and bump on head, and you will be soaked. Just bathe the kid at the site- boil some water and mix it with cool water. That is much better.

#13. Bring a dog with you so your child can chase it down the camp road, over and over and over and over and over again because the ground will be muddy and the lake will be frigid and most activities won't last very long...but dog chasing can just go on and on.

#14. When getting into a kayak for the first time in three years, have someone else hold the kayak steady, or you will surely get wet as well as have onlookers snicker and snort.

#15. When attempting to take a shower after the cold dip in the lake, prepare for teenagers chatting non-stop about how good strawberry cheesecake is and how much longer they are going to be in the shower. Example, "Are you almost done?" "I could be in here forever. Let's stay in for 5 more minutes." "Have you ever had cheesecake?" "No, but I bet it is so good." "It is really good---I love strawberry cheesecake." "Tell me what it is like."

#16. Remember the Benadryl. It comes in handy when your 16 month old is attacked by killer mosiquitos!

#17. Bring your ipod with the ifart application. You will never laugh so hard in your life, especially when the neighboring camper is dealing with hose problems to their camper. And the other neighbor is using their protable potty on the other side of it. It is sort of ironic.

#18. Bring a screen room and put it under one those many tarps. You will thank us later when you are dry and not bug bitten.

#19. Repeat reading of #18. We strongly recommend listening to it.

#20. Always go camping with friends. Because when it sucks, at least you are with them, and you can all complain together and find the joy of friendship even when you are cold, bug bitten, hailed upon and packing your wet gear.

Those are our top 20 tips. We hope you enjoy your next camping experience.

Aiden's Stats

2009-06-21T20:12:00.002-04:00

I have been thinking a lot about Aiden lately who just turned 16 months old! Let me rephrase that- I am always thinking about Aiden but I have been thinking about a lot of little things about him.

* Aiden loves to play peek-a-boo either by lifting his bib up or by hiding behind things. He also likes to just stay hidden and have you come find him. I can't believe he is already playing hide-and-seek.

* Aiden likes to grab my pointing finger and have me act like I am being zapped. He cracks up!

* Aiden is saying so many things- with sign language! He says: all done, more, dog, signing time, hat, dad, and please.

* Aiden has more fun brushing his teeth now than he does taking a bath.

* Aiden is getting so good with his fine motor skills (minus how he still shoves food in his mouth!). You can just see him focus as he tries so hard to push a button and make something work.

* Aiden has figured out how to make himself go forward on his little car- he pushes his chest forward as he does it- hilarious!

* Aiden is freaked out by all dogs unless they are his own.

* Aiden loves his books. He will sit on the floor and flip through the pages for long stretches at a time.

* Aiden is getting really good at coming back down the stairs now.

* Aiden thinks climbing on the furniture is the best thing since sliced bread.

*And if I unplugged his humidifier in his room, he gets sick as soon as I put it away, so we have left it plugged in.

Spending Time Together

2009-05-26T21:41:00.002-04:00

I love my family!

Sit!

2009-05-26T21:27:00.002-04:00

Aiden has been using a new word all weekend- Sit! He tells everyone to sit. It is hysterical. It is interesting how he kept saying Dad and then stopped. Now his word is sit.

The other funny thing that he has been doing is crossing his arms. I posted a picture on the sidebar. I was wondering all weekend where he picked it up, and I figured he must have gotten it from the two year old at daycare. I asked this am at dropoff. Apparently, the young girl throws fits, crosses her arms and storms off. Hilarious! What is so interesting about all this- he can't mimic a video that he watches every single day with sign language but can copy this girl?! (I should say- he does sign "all done."

This past weekend Russ' mom came to visit. I took a lot of photos but with my regular camera...I can't wait to get the film developed. I think I got some nice shots. We went over to Peak's Island, and we went down to the beach. He absolutely hated the sand and ocean. Hopefully, he will warm up to it soon since we will be camping on the water at the end of June.

Update on Kitty

2009-05-13T11:48:00.003-04:00

I called the Animal Refuge League today to get an update. www.arlgp.org They are calling the kitty Twinkie. It is a male, and he is about one month old! He is currently residing in foster care and is doing well. YAY! He will be up for adoption in about a month after getting neutured and is a bit older. I am so relieved!

Highway Kitty

2009-05-11T11:10:00.005-04:00

This morning, I was driving Aiden to my mom's, and I was just about to get on the highway. The road before the entrance to the highway, I another highway. I was driving, and I saw a kitten sitting, scared to death in the middle of the two lanes. I slowed down, pulled over and backed up in the median. I pulled over as far as I could off the road because Aiden was in the car with me. I was able to get a big tractor trailer to stop as well as another car in the other lane, so I started to approach the kitten. Well, the poor kitty was so terrified, and it ran into the median. Another car on the other side of the highway saw what was happening, and pulled over on that side of the highway. The kitten ran underneath that car. At this point, the lady who had stopped on my side of the road, got out, and walked towards the other car. I got in my car, drove to the other side of the our two lanes of traffic and pulled over onto the grass to get as far off as possible. The two ladies were able to get the kitty!!! None of us could keep the poor kitten, so I found a sturdy bag and the other lady had a receiving blanket. We put the blanket in the bag, put the kitty in the bag, and I carried the kitten to my car. The kitten's fur was matted on one side and had some dried up blood on it's nose as well as a big scratch on it's nose. The kitten smelled like rubber and fuel.

I brought the kitten to the Animal Refuge League this am. I am so thankful this kitten has another chance to find a home! It was so cute---a long haired, gray and white kitten. I am guessing it a month or two old---it could fit in the palm of my hand.

Sickness and Tantrums!

2009-05-04T13:22:00.002-04:00

Well, by the end of last week---probably around Friday, Aiden was sounding and doing much better! His cold is finally gone! Phew! I still got him an appointment at the allergist. It will just make me feel better to talk to a doctor that specializes in allerigies and ezcema. I am done with my antibiotics too, and I am feeling better too!

So last week, Aiden threw his first tantrum. I know it is because he is frustrated and can't adequately explain his feelings, and it was actually quite funny. Last night though---his fit lasted at least 10 minutes. I went on Skype so Aiden could see his grammy, and I took away my cell phone. He had pulled it off the table, was trying to connect to the internet which we do not have on our phone plan, and was shoving the thing half way down his throat...Well, when I took it away from him after chasing him across the living room, he freaked. He threw an absolute fit. It was hilarious but just a bit scary to see the glimpse of what is to come! WOW!

Also- over the weekend, the coffee table was put in the spare bedroom. Aiden learned how to climb it and stand on it! Now we really can't leave him for a minute or two...he will climb and fall!

He is always up to a new adventure. I love him!

Is It Allergies or Is It a Cold?

2009-04-28T10:30:00.002-04:00

Aiden got a cold on April 3rd. It hasn't gone away, and today it is April 28th- 25 days of having a cold!!! That just doesn't seem right. It has been beautiful weather, so the windows have been open for the past few days and the tree pollen count is very high. I believe Aiden's cold went away, and he has allergies. His tooth came through, so we can't blame a tooth!

Our regular doctor is on vacation, so Russ took Aiden to see the doctor covering for him. I called this am because Aiden was wheezing, and his snot had gotten really bad since last night- all of a sudden--very congested. How does he go from barely having an issue to it being severe again?

Anyways- I didn't hear what I wanted to hear from the doctor. I truly believe something else is going on. Why would his ezcema suddenly worsen too? None of it makes sense, and I am super frustrated.

Aiden's First Word

2009-03-27T09:40:00.002-04:00

About a week and a half or two weeks ago, I heard Aiden say, "Dad?" And then he said it again. And then a few minutes later, he said it again. I was laying in bed trying to tell Russ that Aiden called for him. Russ never heard anything. I kept telling him that he really did, and that it wasn't in between all his gibberish. Well, the time arrived this morning....

Aiden was in the dining room, and he heard his daddy coming down the steps. Aiden said, "Dad." I hollered to Russ, "Russ did you hear that!? He said your name!" He didn't hear him. Well, Aiden did it again, and this time Russ heard! It was great! He doesn't say Dada...he says Dad with a high pitch! Very, very cute! I can't wait to see what he says next! (Although I do think he says hi---he will hit the window when Russ is out with the dogs and say," I, I, I."

Time Tables are Rubbish

2009-03-25T08:52:00.003-04:00

When we found out we were pregnant, we spent a lot of time reading books about parenting and what to expect. Even after Aiden was born- for probably the first 6 months, I spent a lot of time reading those kinds of books. Now he is a year old, and I never read those books---just a few pages out of our Parenting magazine (which I am not sure how we acquired). Actually, I can't seem the find the time to just read. The point is, I spent all this time worrying about what Aiden could or couldn't do. Now I just worry without having the books---I just have other kids to compare him to.

I KNOW YOU SHOULDN'T DO THAT. I know! I know! I know! But- when you hear one parent say that they think their kid is behind and this kid can do way more than your own kid or you see another kid that is only a month older doing way more...it makes you wonder---well, it does for me anyway. Example: why can't my kid sign milk? I show him the movies, I make the sign every day, I even have him do it. Why can't he do it? What did that mother or father do to get him or her to do it? Is something wrong with Aiden? Is something wrong with me? Is daycare not teaching him anything?

I know it is just power of the course...and I know it is (in a sense) all rubbish...I know I shouldn't worry until he is really old enough to know better...but I am human, and I want to make sure I give him everything I can. I know that this kind of worrying is a lot better than the worrying I will have when he takes a car out for a drive on his own. But man---parenting is hard. I know in my heart I am doing the best I can, but I guess you only stay accountable and responsible if you evaluate yourself.

Puddle Jumping

2009-03-17T08:50:00.001-04:00

At Aiden's daycare, they like to play outside! Well, it is officially mud season, and Aiden owns three pairs of shoes- his soft leather booties, his Stride Rite sneakers, and his Reebok sneakers. I didn't feel any of those would be sufficent for him to play in outside since it is so muddy out. I could just see him taking a step into a big puddle in his little stride rite sneakers---what a mess! Aiden is only wearing a size 4 and to find boots was easy---at $30 bucks a pair. I think that is silly for itty bitty feet, so I went to EBay and found the cutest pair of size 5...yeah, a little big, but nothing heavy socks can't help fix! These are what we got for him:

They are just so adorable! They arrived in the mail yesterday. I wish our video camera was working. I put them on Aiden's feet, and he didn't know what to think of them. They are a tad heavy on his feet, so walking was a bit difficult for him. He ended up just sitting on the floor and playing with the big zippers. After a while, he did get up and walk around with them. At least now, it will be okay when he wants to walk through a puddle---I mean, hey, the kid is only one! I can't take away puddle jumping yet! :)

Florida

2009-03-06T09:03:00.018-05:00

Last week Russ, Aiden, and I went to Florida to see Aiden's Grammy, Carolyn. It was Aiden's first flying experience. He did a wonderful job on the way down. We went to the aquarium on our first full day (Friday). Aiden had a great time looking at all the fish. At times, he appeared to not be interested, and than at other times, he really was. We also spent a lot of time just being with the family which was nice. On our last full day (Monday), we went to Busch Gardens! Aiden was thrilled to be in the stroller and just look all around. It was chilly that day---around 56 or so with a breeze in the morning. Grammy would watch Aiden while we went on a few roller coasters. Those were a blast---scary, but really, really fun! Aiden was so nosy that he didn't crash until we were just about to leave Busch, so we let him sleep, which only lasted about 20 minutes. With no nap, our return flight was hard. He was overtired. He sounded like a wounded cat for 3 hours or so on the first leg of the trip. All in all- he was a good boy!

Aiden's First Birthday Party!

2009-02-23T13:23:00.005-05:00

WoW! What a party! It was a lot of fun! Russ has to work on Saturday mornings, so it was so great to have Cheri come over and help out. She gave Aiden a bath, fed him lunch, helped me pipe on the "fur" on Cookie Monster, she entertained Aiden, she helped set up and clean up. She was a blessing to have on Saturday! It is a lot of work to entertain 27 people!

Aiden didn't like how the frosting felt on his hand, so he never ate the cake. He did have some after his lunch with Auntie Cheri but not during his ceremonial Happy Birthday song or anything. He did know he was center of attention---he put on a good show. He was such a good boy too! No break downs or anything! Happy birthday little man! We love you!

Aiden is One Today

2009-02-19T09:13:00.003-05:00

Look at our little guy! He is growing up! Happy Birthday, Aiden! Mommy and Daddy love you very much! All week I have been running the play by play of this time last year in my mind. As I am typing this...I was in labor for you, and I had just gotten an epidural! We were so excited that you were coming into our lives.

Watch Out---Here Comes Cuteness!!!

2009-02-14T21:17:00.002-05:00

Crying It Out- Night Seven

2009-02-10T12:27:00.002-05:00

Hooray! We made it a week, and it wasn't horrible or anything!!! Aiden slept all night last night- no wake ups! I wonder how long that is going to last!?

Crying It Out- Night Six

2009-02-09T13:05:00.005-05:00

Last night was a bit complicated. Aiden only took a two hour nap from 11:30 until 1:30---so by 6 he was quite ready for bed. We were at my mom's house, so Russ took him home. I came in the house, shortly after Russ put him down, but Aiden wasn't going down. I went up with a bottle, and Aiden sucked it down and off to sleep he went. He did get up though around 3:30 and really struggled to go back down. He had slept 8 and a half hours at this point! We took him downstairs, and I laid with him on the couch (not our bed) and off to sleep he went.

We slept there until 6:20am!

Crying It Out- Night Five

2009-02-09T13:03:00.000-05:00

Cheri and Chris had the honor of putting Aiden to bed, and I must say, they did an excellent job! Aiden did his usual- put his head down, cried until they reached the bottom of the steps, and he went off to sleep.

He slept until 3 or so, had a small bottle, and back to bed until 6:45am!

Excellent!

Crying It Out- Night Four

2009-02-07T07:53:00.001-05:00

So, last night was a rough night...

He went down okay, and he did his usual wake up around 1am...but he really struggled to soothe himself to get back down. Russ and I both got up...we both tried the bottle, etc...his diaper didn't feel too wet, so we left it...but he kept crying...Russ got back and changed him...Aiden proceeded to scream...but he did go down...

I think we were up off and on for over an hour last night.

I say it was rough because there were more tears than any night so far.

Crying It Out- Night Three

2009-02-06T14:14:00.001-05:00

Last night we had company, so we were a bit nervous and uncertain of how he would respond to the commotion, etc when it came time for bed.

Russ brought him upstairs, put him in the crib, two minutes of crying...and silence until 1:30. A small bottle of magic called formula...and ta da...back to sleep after a few minutes of crying.

Aiden woke up on his own at 6:30am!

I am loving it!

Crying It Out- Night Two

2009-02-05T08:51:00.001-05:00

AMAZING!

Russ brought Aiden upstairs at 9pm, Aiden put his head down and silence. Russ came downstairs, forgot the monitor, went back upstairs, Aiden saw him, Aiden cried for a few, and then...

SILENCE!

Aiden slept from 9 until 1:30. After some crying, Russ changed his diaper, I fed him a bottle, and about 15 minutes later and a few tears, Aiden was back down to sleep.

He slept quietly until about 5am...he got a bit restless but stayed asleep and quiet until 6:30am!

This really works. I can't wait to see what tonight brings!

PS---Aiden is starting to wave---well, more like toss his arm up and down. It is super cute though! (Of course!)

Crying It Out- Night One

2009-02-04T10:53:00.003-05:00

When Aiden was in his ninth month, he started to sleep through the night, so his need for nursing was minimal. We thought that it would be a good time to get him sleeping back in his crib. After a week of letting him cry it out, there was no improvement of his ability to go down or a shorter crying period...instead, the nights just got worse!

Well, here Aiden is at almost a year old---only 15 more days to go (holy cow---he is almost one!), and we decided now is the time. We know he can go through the night without a bottle, and he is pretty much weaned from me. So....last night, was our first night. I stayed out of the process entirely except to be Russ' support. We thought it would be best for me to not be involved because we weren't sure if that would be harder for Aiden to have me going in to comfort him---not sure if that would confuse him or not...since I am typically the "boob." Aiden will only sleep for me if I pacify him...he will sleep on Daddy's shoulder or belly without a bottle or boob. Hence our decision.

Well, after about an hour...he went down. He ended up using a blanket as a pillow---I know, I know...not the safest...

He slept for 8 hours straight! Woo Hoo!

Let's see what tonight brings!