updates
make sure you check out the new poll for this month and my new Blake's list.... it's his schedule this time around
The end of another month
Hard to believe yet another month has past! I'm so glad to see that more activity is taking place on my blog... too bad Google disabled my account (yeah without telling me about it or any explanation or anything... grrrr!). Anyway... Thank you to everyone who now visits my blog to check in on the adventures of Mommyhood!
I've enjoyed visiting many of your blogs, and if I don't have you in my blog list, please let me know so I can add you and visit your blog too.
I've made some changes to the format of my blog and hope it has made for easier reading. If you have any comments on the set up, please feel free to post them. I'm always looking to make it easier to read and decent looking too.
I'll try to get a new poll up soon... I just added the new pics of Blake so I'll wait a bit before changing that out. I don't have a new picture of me (those are very rare! especially while I'm pregnant.... who wants to see a preggo lady anyway?) so that will have to remain as is!
I think I'm going to try to post my random thoughts on Saturdays and a scrapbook page on Sundays. I'm also trying to save up my "tagged" lists for Mondays, but I'll post a regular Blake post then too.
Well.... hope everyone had a great February and will have an even better March! If you have any comments or suggestions feel free to make them... I'm always willing to listen to them
I've enjoyed visiting many of your blogs, and if I don't have you in my blog list, please let me know so I can add you and visit your blog too.
I've made some changes to the format of my blog and hope it has made for easier reading. If you have any comments on the set up, please feel free to post them. I'm always looking to make it easier to read and decent looking too.
I'll try to get a new poll up soon... I just added the new pics of Blake so I'll wait a bit before changing that out. I don't have a new picture of me (those are very rare! especially while I'm pregnant.... who wants to see a preggo lady anyway?) so that will have to remain as is!
I think I'm going to try to post my random thoughts on Saturdays and a scrapbook page on Sundays. I'm also trying to save up my "tagged" lists for Mondays, but I'll post a regular Blake post then too.
Well.... hope everyone had a great February and will have an even better March! If you have any comments or suggestions feel free to make them... I'm always willing to listen to them
Reading on my own
As a kindergarten teacher, I struggled to give some children the confidence that they could read on his/her own. I told them from day one that they "CAN" read and write. They read and write like kindergarteners which may or may not be the same as adults. Once they understood this then they were more willing to try to sound out words to read and write. They realized that the importance of reading by telling the story from the pictures. Then when they began to recognize some of the words and understood how to sound out others they really viewed themselves on the path to reading as adults.
As I have mentioned in the past, Blake lovessss books. I finally caught him reading on his own. This was not the best example of it, as the best ones are always when he doesn't know I'm there andddd often don't have a camera nearby. Also, the quality is ok, butttttt .... I wanted you to see that even a 15 month old can "read"!
As I have mentioned in the past, Blake lovessss books. I finally caught him reading on his own. This was not the best example of it, as the best ones are always when he doesn't know I'm there andddd often don't have a camera nearby. Also, the quality is ok, butttttt .... I wanted you to see that even a 15 month old can "read"!
These are a few of my favorite things...
a list as Blake would write it!
(not necessarily in this order)
1. Reading books (he loves to have them read to him, and read them on his own too!)
2. Play with my train (it plays music and moves on its own... a big hit!)
3. Play with my trucks / cars
4. Knock down the buildings mommy and daddy build
5. Dump everything out of the cupboards
6. Play with the brooms on the porch
7. RUNNNNN
8. Take Abby for a walk
9. Climb the stairs
10. Climb anything and everything
11. Watch tv when I'm tired
12. Take a bath
13. Flush the toilet
14. Play outside
15. Spend time with my family
What is your little one's favorite things to do??
(not necessarily in this order)
1. Reading books (he loves to have them read to him, and read them on his own too!)
2. Play with my train (it plays music and moves on its own... a big hit!)
3. Play with my trucks / cars
4. Knock down the buildings mommy and daddy build
5. Dump everything out of the cupboards
6. Play with the brooms on the porch
7. RUNNNNN
8. Take Abby for a walk
9. Climb the stairs
10. Climb anything and everything
11. Watch tv when I'm tired
12. Take a bath
13. Flush the toilet
14. Play outside
15. Spend time with my family
What is your little one's favorite things to do??
Compliments!
As a teacher, the best thing you could hear was how well behaved your class was during a given situation. I loved to hear people compliment my class about their behavior in the halls, cafeteria, assemblies etc. But I always thought the best was to get compliments from substitute teachers. Those who see and hear it all... those who are in the thick of it.
This past weekend we had an out of town guest staying with us. She couldn't say enough about how well behaved Blake was and how cute it is to watch him read and play. She was surprised at how social he was and the fact that he was very caring at such a young age.
Yesterday, my sister-in-law came over to watch Blake so we could go out to dinner. She had spent the morning watching another child who is a few months older than Blake. She was shocked at how well he did and listened. Also how I could tell her what he would need and when for the most part. We only left him for about an hour (I wanted to be home for bedtime).
It brought about a lot of pride to hear others praise Blake. I'm pretty proud of my little guy, but it is nice to have others recognize it too!
This past weekend we had an out of town guest staying with us. She couldn't say enough about how well behaved Blake was and how cute it is to watch him read and play. She was surprised at how social he was and the fact that he was very caring at such a young age.
Yesterday, my sister-in-law came over to watch Blake so we could go out to dinner. She had spent the morning watching another child who is a few months older than Blake. She was shocked at how well he did and listened. Also how I could tell her what he would need and when for the most part. We only left him for about an hour (I wanted to be home for bedtime).
It brought about a lot of pride to hear others praise Blake. I'm pretty proud of my little guy, but it is nice to have others recognize it too!
Looking at the world in a different way
As a teacher, when children climb and stand on things in the classroom you tell them to get down because it isn't safe. There is that fear of "Oh noooo he/she is going to fall, then I have to hear it from the parents etc., etc., etc...." You know a big part of your job is to keep the children safe and make sure they aren't hurt.
As a parent of a toddler, you see them climbing and the first thing you do is grab your camera and record this next step in the growing process. Ok, yes I don't want him to fall and get hurt, but at the same time I'm not really worried that he will. Now I do not encourage him climbing up on things that are not made for climbing, but know that it is all part of the learning process. I do find myself having to ask him to sit down a lot after he has climbed up, but the climbing doesn't bother me.
When Blake was learning to walk I took the position of... yep he's going to fall. Yes, he is going to be ok. Richard and I decided early on that the best way to deal with him falling was to tell him he was ok, give him a hug if needed and send him on his way. People are always in shock when he falls, gets up and goes on. If he does cry, all he needs is a little bit of comfort and he's on his way again.
I guess in some aspects it's the same for climbing. I would rather him try and get hurt than be afraid to try at all!
A non-Blake scrap page
Ok... here is another one of my scrapbook pages:
It is a page made of our dog Abby. Abby is a 7 year old Shiba Inu... yes she looks like a fox! (I've included a full color picture of her too since I entered that page into a b/w challenge
It is a page made of our dog Abby. Abby is a 7 year old Shiba Inu... yes she looks like a fox! (I've included a full color picture of her too since I entered that page into a b/w challenge
Random weekend thoughts
I have decided to make this a Saturday thing on my board... we will see if it stays that way, but for now...
Here are my random thoughts for today:
1. Sleeping through the night is a wonderful gift of childhood!
2. Nap time should last throughout your life.
3. The laughter of a child can brighten anyone's day
4. There is nothing sexier than watching a father play with his child
5. I love my snoogle (body pillow) I doubt I'd make it through my pregnancies without it
6. Feeling a baby move inside you is the greatest feeling of all
Here are my random thoughts for today:
1. Sleeping through the night is a wonderful gift of childhood!
2. Nap time should last throughout your life.
3. The laughter of a child can brighten anyone's day
4. There is nothing sexier than watching a father play with his child
5. I love my snoogle (body pillow) I doubt I'd make it through my pregnancies without it
6. Feeling a baby move inside you is the greatest feeling of all
Time to use those ignoring skills
One thing I learned as a kindergarten teacher is the best way to eliminate annoying behaviors is to ignore the child while he/she is doing the behavior you don't like. Let me start off by saying.... yes I know that this does NOT work with all children and all behaviors. And, no I never ignore things that are dangerous or destructive. That being said... 9 out of 10 times when a child is acting up they are trying very hard to get attention, all be it negative attention, but still attention.
Well, I'm not sure if the terrible twos are kicking in early, if Blake is just testing the limits, or testing my patience, buttttt yesterday I got to play ignore Blake. With Blake it is typically little things like, I want to go into the living room and he doesn't so he pitches a fit. So what does Mommy do? Picks him up, puts him in the living room and lets him continue the fit there as Mommy walks away. To some this may sound mean, but trust me.... it works! Even at this age his tantrums are very short when I walk away.
All I can say is I hope he gets this done and over with before baby #2 comes or it could get interesting!
Anyone else use ignoring as a major deterrent to tantrums??
Well, I'm not sure if the terrible twos are kicking in early, if Blake is just testing the limits, or testing my patience, buttttt yesterday I got to play ignore Blake. With Blake it is typically little things like, I want to go into the living room and he doesn't so he pitches a fit. So what does Mommy do? Picks him up, puts him in the living room and lets him continue the fit there as Mommy walks away. To some this may sound mean, but trust me.... it works! Even at this age his tantrums are very short when I walk away.
All I can say is I hope he gets this done and over with before baby #2 comes or it could get interesting!
Anyone else use ignoring as a major deterrent to tantrums??
Got to love the laugh
Last night Blake was playing with his blocks (oh he was dumping them all over the place, but still). Richard sat down on the floor and began building with him. This got Blake very excited... ooohh my favorite game.... you build and I knock it down.
Every time Richard got 4 or 5 blocks stacked Blake would knock them down. So Richard began saying "Awwww". Well this sent Blake into hysterics! He was laughing so hard he had tears running down his cheeks and actually gave himself the hiccups.
You have to love those moments when you sit there and watch the learning process, and see their little brains working. And when they are laughing... can you help but laugh too??
Speaking of blocks and Blake... that was another one of those milestones that the doctor asked about... can he stack blocks. Ummmm I don't know he's never tried (as I stated above he'd rather knock them down). So today I sat down with him and hand over hand stacked a few (Blake HATESSSS it when you "help" him do something). So what does he do... picks up 2 at a time stacks the blocks 4 or 5 high, knocks it down and walks away. Turns and looks at me as if to say... happy now?
Every time Richard got 4 or 5 blocks stacked Blake would knock them down. So Richard began saying "Awwww". Well this sent Blake into hysterics! He was laughing so hard he had tears running down his cheeks and actually gave himself the hiccups.
You have to love those moments when you sit there and watch the learning process, and see their little brains working. And when they are laughing... can you help but laugh too??
Speaking of blocks and Blake... that was another one of those milestones that the doctor asked about... can he stack blocks. Ummmm I don't know he's never tried (as I stated above he'd rather knock them down). So today I sat down with him and hand over hand stacked a few (Blake HATESSSS it when you "help" him do something). So what does he do... picks up 2 at a time stacks the blocks 4 or 5 high, knocks it down and walks away. Turns and looks at me as if to say... happy now?
Oh the fun....
As a kindergarten teacher I was always shocked at the children who came to school not knowing their colors, numbers, some letters, how to write and read their name etc... Often, when you mention to these parents that they may want to work on it at home they look at you like you are crazy... me work with my child... why? Then you get the kids who already know how to read. And the parents look at you like... so when are you going to teach my child to do a full research paper and write in cursive.
As a teacher, you always had to find the middle ground. Time to work with each child at the level that he/she is at and push them to the next level. Well.....
Do you ever notice that you are going on thinking things are swimmy and then you go to the doctors and they ask you the standard can your child do _____ questions and you think... well probably could if I knew they needed to do that!
I had that feeling at Blake's last doctors appointment with a few skills... one being feeding himself with a spoon. Now, he has been using a spoon for months on end, but I always put the food on the spoon. Plus, he prefers to use either his fingers or a fork if the food is something that can be picked up easily (not yogurt and things like that).
Well.... I decided to test out my theory that he could probably do it on his own if I let him... and yeppers he can... and I have pictures to prove it!
As a teacher, you always had to find the middle ground. Time to work with each child at the level that he/she is at and push them to the next level. Well.....
Do you ever notice that you are going on thinking things are swimmy and then you go to the doctors and they ask you the standard can your child do _____ questions and you think... well probably could if I knew they needed to do that!
I had that feeling at Blake's last doctors appointment with a few skills... one being feeding himself with a spoon. Now, he has been using a spoon for months on end, but I always put the food on the spoon. Plus, he prefers to use either his fingers or a fork if the food is something that can be picked up easily (not yogurt and things like that).
Well.... I decided to test out my theory that he could probably do it on his own if I let him... and yeppers he can... and I have pictures to prove it!
Tagged
I was tagged by The Thirty Minute Mommy (I'll do it now because if I don't I'll forget!)
7 things about me:
1. I got married for the first time in my 30s to a man 4 years younger than me who surprising in this day and age was also getting married for the first time.
2. We were married 1 year, 1 month and 2 days after our first date
3. We were married in the lobby of a hotel that is in a mall... so I got married at the mall
4. I got my Master's degree in 1 year while working 3 jobs (crazy I know)
5. I've lived and taught kindergarten in three different states (MA, NY, FL)
6. I won't try any new foods that look or smell funky to me... doesn't matter how good you tell me they are!
7. I started counting backwards after my 30th birthday so now I'm younger than my husband (o: (that's ok most people think I am anyway since I look young to begin with)
I'm going to tag Amy W and Laskigal
7 things about me:
1. I got married for the first time in my 30s to a man 4 years younger than me who surprising in this day and age was also getting married for the first time.
2. We were married 1 year, 1 month and 2 days after our first date
3. We were married in the lobby of a hotel that is in a mall... so I got married at the mall
4. I got my Master's degree in 1 year while working 3 jobs (crazy I know)
5. I've lived and taught kindergarten in three different states (MA, NY, FL)
6. I won't try any new foods that look or smell funky to me... doesn't matter how good you tell me they are!
7. I started counting backwards after my 30th birthday so now I'm younger than my husband (o: (that's ok most people think I am anyway since I look young to begin with)
I'm going to tag Amy W and Laskigal
I don't want to sit anymore
Oh why can't I learn??????
After teaching kindergarten and arguing over and over that children can not sit for extended periods of time, you'd think that I'd know this about my own child who is only 15 months not 5 years old! When I taught I was always fighting over going out to recess, allowing my children to have choice (playtime) in the classroom, as well as the fact that my schedule was a mix of sitting and movement activities. As a teacher, I knew that children needed to get up and move around and was willing to argue with anyone who disagreed with me!
Now, for the most part I do totally understand this with Blake. I have on occasion refused to go and do things with him because I knew he would be expected to stay still for farrrr too long. But, then I do things like yesterday!
Yesterday we decided to meet up with my parents and go to Babies R Us. We needed more handle locks and wanted to look at double strollers, monitors, another crib mattress and more. So we waited until after Blake's afternoon nap (which wasn't a good nap to begin with) gave him his snack and then loaded him into the car.
When Blake is in a store, if the carriage is moving he is fine, if you stop he thinks it is time to get out. But, if you take him out forget getting him back in. We did take him out to see how he fit and liked the new strollers we were looking at. Then, my parents walked around with him for a bit so Richard and I could play with the strollers to see which one functioned the way we wanted.
Well... by the time we were done shopping, Blake was more than done shopping!
Oh, but then I say... lets go to dinner. Now we went to a buffet salad place (which we have taken Blake to before). But.... that was not a great experience. First it was on the early side so I'm not sure he was really hungry. Second he did NOT want to sit anymore.
Oh well, everyone got a bit of exercise with their dinner, and I got a reminder that Blake only sits for one activity and then he wants to RUN!!
After teaching kindergarten and arguing over and over that children can not sit for extended periods of time, you'd think that I'd know this about my own child who is only 15 months not 5 years old! When I taught I was always fighting over going out to recess, allowing my children to have choice (playtime) in the classroom, as well as the fact that my schedule was a mix of sitting and movement activities. As a teacher, I knew that children needed to get up and move around and was willing to argue with anyone who disagreed with me!
Now, for the most part I do totally understand this with Blake. I have on occasion refused to go and do things with him because I knew he would be expected to stay still for farrrr too long. But, then I do things like yesterday!
Yesterday we decided to meet up with my parents and go to Babies R Us. We needed more handle locks and wanted to look at double strollers, monitors, another crib mattress and more. So we waited until after Blake's afternoon nap (which wasn't a good nap to begin with) gave him his snack and then loaded him into the car.
When Blake is in a store, if the carriage is moving he is fine, if you stop he thinks it is time to get out. But, if you take him out forget getting him back in. We did take him out to see how he fit and liked the new strollers we were looking at. Then, my parents walked around with him for a bit so Richard and I could play with the strollers to see which one functioned the way we wanted.
Well... by the time we were done shopping, Blake was more than done shopping!
Oh, but then I say... lets go to dinner. Now we went to a buffet salad place (which we have taken Blake to before). But.... that was not a great experience. First it was on the early side so I'm not sure he was really hungry. Second he did NOT want to sit anymore.
Oh well, everyone got a bit of exercise with their dinner, and I got a reminder that Blake only sits for one activity and then he wants to RUN!!
random weekend thoughts
1. Time away is good... and the hug you get when you come home makes it even more worth it
2. The love of a toddler is shown in so many ways even if they are sometimes covered in dirt
3. Living in Florida has so many bonuses... as long as we live here I'll never have to dress Blake in a snowsuit (o:
4. It is sad that Mommies get all excited over the little changes... even if the changes are in the form of poop
5. When your husband loves and supports you and lets you get out of the house for no reason... it's all worth it!
6. Nap time is a great thing... now if we could just keep it up for say the next 10 years or so I'll bet set
2. The love of a toddler is shown in so many ways even if they are sometimes covered in dirt
3. Living in Florida has so many bonuses... as long as we live here I'll never have to dress Blake in a snowsuit (o:
4. It is sad that Mommies get all excited over the little changes... even if the changes are in the form of poop
5. When your husband loves and supports you and lets you get out of the house for no reason... it's all worth it!
6. Nap time is a great thing... now if we could just keep it up for say the next 10 years or so I'll bet set
Speech development
As a kindergarten teacher, you learn a lot about speech development. It is frustrating at that age to have speech delays that are considered developmentally appropriate. The /th/ sounds are not typically mastered until age 8... but it's hard to explain that to a parent who is worried because their child says "tink" instead of "think".
Being on the other end of the spectrum I find it interesting that doctors do not explain this to parents right in the beginning of children's speech development. Children are not expected to "master" any sounds until typically 3 years of age. Also many common speech "errors" are not real errors at all in a 1 or 2 year old, but just typical developmental stepping stones.
At this time, Blake says about 20 words, but many of the words he says he drops the beginning sounds ("ilk" for milk). This makes it hard for some to understand what he is saying as "real words". The big thing parents need to understand (and should be stressed by doctors in my opinion) is at the this age children are beginning to learn that words are used for communication, and if you can understand what your child is trying to tell you and uses the word correctly... then it is a mastered word.
Speech development, like all other development at this age, happens when the child is ready. Parents need to watch out for falling into the "Oh no my child isn't doing it as fast as that child" trap. I feel that if pediatricians helped parents gain a better understanding of speech development then parents would have less to panic about in this area!
Interesting article on speech development if you are interested in the typical ages and stages of articulation development: http://members.tripod.com/Caroline_Bowen/acquisition.html
here's a list of Blake's more common words / phrases:
Momma (and many forms of that)
Daddy (and other forms of that)
Abbu (for Abby)
ilk (milk)
ook (book)
alk (walk)
up
ight (light)
nack (snack)
hi
oggies (doggies)
yummmm
mmmmmm
uck (truck or duck depending on the situation)
hey!
ake (Blake)
ank you (thank you)
all one (all done)
ead (read)
ead it (read it)
I did it
do it
ookie (cookie)
ove oo (love you)
off
Being on the other end of the spectrum I find it interesting that doctors do not explain this to parents right in the beginning of children's speech development. Children are not expected to "master" any sounds until typically 3 years of age. Also many common speech "errors" are not real errors at all in a 1 or 2 year old, but just typical developmental stepping stones.
At this time, Blake says about 20 words, but many of the words he says he drops the beginning sounds ("ilk" for milk). This makes it hard for some to understand what he is saying as "real words". The big thing parents need to understand (and should be stressed by doctors in my opinion) is at the this age children are beginning to learn that words are used for communication, and if you can understand what your child is trying to tell you and uses the word correctly... then it is a mastered word.
Speech development, like all other development at this age, happens when the child is ready. Parents need to watch out for falling into the "Oh no my child isn't doing it as fast as that child" trap. I feel that if pediatricians helped parents gain a better understanding of speech development then parents would have less to panic about in this area!
Interesting article on speech development if you are interested in the typical ages and stages of articulation development: http://members.tripod.com/Caroline_Bowen/acquisition.html
here's a list of Blake's more common words / phrases:
Momma (and many forms of that)
Daddy (and other forms of that)
Abbu (for Abby)
ilk (milk)
ook (book)
alk (walk)
up
ight (light)
nack (snack)
hi
oggies (doggies)
yummmm
mmmmmm
uck (truck or duck depending on the situation)
hey!
ake (Blake)
ank you (thank you)
all one (all done)
ead (read)
ead it (read it)
I did it
do it
ookie (cookie)
ove oo (love you)
off
What a difference a year makes!
Here are four pictures of Blake... 2 from Feb 14th, 2007 and 2 from Feb. 14th, 2008... Just a slight difference!
Have a great Valentine's Day!!
Have a great Valentine's Day!!
The little things
It's funny how the little things make me laugh. Before Blake goes down for a nap, he likes to watch tv... sort of a chill out time. Today I was finishing up the laundry (does it ever end?), and the laundry basket was sitting on the floor in the living room. Well,... this was a prime opportunity to sit in it and watch tv. 
Quick update
Well.. this week is busy for us. I had a dr.'s appt today... everything is going well with our new little boy! Now if we could only find a name! Want to vote on our choices? Go to http://www.babyzone.com/babynames/bnpoll.asp?pollid=114794 and vote on your favorite!
Tomorrow Blake has a Dr's appt in the afternoon... more shots... YUCK! Hopefully the dr. will have an answer to his new rash. Sensitive skin on a toddler is no fun!
Thursday I have my big ultra sound! YAY!
I'll try to have a real post tomorrow. But, Blake is in the process of giving up his morning nap. The problem is he is still not used to having a longer afternoon nap soooo there are some days that we don't sleep enough! Makes the late afternoons VERYYYYY long.
Tomorrow Blake has a Dr's appt in the afternoon... more shots... YUCK! Hopefully the dr. will have an answer to his new rash. Sensitive skin on a toddler is no fun!
Thursday I have my big ultra sound! YAY!
I'll try to have a real post tomorrow. But, Blake is in the process of giving up his morning nap. The problem is he is still not used to having a longer afternoon nap soooo there are some days that we don't sleep enough! Makes the late afternoons VERYYYYY long.
Sharing
When I taught kindergarten I was often shocked to see that at that stage there were some children who did NOT want to share. I had some things that each child has as his/her own (journals, cubbies, work folders etc..) but a lot they had to share. In the middle of each table was a work basket with supplies and of course they had to share all the toys in the room. But, there was still always one or two who decided this ___ is mine and no one else can use it... ummm NO!
Well, Blake has started to develop an understanding of sharing. We play with trucks a lot and share one truck and push it back and forth (or do the same with a ball). But in the last week or so, he has begun to go get one toy for him and one toy for me. He will also often try to share his snacks, drinks, whatever else with me too. It is nice to see that he is developing this skill on his own!
Well, Blake has started to develop an understanding of sharing. We play with trucks a lot and share one truck and push it back and forth (or do the same with a ball). But in the last week or so, he has begun to go get one toy for him and one toy for me. He will also often try to share his snacks, drinks, whatever else with me too. It is nice to see that he is developing this skill on his own!
Going out to eat
Before you have kids, you see parents in a restaurant and think... man why can't they ____ (sit still, behave, listen to their parent, whatever). One thing I've learned with Blake is they just are not good at the wait time. As an adult you don't think about how much down time there is going to a restaurant. Think about it... you wait to get seated, then you wait to place your order, then you wait for the food to come, then you FINALLY eat, then you wait for the check... oh now you can leave. At home... you can play while the meal is being made, then sit down to eat, and often get up shortly after you are done.
Richard and I have come to the conclusion that until Blake and baby #2 are a bit older.... counter service is the way to go!
Richard and I have come to the conclusion that until Blake and baby #2 are a bit older.... counter service is the way to go!
Bottle the energy
When I was a teacher I used to joke that I wanted to bottle the children's energy level and sell it. I knew I'd make a profit! It seems like children can go and go and go.
Well... let me tell you Blake is always on the move. He still takes 2 naps a day and sleeps close to 12 hours at night (yes I know I'm lucky), but when he's going... he's going. Yesterday he wanted to play outside so we went out on the porch. He was just running around having a great time. Then he decided he needed a change of scenery so we went out into the grass. Even better time had here... what's better than running in the grass? I know going out front to walk up and down the sidewalk. We were probably outside for at least 30 min just walking around.
We then went in and had a drink and a snack. Then what did he want to do... go outside again. This time we went out front through the garage to wait for Daddy to come home. We were probably outside for another 20+ min. So from 4:15-5:45 we were outside walking around for all but maybe 20 min of that.
Oh well, I get my exercise and he gets to run off some energy which then helps him sleep better!
Well... let me tell you Blake is always on the move. He still takes 2 naps a day and sleeps close to 12 hours at night (yes I know I'm lucky), but when he's going... he's going. Yesterday he wanted to play outside so we went out on the porch. He was just running around having a great time. Then he decided he needed a change of scenery so we went out into the grass. Even better time had here... what's better than running in the grass? I know going out front to walk up and down the sidewalk. We were probably outside for at least 30 min just walking around.
We then went in and had a drink and a snack. Then what did he want to do... go outside again. This time we went out front through the garage to wait for Daddy to come home. We were probably outside for another 20+ min. So from 4:15-5:45 we were outside walking around for all but maybe 20 min of that.
Oh well, I get my exercise and he gets to run off some energy which then helps him sleep better!
Had to laugh today
As a teacher, one thing I tried to get the children in my class to realize is... reading is a great way to pass the time. When they finished their work early they were encourage to go to the books corner and read a book. In the beginning this was not something many liked to do, but as a few months went by they began to enjoy this time.
Blake has begun wanting to take books with him everywhere (on walks, in the car, outside etc...). He already has books in his bed that he reads before he falls asleep and often right after waking up too. Today we went to the grocery store. He found a book on the seat of the car while we were getting in, so he kept it with him while I drove.
I was driving along and began to hear him babble on, at first I was going to say something to him thinking he was talking to me. But, then I looked in the rear view mirror and realized he wasn't talking to me... he was reading to himself. I took a min to notice that he even stopped "reading" as he turned the page. This continued until we got to the store.
Richard and I are both avid readers and wanted very much to instill this in our children.... guess Blake is already on this path!
Blake has begun wanting to take books with him everywhere (on walks, in the car, outside etc...). He already has books in his bed that he reads before he falls asleep and often right after waking up too. Today we went to the grocery store. He found a book on the seat of the car while we were getting in, so he kept it with him while I drove.
I was driving along and began to hear him babble on, at first I was going to say something to him thinking he was talking to me. But, then I looked in the rear view mirror and realized he wasn't talking to me... he was reading to himself. I took a min to notice that he even stopped "reading" as he turned the page. This continued until we got to the store.
Richard and I are both avid readers and wanted very much to instill this in our children.... guess Blake is already on this path!
digital scrapbooking (yes I know off topic)
One thing that I have gotten into lately is digital scrap booking. I find it very easy and rewarding. You can check out lots of my pages at : http://www.scrapbookflair.com/blakesmommy
I am working on trying to scrap a few pages a month or more to remind him... ok me.... of the little joys in the life of a child.
Here are a few of my latest pages!
Mean Mommy
When I taught Kindergarten I was very firm on whining and screaming will NOT get you your way. I would let kids tantrum all they wanted (under my terms) but they quickly realized that it did not mean I would give in and let them do what they wanted to do. So, for the most part it stopped because they realized it wasn't getting the reaction they wanted and / or the results they wanted.
Well, being a mom of a strong willed, independent toddler... I've had to start this already with Blake. I have not given him a time-out yet, as I feel it would not be effective (I would if I needed a break more than he needed a time-out, but we haven't got there yet). I do not give in to him, and usually walk away and do something else if he starts screaming or such.
Today we went for a walk around the block, as we do every morning. Part way around he banged himself in the head with the toy he was play with in the carriage. I stopped an picked him up (stupid me!). When he calmed down I put him back in, but he did NOT want that. This I should have thought of ahead of time... once he's out he does not go back in willingly. So that meant for the next oh 20 houses or so Blake was screaming. I kept telling him that he was fine and needed to calm down. I knew all he wanted was to be carried, but I can not carry him, push the carriage and walk Abby all at the same time... sorry not going to happen!
Oh well, he finally settled down, and I was glad that I didn't give in and pick him up again. In the past when we've dealt with situations like this, the next time it happened he cried for a shorter time and then shorter and shorter. So yep, he's getting it, but it's still hard to watch your child scream in public and not give in. I am a mean mommy.... and proud of it!
Well, being a mom of a strong willed, independent toddler... I've had to start this already with Blake. I have not given him a time-out yet, as I feel it would not be effective (I would if I needed a break more than he needed a time-out, but we haven't got there yet). I do not give in to him, and usually walk away and do something else if he starts screaming or such.
Today we went for a walk around the block, as we do every morning. Part way around he banged himself in the head with the toy he was play with in the carriage. I stopped an picked him up (stupid me!). When he calmed down I put him back in, but he did NOT want that. This I should have thought of ahead of time... once he's out he does not go back in willingly. So that meant for the next oh 20 houses or so Blake was screaming. I kept telling him that he was fine and needed to calm down. I knew all he wanted was to be carried, but I can not carry him, push the carriage and walk Abby all at the same time... sorry not going to happen!
Oh well, he finally settled down, and I was glad that I didn't give in and pick him up again. In the past when we've dealt with situations like this, the next time it happened he cried for a shorter time and then shorter and shorter. So yep, he's getting it, but it's still hard to watch your child scream in public and not give in. I am a mean mommy.... and proud of it!
Change of scenery
When I taught I was always making sure that the children had a change of pace, a chance to get up and go and do something different. I also made sure that we got outside to play for at least 15 min each day. I know that children need that release of energy and boost of energy at the same time. I guess Blake is the same way. He needs to go and see and do different things. If not... he is nottttt a happy camper!
Blake does not like to be cooped up in the house all day (can you blame him?). Yesterday I was not feeling well so we didn't go for our morning walk. Let me tell you... by 4pm I think one of us was going to climb the walls. He tries to climb the gates, open the slider, open the garage door... anything to get out of the areas he is allowed in. We finally went out onto the porch for a bit. But, he wasn't content until his Daddy came home.
Richard took him outside and let him roam around the house while I got dinner done. This helped a lot... new things to see, new things to explore... what more can a boy ask for? Then after dinner we went for a walk around the block.
Today we are back into routine. But, I plan on going into the backyard after lunch to make sure he gets his outside time today!
Blake does not like to be cooped up in the house all day (can you blame him?). Yesterday I was not feeling well so we didn't go for our morning walk. Let me tell you... by 4pm I think one of us was going to climb the walls. He tries to climb the gates, open the slider, open the garage door... anything to get out of the areas he is allowed in. We finally went out onto the porch for a bit. But, he wasn't content until his Daddy came home.
Richard took him outside and let him roam around the house while I got dinner done. This helped a lot... new things to see, new things to explore... what more can a boy ask for? Then after dinner we went for a walk around the block.
Today we are back into routine. But, I plan on going into the backyard after lunch to make sure he gets his outside time today!
Update from the weekend
Well our night out was GREAT! We left early so we could hang out in the room and relax before dinner. Then we went to the Hard Rock Cafe and had dinner there. Let me tell you I don't know how people can afford to eat out often... man it was good but seeing the bill umm yeah it's a special treat for us!
Then we went to see Blue Man Group. That was rather cool... a very unique show. It is pretty interactive and they have a lot of audience participation. We had a lot of laughs which is always a good thing.
After that we walked around City Walk before getting on the boat to go back to our hotel. When we got there we went to the bar in the lobby and had drinks (ok I had a sprite, but still) and people watched for a bit.
It felt nice to sleep in, even though I didn't sleep very well during the night... I hate that the first night away I never sleep well and right now that is all we are willing to be away from Blake... oh well!
Blake did great for my mom ... which always helps!
I'll tell you the night away was much needed and much appreciated! We are very lucky to have my mom close by and know that we can leave Blake with her and he will be fine!
Then we went to see Blue Man Group. That was rather cool... a very unique show. It is pretty interactive and they have a lot of audience participation. We had a lot of laughs which is always a good thing.
After that we walked around City Walk before getting on the boat to go back to our hotel. When we got there we went to the bar in the lobby and had drinks (ok I had a sprite, but still) and people watched for a bit.
It felt nice to sleep in, even though I didn't sleep very well during the night... I hate that the first night away I never sleep well and right now that is all we are willing to be away from Blake... oh well!
Blake did great for my mom ... which always helps!
I'll tell you the night away was much needed and much appreciated! We are very lucky to have my mom close by and know that we can leave Blake with her and he will be fine!
Night out
I know a lot of mommies feel like they should not leave their little one's at this stage. Me, I think it is a necessary break... especially for stay-at-home mommies!
Richard and I are going to see Blue Man Group tonight and then are staying the night at Universal Studios. We haven't had a night alone since our anniversary back in July. It will be so nice to get out and just be a couple. Yes, I will miss Blake, but I know he is in totally capable hands (my mom's).
Each time I take time away from the house without Blake I come back a better Mommy. I have a more energy and enjoy the little things that much more. I think every mother needs to have that kind of break. Just a moment to step away and remember you are a person, friend, wife, individual... oh yeah and mommy too!
Richard and I are going to see Blue Man Group tonight and then are staying the night at Universal Studios. We haven't had a night alone since our anniversary back in July. It will be so nice to get out and just be a couple. Yes, I will miss Blake, but I know he is in totally capable hands (my mom's).
Each time I take time away from the house without Blake I come back a better Mommy. I have a more energy and enjoy the little things that much more. I think every mother needs to have that kind of break. Just a moment to step away and remember you are a person, friend, wife, individual... oh yeah and mommy too!
Television
When I was a teacher I did not use the tv or videos very much in my classroom. I figured that children had more than enough tv time at home. I also figured I would be a mother who did not use tv very much with my own children.... yeah well... then you become a mother!
Let me first clarify that I typically do not put the tv on to "entertain" Blake so I can get things done. When he was tiny I had it on as noise for me more than anything. For the most part he didn't even notice it was on... except when the weather was on. From about 1 month or so of age, Blake as been fascinated by the weather forecasts. He will stop everything he is doing when it comes on... I think this is too funny!
Now we watch tv for about a half and hour before each nap. He seems to need this cuddle time where he can sit with me (on my lap or next to me) and just relax and watch one of his favorite shows. We also put it on from about 4-5 while we wait for Daddy to come home. During this time he will watch it for a bit, then go play, then stop and watch, then play some more. I do try to work on dinner during this time, but it is usually putting things on the stove and/or in the oven. I try to prep everything during his nap time.
For the most part we watch Noggin, PBS, Disney or Nick Jr. But, we also like to watch Rachael Ray together (ok well I watch it and he plays with the tv on). He also watches the evening news and Jeopardy every night with Richard and I. How much more educational can you get than watching Jeopardy.
I realize that there are people out there who believe that children should not watch any tv at this age. I say.... That's your opinion. I limit what he watches and watch it with him. I also know that I'm not hurting him with the shows he does get to watch!
Let me first clarify that I typically do not put the tv on to "entertain" Blake so I can get things done. When he was tiny I had it on as noise for me more than anything. For the most part he didn't even notice it was on... except when the weather was on. From about 1 month or so of age, Blake as been fascinated by the weather forecasts. He will stop everything he is doing when it comes on... I think this is too funny!
Now we watch tv for about a half and hour before each nap. He seems to need this cuddle time where he can sit with me (on my lap or next to me) and just relax and watch one of his favorite shows. We also put it on from about 4-5 while we wait for Daddy to come home. During this time he will watch it for a bit, then go play, then stop and watch, then play some more. I do try to work on dinner during this time, but it is usually putting things on the stove and/or in the oven. I try to prep everything during his nap time.
For the most part we watch Noggin, PBS, Disney or Nick Jr. But, we also like to watch Rachael Ray together (ok well I watch it and he plays with the tv on). He also watches the evening news and Jeopardy every night with Richard and I. How much more educational can you get than watching Jeopardy.
I realize that there are people out there who believe that children should not watch any tv at this age. I say.... That's your opinion. I limit what he watches and watch it with him. I also know that I'm not hurting him with the shows he does get to watch!
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