I never thought I would have to explain the difference between these to my 5 & 3 yo - but when they pick-up their toys and shove them in their closet...so go all the clothes and shoes lying around. Apparently when I tell them to put the toys in the proper room, etc that doesn't apply to clothes and shoes.
What prompted this post you may ask......30 minute search for Tyler's right shoe. In Stephen's closet I found 2 slippers (non-matching of course) and then in his toy box I found a shirt and one sock. In Raymond's closet I found a pair of underware, two more slippers (non-matching to each other and the first two), two non-matching socks, and yes finally Tyler's right shoe.
Sometimes it's the little things that get on my nerves...........running through the house screaming at the top of their lungs after being cooped up in the house all day doesn't faze me, but for some reason this little thing pisses me off. Go figure.
Saturday, February 24, 2007
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
FINALLY - I can get in and post!!
Okay - switched over to Blogger.com's new format and for some reason I haven't been able to get in lately. So - here's the latest in our little family.
Stephen - Per his teacher he's definitely ready for K next year. This is such a relief. I was sooo afraid he wouldn't be ready, but the behavior modification/medication, etc seemed to have really helped. Occasionally Stephen does have bad days, but the good still out weigh the bad. Now that my dad built a rail and ladder for the top bunk S get's to sleep up on top when he's had a good day.......and right now a good day is all smiley faces from school and no hitting.
Raymond - Is finally potty trained during the day. However, we'll still end-up with two in diapers here in a few months. He's doing good - and will be ready for preschool this next fall.
Tyler - Well, he's just a little pistol. Into everything and eats everything in sight. His four eye teeth finally cut through....now all he's got left is his 2yo molars. He's still addicted to his bottle, but he only gets it at naptime and bedtime. Slowly working on getting rid of it at nap time, but Daddy keeps giving in. He's slowly getting a vocab going: dada, thank you, ut-oh, love you, owie, out, up, and down.
The Bean - well, the bean is a girl. So far we've agreed upon Addison Sue Margaret for a name. (Addy for short.) Kinda nervous - this is unchartered territory afterall. At least we can start getting rid of the boy baby clothes for now. Now we just get to wait until after May 25th - hopefully we'll know a c-section date sometime in April.
Misc Stuff - Keith and I are doing good. Him doing the SAHD thing is awesome. My work is kicking butt - but hopefully a proposal I put in will get approved.
Think that's it for now.
Stephen - Per his teacher he's definitely ready for K next year. This is such a relief. I was sooo afraid he wouldn't be ready, but the behavior modification/medication, etc seemed to have really helped. Occasionally Stephen does have bad days, but the good still out weigh the bad. Now that my dad built a rail and ladder for the top bunk S get's to sleep up on top when he's had a good day.......and right now a good day is all smiley faces from school and no hitting.
Raymond - Is finally potty trained during the day. However, we'll still end-up with two in diapers here in a few months. He's doing good - and will be ready for preschool this next fall.
Tyler - Well, he's just a little pistol. Into everything and eats everything in sight. His four eye teeth finally cut through....now all he's got left is his 2yo molars. He's still addicted to his bottle, but he only gets it at naptime and bedtime. Slowly working on getting rid of it at nap time, but Daddy keeps giving in. He's slowly getting a vocab going: dada, thank you, ut-oh, love you, owie, out, up, and down.
The Bean - well, the bean is a girl. So far we've agreed upon Addison Sue Margaret for a name. (Addy for short.) Kinda nervous - this is unchartered territory afterall. At least we can start getting rid of the boy baby clothes for now. Now we just get to wait until after May 25th - hopefully we'll know a c-section date sometime in April.
Misc Stuff - Keith and I are doing good. Him doing the SAHD thing is awesome. My work is kicking butt - but hopefully a proposal I put in will get approved.
Think that's it for now.
Friday, December 29, 2006
DumbAss
Yup – that word has been added to my 5yo’s vocabulary. Unfortunately the first time he used the term he used it correctly and Keith and I broke out laughing. Bad parents I know – but seriously it was pretty funny.
Another downside is that I’ve come to realize that I too use that word – much more often than I should. Even substituting Dumas for Dumbass doesn’t work anymore.
Luckily though S has only called Keith a dumbass – three times. First time he was just told not to do it, 2nd time he got time out, and the 3rd time he got timeout but was well warned that if he called anyone that again he would be getting timeout and a nice little reminder. At least the boy is picking up when to stop and lay low….it’s been a week and the only person calling Keith a DumbAss is myself (when the boys are out of ear-shot of course!).
Another downside is that I’ve come to realize that I too use that word – much more often than I should. Even substituting Dumas for Dumbass doesn’t work anymore.
Luckily though S has only called Keith a dumbass – three times. First time he was just told not to do it, 2nd time he got time out, and the 3rd time he got timeout but was well warned that if he called anyone that again he would be getting timeout and a nice little reminder. At least the boy is picking up when to stop and lay low….it’s been a week and the only person calling Keith a DumbAss is myself (when the boys are out of ear-shot of course!).
Thursday, December 21, 2006
HAPPY HOLIDAYS! ! ! !
Wanted to wish everyone out there in cyber-ville a very merry Christmas and happy holidays to those who celebrate some other holiday.
Overall this has been a very stressful year. However, now that we're all getting into a comfortable routine and some things have been straightened out life has been easier. Unfortunately I'm a little behind in getting a few things done, but they will get done.....especially if I want to itemize my taxes!!
Everyone have a safe Holidays and I'll be back in full force at the first of the year.
Overall this has been a very stressful year. However, now that we're all getting into a comfortable routine and some things have been straightened out life has been easier. Unfortunately I'm a little behind in getting a few things done, but they will get done.....especially if I want to itemize my taxes!!
Everyone have a safe Holidays and I'll be back in full force at the first of the year.
Monday, November 27, 2006
Let's play catch! (Catch-up that is!)
Anyhoo - let's see:
1. I'm 12 wks pregnant - and yes the rents know. This will be number 4 in our household (#3 that I'll have given birth to). Yes, even after 3 boys I'd love to have another.....the thought of a girl scares the living sh-it outta me! The best part is that I have yet to gain a pound per my scale at home......I vow not to gain the 30lbs like I did with Tyler and Stephen.
2. Stephen's still doing great in school - we have about 1-3 bad days a month (usually when he's over-tired or not feeling well). He's becoming a pretty good big brother - even with the "Tyler/Raymond is bothering me" episodes.
3. Raymond has turned into the Terrible 3's monster. We get told "No" to absolutely everything. Better yet we hear "my arm/leg/etc is broken, you do it". Teach me to ask him the ol' "Is your arm/leg/etc broken? No? Then you can do it."
4. Tyler - he's an independent little cuss and a spitfire. He's now decided he needs to stand on the step stool when brushing teeth and refuses to let me help. Oh, and the tantrums are hysterical. Tell him "no" and we lay down on the floor and start crying and trying to be dramatic. (My mother of course thinks this is just down right funny as her curse has come true.)
5. Keith is really liking the stay-at-home-dad gig. However, I think he's a little worried about next Fall when I go back to work after maternity leave. He'll have an almost 6yo, a 2yo, and a 3mo old to watch after. Luckily Gma Sue is close if he needs a little sanity break.
6. Work - still swamped, but now I know I'll get some help as I gotta train someone to do my job while I'm out 11wks on maternity leave. However, I'm a little nervous as I'm afraid I'm going to have a lot of problems to clean-up.
Hmmm.....think that's about it. Questions?? Comments?? Anyone??
1. I'm 12 wks pregnant - and yes the rents know. This will be number 4 in our household (#3 that I'll have given birth to). Yes, even after 3 boys I'd love to have another.....the thought of a girl scares the living sh-it outta me! The best part is that I have yet to gain a pound per my scale at home......I vow not to gain the 30lbs like I did with Tyler and Stephen.
2. Stephen's still doing great in school - we have about 1-3 bad days a month (usually when he's over-tired or not feeling well). He's becoming a pretty good big brother - even with the "Tyler/Raymond is bothering me" episodes.
3. Raymond has turned into the Terrible 3's monster. We get told "No" to absolutely everything. Better yet we hear "my arm/leg/etc is broken, you do it". Teach me to ask him the ol' "Is your arm/leg/etc broken? No? Then you can do it."
4. Tyler - he's an independent little cuss and a spitfire. He's now decided he needs to stand on the step stool when brushing teeth and refuses to let me help. Oh, and the tantrums are hysterical. Tell him "no" and we lay down on the floor and start crying and trying to be dramatic. (My mother of course thinks this is just down right funny as her curse has come true.)
5. Keith is really liking the stay-at-home-dad gig. However, I think he's a little worried about next Fall when I go back to work after maternity leave. He'll have an almost 6yo, a 2yo, and a 3mo old to watch after. Luckily Gma Sue is close if he needs a little sanity break.
6. Work - still swamped, but now I know I'll get some help as I gotta train someone to do my job while I'm out 11wks on maternity leave. However, I'm a little nervous as I'm afraid I'm going to have a lot of problems to clean-up.
Hmmm.....think that's about it. Questions?? Comments?? Anyone??
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Parent - Teacher Conference
Let me preface this post by stating that even though Stephen is on medication for ADHD, and we as the parental group have changed our behaviors I still believe we all have a lot of work to do. Especially since I'd love to get the boy on a lower dosage and if possible wean him completely off of the meds.
Anyhoo - week or so ago we had our Fall Parents-Teacher conference. All were in attendance (me, Keith, ex-H and his new wifey). Stephen's teacher and speech therapist had nothing but glowing and positive things to say about Stephen. In his IEP (Individual Education Plan) he has 5 goals - and he met one!!! This was the one I was most concerned about: sitting still for 10 minutes and following directions.
Needless to say I'm estatic that he's making such great progress. Now if he can just keep it up - keep your fingers crossed!
Anyhoo - week or so ago we had our Fall Parents-Teacher conference. All were in attendance (me, Keith, ex-H and his new wifey). Stephen's teacher and speech therapist had nothing but glowing and positive things to say about Stephen. In his IEP (Individual Education Plan) he has 5 goals - and he met one!!! This was the one I was most concerned about: sitting still for 10 minutes and following directions.
Needless to say I'm estatic that he's making such great progress. Now if he can just keep it up - keep your fingers crossed!
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
$90 worth of prescription butt cream
Yes, you read that right. Due to T's bacterial infection he developed some majorily bad diaper rash, and Desitin, et al weren't doing the trick. So, off on Sunday we goto the doctor. Doc prescribes the super duper diaper rash cream. Went to the pharmacy to get it filled and they only gave us a tablespoon of butt cream for $18. Of course as much as the boy was poopin' we had it refilled on Monday - same amount of cream for another $18. By this time we're going through the stuff pretty quickly so I finally call the docs office and ask for a larger quantity. Get that called into the pharmacy and my mom just happens to be in town so she volunteered to pick it up.........only to call me later. It was $50 f-ing dollars. I told her pay for it.....the boy's butt is all red and we're going to need it. Plus this shit is the bomb!!! His butt when from "OMG that's nasty" to "Hey that's looking sooo much better" in 36 hours.
Hmmm.......so mentally in my head $18 rounds up to $20, so $20 + $20 + $50 makes $90 we spent in 3 days for super duper diaper rash cream. Now the $50 co-pay on my insurance is for "controlled substances". In my mind I'm trying to figure out why a butt cream that had to be compounded and contains a steriod, antibacterial, and antifungal would be considered a controlled substance. Seriously - did my health insurance really think my almost 17mo old son could become addicted to his butt cream????? Can't you just see him grabing the cream and a diaper and begging to be changed even though he's not wet or poopie!!!
Anyhoo - called my insurance company and come to find out rather than listing each drug seperately the pharmacy gave this super duper diaper rash cream a name......a name that was not covered which meant it got a $50 co-pay. So now I'm off to fight and get almost all of my $$$$ back......per the gal on the phone "you shouldn't have paid more than $20 total for all 3 prescriptions". Joy.
Now I'm just waiting for the claim form.........luckily I'm anal and of course I have everything showing the 3 meds they used and my 3 receipts with the amount paid. Sometimes it comes in handy to be an anal retentive accounting geek. :)
Hmmm.......so mentally in my head $18 rounds up to $20, so $20 + $20 + $50 makes $90 we spent in 3 days for super duper diaper rash cream. Now the $50 co-pay on my insurance is for "controlled substances". In my mind I'm trying to figure out why a butt cream that had to be compounded and contains a steriod, antibacterial, and antifungal would be considered a controlled substance. Seriously - did my health insurance really think my almost 17mo old son could become addicted to his butt cream????? Can't you just see him grabing the cream and a diaper and begging to be changed even though he's not wet or poopie!!!
Anyhoo - called my insurance company and come to find out rather than listing each drug seperately the pharmacy gave this super duper diaper rash cream a name......a name that was not covered which meant it got a $50 co-pay. So now I'm off to fight and get almost all of my $$$$ back......per the gal on the phone "you shouldn't have paid more than $20 total for all 3 prescriptions". Joy.
Now I'm just waiting for the claim form.........luckily I'm anal and of course I have everything showing the 3 meds they used and my 3 receipts with the amount paid. Sometimes it comes in handy to be an anal retentive accounting geek. :)
Monday, October 23, 2006
Of sickness, cars, kids, and life
Hmmmm......what's been going on the last 3 or 4 weeks at our little abode
1. Stephen - some bronchial thing. Was sick for a few days, but got over it pretty quick.
2. Tyler - caught some nasty stomach bacteria that cause bloody diarhhea and the worst case of diaper rash I had ever seen. (Ended up having to use a prescription cream that was an antibacterial, antifungal, and steriod to clear it up.)
3. Stephen's birthday and party - of course a child came to the party sick and exposed all of us to Whooping Cough. (JOY!! Luckily the antibotic Tyler was on killed the crap he had and this so no one came down sick.)
4. Found out I'm pregnant - not sure when I'm due but we're guessing early June. Major OOOPS, but life goes on.
5. Traded ex-H his BMW for our minivan.....of course did this before I figured out I was pregnant. Now we're looking for a large SUV to replace not only the BMW, but Keith's truck. Need something large enough to not only haul 4 kids and 2 adulst comfortably but that call haul the trailer with the 4-wheelers in them, but isn't tooo old and doesn't cost much more than $7,000 (which is what we think we can sell the other two cars for).
Whew - think that's it. Oh, and if any family is reading this I'll kill you if you tell your parents about #4. We're waiting until my Oct 30 appointment before we say anything.
1. Stephen - some bronchial thing. Was sick for a few days, but got over it pretty quick.
2. Tyler - caught some nasty stomach bacteria that cause bloody diarhhea and the worst case of diaper rash I had ever seen. (Ended up having to use a prescription cream that was an antibacterial, antifungal, and steriod to clear it up.)
3. Stephen's birthday and party - of course a child came to the party sick and exposed all of us to Whooping Cough. (JOY!! Luckily the antibotic Tyler was on killed the crap he had and this so no one came down sick.)
4. Found out I'm pregnant - not sure when I'm due but we're guessing early June. Major OOOPS, but life goes on.
5. Traded ex-H his BMW for our minivan.....of course did this before I figured out I was pregnant. Now we're looking for a large SUV to replace not only the BMW, but Keith's truck. Need something large enough to not only haul 4 kids and 2 adulst comfortably but that call haul the trailer with the 4-wheelers in them, but isn't tooo old and doesn't cost much more than $7,000 (which is what we think we can sell the other two cars for).
Whew - think that's it. Oh, and if any family is reading this I'll kill you if you tell your parents about #4. We're waiting until my Oct 30 appointment before we say anything.
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Ahhhh.....reasons I'm thankful I only have sons
1. Not having to get creative with names for genatils - it's Penis and Balls (or nuts)
2. They fall down they get back up - only cry if seriously hurt
3. Can entertain themselves by wrestling in the living room for a good 45 minutes before someone gets hurt
4. Cars, bugs, superhero's and dinosaurs are much cheaper than Barbies, make-up, dress-up clothes, and that Disney Princess crap
5. No bathroom in sight - just drop trou and pee on a tree
6. Playing outside does not mean just swinging on the swing - it means getting dirty and having fun
7. I get to shape 3 young boys into great husbands (or wives) for someone someday
2. They fall down they get back up - only cry if seriously hurt
3. Can entertain themselves by wrestling in the living room for a good 45 minutes before someone gets hurt
4. Cars, bugs, superhero's and dinosaurs are much cheaper than Barbies, make-up, dress-up clothes, and that Disney Princess crap
5. No bathroom in sight - just drop trou and pee on a tree
6. Playing outside does not mean just swinging on the swing - it means getting dirty and having fun
7. I get to shape 3 young boys into great husbands (or wives) for someone someday
15mo old son with shoe fetish
How do I know this there are many reasons:
1. Lovingly walking around the house chewing on a Croc or two
2. Making sure he has a matching pair and putting them on his hands
3. Throwing them all outside when Daddy's not looking
4. Carrying them to unknown parts of the house to watch the adults go looking for them
5. Bringing the correct person their shoes - a suttle hint he wants you to go outside with him
AND
6. Mom getting to work this morning and noticing teeth marks on her sandles
At least it's not the usual twigs, dirt, leaves, or crumbs from his meal off the floor - see it could be worse.
1. Lovingly walking around the house chewing on a Croc or two
2. Making sure he has a matching pair and putting them on his hands
3. Throwing them all outside when Daddy's not looking
4. Carrying them to unknown parts of the house to watch the adults go looking for them
5. Bringing the correct person their shoes - a suttle hint he wants you to go outside with him
AND
6. Mom getting to work this morning and noticing teeth marks on her sandles
At least it's not the usual twigs, dirt, leaves, or crumbs from his meal off the floor - see it could be worse.
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Being too good at what you do can be a curse
And for those of you with dirty minds - get your mind outta the gutter!! (However, I do appreciate finding a kindred spirit!)
Anyhoo - back in January 2006 I took on a new role/job here at dUMB Bank. Got a new boss, got a bigger desk, still kept my flexible hours as long as I put in 40 hrs a week, did lose my work from home one day a week and didn't get a raise, but I actually had a job to do and I knew I would like it.
After two months in my new job I found countless errors of overpayments and even some underpayments of incentives for one division (7 different plans). So, not only was I doing the monthly and quarterly incentive payments I was doing research and analysis. Then after 1st quarter my boss adds another division to my calculation list. Things are going okay - I have just enough to keep me busy as most of the problems from division #1 have been resolved.
Then for the 2nd quarter I get another division added - so now I'm up to 3. Division #2 has major problems that are taking all of my time. Division #1 has new problems popping up all over the place and Division #3 is just a problem in itself.
As you can see I'm slowly running out of time and my request for help the last couple of times I've meet with my boss have seemed to fallen on deaf ears. Now we do get a management rotation program peon - but that person will only be here 3 or 4 months at a time. So by the time I get someone caught up to speed I get to start over.
Here's where the title of my post comes into play. My boss thought we were going to need to hire someone full-time back in May, but since I was doing such a great job and got more accomplished than he expected he cancelled the request. Which now makes it difficult to get us anyone else. The word DUMBASS comes to mind.
Then the icing on the cake is that I need to work with our computer/programming geeks to get all of this automated. When the hell am I to find the time?!?!?! You see this was to be a temporary assignment until things were automated but that too has taken longer than expected.
So - doing my job well and getting recognition has come back to bite me in the ass big time. However, I know in the end I'll be looked down upon when things don't get done even though I did ask for help. I'm a smart woman and I know my limitations - and pretty soon (oh in about a week here) I'm going to drown.
Can someone send me a cute male life guard to do CPR please?!?!?!
Anyhoo - back in January 2006 I took on a new role/job here at dUMB Bank. Got a new boss, got a bigger desk, still kept my flexible hours as long as I put in 40 hrs a week, did lose my work from home one day a week and didn't get a raise, but I actually had a job to do and I knew I would like it.
After two months in my new job I found countless errors of overpayments and even some underpayments of incentives for one division (7 different plans). So, not only was I doing the monthly and quarterly incentive payments I was doing research and analysis. Then after 1st quarter my boss adds another division to my calculation list. Things are going okay - I have just enough to keep me busy as most of the problems from division #1 have been resolved.
Then for the 2nd quarter I get another division added - so now I'm up to 3. Division #2 has major problems that are taking all of my time. Division #1 has new problems popping up all over the place and Division #3 is just a problem in itself.
As you can see I'm slowly running out of time and my request for help the last couple of times I've meet with my boss have seemed to fallen on deaf ears. Now we do get a management rotation program peon - but that person will only be here 3 or 4 months at a time. So by the time I get someone caught up to speed I get to start over.
Here's where the title of my post comes into play. My boss thought we were going to need to hire someone full-time back in May, but since I was doing such a great job and got more accomplished than he expected he cancelled the request. Which now makes it difficult to get us anyone else. The word DUMBASS comes to mind.
Then the icing on the cake is that I need to work with our computer/programming geeks to get all of this automated. When the hell am I to find the time?!?!?! You see this was to be a temporary assignment until things were automated but that too has taken longer than expected.
So - doing my job well and getting recognition has come back to bite me in the ass big time. However, I know in the end I'll be looked down upon when things don't get done even though I did ask for help. I'm a smart woman and I know my limitations - and pretty soon (oh in about a week here) I'm going to drown.
Can someone send me a cute male life guard to do CPR please?!?!?!
Sunday, September 10, 2006
I'm waaaaay to comfortable with this!!!
Labor day weekend we went camping one night. Of course we went to a place that was geared towards riding 4-wheelers/ATV's. We used this as a practice run, and it didn't go to bad. Especially after we got Stephen on the little 70cc ATV. He absolutely loved it. He loved it so much we were able to use that as a bribe for him to not hit/kick/push or basically hurt anyone for this last week and it WORKED!!!
What's weird is that S's father is concerned and so are my parents that he'll get hurt. Which is true he can get hurt......but can't he get hurt just riding his bike or playing in the yard?? Plus I will admit I was a little nervous about letting him ride, but after watching him ride I just knew this was the right time and thing for him. Seriously, he watched to make sure he had enouch room when the other kids passed him. He knew to slow down at the corners. When other kids approached from behind he would look back while he kept the ATV on the little track. And after 30 minutes we has asking to go faster. I should mention that even though this thing has 4 gears and can go 30mph we can restrict the gas so it only goes so fast, plus we haven't taught him how to shift.
I'm assuming that all of the practice he had driving his power wheels dune buggy around The Farm, and all the rules of driving I and/or Keith drill into him when we go for walks have paid off. Plus he's not the fearless kind of kid........that is until he has mastered something and his comfort level is at high.
However, even knowing all of this I wonder if I'm being tooooo blase about all of this. Then again I was 7yo and riding a motorcycle (80cc) around the pastures at The Farm.......so isn't a 5yo on a ATV safer?? Everyone just agree with me or just agree I'm nuts!! :)
What's weird is that S's father is concerned and so are my parents that he'll get hurt. Which is true he can get hurt......but can't he get hurt just riding his bike or playing in the yard?? Plus I will admit I was a little nervous about letting him ride, but after watching him ride I just knew this was the right time and thing for him. Seriously, he watched to make sure he had enouch room when the other kids passed him. He knew to slow down at the corners. When other kids approached from behind he would look back while he kept the ATV on the little track. And after 30 minutes we has asking to go faster. I should mention that even though this thing has 4 gears and can go 30mph we can restrict the gas so it only goes so fast, plus we haven't taught him how to shift.
I'm assuming that all of the practice he had driving his power wheels dune buggy around The Farm, and all the rules of driving I and/or Keith drill into him when we go for walks have paid off. Plus he's not the fearless kind of kid........that is until he has mastered something and his comfort level is at high.
However, even knowing all of this I wonder if I'm being tooooo blase about all of this. Then again I was 7yo and riding a motorcycle (80cc) around the pastures at The Farm.......so isn't a 5yo on a ATV safer?? Everyone just agree with me or just agree I'm nuts!! :)
Saturday, September 09, 2006
Addictions suck!
Tyler, the cutest toddler currently on the face of this Earth, has a serious addiction: his Bottle. He never took to a pacifier.....but the Bottle is it's substitute and is just as addicting.
Lately we've really been working on getting him to put himself alseep, but he needs the comfort of Ba-Ba. Being the good parents that we are we do cave and give him Ba-Ba, but with water. Crying it out just don't work.......plus this was one of the downfalls of breastfeeding him.....he was a snacker and would only fall asleep at the boob.
We've tried getting him hooked on sippy cups - but that doesn't really work either. He doesn't want a sippy of his own....he wants his big brother's cup. Oh, and we've tried water, milk, and juice....it really doesn't matter he wants his brother's cup!!!
We really should just tough it out and give him sippy cups more.....but seriously is it really worth the aggrivation and added stress to our lives?? Will Tyler be scared for life if he keeps his Ba-Ba 3mos longer?? We've got a plan in place to slowly substitue Ba-Ba for a sippy so that maybe by the time he's 18mos old he'll be weaned from his Bottle addiction! I don't think so!
However, I do admit I dread the day we have to tell the boy that he can't take blankie to preschool. S and R already wonder why we (his parents and grandparents) call him Linus.
Lately we've really been working on getting him to put himself alseep, but he needs the comfort of Ba-Ba. Being the good parents that we are we do cave and give him Ba-Ba, but with water. Crying it out just don't work.......plus this was one of the downfalls of breastfeeding him.....he was a snacker and would only fall asleep at the boob.
We've tried getting him hooked on sippy cups - but that doesn't really work either. He doesn't want a sippy of his own....he wants his big brother's cup. Oh, and we've tried water, milk, and juice....it really doesn't matter he wants his brother's cup!!!
We really should just tough it out and give him sippy cups more.....but seriously is it really worth the aggrivation and added stress to our lives?? Will Tyler be scared for life if he keeps his Ba-Ba 3mos longer?? We've got a plan in place to slowly substitue Ba-Ba for a sippy so that maybe by the time he's 18mos old he'll be weaned from his Bottle addiction! I don't think so!
However, I do admit I dread the day we have to tell the boy that he can't take blankie to preschool. S and R already wonder why we (his parents and grandparents) call him Linus.
Friday, September 08, 2006
Benefits of small town livin'
I'm serious here - I'm not being sarcastic. When we lived in Lawrence I always felt clueless on how to get involved and how to get my children the services they needed. However, now that we're in Baldwin I just feel more connected to the city and the people there.
Here are examples of what I mean
1. When we were in Lawrence we knew who our neighbors where, but we did not KNOW them. Here in Baldwin I can tell you the names of everyone living around us, and if we or they need help we or they know that all you gotta do is ask.
2. Stephen's speech therapy: Lawrence Sch Dist was ready to dismiss him however I and others felt that was a little premature to be doing this. Had him evaluated through the Baldwin Sch Dist and not only did he qualify for speech therapy they got him enrolled in the school district sponsored preschool program. (It's grant funded!)
3. Stephen's tree nut allergy: OMG the Baldwin Sch Dist has been awesome. They had us fill out a ton of paper work, but in the end it was worth it. They make sure that all teachers, regardless of whether they actually come in contact with Stephen, know about his allergy and what to do. Not only that, but they sent a letter home to all the parents explaining in detail about the allergy and what not to bring to class for snacks. Then his teacher was very accomadating when I told her I had a box of tree nut free snacks for Stephen as a "just in case".
4. Stephen's behavior issues: Not only is his teachers willing to work with us, but so is the school. Heck his teacher is even having Stephen help her fill out daily reports. (Just basic reports on whether or not he had a good day or bad day.)
5. Developmental evaluations: Voiced my concern to our PAT (Parents-As-Teachers) gal that Tyler might be delayed in speech. She got us an evaluation with in a week.
6. The community: We don't have to really worry about anyone stealing anything from our yard (kids toys), and there's hardly and crime.
I know Keith would love to move closer to Raymond, but he's beginning to see why I don't want to leave. I know that if any of the kids would need any type of special services that these people will do what they can. Our kids are people - not just another number or file. I know he's presented the idea to his Ex-W that with him staying home with the boys that maybe their rolls should reverse: he have Ray during the week and she could have him every other weekend. Heck he even offered to continue to pay child support.
Oh well - guess only time will tell.
Here are examples of what I mean
1. When we were in Lawrence we knew who our neighbors where, but we did not KNOW them. Here in Baldwin I can tell you the names of everyone living around us, and if we or they need help we or they know that all you gotta do is ask.
2. Stephen's speech therapy: Lawrence Sch Dist was ready to dismiss him however I and others felt that was a little premature to be doing this. Had him evaluated through the Baldwin Sch Dist and not only did he qualify for speech therapy they got him enrolled in the school district sponsored preschool program. (It's grant funded!)
3. Stephen's tree nut allergy: OMG the Baldwin Sch Dist has been awesome. They had us fill out a ton of paper work, but in the end it was worth it. They make sure that all teachers, regardless of whether they actually come in contact with Stephen, know about his allergy and what to do. Not only that, but they sent a letter home to all the parents explaining in detail about the allergy and what not to bring to class for snacks. Then his teacher was very accomadating when I told her I had a box of tree nut free snacks for Stephen as a "just in case".
4. Stephen's behavior issues: Not only is his teachers willing to work with us, but so is the school. Heck his teacher is even having Stephen help her fill out daily reports. (Just basic reports on whether or not he had a good day or bad day.)
5. Developmental evaluations: Voiced my concern to our PAT (Parents-As-Teachers) gal that Tyler might be delayed in speech. She got us an evaluation with in a week.
6. The community: We don't have to really worry about anyone stealing anything from our yard (kids toys), and there's hardly and crime.
I know Keith would love to move closer to Raymond, but he's beginning to see why I don't want to leave. I know that if any of the kids would need any type of special services that these people will do what they can. Our kids are people - not just another number or file. I know he's presented the idea to his Ex-W that with him staying home with the boys that maybe their rolls should reverse: he have Ray during the week and she could have him every other weekend. Heck he even offered to continue to pay child support.
Oh well - guess only time will tell.
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Stay-at-home-Dad Land
Well, Keith finally decided that since he can't find a job close to home that makes decent $$ he's going back to school. However, without him working we were in a finacial bind. Through my creative genious and some help from our family bank we were able to refinance our debt so that we're making a 40% less payment each month. So, he gets to stay home with the boys (S & T).
This is not a job to be taken lightly by any person - let alone a man. Personally I couldn't do it - hence the reason I'm working. By nature men are not quiet as nurturing as women - let me rephrase that men are not quiet as nuturing as mothers!
He's been at his new job for a few weeks now and him and the boys have settled into a nice routine. Helps that they don't get up until 7:30am, S goes to school at 11:50 and doesn't return until 3:30pm, and since S doesn't get a nap he's in bed between 7:30pm-8pm. He really does have it easy. However, since Keith can't start school until this spring he's trying to get a job working the evening shift so we can save some money.
There's an added benefit to all of this - with Stephen's current diagnoises of ADHD and ODD the boy could use some one-on-one and Keith is able to provide that as well as a schedule each day. I love coming home to happy kids, a clean house, and laundry that just needs to be put away. ;)
This is not a job to be taken lightly by any person - let alone a man. Personally I couldn't do it - hence the reason I'm working. By nature men are not quiet as nurturing as women - let me rephrase that men are not quiet as nuturing as mothers!
He's been at his new job for a few weeks now and him and the boys have settled into a nice routine. Helps that they don't get up until 7:30am, S goes to school at 11:50 and doesn't return until 3:30pm, and since S doesn't get a nap he's in bed between 7:30pm-8pm. He really does have it easy. However, since Keith can't start school until this spring he's trying to get a job working the evening shift so we can save some money.
There's an added benefit to all of this - with Stephen's current diagnoises of ADHD and ODD the boy could use some one-on-one and Keith is able to provide that as well as a schedule each day. I love coming home to happy kids, a clean house, and laundry that just needs to be put away. ;)
Thursday, August 31, 2006
Return of Snot Monster and Mr Pissy
For the last month or so we've had 100 degree weather everyday (give or take a few degrees). However, last weekend it started to cool down into the 80's which was heaven......until, Tyler started to have green snot running out his nose on Tuesday night. Of course that night he slept like shit and was up 5 or 6 times.....I lost count after a while. Last night was okay, up only twice but the second time was at 5am and he decided he was up for the day. Great - not only did I not get to work on time my ass is draggin even more.
However, it was nice this morning to introduce Tyler to the classic cartoons of Tom & Jerry while we grabed handfulls of Yogurt Cheerio's out of the box to munch on. He loved both, and after a while refused to let me get his Cheerio's out - he had to do that himself.
Oh well - Left Snot Monster doped up on PediaCare and Ibuprofen with Daddy this morning. Hope he gets a nap in before Mr Pissy makes an appearance - otherwise Daddy will be Mr Pissy tonight when I get home.
However, it was nice this morning to introduce Tyler to the classic cartoons of Tom & Jerry while we grabed handfulls of Yogurt Cheerio's out of the box to munch on. He loved both, and after a while refused to let me get his Cheerio's out - he had to do that himself.
Oh well - Left Snot Monster doped up on PediaCare and Ibuprofen with Daddy this morning. Hope he gets a nap in before Mr Pissy makes an appearance - otherwise Daddy will be Mr Pissy tonight when I get home.
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Hey Y'all we got o'selves Hitched
Well, we finally took the plunge. Keith and I did the courthouse weddin' yesterday afternoon (August 29, 2006) followed by a cheap honeymoon at Buffalo Bob's BBQ and then to our house. Took S and T with us, unfortunately we couldn't find a day during the week that we'd have R. Believe it or not the ceremony just didn't feel complete without him there.
Haven't told my parental units yet. Not that I'm ashamed, just curious how long it'll take for someone at the courthouse who knows my dad to get the word out to them. I know I'm horrible and will probably spill the beans here shortly, but in all honesty the offical marriage was just a formality.
On a side note I'd like to do something a little more fancy in about 5 yrs or so - that way all 3 boys will be old enough to understand and take part.
Oh, and if anyone cares I'll be keeping my last name. It's just toooooo much of a hassel to change it all and all of Stephen's teachers, doctor's etc already think Keith and I are married and know we have different last names.
Haven't told my parental units yet. Not that I'm ashamed, just curious how long it'll take for someone at the courthouse who knows my dad to get the word out to them. I know I'm horrible and will probably spill the beans here shortly, but in all honesty the offical marriage was just a formality.
On a side note I'd like to do something a little more fancy in about 5 yrs or so - that way all 3 boys will be old enough to understand and take part.
Oh, and if anyone cares I'll be keeping my last name. It's just toooooo much of a hassel to change it all and all of Stephen's teachers, doctor's etc already think Keith and I are married and know we have different last names.
Per my teenager....er 5 yo I'm a DumbAss
Yup - walking out of Price Chopper (grocery store) I asked Stephen some innocent looking question, and his response was "Mom, don't be such a dumbass". I went through shock, then anger, then denial, then amusment, and finaly guilt. Guilt - yes, I'm famous for calling people a dumbass while in the car and of course I forget that the little sponges are in the back. The ironic thing is that the boy knows his mother pretty well 'cause she is a dumbass for saying that word in front of him.
At least he hasn't dropped the F-Bomb.....however, he'll probably do that around his father. :)
At least he hasn't dropped the F-Bomb.....however, he'll probably do that around his father. :)
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Accidental Exposure - Incident #1
Well - now that Stephen is on a Tree Nut free diet I've made sure that everyone knows about his allergy, has tried the practice EpiPen at least once, has read the instructions on what to do, knows how to read a label, and know where his meds are.
Apparently that wasn't enough. Stephen was over at Gma Sue's today playing with his cousin Hailey. Poppie (my dad) was doing the good Gpa thing and took the kids with him when he went to go get coffee. Of course S and H just had to have a snack. And of course they picked out a brownie. And of course mom reads the package after he had ingested it once back at the farm. And of course the damn brownie not only had Tree Nuts - but WALNUTS in them.
Mom calls me in a slight panic. Told her 4 tsp of Zyrtec immediately and to watch for vomitting or breathing issues. She called an hour later and told me no reaction so far, but I did warn her that he may end up with diarreha. Good thing I sent an extra set of clothes.
Well - we all seemed to survive accidental exposure incident #1, but I really don't want to go through that again. However, it is nice to know that I can remain calm under pressure.
Oh, and Poppie got another quick lesson on learning to read labels, and Stephen was reminded that he needs to always ask if something has nuts in them.
Apparently that wasn't enough. Stephen was over at Gma Sue's today playing with his cousin Hailey. Poppie (my dad) was doing the good Gpa thing and took the kids with him when he went to go get coffee. Of course S and H just had to have a snack. And of course they picked out a brownie. And of course mom reads the package after he had ingested it once back at the farm. And of course the damn brownie not only had Tree Nuts - but WALNUTS in them.
Mom calls me in a slight panic. Told her 4 tsp of Zyrtec immediately and to watch for vomitting or breathing issues. She called an hour later and told me no reaction so far, but I did warn her that he may end up with diarreha. Good thing I sent an extra set of clothes.
Well - we all seemed to survive accidental exposure incident #1, but I really don't want to go through that again. However, it is nice to know that I can remain calm under pressure.
Oh, and Poppie got another quick lesson on learning to read labels, and Stephen was reminded that he needs to always ask if something has nuts in them.
Friday, August 25, 2006
Moo Moo & Woof Woof
Tyler - the cutest toddler currently on the face of Earth has entered into what I like to call the Parot stage of development. Within the last two weeks Tyler has picked-up on the following:
1. Woof Woof
2. Moo Moo
3. How to bang his head up and down - to music even
4. How to furrow his brow
5. How to take his shirt off (if at least one arm is already out)
6. Car noises - while driving them around
Never mind the fact that we've been working with him for over 4 mos to say the ellusive "Mama" and/or "Dada". Guess we should be grateful that he hasn't decided to just blurt out "Oh SHIT!"
1. Woof Woof
2. Moo Moo
3. How to bang his head up and down - to music even
4. How to furrow his brow
5. How to take his shirt off (if at least one arm is already out)
6. Car noises - while driving them around
Never mind the fact that we've been working with him for over 4 mos to say the ellusive "Mama" and/or "Dada". Guess we should be grateful that he hasn't decided to just blurt out "Oh SHIT!"
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