For the Love of Naps

time and tone.

2012-01-26T10:00:00.003-06:00

This morning my email gave me this message from Hal, of Scream Free Parenting:

There is something especially pernicious about bedtime issues. The kids are tired (although they sure as heck won’t admit to it), you’re tired (and you certainly have trouble hiding it), and like oil and water these two things just don’t mix.

I think children are afraid that all of the good stuff in life happens after they go to sleep. They will pull out all the stops in order to squeeze out a few extra minutes. Before the bedtime announcement, a child can be as content as can be. Afterwards, they suddenly are in need of water, a snack, a book, more time for homework. They move in slow motion as they clean up (if they even do) and they find any excuse in the book to engage you in a conversation as to why they aren’t tired. It can be so aggravating.

But aren’t we much the same? How many times have you been on your way to bed only to be lured to the glow of the television or the hum of the refrigerator? How many times do you know that you need to get some sleep, but you remember an important email you forgot to send? Too often, we expect more from our children than we do from ourselves. And this leads us to treat them with disdain and disrespect. Recognize that they are not all that different from you. Their lego project is every bit as important as your sales proposal, so don’t spring bedtime on them and expect them to drop everything and run upstairs. Start the bedtime process way earlier than you think you need to (for both of you!) and that way you can actually enjoy yourself along the way to dreamland.

Bedtime is bedtime here. We have good nights and rough nights. Ed does the boys almost every. single. night. Bless him. But this is his time with them. And sometimes I rush them and that's not fair. Ed does notice that I have a short fuse by bedtime, and I think it is obvious why the day ends this way for me. I have been "on kid duty" all day. Negotiating, entertaining, balancing, unfortunately bartering and arguing with human beings under the age of 8. I am exhausted...mentally. And by bedtime it is hard to realize the precious opportunity that this time of day offers...if we let it slow down and happen more peacefully.

But this comment in my email today also reminds me that throughout the ENTIRE day, my children are little humans who have these needs that they often times have to verbalize and get help with. Things like curing their hunger and thirst. Help in the bathroom. Permission for playing with certain things like markers and play dough and paint. And this is all normal and developmental. But sometimes I think, wow, how exhausting to have to ask for help with so many things. To have to verbalize having your needs met...all. the time. It has to be hard. And to be brushed off with a "just a second." Must be frustrating. Even though on the mothering end...it is only fair that you get to finish what you are doing before you hop up to get them another glass of water.

My point. Sometimes I forget that how I talk to my children wouldn't feel very nice...if someone was talking to me like that. And that makes me really sad. And yet, as moms and dads, we have to give ourselves breaks when we get frustrated and say things in a too harsh a tone. I try to always remember that my tone says more than what I am actually saying. And if I went to Target and asked where I could find the ranch dressing and the store lady rolled her eyes and said in a snotty tone, "I'll be there in a minute" and then a minute passes, so I ask again. And she responds, "Right there! Geez, open your eyes. Same place it was last time you were here."...well now, I would probably cry. So today, I am admitting:

My name is Sarah. I am a mama of three. I sometimes am tired and frustrated having to communicate with human beings that often times can't rationalize. And sometimes I use a tone that isn't the best choice. BUT, I am also known to apologize to my children. And I think that - makes us all learn from our time together.

Charley's teacher emailed today and said that a mom emailed saying, "her son has come home the last few days talking about a boy named Charley. Charley asks him to play at recess, is kind sitting next to him in class, etc." And his teacher said, "he is such a good role model."

A reminder, that our low moments as parents can be low. But they are just moments. And as long as we are reflecting and always striving to do our best - those low moments don't overshadow all the good we do during on our mothering journey. And getting kind comments from outside the family mean the world and they prove that we are doing it right...some of the time.

I am thankful that my children have a daddy who can pull out just enough patience at the end of most days to try and fully experience the potential of the bedtime routine. And how lucky we are that we can remind each other or relieve each other when our patience isn't there. Slowing down, allowing more time, like Hal says, are solutions for responding to your child's needs ALL. DAY. LONG. not just at bedtime. Leaving the house. Cleaning up toys. and on and on and on.

This is linked to Shell's Pour your Heart out.

Saying Hi

2012-01-25T13:52:00.000-06:00

Good Afternoon!

Or as Sydney would say these days, "Hi."

Things have settled after our fun weekend.

Everyone is a little run down.

Mama has a head cold.

Henry has an annoying cough.

Sydney is still teething.

Daddy seems to be on the mend.

Charley is just wiped out.

So we haven't done much this week.

We only leave the house to get groceries, take kids to school, and that's it.

We are playing with new toys.

Napping.

And continuing on this month's goal of simplifying spaces ...organizing and purging.

Nothing deep to report.

Just sharing some new pics of our 1 year old.

She can't manage the one step down to our living room space.

But! she can get up and down off her new chair (made by her Grandma Charlie).

We always stay close though, because as you can see it is a wee bit big at the moment for this little girls tushy. It is adorable though.

It's Wednesday and babies are arriving soon or have recently arrived for many that I love.

It is so exciting to live through the anticipation and wonder of who these little ones will be.

Other than that...I am pondering a Baked Potato soup that a friend recommended.

I am pondering a craft or learning activity to challenge Henry with.

I am pondering putting my feet up and just closing my eyes to the sound of Curious George for a minute.

We'll see what happens next in our house.

What's new with you today?

Start your engines....

2012-01-24T15:58:00.000-06:00

Introducing our Scout.

This is new to our family this year.

And this weekend was our first Pinewood Derby experience.

This is Charley's car.

This is the track.

This is Charley's car on the track.

This is Charley's car...side by side his little brother's car. Yes, you heard me right. They now let little siblings (girls or boys) race their cars too. And they can even win awards.

This is Henry's car on the track. (I will let you imagine whether he is in the lead...or not)

Charley was blessed with quite the cheering section...

Both sets of his grandparents and his family.

When they weren't cheering for Charley.

Or dreaming about the winning trophy.

They were busy being entertained by the birthday girl.

Notice Grandma Barb trying to coax a puff from Miss Syd.

Everyone held her.

Except me.

This year the boys raced and had a blast. There was lots of hopping up and down.

The door prizes they won were pretty exciting.

They didn't come away with any medals or trophies.

Maybe next year.

I wonder if they will let the moms build cars and race....

Saturday continues with more fun...

2012-01-24T10:19:00.003-06:00

On Saturday afternoon around 3pm we also had our Miss Syd baptized. We have been pondering when to do it for a long time. We wanted to do it "correctly" this time (meaning newborn)...both boys were almost 2..if not two. But with family that lives farther away, making everyone travel is hard. So when I knew that both sets of grandparents were going to be here we got it on the calendar. So thankful they were able to fit us in to their busy Saturday Church schedule. The boys were baptized during Sunday mass with other babies. Miss Syd got her own ceremony and boy howdy was it special.

They didn't even turn on all the lights in the church. We sat gathered around the priest and I felt like he spoke mostly, to the boys. Sydney was happy and interested in everything. She didn't cry during the water part. She was intrigued by the priest - and he was AWESOME. When he spoke he almost seemed to be directly talking to the boys. Henry sat, spellbound, soaking it all in. It was amazing to watch. He didn't move. His hands were clutched. It almost made me cry. Other people caught his intense interest too. It was beautiful.

We chose Sydney's grandparents to be her Godparents. We decided with child three would could do things a little different. We had to pick two official Godparents, Grandpa Bob and Grandma Charlie, and Grandpa Ed and Grandma Barb are honorary grandparents too.

It was perfect that they let us schedule her baptism with less than two weeks notice. It was perfect that all the grandparents made it here this weekend, since snow almost kept my parents away. It was perfect that the priest was so splendid. It was perfect that Miss Sydney was happy through the whole thing. It was perfect that I had a dress that I had bought when she was first born and she finally got to wear it. It was perfect that we had time to take pictures, drive home, all change into jeans, and head to the derby on time. It all just worked out.

Here are a few images from the experience. I wish we would have gotten a family picture, since it isn't everyday that we are dressed up a wee bit.

children get older

2012-01-23T15:55:00.002-06:00

Oh, mirror in the sky

What is love?

Can the child within my heart rise above?

Can I sail through the changin' ocean tides?

Can I handle the seasons of my life?

I don't know

Well, I've been afraid of changin'

'Cause I've built my life around you

But time makes you bolder

Even children get older

And I'm getting older too.

Landslide - Fleetwood Mac

I just can't shake it.

The sad feeling.

Maybe it isn't sad.

Yep, it's sad.

Miss Syd is our last.

And last year at this time we were once again in awe of the miracle of 10 perfect toes.

Skin to skin.

Quiet moments mixed with the excitement of her meeting those we love most.

We fumbled once again through those beginning hours when you panic and wonder if you need the nurse to help change the diaper or listen to her breathe.

But the biggest thing that makes me sad today...

NEVER again will I wonder if we are having a boy or girl.

I won't ponder names with Ed and get to tell my mom and sister the name we chose.

If you get the chance to have a baby, because I know that in itself is such a gift and not always a given.

But if you do, I can not speak enough about the amazing experience of wonder it is when you wait to find out the sex of your baby.

The moment when the doc lifted Miss Sydney up and Ed looked at me and it was a girl.
She was a girl.
or He was a boy.
Remarkable. moments.

It leaves everyone anticipating.

It leaves you so excited and on edge those last couple weeks when you are so uncomfortable.

There are VERY few things in life - none really, that are truly a secret.

And if I could make the choice for others I would choose surprise everytime.

I know that it isn't a choice that everyone chooses.

But today, as I sit here kind of teary about being done with "baby" days.

I really am so glad that all three of our little tribe members were TOTAL surprises.

And that is one of the things I am most sad to be done with.

The wonder, anticipation, and surprise.

I am so grateful to have Miss Sydney in our lives.

And maybe it is completely wrong to feel more sadness today.

I felt no sadness on Saturday.

But today, I just am a little in awe that our year of baby Sydney is over.

I am also so excited to continue seeing who she becomes.

Whether her little twirling toes will find their way into ballet slippers or soccer cleats...or both.

If her obsession with the boys tiny Lego's will fade and if the adorable baby dolls that she has already accumulated will begin to fascinate her.

If her little strawberry golden locks will be worn in a pig tail or pony tails...will she have bangs...

Will my littlest continue to be petite...still only a wee 18 pounds...

So I am trying to remind myself that there is still so much to wonder about.

So many surprises yet.

This weekend while my mom and I were assembling the egg bakes on Saturday night,

I tried to describe this feeling I have lately.

At night as the day closes I have this excited feeling about the next day.

I am literally, excited for tomorrow.

I sometimes even wake up in the middle of the night and can't sleep because I can't wait for the next day.

Now, don't get me wrong...when Henry wanders in at 5:45 and asks to get up - I can barely open my eyes...probably because I was up for an hour so excited to wake up.

And do not think that every day is full of splendid moments of joy.

Many moments are stressed or crabby. snappy. Do over moments.

But ultimately, each night I am honestly, so excited about the next day.

I hope the feeling lasts forever.

I don't remember feeling it a month ago.

I don't remember not feeling. But I am really aware of it these last couple a weeks.

I think I am realizing that a big part of my personality thrives on the idea of new starts, surprises, and enjoying the ride.

So, even though I am feeling sad today.

I can't wait until tomorrow. When she is 366 days old.

*I want to reiterate that I am not judging or saying that finding out the sex of your baby is a wrong choice. I am not. AT ALL. I actually love finding out what others are having. haha! Today, that is just one of the things I am sad I will never live through again. The surprise. BUT, I am aware that I will have friends, nieces and nephews, and grandchildren who will surprise me. But meeting HER for the first time. Or Charley or Henry...just remarkable. And that is my point.

This is most likely the last post for today.
Time to enjoy my girl.

Were you snowed in today?
What was on your mind today?

present.

2012-01-23T12:24:00.000-06:00

Our birthday party day was full.

I was worried I would be too busy in the kitchen to be present in the moments of the day.

The morning kicked off with Charley heading to basketball practice with Grandma Charlie, Daddy, and Henry. Grandma Barb and Grandpa Bob finishing their drive. And my mission was to make sure Miss Syd got a wee bit of a nap, since there wasn't a guaranteed afternoon snooze happening. I relished the quiet morning before the hustle began. I joked that it might be a day where I wore a whistle, used a clipboard, and used airplane guy signals ushering everyone to and from cars with detailed instructions on where they were heading next.

But the amazing thing. And last night, Ed admitted this too. The day actually ended up being quite relaxed. Each adventure had time to sit and be present in the moments.

After basketball Miss Syd appeared in her tutu and onesie. And all of us smiled.

We celebrated Miss Syd with gifts. Lasagna lunch. and Cake. Things were simple. Someone asked a while back about birthday party themes for first birthdays. I am not a theme girl. My nursery was never themed for my babies. I planned to decorate so that they could grow into their room and make it fit their personality. Birthday parties only have themes when they are older and have an opinion. So for baby girl Syd...I went with the colors of green and pink...which kinda floppped where the cake was concerned. And I just focused on a few small touches that made her day...hers. The tutu, the onesie, a fun cake, and balloons. The guests were her loved grandparents. And it was perfect.

We pigged out on lasagna, seven layer salad, and home baked french bread... which is a great meal choice because you can make it ahead and the extra reheats perfectly or freezes nicely to be enjoyed later.

I sure would have loved to have more family and friends there, our door would have swung wide open to welcome all that love Miss Syd. But with the winter weather, the far travel for many aunts and uncles, and the idea that simple was right this time...we kept it small.

There really wasn't an overwhelming moment during the day for Miss Syd (or her mama). At Christmas Miss Syd had a clingy personality and hardly went with anyone else unless I was out of sight. Saturday, I barely got to hold the girl. She went from grandparent to grandparent and it was lovely.

After the birthday we headed off for a 3 pm baptism. Our girl was surrounded by her godparents...also known as her GRANDparents. From the baptism we went for an exciting evening of Pinewood Car racing.

There isn't much more I can share about the "birthday" part of her day. It was perfect. I was present. And that's how it should be....right?

the. cake.

2012-01-23T10:26:00.004-06:00

So ordering a cake over the phone, not making it yourself, means it STILL doesn't turn out exactly like you wanted. I had asked that if there was pink in the sprinkle mix to accent the dots on top with pink, green, and yellow. Some how blue got written down. Kinda disappointed since this was the year to force the pink into the theme. (I am not a theme girl) But it ended up matching her bib perfectly. And it was delicious.

Henry was concerned whether she wanted us all to sing. (since he preferred we not sing to him on his fourth birthday)

We sang.

There was not a moment of hesitation.

She grabbed it with two hands right away.

But didn't know to taste it until daddy showed her.

And she liked it.

She gave MANY big cheesy smiles to all that surrounded the table.

She is into flinging her food lately.

And there was some definite flinging going on.

My off white curtains behind her are proof of her flinging skills.

And it was all good, except for the curtains....until she rubbed her head.

And then there was no question that the girl was going to hit the tub immediately following the cake experience.

She actually didn't ingest all that much.

Even though it looks like she did.

I think of all three of my kids, she did the cake up the best.

Charley's red frosting proved to be crazy messy.

And Henry was very careful to pick off the Hen words off his cake.

But Miss Syd used two hands and dove in.

My girl,

My wish for you in life is that you dive in-

with two hands and an open heart-

ready to experience

and immerse yourself in the good all around you.
Because, life is delicous.

Happy Birthday, Miss Sydney.

sneak peeks...actually, my goal all day...

2012-01-23T08:18:00.000-06:00

I think we all felt like this after eating the delicous cake. Slightly confused at what just happened, yearning for more (Henry cried when his piece was gone), and ready for a nap. Last night Ed and I finished off the cake, feeling a little guilty that we should wait until today...but really, last night when we were eating it was exactly when I went into labor a year ago...so I enjoyed the cake and moment remembering.

I am confused about how to properly celebrate today.
A one year old doesn't expect much, if anything on her first birthday.
Saturday was her party, cake, present day.
Today, I feel like is for me.
First BIRTHdays are almost more for the mama.
I will soak it in.
Remember being in the hospital with her daddy and enjoying the quiet and newness of her.

So my hope, to take a few minutes every once in awhile and share a few glimpses of our weekend celebrating our pretty girl.

Man, am I glad we had her. She really is a joy.

So stay tuned. Keep checking back. It is snowing and daddy has been in the car for almost two hours and isn't even half way to work. I hope he has some good sports talk radio on.

Birthday sneak peek....wardrobe

2012-01-22T20:23:00.000-06:00

Soon to be Aunt Liz designed the onesie for Miss Syd's party. Thanks Liz!

Grandma Barb and Grandpa Bob gave her some fairy wings, the headband, and a wand.

Blogging has brought many amazing women into my world. One of them lives in Canada and has an etsy shop. And she sent Miss Sydney this tutu for her special day. HOW. COOL. IS. THAT. It brought a smile to all of us and she was pretty excited to be wearing it too. Thanks, my friend. Go visit her Etsy shop Neat Nat Style here! Or her blog here. She had her second little cutie just about two months before me. So we were pregnant together and wish so badly that Little P and Miss S could play...and we could chat over a glass of wine any random Wednesday evening. More birthday details to come. But I took a LOT of pictures and our weekend was very BUSY. Time to put my feet up and have another slice of cake. It was delicious. More soon!

A year of Miss Syd

2012-01-21T08:46:00.000-06:00

Monday she turns 1.

Today we celebrate her with her two sets of grandparents.

This mama is keeping it simple and not doing a big all out party with everyone who SHOULD be invited. We will miss her aunts and uncles and cousins. We will miss the moms that crave time with her (Jessie and Melody). We will miss the kiddos that think the world of her (Charley, Abby, and Sophie). We will miss her first friend (Oscar and Mama Lynelle). We will miss MANY others who have given her so much love - she is one lucky girl.

Praying she naps this morning so she can be happy girl for the rest of the day's festivities.

Here is Miss Sydney...Month by Month.

Day 1

4 weeks

7 weeks

2 months

2.5 months

3.5 months

4 months

5 months

6 months

7 months

8 months

9 months

10 months

11 months

12 months

today's MUST do list...

2012-01-20T10:00:00.006-06:00

This young man took just a wee bit of time to get the courage to hold his little sister.
I think we had to bribe him with chocolate.
But now, it takes every ounce of self control to give her space most moments during the day.
This BIG brother loves to snuggle and sniff and is starting to want to romp with his little Miss Syd.

Today, this young man will help me accomplish this:

~~-vacuum~~
~~-finish cleaning the guest bathroom~~
~~-bake two loaves of french bread~~
~~-make a batch of taco soup~~
~~-put together two pans of lasagna~~
~~-prep the ingredients for Sunday morning's egg bakes~~
~~-Find the birthday banner~~
~~-order balloons~~
~~-organize clothes for basketball practice, birthday party, baptism, and pinewood derby all on Saturday.~~
~~-wrap presents~~
~~-and maybe just put our feet up and play with the birthday girl just a wee bit.~~
-blog something a little more fun.
~~-wash bathmats~~
~~-fold two baskets of laundry~~
~~-wash curtain that was stained with Sydney's raspberry finger goop~~
~~-shower~~
~~-empty trash baskets in bathrooms~~

We have a lot of energy because outside there is some snow globe action taking place - finally. However, I am stressed because we have both sets of Grandparents, who will soon be Sydney's Godparents, on their way here. And wouldn't it be that our first snow storm happens today.

So, you know what I am doing today.
What are you doing today?

2012-01-19T10:51:00.000-06:00

Yesterday morning the boys got all their stuff done and had time to watch a little cartoon. Arthur was on and they were up for that one. I had to pause because I heard one of the girl characters say, "I'm going to put that on my blog." So I sat for a bit and listened. The entire episode was about her blogging. And at one point her friends said, "Your blog is getting boring. You can't just write about what you are having for lunch." I LOVE how cartoons these days have things like blogs mentioned in them. SO 2012!

But I also let that comment sink in. Because lately, I feel like I have just been blabbering on about little things going on during our days. Nothing deep, nothing new, nothing too exciting. So I am going to try and find the motivation to push myself to come up with some new things to ponder and reflect on.

Cooking around here has been an afterthought. We have been eating way too many hot dogs, frozen pizza, and pasta with red sauce...so recipes should be coming soon too. I NEED to make more of an effort.

Henry and I have been spending time together working on letters and numbers. I just need to pull out my camera and capture the activity so I could share it. I just sometimes, get wrapped up in giving him my attention that I don't think of it until it is over.

This weeks goals are going well. More realistic. Already accomplishing lots. I could share those.

The boys MUST DO lists are starting to become more of a habit. Henry completed his first 20 smile stickers. And he chose his reward. I should share what that all looks like.

But I am going to plan on attacking this all next week. After Miss Syd turns 1. When I am coming down off the sugar high from her spectacular cake. When I am in a state of sadness from family leaving. When I am in the state of shock that I now have a 1 year old, 4 year old, and 7 year old. And I will never have a teeny tiny one again. This is sure to spur some deep thoughts. Wouldn't ya say.

So for today...I will once again leave you with some ordinary moments going on here...that actually can be considered extraordinary because they are slow, and cozy, and deliberate.

Henry got this game for his birthday. This week we sat down and conquered the "Starter level". There are four levels of difficulty. Henry whizzed through the "starter" level. I got it because Charley was loving the Rush Hr. Jr game and this seemed kind of similar.

Yesterday morning we wore our pjs and slippers and popped in at our friend's house to meet their new pug, Chaz. He is amazingly adorable. I am in love with his eyes. Here are a few shots that I captured...but with a busy pup and a busy crawling girl..well there isn't much time to snap pictures.

Sydney is always excited when she sees puppies and dogs...whether it is passing them while walking to school, at Grandma's house, our stuffed ones laying around the house...or this adorable little guy.

Taking time to see friends, meet new little pups, play games with my kiddos, and snuggle my runny nosed 11 and 19/23 month year old (is that right?)...are WAY more enjoyable than making cakes, worrying about decorations, or other birthday details. SO GLAD I ordered the cake. I hope you find some little moments to enjoy today...inside, cozy, with a warm beverage in hand. Brrrr...because it was -7 degrees. So my plan to hit the grocery store is on hold until Syd doesn't have to partake. The boys haircuts will happen tomorrow too.

ordered it...and moving on...

2012-01-18T15:48:00.002-06:00

So I had big plans for Miss Syd's cake.
My tradition has been that I create this flub of a cake that looked great in my brain but ends up being something everyone snickers at. And I had BIG plans for Miss Syd's smash cake.

But I have petered out. And today I ordered a cake. From a really good bakery in town.
Since we have decided to throw in Syd's baptism...I felt like splurging on some great tasting cake was meant to be. Plus I polled some family and friends and got a great many supporters that it was okay to order and rejoice in one less thing to worry about.

So I called and talked to "Lauren" and we have a three layered chocolate cake...chocolate mousse in between each layer, ready for pick up on Saturday morning. The cake will be surrounded in brightly colored sprinkles. The top will be white with some polka dots...this picture was in my head (thanks Kristen). And she will have her very own little smash cake that will look similar...without the sprinkles. It is going to be yummy. I know it.

Source: thehighheeledhostess.com via Sarah on Pinterest

Sometimes, I think it is okay to let go of the tradition or the expectation that we mamas put on ourselves. Splurging on the cake means the next three days will not be spent running back and forth for ingredients...making things that only taste so so. And being distracted by the cake...and not savoring the last couple days of having my youngest less than 365 days old.

It is hitting me hard.
Everyone has their moments that cause them to catch their breath as they pray that time would stop.
This one has my stomach in knots.
This is it.
Our baby girl will be one and it will be okay.
It won't just be okay.
It's going to be a great day, a great celebration, and a great many years ahead watching her become more and more her own person.

Cheers to not having to worry about a fancy schmancy cake.
And on to figuring out the rest of the menu for the weekend.

Grace in Small things

2012-01-17T19:55:00.000-06:00

Life is so good. And I don't take time to write down the simple little things that I am grateful for. Vowing to do this more often.
1. Syd is in bed, sleeping, and hasn't coughed yet. yippee.

2. A husband that arrived home and let me ramble on about my silly and emotional day...and then took the boys and put them to bed so I could escape to our bedroom with my laptop and a glass of wine.

3. Tombstone pizza...still my favorite frozen pizza. I remember the smell drifting up from the front desk in our residence hall building. and right now the smell is drifting in from the kitchen...because that is dinner for Ed and I tonight.

4. iPad...Ed surprised me at Christmas and I am starting to really love it. Not that I didn't love it right away...but it is finding a place in my day. What a fun toy. Pandora now plays throughout our lower level, Charley practices his spelling words, Henry plays games to learn his letters, Words with Friends, Blog reading...so fun.

5. Good driving conditions...seriously, the only good thing about not having any snow at this point is the excellent driving conditions...there are no other plus sides. The boys are craving outside play and the dead winter yard is not drawing them out.

6. I made chocolate chip cookies from one of those jars that people gift you with all the ingredients measured out and layered all pretty. And they turned out absolutely perfect. Go figure. There is no recipe attached. We'll enjoy them for the next couple days...and some super lucky friend or neighbor might find a few appearing at their door.

the calm that comes with your third miracle's journey

2012-01-17T11:46:00.001-06:00

There is a mysterious calm that comes when your third child comes down with croup.

I could tell Sydney was coming down with a little bug.

Why wouldn't she? She has had nothing all year and she turns 1 in a week.

She had to get something!

I could hear the croup coming and I called the nurse in a panic.

"Is there anything I can do to ward it off?"

She chuckled, and went through all the things I should do when it strikes.

I knew all those tricks.

I wasn't in a panic over croup. I was in a panic that she was going to be sick.

Last night she was up here and there with an awful bark of a cough.

She sat facing me, her head buried into my chest.

Fingers were sucked ferociously.

After a few minutes she let me lay her back down to the hum of the humidifier.

At one point she and I sat in the steamy bathroom, letting the shower run.

But my calm led her right back to sleep, even after the excitement of the shower and the brightness of the bathroom lights.

I truly believe that babes can sense your vibe and feed off the calm or the chaos.

After about 2:30 am we heard nothing else until Ed and I awoke at 5:45 (when Henry wandered in)and looked at each other...

was she okay?

Of course, she was. I checked.

We hit the ground running today and got into the doc and she got a steroid shot.

She should be ready to party by Saturday, the doctor hoped.

The calm that comes from experience is priceless.

So to my sister, who is about to embark on the journey of having a second child,

during the last few weeks of your pregnancy when your mind wanders to "how am I going to do it?"

have faith and be confident that all you experienced with your little man Eli will make round two sooooo much more exciting and yet calm. Confidence with knowing when to call the doc, confidence in knowing how to breastfeed, confidence in letting baby fuss a teeny tiny bit, confidence in predicting a tooth or an ear infection, confidence in knowing it is JUST an ear infection or a new tooth, confidence in knowing that a stage will pass, and you will gain confidence quickly in realizing that your heart expands and you will for sure have enough love for both of your little miracles.

-------

Our day got hairy around the time I had to drop Charley off.

There might have been tears in this mama's eyes.

I might have growled, "Get out!" to Charley.

I might have won the "worst mama award."

But after talking calmly to Charley on the phone once he had arrived at school.

And seeing the doc for Sydney...

the word calm has settled on this mama's shoulders.

And the amazing gift that we are granted...the chance to start over at any given time of our day, is again a choice you make more confidently when you have done it a few too many times.

Our start over time was 9:30am.

And starting over made all the difference.

all. the. difference.

I wish you calm in your Tuesday.

Not Me Monday

2012-01-16T10:04:00.000-06:00

Not Me Monday...
I used to post these every Monday. And then the gal that lead the link up thingy stopped. I have noticed she has posted periodically but not sure if it is a regular thing anymore. Anyways..I had a few thoughts today...and I always liked these posts...they looked at life with humor and often times made you realize how normal being "real" was.

So here goes...

On Friday night I didn't attempt to post this facebook status update - nope not me...

"Ed is getting us take out tonight. I insisted he order at the restaurant so he could enjoy a beer while he waits. I hope he enjoys his moment before he returns home to our hyped up house. This weekend, I hope I get one moment or six."

But instead of that, it posted this...

"Ed is getting us take out tonight. I insisted he order at the restaurant so he could enjoy a beer while he waits. I hope he enjoys his moment before he returns home to our hyped up house. This weekend, I hope I get one moment of s*x."

Hahaha! Luckily, I noticed right away and took it down. Damn, auto correct.

++++++++++++

This mama has almost mastered a homemade oatmeal that the boys like, instead of the instant variety. But this mama does not add chocolate chips to lure the boys into trying it. Nope, not me.

++++++++++++

I didn't just order this kid clock that will turn green to signal when Henry can get up for the day. Nope, not me.

++++++++++++

I would LOVE to hear your Not Me moments today.

Today:

The tribe is whole again with Charley home from school today. Love that.

Syd has a runny nose and Henry is consistently waking at 5:30...so we will take it slow and everyone will be in bed by 6:30...I hope.

Ordinary moments...

2012-01-14T09:09:00.000-06:00

I stepped out to catch the beauty of the sunrise and looking inside from outside --I realized that's the real beauty - my tribe at too early o'clock.

Eggs - as they should be- different colors, different sizes, bright yellow when you scramble them...and from a friend's chickens. What a gift.

Moments pass and I realize I have a girl and a little purple phone to go with her.

She will turn one in about a week.

Taking in the cheesy smiles, blue eyes, and contentment putting things and taking things out of a bucket.

Our floor is smattered with little items that mean so much to the little people who play with them.

Knowing that makes me consider them less messy.

Toy Review: Blok Squad Building Kits

2012-01-13T14:39:00.000-06:00

Around the holidays I was given the opportunity to review a Blok Squad building kit by Mega Bloks. I chose the construction site kit because it looked like a lot of fun, had multiple vehicles, and was something different.

So one day when things were in a lull I pulled it out and shared with the boys why they were going to get to build this cool set. Ed kinda rolled his eyes because he heard me saying, "You know when mama is on the computer and she says she is "doing work...well I am." Haha! I thought I would take advantage so they understood that sometimes what I am doing here could be considered "work."

I as pretty impressed with the Mega Squad building experience. Henry took on the task of assembling the guys and the trailer. Charley went to work on one of the trucks. It took a little over 45 minutes to assemble their first tasks. A day or two later each boy worked on a second vehicle.

The blocks don't snap together AS easily as Legos. BUT, I LOVED how in the instruction booklet it lists the pieces that you need for assembling each step. And I don't find that in all the Lego building kit experiences. I also liked how they color coated the areas where pieces were supposed to snap together. This is not the case in Lego building instruction booklets and I found it very useful. Especially with Henry.

The vehicles were REALLY sturdy once they were assembled. They came with a lot of extra little pieces that were supposed to be rocks or building supplies which I thought were a little unnecessary. But I never complain about extra pieces.

The price for a Mega Blok Squad Construction building kit runs about $19.99 which I think is an incredible price compared to other building kit brands. These blocks have been mixed in and actually snap into the other like blocks in our house...most of the time.

I like the Lego guys more than the Mega Blok guys...but the boys didn't have a problem with them. And if you asked me why...I am not sure I could give you a specific reason.

Anyways, if your kiddo is heading to a birthday party and you know they like building things like this...going with a Mega Blok Squad kit is a reasonably priced way to accomplish this task.

We would definitely invest in another kit at some point.

Links I Love

2012-01-13T10:49:00.001-06:00

Here again are some of my favorite posts for the week. Please know that when I post something here it is because I really liked it, really connected with it, tried it, etc. But for sure, I think it is worth your time to click on it. And again, if you have a favorite, must read blog, a favorite post this week, or whatever...do share!

This is amazingly beautiful. On Gifts and Talents....by Momastery

but this one of hers is hilarious. Y,TRH (Yes, this really happened) Top three most embarrassing pediatric office visits. .... by Momastery

and then there is this recent post that says this, "The floors in my home read like a history of our family. In that corner you might find a pile of special Cheerios and under that rug you’ll find glitter from a family Christmas project. It’s lovely, really. And since I am incapable of ordering pictures or assembling family photo albums, Craig and I just sit on the couch in the evenings, gazing from pile of floor crap to pile of floor crap, reminiscing. We find this quite special and creative. But if you are the vacuuming type, I don’t want you to feel badly. I’m just suggesting that kids grow up fast, so you might want to consider setting aside some floor memories. That’s all." I guess I am a loving her blog these days. I used to read it but then drifted away. But that Carpe Diam post grabbed me back.

OTHER blogs...

Keepin' it real.....7 tips for dealing with Mommy Anger .... by Steady Mom

On the menu this weekend....Overnight Sausage and Egg casserole...by Our Best Bites

In our house...

2012-01-13T07:05:00.000-06:00

Today:

In our house, we are all up at 6:30.

In our house, 80 percent of our house does not have to get up until 8:15...8:30 if you want to push it. Just sayin'.

In our house, I will make pancakes...on the stove in a pan, because they have had scrambled eggs three days in a row.

In our house, the kid who has homework, miraculously did it last night with minimal whining.

In our house, we only have three loads of laundry left to be considered "almost" caught up.

In our house, Charley brought home a library book about World War II ...we are dealing with how to properly respond about some of the questions and comments he is asking or impressed with.

War is real. War is scary. War is sad.

In our house, we have three gentlemen who will be engaging in some serious pinewood derby car construction this weekend. Pretty exciting.

In our house, all five of us can say the word "HI!" Yep, Sydney can say it into a phone or phone like shaped toy or when waving.

In our house, we have the movie "The Help" waiting to be watched. Hoping this weekend.

In our house, we will have a yummy new egg bake recipe this weekend.

In our house, not only will we celebrate Sydney's first birthday and Charley's first Pinewood derby event, but we are also slipping in a little side of Baptism next weekend. Busy times.

In our house, there is is only a slight dusting of snow covering our yard outside...but this was the sky yesterday morning from our deck.

Today:
I keep reminding myself that this morning nap stage is short and such a gift in my day...so having to skip fun little outings is our season right now. I was looking forward to seeing some friends who I haven't seen in a while today but I just don't think skipping the morning nap is going to be worth it.

Miss Syd is in the midst of getting her two top teeth and she is pure joy, I say that rolling my eyes. The girl is clingy but not. Happy but not. Sleepy but not. Who can blame her. But being her mama and not being able to make it all better can get mighty frustrating.

So, I might shower today and then put my pjs BACK on. And focus on her little mood swings in comfort.

The days can be long...

2012-01-12T15:32:00.001-06:00

So my friends----
I write a post. down. not in the groove.
And I think, Oh, they'll share their upbeat in the groove feelings and that will help this mama get her groove back.

But then comments and emails started rolling in and you all are pretty much not groovin' either.
So much for counting on all of you.
It must be the weather or the day of the week...or...

I hope you have found a way to get a little hop in your step.

Syd napped while the boys were at school and I got an hour to putter and shower. That helped.

Then we ventured to the Apple store and were gifted the news that my laptop is just fine, at least for the time being.
So Sydney, Henry, and I went to the Cheesecake Factory to celebrate. Now, you have to realize that we have not taken Sydney out to a restaurant since she was in her carrying car seat. So sitting in a wood highchair and pounding on the table was new to her, and "new to me again." It went well. I ordered super fast, a salad that I had never had. I scored though because it had big chunks of avocado and black beans that weren't seasoned and so she devoured those items...along with the banana they give you and the bread. Plus the baby food and puffs and water that I had toted along.

I literally wolfed down my BBQ chicken salad in 5 minutes, the entire thing. I would have licked the plate if I hadn't been distracted by the flying banana and sticky avocado fingers that kept grabbing my sleeve. Henry devoured his mac and cheese that he shared with his sister. And we had the computer fixed and lunch all in one hour. A lunch entree like that is such a treat to a mama who usually eats the hotdog or grilled cheese with the kids.

Home again, Home again, jiggity jig.
My computer is working and I immediately downloaded these beauties.
Love my little girl who is about to turn 1.

Hope you got your groove on. Otherwise, let it be a groove-less day. Put the kids to bed early. Remember the saying, "The days are long but the years are short." Well there is no shame in bringing one day to close a little early, in hopes of starting tomorrow sooner and with more energy. Tonight, Pour a glass of wine or a cup of tea. Curl up with a book or some mindless TV. And plan on a day filled with joy ...tomorrow. Because tomorrow is Friday and Fridays are always bip bopping days.

The mama groove - I'm not feelin' it? you?

2012-01-12T07:48:00.001-06:00

Not feelin' it today. Being real.
I would give anything to have my mom here today.
Having another adult in the house during this morning routine is such a gift.
It's been awhile.

Homework isn't done with a smile here lately.
After he gets his measuring sheet done, he doesn't want to stop measuring. Go figure. Me - I am exhausted mentally and emotionally from trying to be encouraging and persistent with my reminding to get it done.

It is cold.
Both boys aren't going to want to get dressed.
They don't want to pick up toys.
They both aren't going to want to go to school - wait! Charley has a pizza party at school today...so that might make the 20 minute exit easier.

Sydney was up 3-4 times last night. I play words with friends in the wee hours with my friend Kim that has a 3 week old. I wonder if she finds it uplifting that she isn't the only one making words at 2:38 am...or if it causes panic that she might be up at 2:38 am a year from now. I am banking on not playing Words with Friends at 2:38 on January 12, 2013! Sorry friend.

This Thursday morning, I'm just not feelin' it.

How about you?
Where you at on your roller coaster ride?

Today:
Boys to school. Boys come home.
Sydney naps, I pray.
Off to the Apple Store this morning and praying for a quick and inexpensive fix.
Hoping to find my groove...momentarily would be nice.

Time for coffee.
Giddy up!

The Art of Juggling a nursing baby and a toddler/preschooler

2012-01-11T20:29:00.000-06:00

A while back someone asked me how to keep their first child busy when their new baby is figuring out the whole nursing thing. Newborn nursing babies tend to take a loooong time to nurse. It can almost feel like that is all you are doing those first weeks. If you are on your second kiddo then most likely you will have another little miracle demanding your attention. It can really be overwhelming. Here are my ideas on how to juggle the two little ones...

First, be prepared. Have what you need for the nursing baby nearby. Your notebook, if you keep track of things, a burp rag, diaper, telephone, whatever it is that you need. I usually had a bin or something sitting where I was comfortable nursing. With my first I would go up to the peaceful and glorious nursery and just melt in the new baby environment. With my second and third I had a station set up in both busy living spaces. There wasn't time to sit, during the day, in the quiet calm of the baby nursery.

Once you are prepared for your teeny wee one. Next, prepare for your other child. My mom was such a help. She brought a grocery bag full of small lunch bags filled with little treasures and things for the boys to open. I would grab one when things were getting dicey. The dollar store, dollar bin area at Target, garage sales, things that had been put away or the kids had forgotten about...anything. My mom did this for Charley when Henry was born and for Henry when Sydney was born. It was such a gift. I used these when I nursed and when baby was crying and I needed to bounce, or pace, or snuggle and Charley or Henry needed attention.

Another way I prepared for the long nursing sessions with another child who needed entertaining was by preparing some snacks in zip baggies so that they could go grab one at that time.

I also kept a bin of books near my nursing spot so that I could read to them while I nursed.

Sitting and nursing in front of a cartoon was also something special. Rarely do I sit and watch a cartoon with my kids. But when we snuggled on the couch to watch we could talk about the show and it was special.

Speaking of TV...I had many friends reassure me that this was one chunk of time in my child's life and that a little more TV would not hurt them. So instead of watching TV when I prepared dinner...I used the TV time for nursing times. I let go of feeling guilty for a few weeks. At least I tried.

I gave my nephew a mailbox for Christmas with the plan that my sister could utilize the mailbox during those first couple weeks. She could put a snack or a new little matchbox car in there for Eli. He could hunt for the key first and then open the mailbox. Or he could get a treasure map in the mailbox that tells him where his snack is hiding.

Also, don't forget about the library. It is important to give your older children some time with just you. If you can escape with them to the library for a quick outing, pick some books, maybe a new video or game...and then put those things in a box that you can enjoy during those times when you need something new.

You can also plan out some bigger bins that have a few "new to them" toys or games that they can play with just when you are nursing or helping baby.

I think the main thing is to survive. With baby number two you will find that you don't feel as panicked about feeding baby the moment baby squawks. You know a little fussing is okay. And saying, "baby, you need to wait. I am helping your big brother for a minute."can be really powerful. This allows big brother or sister to know that you are choosing them over baby...which isn't true - but to your child who had your full attention for so long - knowing that you are still giving them your attention first every once in a while is so powerful.

I am sure some of you have some great ideas too. Please share your ideas. I have many friends who are pregnant or just had babies. Let's help them out.

Wednesday ramblings....

2012-01-11T16:12:00.000-06:00

-My laptop is frozen. Apple store here I come. Thank goodness it is slightly exciting going there. So as of now, pictures will be lacking or repeats from the past.

-Ed got some new button down work shirts. I started to take tags off so I could wash them. Seriously, the amount of tags, stickers, PINS, and cardboard, oh! And tissue paper is ridiculous!

-Sydney is on day two of taking two naps. Loving it.

-Everyone is waking at 6:15 these days. I guess they think it's party time and not mama's quiet time. We're going with it.

-Yesterday it was 52 degrees out. We did chalk and had snack outside. This morning we walked Charley to school. Fresh air does us all good.

-It is really cold and windy today. A few snowflakes have fallen. But we are still without snow and there is still nothing predicted.

-Henry's preschool is having a field trip and he has had some really nice holiday parties but they have a new policy where they pick only a few parents to help out due to parking issues. It makes me sad and frustrated because the preschool years are so precious and I feel like if you pay for it and can attend a function you should be able to. Ed wants to go on this upcoming field trip. So we'll see.

-I have been slacking on meals around here but the Pinterest boards make it so easy to find new recipes and keep track of them. It just requires time to pick a few and figure out ingredients.

-This morning there was a stay at home vs. working mom thing on a morning talk show and I didn't get to see it but I watched a little preview of it and it got me so riled...for both working and stay at home moms. It is hard to feel okay with the choice you make and the important thing is that you are doing what works for your family. I kinda hate that they do those debate things on talk shows because it doesn't help us gals in the trenches trying to feel good about whatever mothering journey we are on.

-My new favorite thing is Pandora. I always knew it was there but I never had a good way to listen. Ed rigged up some Apple TV so that we can play it over our house speakers and a picture slide show plays all day on our TV. The boys are loving seeing all the pictures I have taken and I LOVE having the music. My favorite channel is the one my sister recommended called Angus and Julia Stone. Give it a try.

- Words with Friends has been so fun again lately. Blog friends, family, real life friends...just so fun to have that little interaction popping into life every once in a while during the day.

-Last night Parenthood was on and I purposely didn't watch so I could watch it dvr'd so I can zip through commercials. Can't wait to catch up with that. Still my favorite. I watched Grey's Anatomy last week and decided that it might not be something I can watch these days. So intense and just not enough upbeat story to it.

-I signed up for a knitting class with two new friends from our ECFE class. IT is just two nights and we will knit a hat. Kinda proud of myself for signing up. I am a hermit at night, I don't like to go out. Ed was glad I signed up and said I should do that kind of stuff. And then he threw in that I can knit him some sweater vests....really?

-We got Jimmy Johns for lunch yesterday and Charley got a little of Henry's leftovers today. He came home from school and just thanked me for the Jimmy Johns in his lunch. I appreciate that he thanked me.

-Today Sydney crawled around in tights with a ruffle butt, rainbow leg warmers, a super girl onesie, and a pink tutu. It was darn cute and I got some cute pictures....I wish I could share them.

-This is getting kind of long and rambling. If you were going to list random thoughts today, what would they be. Do share!?

First Birthday Party Planning...

2012-01-10T19:38:00.000-06:00

Sydney is turning one! Soon.

Too soon for my heart.

And I want to be on the ball.

We have her grandparents driving from afar to come and help celebrate.

I am not sure if we will add in friends at this point.

We have to slide in her party between basketball practice and the pinewood derby.

I am wanting to do this last first birthday party up big and pretty.

I want her to wear a tutu.

Isn't this a cute picture.

Source: Uploaded by user via Sarah on Pinterest

Here are a few things I am pondering:

cake in a jar. picture taken from here.

Her birthday cake to devour. Picture taken from here.

For the boys I made them each a separate cake to attack.
So I am brainstorming my baby girl options....

Or this one...

Source: glorioustreats.blogspot.com via Sarah on Pinterest

My girl is turning one. Any ideas....