So here's the deal. We aren't sending out Christmas/Hannukah/New Year's Eve cards this year. We're too tired.
Monkey is on tamiflu, Jellybean isn't but we're watching her, we haven't slept well in about 4 weeks because of burst eardrums and pinkeye and fevers and boogers and now, quite possibly, the swine flu. And in between we've had a lovely vist with Auntie G and celebrated Jellybean's first birthday and went out dancing (YES! like ADULTS) for M's work holiday party and.....yawn, we're tired. So, no cards.
It's not because we don't love you all. WE REALLY DO. I really wish I had captured that perfect moment when Monkey and Jellybean smiled and giggled together, put it with some pithy quote and then managed to write a personal note to each and everyone one of you. Because really, you all deserve that sort of personal attention. But no, no card.
It's not you, it's us.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Monday, December 14, 2009
Magic
This past week was a little rough, health-wise. After 10 days of the sniffles, Jellybean got two ear infections.
Not to be competitive or anything, but Monkey had to one-up her little sister and get an ear infection that ruptured her eardrum. OW!
Of course, we never knew that Monkey had an ear infection in the first place. We just attributed her general attitude to being an insane three year old!
Whoops.
Both girls got antibiotics, and Jellybean takes hers without complaint; to be honest, I thinks he kind of likes the flavor!
Monkey - not so much.
The first day she whined, whinged and threw a heckuva tantrum for at least 45 minutes, refusing to take the medicine. At one point I found myself threatening to hold her down and inject the medicine into her mouth with a syringe, the same way I give medicine to Jellybean - can you imagine how awful that would have been? Child protective services would have heard the screaming way out in New Jersey on that one, if it had come to pass.....
But then, in her trembling voice, Monkey complained that the medicine was white! (she's used to the purple tylenol and ibuprofin....)
Oh. OK then.
1 minute later I presented her with PURPLE medicine. She was impressed, and wanted to know how I did that!
MAGIC I said, palming the food coloring. Magic.
She took the medicine and declared it to be tasty, like lemonade.
Damn, I'm good sometimes.
Not to be competitive or anything, but Monkey had to one-up her little sister and get an ear infection that ruptured her eardrum. OW!
Of course, we never knew that Monkey had an ear infection in the first place. We just attributed her general attitude to being an insane three year old!
Whoops.
Both girls got antibiotics, and Jellybean takes hers without complaint; to be honest, I thinks he kind of likes the flavor!
Monkey - not so much.
The first day she whined, whinged and threw a heckuva tantrum for at least 45 minutes, refusing to take the medicine. At one point I found myself threatening to hold her down and inject the medicine into her mouth with a syringe, the same way I give medicine to Jellybean - can you imagine how awful that would have been? Child protective services would have heard the screaming way out in New Jersey on that one, if it had come to pass.....
But then, in her trembling voice, Monkey complained that the medicine was white! (she's used to the purple tylenol and ibuprofin....)
Oh. OK then.
1 minute later I presented her with PURPLE medicine. She was impressed, and wanted to know how I did that!
MAGIC I said, palming the food coloring. Magic.
She took the medicine and declared it to be tasty, like lemonade.
Damn, I'm good sometimes.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Overload of cuteness
I've talked about how Monkey has a best friend at school, a little boy she's known since they were 1 years old at school together.
This is the email I got from his mother (also MY friend, in the world of happy things that my kids have brought to my life):
"So I was talking to C last night before his bath. And first of all, in a near-lethal dose of cuteness, he says, “I love our family.” Mental note: remember this, remember this, remember this – when he’s 13, remember this.
So I say back, just because I like to invite criticism. “I love our family, too. And I know that it must be hard, sometimes, because you might want a brother or sister…”
Why do I do these things? But he came right back at me, delivering the final blow of adorableness and cherub-osity:
“But, Monkey is my sister!”
So there you have it. We are officially, um, related?
Welcome to the family! Which we love."
This is the email I got from his mother (also MY friend, in the world of happy things that my kids have brought to my life):
"So I was talking to C last night before his bath. And first of all, in a near-lethal dose of cuteness, he says, “I love our family.” Mental note: remember this, remember this, remember this – when he’s 13, remember this.
So I say back, just because I like to invite criticism. “I love our family, too. And I know that it must be hard, sometimes, because you might want a brother or sister…”
Why do I do these things? But he came right back at me, delivering the final blow of adorableness and cherub-osity:
“But, Monkey is my sister!”
So there you have it. We are officially, um, related?
Welcome to the family! Which we love."
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Rock Star
Last night we went to a rock concert. I kept telling M it was Kid Rock, but what I meant was KidRockers.
As usual, the music (while really fun!) was waaaaaay too loud, so Monkey requested that we retreat to the arts & crafts table (there were tables set up elsewhere, as the concert was part of the very child-friendly Winters Eve Festival in Lincoln Square last night).
But, before we left the concert, one of Monkey's friends made sure she got a necklace that sported a guitar pendant that lit up when pressed. Now, while most people might look at the necklace and be grateful the convulsion-inducing lights turn off eventually, Monkey and her friends thought it was THE BOMB.
In fact, as Luke handed Monkey her necklace he said "now you're a rock star, too!" as he swiveled his hips ala Elvis the Pelvis.
Monkey slept with the necklace, and wore it to school today. Cuz that's how she rolls. She's a rock star, y'all.
As usual, the music (while really fun!) was waaaaaay too loud, so Monkey requested that we retreat to the arts & crafts table (there were tables set up elsewhere, as the concert was part of the very child-friendly Winters Eve Festival in Lincoln Square last night).
But, before we left the concert, one of Monkey's friends made sure she got a necklace that sported a guitar pendant that lit up when pressed. Now, while most people might look at the necklace and be grateful the convulsion-inducing lights turn off eventually, Monkey and her friends thought it was THE BOMB.
In fact, as Luke handed Monkey her necklace he said "now you're a rock star, too!" as he swiveled his hips ala Elvis the Pelvis.
Monkey slept with the necklace, and wore it to school today. Cuz that's how she rolls. She's a rock star, y'all.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Best buds
M is traveling for work, and was gone over the weekend. To help fill the weekend and keep Monkey busy, I scheduled a playdate with Junebug, a friend of hers from school.
I'd say they look like they are having fun, wouldn't you?
I'd say they look like they are having fun, wouldn't you?
Sunday, November 29, 2009
AWWW
Tonight, Monkey was snuggled on the couch talking to Cousin H. Unprompted, she told H that she liked "two things most in the world."
"I like twirly dresses. And I like my mom."
Damn, that was awesome to eavesdrop on....
Later on, she told H that she loved her mommy AND daddy. (trust me, she's a wicked daddy's girl. I knew she'd clear things up sooner or later....)
(As M reads this, halfway around the world, his heart is pulling a grinch and is now ten times bigger....)
I love that kid.
"I like twirly dresses. And I like my mom."
Damn, that was awesome to eavesdrop on....
Later on, she told H that she loved her mommy AND daddy. (trust me, she's a wicked daddy's girl. I knew she'd clear things up sooner or later....)
(As M reads this, halfway around the world, his heart is pulling a grinch and is now ten times bigger....)
I love that kid.
Backseat Driver
So, we recently got a new car. New to us (it's a used car), and definitely newer than the 2001 Passat we've been driving. We loved the Passat, and got another one, but boy - the changes between the two were pretty amazing.
We don't have a key, for example. It's a strange fob thing that you shove into a slot in the dashboard and it starts the car. Lord help us if that thing runs out of its battery!
And, even though it is a used car, it's a heckuva lot newer than the old one and therefore, the clutch is very different.
So different, in fact, that I stalled the car twice the first time I drove it.
No problem, really, as we were on a side street. Only Monkey was in the car with me. The first time I restarted the car, she didn't really make too much of it.
The second time, however, she told me that she thought we needed a new car, as that one was "broken."
My cousin H likes to bring it up and tease me, reminding me that my driving so under-impressed my eldest daughter she thought I broke the car.
Keep it up H, keep it up. Smart aleck. Guess it really does run in the family......
We don't have a key, for example. It's a strange fob thing that you shove into a slot in the dashboard and it starts the car. Lord help us if that thing runs out of its battery!
And, even though it is a used car, it's a heckuva lot newer than the old one and therefore, the clutch is very different.
So different, in fact, that I stalled the car twice the first time I drove it.
No problem, really, as we were on a side street. Only Monkey was in the car with me. The first time I restarted the car, she didn't really make too much of it.
The second time, however, she told me that she thought we needed a new car, as that one was "broken."
My cousin H likes to bring it up and tease me, reminding me that my driving so under-impressed my eldest daughter she thought I broke the car.
Keep it up H, keep it up. Smart aleck. Guess it really does run in the family......
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
All I want for Christmas is my Two Front Teeth, my Two Front Teeth....
So. Can we talk about Jellybean’s tushie for a minute here? I know, I know, just WAAAY too much sharing going on here. But really – let’s talk.
For the past two or more weeks, this kid has been teething. Not “kind of” teething. Not teething “a little bit.” But HARDCORE teething that drives her so mad with itchiness and sore gums she’s repeatedly:
1) chewed on my collarbone (um, ow);
2) thrown her head back in the air and bared her gums as if airing them out would magically make the itchiness go away (imagine a lion roaring and you’re close to the image you should have – it would be impressive if it wasn’t so funny);
3) gnawed on her pacifier, her toys, her clothing, her fingers, the palm of her hand, my hair, my clothing, my fingers, the spoon……anything that can be shoved into her maw; and
4) wait for it………had constant awful teething diarrhea.
Yup, diarrhea. Ruin your clothing diarrhea. Make a mess on the crib-sheets diarrhea. Wake you up at night diarrhea. Wake mom and dad up at night diarrhea (ok, maybe just mom). And…..give you diaper rash so bad diarrhea that poor Jellybean is now on her SECOND kind of prescription butt-cream.
Ow.
For the record, she’s completely on the mend. And M and I won’t be traumatized (forever) by the image of the raw, open, skin on her bottom. (gah, just typing that makes me shudder. It was so bad that it made my physically ill to think about it, still does to be honest).
And now? Finally? SHE HAS A TOOTH! A chopper on the top!!
...............
..........................
......................................................oh wait. One.
Yeah, one.
Crap. How many more teeth does she have to go?
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Mighty Mouse
Jellybean is a dynamo. She's on the move, in a big way, ALLLLL the time.
I swear, she's the world's tiniest toddler.
She's 11.5 months old (where has the time gone?) and she weighs in at (at most) 17lbs.
9 month pants are too long for her.
When she stands by the tub, the edge is up to her armpits.
This kid is just plain-old small!
But in the last week, let me tell you what she's done:
She's gotten out of the straps of her highchair and stood up in it. (yes, my heart was in my stomach and no, she'll never be left alone again). I've written about this before, but man the kid is a houdini!
She's gotten one leg up over the edge of the bathtub and would have made it all the way in if I hadn't stopped her.
She's gotten up into her maclaren stroller and stood up in the seat.
She's scrambled up onto the couch and hoisted herself up onto the window edge.
Notice a pattern here?????
And her new thing? When she's walking past me, instead of going around she'll go under my legs. And if I don't move them apart fast enough she PUSHES me!
I mean, really pushes!
That's my mighty mouse! She's got a tall personality. Hee.
I swear, she's the world's tiniest toddler.
She's 11.5 months old (where has the time gone?) and she weighs in at (at most) 17lbs.
9 month pants are too long for her.
When she stands by the tub, the edge is up to her armpits.
This kid is just plain-old small!
But in the last week, let me tell you what she's done:
She's gotten out of the straps of her highchair and stood up in it. (yes, my heart was in my stomach and no, she'll never be left alone again). I've written about this before, but man the kid is a houdini!
She's gotten one leg up over the edge of the bathtub and would have made it all the way in if I hadn't stopped her.
She's gotten up into her maclaren stroller and stood up in the seat.
She's scrambled up onto the couch and hoisted herself up onto the window edge.
Notice a pattern here?????
And her new thing? When she's walking past me, instead of going around she'll go under my legs. And if I don't move them apart fast enough she PUSHES me!
I mean, really pushes!
That's my mighty mouse! She's got a tall personality. Hee.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Chicken soup has nothing on this...
I caught some bug and am still not up to speed. The vertigo is gone and I can function, but I'm exhausted. Which is why I'll take medicine in any form, including love and laughter.
Monkey has been supplying both to me - it's better than chicken soup for what ails me!
I wasn't able to bring to girls into school Friday morning, so M did the duty (thanks love, I needed your help) and dropped them off at school.
When I picked the girls up that afternoon, I felt better but still pretty wretched. Just wrung-out and beat-up. But I got to tell you, when I went into the gym to grab Monkey she FLEW across the room, running into my arms and asking "mommy, do you feel better now?" It was awesome. Just pure love.
Then, on the way home, we were walking a bit slower than usual and I declined Monkey's offer to run with her (as I was carrying Jellybean in the ergo, plus all their stuff and my purse - the normal sherpa-mommy routine). She asked why and I explained that I wasn't feeling great.
She wanted to know why. So, I told her that I'd caught a bug.
"Hmmm. Well, I've caught a bug, too!" she declared. I confess, I thought that this conversation was not going to end well.
But, then she turned to me and brightly chirped "my bug is a ladybug - what's yours?"
I about fell over laughing. Thanks kid, that was exactly what I needed.
Monkey has been supplying both to me - it's better than chicken soup for what ails me!
I wasn't able to bring to girls into school Friday morning, so M did the duty (thanks love, I needed your help) and dropped them off at school.
When I picked the girls up that afternoon, I felt better but still pretty wretched. Just wrung-out and beat-up. But I got to tell you, when I went into the gym to grab Monkey she FLEW across the room, running into my arms and asking "mommy, do you feel better now?" It was awesome. Just pure love.
Then, on the way home, we were walking a bit slower than usual and I declined Monkey's offer to run with her (as I was carrying Jellybean in the ergo, plus all their stuff and my purse - the normal sherpa-mommy routine). She asked why and I explained that I wasn't feeling great.
She wanted to know why. So, I told her that I'd caught a bug.
"Hmmm. Well, I've caught a bug, too!" she declared. I confess, I thought that this conversation was not going to end well.
But, then she turned to me and brightly chirped "my bug is a ladybug - what's yours?"
I about fell over laughing. Thanks kid, that was exactly what I needed.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
There's a bathroom on the right*
Monkey has been introduced to The Sound of Music, and she's in love.
"Is is a school night?" is the introductory question (since no TV or movies is allowed on a school night). As soon as she verifies that it isn't, she will ask to watch the "singing movie."
And, as we walk through the streets of the city on our commute to and from school, more often than not we're belting out "Doe a Deer" at the top of our lungs (to the amusement of most, the annoyance of some....).
The part that always makes me laugh is her mangled lyrics:
"Tea, a drink with jam and bread" has become "tea, a lick of garlic bread." It cracks me up every single time!
*sorry Creedence Clearwater Revival, but everyone gets your lyrics wrong!
"Is is a school night?" is the introductory question (since no TV or movies is allowed on a school night). As soon as she verifies that it isn't, she will ask to watch the "singing movie."
And, as we walk through the streets of the city on our commute to and from school, more often than not we're belting out "Doe a Deer" at the top of our lungs (to the amusement of most, the annoyance of some....).
The part that always makes me laugh is her mangled lyrics:
"Tea, a drink with jam and bread" has become "tea, a lick of garlic bread." It cracks me up every single time!
*sorry Creedence Clearwater Revival, but everyone gets your lyrics wrong!
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Here she is, the tiniest toddler in the world
She is a walking fiend! And her big sister couldn't be prouder!
Friday, November 13, 2009
Creative breakthrough
Monkey is a creative child. Her imagination knows no bounds, her dressing skills befits a teenager that scours the September issue of Vogue....but until recently, art hasn't been her thing.
Maybe because we haven't been doing much of it at home...or maybe, just maybe, because Monkey's a lot like both her mom and dad in that we tend to like to do the things we're good at (and not the things we aren't...). No surprises there.
But artwork (and penmanship) is something that is important, so school has really been encouraging Monkey to take chances and put pen to paper (so to speak).
Yesterday, she drew a self-portrait in charcoal, and then signed her name to it.
This is the single most amazing piece of artwork I have ever seen. And yes, I'm slightly proud of my girl.
See? MOMA watch out, Monkey's an artiste!
Maybe because we haven't been doing much of it at home...or maybe, just maybe, because Monkey's a lot like both her mom and dad in that we tend to like to do the things we're good at (and not the things we aren't...). No surprises there.
But artwork (and penmanship) is something that is important, so school has really been encouraging Monkey to take chances and put pen to paper (so to speak).
Yesterday, she drew a self-portrait in charcoal, and then signed her name to it.
This is the single most amazing piece of artwork I have ever seen. And yes, I'm slightly proud of my girl.
See? MOMA watch out, Monkey's an artiste!
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Road Runner
Jellybean's not thinking about jail breaks anymore - she's OUT! She's FAST!
SHE'S WALKING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Photos to come.
SHE'S WALKING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Photos to come.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Jailbreak
Jellybean is on the move.
She took 5 steps last weekend. In a row!
Pretty soon? She's going to make a break from jail.
(seriously, I snapped this photo through the door at her montessori school - that's her all in red. Doesn't it look like she's about to make a run for it? She and her fellow inmate are comparing plans, deciding who's going to distract the warden.....
And, on an unrelated note, I have come up with a new nickname for Jellybean:
She's now the "Mighty Mouse." I came up with this last night, in the middle of the night, when I was wrestling her out of a poopy pair of pjs. Man, is she STRONG!
She took 5 steps last weekend. In a row!
Pretty soon? She's going to make a break from jail.
(seriously, I snapped this photo through the door at her montessori school - that's her all in red. Doesn't it look like she's about to make a run for it? She and her fellow inmate are comparing plans, deciding who's going to distract the warden.....
And, on an unrelated note, I have come up with a new nickname for Jellybean:
She's now the "Mighty Mouse." I came up with this last night, in the middle of the night, when I was wrestling her out of a poopy pair of pjs. Man, is she STRONG!
When she's 13, I may regret raising such a confident child
So, clothing. Clothing has become the bane of my existence in the mornings.
Why you ask? Because it is taking, on average, 45 (FORTY-FIVE!!) minutes each morning to get Monkey dressed for school.
I think we're going to a new system - picking outfits out the night before. Maybe I'll even send her to bed in her outfit. Something's gotta give.
It just takes waaaaay too long in the morning, with debates and discussions about the socks, the shoes, the pants, the dress NO the shirt no not THAT shirt, the sweatshirt NO NO NO the coat NO WAIT the sweatshirt, the hairclip NO NO NO the headband no NOTHING at all...and it NEEDS to MATCH!!!
ARGH!!!!!!!
Guess that's to be expected from a kid that likes clothing, likes to match, and has a tremendous amount of confidence.
I may want to pull my hair out but I'm raising a confident daughter!
Something tells me I'll suffer a few twinges of regret when she's a headstrong teenager....
Why you ask? Because it is taking, on average, 45 (FORTY-FIVE!!) minutes each morning to get Monkey dressed for school.
I think we're going to a new system - picking outfits out the night before. Maybe I'll even send her to bed in her outfit. Something's gotta give.
It just takes waaaaay too long in the morning, with debates and discussions about the socks, the shoes, the pants, the dress NO the shirt no not THAT shirt, the sweatshirt NO NO NO the coat NO WAIT the sweatshirt, the hairclip NO NO NO the headband no NOTHING at all...and it NEEDS to MATCH!!!
ARGH!!!!!!!
Guess that's to be expected from a kid that likes clothing, likes to match, and has a tremendous amount of confidence.
I may want to pull my hair out but I'm raising a confident daughter!
Something tells me I'll suffer a few twinges of regret when she's a headstrong teenager....
Friday, October 30, 2009
Thursday, October 29, 2009
The rumors of our death have been greatly exaggerated
So, yes, we're all still here.
And still doing well, considering.......that in the last two weeks we've had:
4 colds
3 cases of pinkeye (sorry, Grandma!)
1 ear infection
1 (stomach, not swine) flu
1 "really bad throat" (likely strep)
............and a partridge in a pear tree. ha!
And still doing well, considering.......that in the last two weeks we've had:
4 colds
3 cases of pinkeye (sorry, Grandma!)
1 ear infection
1 (stomach, not swine) flu
1 "really bad throat" (likely strep)
............and a partridge in a pear tree. ha!
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Dance Party with Grandma!!!!!!!! WHOOHOOO
Grandma brought some serious bling when she came to visit us. Specifically, jelly rings that blink!
Perfect jewelry for a dance party! (that funny shiny thingy on my finger is a blinking ring....)
(can you tell there is a recent theme in our life? I think we may need to sign Monkey up for some dance classes soon.....else all she ever learns is the white man's overbite, and the lawn mower! ha)
Perfect jewelry for a dance party! (that funny shiny thingy on my finger is a blinking ring....)
(can you tell there is a recent theme in our life? I think we may need to sign Monkey up for some dance classes soon.....else all she ever learns is the white man's overbite, and the lawn mower! ha)
Party!
Last week I was out of town. Went to "school" (aka a national conference on planned giving - wheee!).
Grandma L came to town to help wrangle, and - lucky! - got to go to a party at Monkey's school.
Here's Monkey sitting with Junebug, listening to Junebug's daddy J read. Monkey is a big fan of J - maybe because he's usually the dad rolling around on the floor being silly!
Here is Monkey with her buddy C, always one of the best dressed girls in class.......hmmmm, I think her mommy must still pick out her clothing! ha
Grandma L came to town to help wrangle, and - lucky! - got to go to a party at Monkey's school.
Here's Monkey sitting with Junebug, listening to Junebug's daddy J read. Monkey is a big fan of J - maybe because he's usually the dad rolling around on the floor being silly!
Here is Monkey with her buddy C, always one of the best dressed girls in class.......hmmmm, I think her mommy must still pick out her clothing! ha
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Bodies in motion
Monkey went to a birthday party (in a Sukkah - how fun was that!) the other night.
I tried SO HARD to get a non-blurry photo of the dancing and joyful madness when they played musical chairs. I kept deleting the ones I didn't like.....
And then I realized that the blurry ones were actually better!
Here they are dancing (like pogo sticks):
And here they are playing musical chairs:
I know, I got dizzy too!
I tried SO HARD to get a non-blurry photo of the dancing and joyful madness when they played musical chairs. I kept deleting the ones I didn't like.....
And then I realized that the blurry ones were actually better!
Here they are dancing (like pogo sticks):
And here they are playing musical chairs:
I know, I got dizzy too!
That's my little brother, all right!
My (little) brother N and his (gorgeous) wife G live in Boulder, CO with their two impossibly adorable girls.
And, like all modern families, we stay in touch however we can. The best is when texts fly back and forth - often they are the spur of the moment snippets that make you laugh.
True to form, I got to laugh out loud when I got this text from G this past weekend:
*******************
We pulled into the Goodtimes drive-thru today and HP asked where we were. N replied "At the drive-thru." And HP said "At the beer store?" Apparently N has taken H to the drive-thru liquor store more than I was aware.
Nice.
*******************
Now, the part that made me laugh wasn't the fact that Daddy N got busted by HP - no, I laughed because my first thought was - they have drive-through liquor stores? Cool!
Um, yeah. Can you tell who I'm related to?
And, like all modern families, we stay in touch however we can. The best is when texts fly back and forth - often they are the spur of the moment snippets that make you laugh.
True to form, I got to laugh out loud when I got this text from G this past weekend:
*******************
We pulled into the Goodtimes drive-thru today and HP asked where we were. N replied "At the drive-thru." And HP said "At the beer store?" Apparently N has taken H to the drive-thru liquor store more than I was aware.
Nice.
*******************
Now, the part that made me laugh wasn't the fact that Daddy N got busted by HP - no, I laughed because my first thought was - they have drive-through liquor stores? Cool!
Um, yeah. Can you tell who I'm related to?
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Solidarity
I have a new mommy friend. She is a lovely, talented woman. And, like many of us, sometimes she struggles with the work-life balance.
We emailed back and forth the other day, and I made her laugh by asking her to leave a bread-crumb trail to wherever she locates "work-life" balance, as my map didn't have that location clearly marked.
Now I have high standards. Yes, you all nod. Fine, I have VERY high standards. I like to joke that I'm not anal, I just have standards (implying that others don't...). Because really, is it too much to expect that I can walk barefoot in my own home without food sticking to the bottom of my feet? I didn't think so.
But sometimes I realize that I am too tough on myself. I know my friends are, too. (tough on themselves, not me, that is!)
Gentle readers, do you think that the mythical creature known as "work-life balance" can be found? Is it really just an elaborate juggling act, keeping the balls in the air long enough to touch - ever so briefly - just one thing at a time? Because from what I've learned lately, multi-tasking slows you down.
Maybe the solution is just being "in the moment" - I know, that's so freaking zen I think I just threw up in my mouth a little bit. Ptooey.
But really, all jokes aside, maybe we should just try to be good at whatever the hell we're doing at that particular moment, and ignore the rest. Ignore the mommy guilt that is egging you on.
SO WHAT if the bed is unmade. No one but your prying neighbors need know. Hell, just buy better blinds so no one can see!
SO WHAT if the kids eat peanut butter and jelly sandwiches every day, instead of lovingly prepared gourmet bento-boxes of organically raised whatever. Buy organic bread and soynut butter if you can, and be happy that they'll deign to eat anything at all! (picky toddlers are normal, from what I can tell. who knew! thought mine was just being - well, difficult!)
SO WHAT if the other kids on the bus have cute outfits on. Your kid's private bits are covered in clean clothing? Good enough. Besides, letting them pick out their own clothing encourages independence, leadership, and creativity.
All the mommies (and daddies, this isn't gender specific, although I DO think there is a thumb on the guilt scale for women) together now - raise your fist in the air! United in giving up the guilt? United in enjoying the moment instead of thinking about the kindegarten application-hell you'll be in if your kid doesn't get accepted to pre-k? (that last one's not just me, right?) United in enjoying this process, even if it's messy as hell and these damn kids didn't come with owner manuals? ALL RIGHT THEN!
ALl right then. Solidarity. We're all in this together.
Now, can anyone find that bread crumb trail?
We emailed back and forth the other day, and I made her laugh by asking her to leave a bread-crumb trail to wherever she locates "work-life" balance, as my map didn't have that location clearly marked.
Now I have high standards. Yes, you all nod. Fine, I have VERY high standards. I like to joke that I'm not anal, I just have standards (implying that others don't...). Because really, is it too much to expect that I can walk barefoot in my own home without food sticking to the bottom of my feet? I didn't think so.
But sometimes I realize that I am too tough on myself. I know my friends are, too. (tough on themselves, not me, that is!)
Gentle readers, do you think that the mythical creature known as "work-life balance" can be found? Is it really just an elaborate juggling act, keeping the balls in the air long enough to touch - ever so briefly - just one thing at a time? Because from what I've learned lately, multi-tasking slows you down.
Maybe the solution is just being "in the moment" - I know, that's so freaking zen I think I just threw up in my mouth a little bit. Ptooey.
But really, all jokes aside, maybe we should just try to be good at whatever the hell we're doing at that particular moment, and ignore the rest. Ignore the mommy guilt that is egging you on.
SO WHAT if the bed is unmade. No one but your prying neighbors need know. Hell, just buy better blinds so no one can see!
SO WHAT if the kids eat peanut butter and jelly sandwiches every day, instead of lovingly prepared gourmet bento-boxes of organically raised whatever. Buy organic bread and soynut butter if you can, and be happy that they'll deign to eat anything at all! (picky toddlers are normal, from what I can tell. who knew! thought mine was just being - well, difficult!)
SO WHAT if the other kids on the bus have cute outfits on. Your kid's private bits are covered in clean clothing? Good enough. Besides, letting them pick out their own clothing encourages independence, leadership, and creativity.
All the mommies (and daddies, this isn't gender specific, although I DO think there is a thumb on the guilt scale for women) together now - raise your fist in the air! United in giving up the guilt? United in enjoying the moment instead of thinking about the kindegarten application-hell you'll be in if your kid doesn't get accepted to pre-k? (that last one's not just me, right?) United in enjoying this process, even if it's messy as hell and these damn kids didn't come with owner manuals? ALL RIGHT THEN!
ALl right then. Solidarity. We're all in this together.
Now, can anyone find that bread crumb trail?
Monday, September 28, 2009
Talent, redux
Each child is as different as a snowflake.
The second time around it is different.
Everything old is new again.
Dear g*d, this again? Seriously?
So, when Jellybean arrived, everyone told me it would be different. That I would be able to rely upon the things I had learned, so yes, it would be easier, but that I shouldn't expect #2 to be the same as #1. That I would need to be patient, and see where Jellybean's talents lie....to not expect her to take after her sister.
Which is why I really had to laugh when, at the library this morning, my friend T watched Jellybean move around and try to climb EVERYTHING in sight and blurted out "oh dear g*d, you got another one?"
Yes, dear reader - I do. I have another monkey.
Jellybean learned how to crawl a mere 6 weeks ago. Three days ago she dragged a chair across the floor at school, stood up on the chair, and then tried to hoist herself into the sink. That same day, she climbed up on top of a table at school, and then - sans support - stood up. (Needless to say she's freaking her teachers out and they are watching her like a hawk)
Yesterday, she was balancing on the stablization bar underneath her highchair. And today? Today she screamed like a banshee (rage and disbelief) when I wouldn't let her balance on her toes on top of a Radio Flyer "bike."
I have packed bandaids and Neosporin in my purse. Again.
The second time around it is different.
Everything old is new again.
Dear g*d, this again? Seriously?
So, when Jellybean arrived, everyone told me it would be different. That I would be able to rely upon the things I had learned, so yes, it would be easier, but that I shouldn't expect #2 to be the same as #1. That I would need to be patient, and see where Jellybean's talents lie....to not expect her to take after her sister.
Which is why I really had to laugh when, at the library this morning, my friend T watched Jellybean move around and try to climb EVERYTHING in sight and blurted out "oh dear g*d, you got another one?"
Yes, dear reader - I do. I have another monkey.
Jellybean learned how to crawl a mere 6 weeks ago. Three days ago she dragged a chair across the floor at school, stood up on the chair, and then tried to hoist herself into the sink. That same day, she climbed up on top of a table at school, and then - sans support - stood up. (Needless to say she's freaking her teachers out and they are watching her like a hawk)
Yesterday, she was balancing on the stablization bar underneath her highchair. And today? Today she screamed like a banshee (rage and disbelief) when I wouldn't let her balance on her toes on top of a Radio Flyer "bike."
I have packed bandaids and Neosporin in my purse. Again.
Sleeping beauty
The other night M came out of Monkey's bedroom with a smile. So I snuck in to see her before turning off her light.
And there she was, asleep, with a doll (Felicity from American Girl), next to her on the pillow. Their brunette hair was mingled, tangled in slumber.
If I could have taken a photo I would. Instead the sight will have to linger in my memory. My sleeping beauty.
And there she was, asleep, with a doll (Felicity from American Girl), next to her on the pillow. Their brunette hair was mingled, tangled in slumber.
If I could have taken a photo I would. Instead the sight will have to linger in my memory. My sleeping beauty.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Playing Favorites
So I have a confession to make. I suspect that Jellybean is one of her teacher's favorites. And I can't help but think - OF COURSE she is!
When I dropped her off at school yesterday morning (yes, the day I had POOP on me), she had fallen asleep in the Ergo baby carrier. She was snuggled in and snoring gently. Ah, so cute.
But everyone knows how cranky a baby can be if you wake them up. So, I slipped my shoes off, walked quietly into her room, and attempted to extricate Jellybean from the Ergo in order to gently place her on her napping spot. And....she woke up.
In a great mood! She rubbbed her eyes, looked around the room, and smiled her toothy little grin. And then waved! Like - hi teachers! Howdy!
Now, mind you, at that moment in time every other baby in the room was crying. Or screaming. Take your pick.
One of the teachers looked at Jellybean, looked at the other little ones (the bright red in the face SCREAMING little ones), and said - "oh, she's so easy." With more than a little bit of relief in her voice.
Mind you, they are too kind (and professional) to ever say anything that would indicate they have a favorite.
But in my mind, I think they do. Just a little bit. Because she's just so damn happy, my 'lil bean.
When I dropped her off at school yesterday morning (yes, the day I had POOP on me), she had fallen asleep in the Ergo baby carrier. She was snuggled in and snoring gently. Ah, so cute.
But everyone knows how cranky a baby can be if you wake them up. So, I slipped my shoes off, walked quietly into her room, and attempted to extricate Jellybean from the Ergo in order to gently place her on her napping spot. And....she woke up.
In a great mood! She rubbbed her eyes, looked around the room, and smiled her toothy little grin. And then waved! Like - hi teachers! Howdy!
Now, mind you, at that moment in time every other baby in the room was crying. Or screaming. Take your pick.
One of the teachers looked at Jellybean, looked at the other little ones (the bright red in the face SCREAMING little ones), and said - "oh, she's so easy." With more than a little bit of relief in her voice.
Mind you, they are too kind (and professional) to ever say anything that would indicate they have a favorite.
But in my mind, I think they do. Just a little bit. Because she's just so damn happy, my 'lil bean.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Mmmmmmmmmmmm hidden pooooooop.
That was the text I got back from my little brother, when I texted him to say I was headed home to change my shirt because it had poop on it.
Nice.
Nice.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Sisters
On the ride home from school today, an adorable little boy and his father boarded the bus and sat down by us.
Monkey perked up and said "hello Paul" immediately. The father and I shook hands and figured out that our kids were in class together, and as as our brief conversation faded away the two kids were giggling and chortling and playing a silly word game that - really - didn't make any sense to us. But they were having a blast.
They laughed and giggled and leaned into one another, resplendently unaware of how every single adult on the bus was watching them. When Paul and his father departed the bus, Monkey knelt on her seat to press her face to the glass and say goodbye over and over again. Meanwhile Paul was waving furiously at us as the bus drew past him. An elderly woman across from me caught my eye and smiled.
As Monkey settled down from the excitement of seeing her friend, she leaned in a bit closer to me. And Jellybean, nestled against me in her Ergo baby carrier, did something I have never seen her do before.
She leaned away from me, closing her eyes and resting her cheek against Monkey's back, snuggling against her sister. It was unbearably tender. Jellybean doesn't really "kiss" people - she shows affection by gently touching her forehead to you. It is a benediction, a moment of grace. And she's never done that to her older sister before. Until today, on the bus, as her sister's cheeks were flushed with excitement from frolicking with her friend.
I think these two are going to be great friends.
Sometimes, commuting is the best part of the day. (Sometimes)
Monkey perked up and said "hello Paul" immediately. The father and I shook hands and figured out that our kids were in class together, and as as our brief conversation faded away the two kids were giggling and chortling and playing a silly word game that - really - didn't make any sense to us. But they were having a blast.
They laughed and giggled and leaned into one another, resplendently unaware of how every single adult on the bus was watching them. When Paul and his father departed the bus, Monkey knelt on her seat to press her face to the glass and say goodbye over and over again. Meanwhile Paul was waving furiously at us as the bus drew past him. An elderly woman across from me caught my eye and smiled.
As Monkey settled down from the excitement of seeing her friend, she leaned in a bit closer to me. And Jellybean, nestled against me in her Ergo baby carrier, did something I have never seen her do before.
She leaned away from me, closing her eyes and resting her cheek against Monkey's back, snuggling against her sister. It was unbearably tender. Jellybean doesn't really "kiss" people - she shows affection by gently touching her forehead to you. It is a benediction, a moment of grace. And she's never done that to her older sister before. Until today, on the bus, as her sister's cheeks were flushed with excitement from frolicking with her friend.
I think these two are going to be great friends.
Sometimes, commuting is the best part of the day. (Sometimes)
A few random stories....
Ok, where to start?
SOO much is going on. These girls, they just blindside me with all their growing up! I need to freeze each moment in time, and every day they do something that makes me think “oooh, this MUST go on the blog” and then……they do something else…..and then suddenly it is hours, if not days, later and I can’t remember half of it.
So, a few recent vignettes:
Jellybean is one tough cookie. This weekend she: 1) wiped out in the tub and bumped her noggin against the drain thing-a-mah-jigger hard enough to raise a lump; 2) got walloped on the other side of her head by her sister who was swinging a bucket of chalk around and around; and 3) got a third nipple in the form of a pinch/bruise on her chest from her pacifier clip attached by – oh yes – me. Ow.
And yet? She’s in a great mood. Man, she’s tough! Maybe her new nickname should be “timex.” (oh come onnnnn, you remember – it takes a lickin’ and keeps on tickin’ don’t you?)
_________
Monkey? Also tough. And perhaps learning some caution. Perhaps.
Last night she fell off the couch and hit her head hard enough to raise an egg and break the skin. After some snuggling and some very anxious moments for me as I waited to see if her pupils looked funny or she got nauseous or dizzy, she was finagling more goldfish crackers and two books before bed (instead of one) – we think she’s juuuuust fine. But I’m still going to watch her.
M asked me if I was worried last night. And I told him yes – as in “yes, that’s my job.” And it is. Best job, ever.
__________
So this past Monday I was doing my schlep and carry routine (aka getting the two kids to school, plus diapers, and wipes, and formula, and 12 jars of babyfood, and Monkey’s spare sweatshirt, and her lunch, and her water bottle, and apples for the classroom, and and and and you get it – LOTS of HEAVY STUFF. Ugh).
I got the seats directly across from the exit in the back of the bus, which is prime real estate, and was very happy that I wouldn’t have to waddle/struggle/swim like a salmon going upstream to get me, the two girls, and all that stuff off the bus in a timely manner. We pushed the button requesting the stop, the bus stopped at our stop....and then two seconds later left.
Back into traffic before I could even stand up! And let me tell you, I am quick on the bus to avoid this very situation! I mean COME ON you MF’ing busdriver – are you kidding me? He didn’t stop for even three seconds!
I called out “stop please” and my call was taken up by everyone at the front of the bus. The hue and cry had his attention because he looked back and then, in the quintessential “whattya gonna do about it” attitude of poorly paid civil servants across the world.....he shrugged and kept driving. I was pissed. He couldn’t have cared less that he was doing a shitty job.
And then, I did it. I muttered “asshole” under my breath. Only it wasn’t quiet enough. Yeah. I was *that* mother this morning....the one that teaches her kids to curse. Sigh.
I'd feel worse if the label wasn't appropriate.
SOO much is going on. These girls, they just blindside me with all their growing up! I need to freeze each moment in time, and every day they do something that makes me think “oooh, this MUST go on the blog” and then……they do something else…..and then suddenly it is hours, if not days, later and I can’t remember half of it.
So, a few recent vignettes:
Jellybean is one tough cookie. This weekend she: 1) wiped out in the tub and bumped her noggin against the drain thing-a-mah-jigger hard enough to raise a lump; 2) got walloped on the other side of her head by her sister who was swinging a bucket of chalk around and around; and 3) got a third nipple in the form of a pinch/bruise on her chest from her pacifier clip attached by – oh yes – me. Ow.
And yet? She’s in a great mood. Man, she’s tough! Maybe her new nickname should be “timex.” (oh come onnnnn, you remember – it takes a lickin’ and keeps on tickin’ don’t you?)
_________
Monkey? Also tough. And perhaps learning some caution. Perhaps.
Last night she fell off the couch and hit her head hard enough to raise an egg and break the skin. After some snuggling and some very anxious moments for me as I waited to see if her pupils looked funny or she got nauseous or dizzy, she was finagling more goldfish crackers and two books before bed (instead of one) – we think she’s juuuuust fine. But I’m still going to watch her.
M asked me if I was worried last night. And I told him yes – as in “yes, that’s my job.” And it is. Best job, ever.
__________
So this past Monday I was doing my schlep and carry routine (aka getting the two kids to school, plus diapers, and wipes, and formula, and 12 jars of babyfood, and Monkey’s spare sweatshirt, and her lunch, and her water bottle, and apples for the classroom, and and and and you get it – LOTS of HEAVY STUFF. Ugh).
I got the seats directly across from the exit in the back of the bus, which is prime real estate, and was very happy that I wouldn’t have to waddle/struggle/swim like a salmon going upstream to get me, the two girls, and all that stuff off the bus in a timely manner. We pushed the button requesting the stop, the bus stopped at our stop....and then two seconds later left.
Back into traffic before I could even stand up! And let me tell you, I am quick on the bus to avoid this very situation! I mean COME ON you MF’ing busdriver – are you kidding me? He didn’t stop for even three seconds!
I called out “stop please” and my call was taken up by everyone at the front of the bus. The hue and cry had his attention because he looked back and then, in the quintessential “whattya gonna do about it” attitude of poorly paid civil servants across the world.....he shrugged and kept driving. I was pissed. He couldn’t have cared less that he was doing a shitty job.
And then, I did it. I muttered “asshole” under my breath. Only it wasn’t quiet enough. Yeah. I was *that* mother this morning....the one that teaches her kids to curse. Sigh.
I'd feel worse if the label wasn't appropriate.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
On langauge (yes, I know I've used this title before - deal with it)
So, two fun things happened in the last 24 hours:
Jellybean said mama! WOOOHOOOO!!!!!!!!! Of course, I’ve been unable (FAIL!! ROAR GNASH SOB) to get her to repeat it. But still. My heart about triples in size just thinking about it! SO proud of my little bean! God, do I love that little girl. I smooched her incessantly on the bus ride to school this morning, murmuring “say mama, say mama…” in between kisses on her soft blonde hair.
But no, she was silent. From the grins she kept giving me, I think she likes the attention and might withhold the next mama just to keep me focused on her – the stinker!
Not to be outdone by her little sister, Monkey has started writing “notes” to her daddy, presently traveling for work, “because she loves him.”
Which is why there is a small parade of hot pink (bien sur!) post-it notes stretching across the wall by our bed. She’s putting them there “to keep” in his absence. She’s so earnest, this is just endearing. Especially since the notes are comprised solely of a few random scribbles. Our budding novelist…..
Jellybean said mama! WOOOHOOOO!!!!!!!!! Of course, I’ve been unable (FAIL!! ROAR GNASH SOB) to get her to repeat it. But still. My heart about triples in size just thinking about it! SO proud of my little bean! God, do I love that little girl. I smooched her incessantly on the bus ride to school this morning, murmuring “say mama, say mama…” in between kisses on her soft blonde hair.
But no, she was silent. From the grins she kept giving me, I think she likes the attention and might withhold the next mama just to keep me focused on her – the stinker!
Not to be outdone by her little sister, Monkey has started writing “notes” to her daddy, presently traveling for work, “because she loves him.”
Which is why there is a small parade of hot pink (bien sur!) post-it notes stretching across the wall by our bed. She’s putting them there “to keep” in his absence. She’s so earnest, this is just endearing. Especially since the notes are comprised solely of a few random scribbles. Our budding novelist…..
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Memories
Yesterday was 9/11.
For the first time in eight years I wasn't sad on this day.
I didn't focus on all that we lost.
I didn't focus on all that we could lose.
I was just happy to be alive.
I don't know if time heals all wounds.
I don't know if that wound should ever heal.
All I know is that I love my two girls, my husband, my friends and family and beloved cat Ollie.
And that's how it should be.
For the first time in eight years I wasn't sad on this day.
I didn't focus on all that we lost.
I didn't focus on all that we could lose.
I was just happy to be alive.
I don't know if time heals all wounds.
I don't know if that wound should ever heal.
All I know is that I love my two girls, my husband, my friends and family and beloved cat Ollie.
And that's how it should be.
The things she says, they don't always make sense (to me)
Monkey is funny. Sometimes she knows it, but even better is when she doesn't.
For example, in the airplane on the way home from Minneapolis, she told M "I"m have"....after being told to "behave".....
When I was attempting to dress her for school this past week, after she took her pajamas off (but before she put her clothing on), she danced around the kitchen saying "I'm a naked monkey" and walking like an orangutan. I can never tell if she remembers that her nickname is Monkey when she does this sort of thing....or if its just some sort of Martha Graham modern dance mood....
And her stories are hilarious. Today, when we were eating lunch at the Museum of Natural History, she told me that Santa got lost in outer space looking for a soft, blue planet that he could take home. Yeah, um, I got nothing. No clue.
For example, in the airplane on the way home from Minneapolis, she told M "I"m have"....after being told to "behave".....
When I was attempting to dress her for school this past week, after she took her pajamas off (but before she put her clothing on), she danced around the kitchen saying "I'm a naked monkey" and walking like an orangutan. I can never tell if she remembers that her nickname is Monkey when she does this sort of thing....or if its just some sort of Martha Graham modern dance mood....
And her stories are hilarious. Today, when we were eating lunch at the Museum of Natural History, she told me that Santa got lost in outer space looking for a soft, blue planet that he could take home. Yeah, um, I got nothing. No clue.
Friday, September 11, 2009
The girls are back, the girls are back
Remember that song, The Boys are Back in Town by Thin Lizzy? (the boys are back, the boys are back….) I’m humming it, but with my own words because the girls are back in school, the girls are back in school….and it’s a good thing.
Wednesday was the first day back. We dropped Jellybean off first (her classroom is closest to the entrance of the school) and boy was that easy. She smiled at her teacher and practically leapt into her arms. No separation anxiety there. M has been known to make the ribald comment that Jellybean’s definitely a second child – “she gets passed around like a cheap trick” – and only rarely will she object to someone other than mommy or daddy holding her.
I worried that it might be tougher with Monkey, but she was fine, too! And, she helped her best friend Caleb out. Caleb was having a rough time – when he got to school none of the kids or teachers he knew were in the room. When we arrived he was sitting on the floor with his back to the door, bawling loudly and slumped over a toy he was picking at idly (his poor mom, my friend, was standing outside listening with a pained look on her face.)
When he saw Monkey walk into the room though he gave one last shudder, wiped the tears from his eyes (with a quick glance back at Monkey to see if she’d noticed), and sat there with the “who me? naw, I wasn’t crying!” look. Ahhh, the positive effect of peer pressure. It gets you every time!
Wednesday was the first day back. We dropped Jellybean off first (her classroom is closest to the entrance of the school) and boy was that easy. She smiled at her teacher and practically leapt into her arms. No separation anxiety there. M has been known to make the ribald comment that Jellybean’s definitely a second child – “she gets passed around like a cheap trick” – and only rarely will she object to someone other than mommy or daddy holding her.
I worried that it might be tougher with Monkey, but she was fine, too! And, she helped her best friend Caleb out. Caleb was having a rough time – when he got to school none of the kids or teachers he knew were in the room. When we arrived he was sitting on the floor with his back to the door, bawling loudly and slumped over a toy he was picking at idly (his poor mom, my friend, was standing outside listening with a pained look on her face.)
When he saw Monkey walk into the room though he gave one last shudder, wiped the tears from his eyes (with a quick glance back at Monkey to see if she’d noticed), and sat there with the “who me? naw, I wasn’t crying!” look. Ahhh, the positive effect of peer pressure. It gets you every time!
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Vitals
Each girl had a check up recently. Jellybean for the 9month mark, and Monkey for three years (gulp - how did that go by so fast?).
Jellybean:
*In great health.
*Eating well and on track developmentally.
*Can add more foods to her repertoire of items to cram in her mouth.
*Weight: 15lbs 4oz, OMG about the 7th percentile - woohoo!!!!
*Height: 27” so about the 30th% in height.
Monkey:
*Mulish and stubborn but in great health (as far as we can tell - see below)..
*May be deaf - refused to do hearing test (can hear just fine, NO REALLY)
*May be blind - refused to do vision test (SAME).
*Weight: 30lbs so in the 25-50%
*Height: 37.5inches so the 50-75%
But those are just their vital statistics.
You ask their parents, or their grandparents (or godparents)? They're perfect. The end.
Jellybean:
*In great health.
*Eating well and on track developmentally.
*Can add more foods to her repertoire of items to cram in her mouth.
*Weight: 15lbs 4oz, OMG about the 7th percentile - woohoo!!!!
*Height: 27” so about the 30th% in height.
Monkey:
*Mulish and stubborn but in great health (as far as we can tell - see below)..
*May be deaf - refused to do hearing test (can hear just fine, NO REALLY)
*May be blind - refused to do vision test (SAME).
*Weight: 30lbs so in the 25-50%
*Height: 37.5inches so the 50-75%
But those are just their vital statistics.
You ask their parents, or their grandparents (or godparents)? They're perfect. The end.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
What is your favorite synonym for stubborn? Me, I like mulish.
Monkey had her 3-year check up this morning and, if I hadn’t been there to assure the doctor otherwise, the pediatrician might have thought the kid was blind, deaf, mute and practically immobile, considering the pig-headed, mulish stubbornness she exhibited in her refusal to: (1) answer any questions, including what is your name; (2) exhibit any physical skills other than shrinking backwards; (3) acknowledge that the dreaded headphones on her ears were emitting a series of beeps; or (4) acknowledge that she could both see and identify the shapes on the wall in the vision test.
Now mind you that when she is NOT in the doctors office she is: (1) a freaking chatterbox that asks more questions that you can answer and engages in a running dialogue with her friends and/or toys, whomever is closest; (2) running and jumping and saying “mommy watch me do this trick” as she endangers my health with her fearless acrobatics on the playground; (3) able to overhear every single conversation and (bad) word we want her to miss; and (4) able to spot the smallest Elmo a million miles off and then beg for it (see #1, above).
Sigh.
She is the walking definition of stubborn.
Now mind you that when she is NOT in the doctors office she is: (1) a freaking chatterbox that asks more questions that you can answer and engages in a running dialogue with her friends and/or toys, whomever is closest; (2) running and jumping and saying “mommy watch me do this trick” as she endangers my health with her fearless acrobatics on the playground; (3) able to overhear every single conversation and (bad) word we want her to miss; and (4) able to spot the smallest Elmo a million miles off and then beg for it (see #1, above).
Sigh.
She is the walking definition of stubborn.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Vacation recap in 170 words or less (I'm counting.....)
Vini vidi vici.
We came, we saw, we conquered: what’s the children’s version of that one? Because Monkey and Jellybean had one hell of a good vacation! They had both sets of grandparents’ wrapped around their pinkies. And that is as it should be.
Some highlights:
Jellybean rapturous with joy and wonder, watching ‘Andpa play the guitar
Monkey screeching for joy when Granddad or Nana turned the sprinkler on for the bounce slide & pool combination
Monkey begging for one more Grandma-made muffin “for the road”
Jellybean leaning out of the arms of whoever was holding her, anytime Nana or Grandma walked by…just begging to be cuddled one more time
Jellybean mastering the stairs (up only) and climbing them again and again at ‘Andpa and Grandma’s house
Monkey climbing up on the piano bench and pounding away at both grandparent households
Me taking so many photos I (first time ever) ran out of space on the CF card!
Photos to follow, I promise. As soon as I catch my breath.
We came, we saw, we conquered: what’s the children’s version of that one? Because Monkey and Jellybean had one hell of a good vacation! They had both sets of grandparents’ wrapped around their pinkies. And that is as it should be.
Some highlights:
Jellybean rapturous with joy and wonder, watching ‘Andpa play the guitar
Monkey screeching for joy when Granddad or Nana turned the sprinkler on for the bounce slide & pool combination
Monkey begging for one more Grandma-made muffin “for the road”
Jellybean leaning out of the arms of whoever was holding her, anytime Nana or Grandma walked by…just begging to be cuddled one more time
Jellybean mastering the stairs (up only) and climbing them again and again at ‘Andpa and Grandma’s house
Monkey climbing up on the piano bench and pounding away at both grandparent households
Me taking so many photos I (first time ever) ran out of space on the CF card!
Photos to follow, I promise. As soon as I catch my breath.
On Milestone Charts
Milestone charts were a secret obsession of mine when Monkey was little. I read them ALL THE TIME to make sure Monkey was doing OK. Or to obsess because she *might* be delayed, or better yet gloat because she *might* be ahead woohoo!!!!!!!!!!!!
Gentle readers – no one will know, you can nod your head in silent recognition of your version of this common malady…..
No, really - go ahead, I’ll wait a moment................
..............
................
OK, we can move on now.
This time around, I might remember to check in once or twice, but I now realize their value. They are truly helpful at…………driving traffic to those websites. Aaaaaaaand, that’s about it.
Because really, sometimes they are SO wrong it is pitiful.
To wit: one popular website (cough cough cough BabyCenter cough) lists 16 months as the point that “most” children have temper tantrums when they are frustrated.
Jellybean already does that. She’s 8.5 months old.
Yeah, um, so I don’t know if I want to gloat about my baby being “advanced” on that one. Kind of feels like a karmic bite in the ass, if you know what I mean.
Gentle readers – no one will know, you can nod your head in silent recognition of your version of this common malady…..
No, really - go ahead, I’ll wait a moment................
..............
................
OK, we can move on now.
This time around, I might remember to check in once or twice, but I now realize their value. They are truly helpful at…………driving traffic to those websites. Aaaaaaaand, that’s about it.
Because really, sometimes they are SO wrong it is pitiful.
To wit: one popular website (cough cough cough BabyCenter cough) lists 16 months as the point that “most” children have temper tantrums when they are frustrated.
Jellybean already does that. She’s 8.5 months old.
Yeah, um, so I don’t know if I want to gloat about my baby being “advanced” on that one. Kind of feels like a karmic bite in the ass, if you know what I mean.
Friday, August 21, 2009
Time keeps on slipping, slippin' slippin'... into the future
Today is Monkey and Jellybean's last day of summer camp at school.
For Monkey, it marks a transition from "toddler" to early childhood. Jellybean will continue in the infant room, but she's going to walk (sooner than later, to keep up with her sister). And this feels like a big deal to me. I know, it's not exactly graduation from college, but it is a moment in time that needs to be marked never the less.
Mostly because OH MAH GAWD when did they grow up on me? Seriously? They are this big ALREADY? But.....they are my babies!
I remember sleepless nights with Monkey thinking dawn would never break. I remember cradling Jellybean's tiny little hands in my hands, wondering at how a creature so beautiful and durable could be so small and fragile.
And now I have these two KIDS.
Ok, granted, Monkey is barely 3 and Jellybean hasn't even hit 9 months yet, but boy do the days fly by.
Monkey haggles like a senior litigator, sleeps like a teenager, and wants to paint her fingernails red. Jellybean shows her teeth when she grins, desperately wants to walk, and knows how to work a room. They are impossibly small and yet impossibly grown up.
And I love them both dearly. Not a day goes by where I can't believe how lucky I am to be their mom. And how grateful I am to have M as my husband and their father.
For Monkey, it marks a transition from "toddler" to early childhood. Jellybean will continue in the infant room, but she's going to walk (sooner than later, to keep up with her sister). And this feels like a big deal to me. I know, it's not exactly graduation from college, but it is a moment in time that needs to be marked never the less.
Mostly because OH MAH GAWD when did they grow up on me? Seriously? They are this big ALREADY? But.....they are my babies!
I remember sleepless nights with Monkey thinking dawn would never break. I remember cradling Jellybean's tiny little hands in my hands, wondering at how a creature so beautiful and durable could be so small and fragile.
And now I have these two KIDS.
Ok, granted, Monkey is barely 3 and Jellybean hasn't even hit 9 months yet, but boy do the days fly by.
Monkey haggles like a senior litigator, sleeps like a teenager, and wants to paint her fingernails red. Jellybean shows her teeth when she grins, desperately wants to walk, and knows how to work a room. They are impossibly small and yet impossibly grown up.
And I love them both dearly. Not a day goes by where I can't believe how lucky I am to be their mom. And how grateful I am to have M as my husband and their father.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
The Great Paper Chase
Otherwise known as the pre-K admission process in Manhattan.
Next week we go on vacation. There’s a family reunion for my mother-in-law's family, a celebration for my in-laws 40th wedding anniversary, there’s a party for my family (both my dad’s and mom’s) to meet Jellybean for the first time….and oh yes, while we are there we also have to write our essay answers for Monkey’s pre-k school applications.
That's right. Essay answers. On applications for pre-K. Seriously. But these are pre-Ks associated with schools that continue, some through 8th grade and others all the way through 12th grade, so I understand.....but still. Gah!
I was (after a glass of wine) imagining the most horrible answers I could write:
Please describe the adults that are important to your child:
Well, there’s the wino on the corner named Kevin. Monkey loves to wave hello and make him smile each morning as we pass him on the way to the bus stop; it’s only when we get too close that she wrinkles her nose and comments on how he smells funny. They share a common love of ice cream, flirting with strangers, and bugging mommy for quarters to buy a treat.
Um, yeah. So maybe it was more than one glass?
Next week we go on vacation. There’s a family reunion for my mother-in-law's family, a celebration for my in-laws 40th wedding anniversary, there’s a party for my family (both my dad’s and mom’s) to meet Jellybean for the first time….and oh yes, while we are there we also have to write our essay answers for Monkey’s pre-k school applications.
That's right. Essay answers. On applications for pre-K. Seriously. But these are pre-Ks associated with schools that continue, some through 8th grade and others all the way through 12th grade, so I understand.....but still. Gah!
I was (after a glass of wine) imagining the most horrible answers I could write:
Please describe the adults that are important to your child:
Well, there’s the wino on the corner named Kevin. Monkey loves to wave hello and make him smile each morning as we pass him on the way to the bus stop; it’s only when we get too close that she wrinkles her nose and comments on how he smells funny. They share a common love of ice cream, flirting with strangers, and bugging mommy for quarters to buy a treat.
Um, yeah. So maybe it was more than one glass?
A ha!
I figured it out.
Monkey wanted her toes painted because Bunny had her toes painted when she visited us!
Oh lordy. Keeping up with cool kids, already.
Monkey wanted her toes painted because Bunny had her toes painted when she visited us!
Oh lordy. Keeping up with cool kids, already.
Twinkle Toes
Monkey has been bugging me to paint her toes for a while.
So, last Monday night I painted her toes. A bright iridescent reddish pink. Just like mommy! (You Rock-apulco Red! by Opi, if you must know...)
She was grinning, ear to ear, like I've never seen her grin before. You'd have thought I just handed her the keys to heaven....or daddy's heart. Daddy, by the way, groaned and claimed he'd gotten older, just watching his baby girl morph into a teenager before his eyes......
Turns out that Tuesday at school, when they went to the playground to frolic in the sprinklers, she wouldn't get in. This, from the girl who usually LEADS the charge into the sprinklers! Plus that day it got into the 90s and was super hot and muggy.
But no. She told Jenna, her beloved teacher, that she "didn't want to get her toes dirty." Apparently it took over 30 minutes to break down her resolve!
Grandma Larson is going to bond with Monkey on our coming vacation. She, too, LOVES to have pretty toes.
So, last Monday night I painted her toes. A bright iridescent reddish pink. Just like mommy! (You Rock-apulco Red! by Opi, if you must know...)
She was grinning, ear to ear, like I've never seen her grin before. You'd have thought I just handed her the keys to heaven....or daddy's heart. Daddy, by the way, groaned and claimed he'd gotten older, just watching his baby girl morph into a teenager before his eyes......
Turns out that Tuesday at school, when they went to the playground to frolic in the sprinklers, she wouldn't get in. This, from the girl who usually LEADS the charge into the sprinklers! Plus that day it got into the 90s and was super hot and muggy.
But no. She told Jenna, her beloved teacher, that she "didn't want to get her toes dirty." Apparently it took over 30 minutes to break down her resolve!
Grandma Larson is going to bond with Monkey on our coming vacation. She, too, LOVES to have pretty toes.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Magic
The stories inside Monkey's head are magical. Full of laughter, and imagination, made up words and wacky strangeness.
I understand why the Dr. Suess stories are so appealing to her.....her brain thinks like that, too.
This morning she lagged behind on the way to the bus stop, because, as she put it, she needed to lock the door so the polar bears wouldn't get out while they were sleeping. This was in reference to a padlock hangling idly on the side of a window...
Yesterday she left the room and shut the door because..... I was at the dentist, and I didn't need to go with her because she's older than me.
She has mentioned repeatedly that Jellybean needs to share her teething toy, Sophie the giraffe, because she (Monkey) needs to teach her how to talk (by squeezing the toy and making it squeek).
She cooks dinosaurs with carrots....
Elephants live in trees.....
Princesses are known as dancerinas....
Life is very, very interesting to a three year old!
I understand why the Dr. Suess stories are so appealing to her.....her brain thinks like that, too.
This morning she lagged behind on the way to the bus stop, because, as she put it, she needed to lock the door so the polar bears wouldn't get out while they were sleeping. This was in reference to a padlock hangling idly on the side of a window...
Yesterday she left the room and shut the door because..... I was at the dentist, and I didn't need to go with her because she's older than me.
She has mentioned repeatedly that Jellybean needs to share her teething toy, Sophie the giraffe, because she (Monkey) needs to teach her how to talk (by squeezing the toy and making it squeek).
She cooks dinosaurs with carrots....
Elephants live in trees.....
Princesses are known as dancerinas....
Life is very, very interesting to a three year old!
Monday, August 17, 2009
I knew there had to be a catch....
The downside to a highly intelligent, verbal child, is that they use your words (and methods) against you.
To wit:
Last night, M was giving Monkey a bath. When it was time to depart the tub, she declined. After much negotiation, M initiated the "count-down" to a time-out. (As in, I'm going to count down from 5 and if you haven't done [whatever] by the time I finish, you get a time-out). Usually this works like a charm.
But, last night it didn't work.
Upon hearing his pronouncement, mid-count, Monkey turned to M and said:
"I appreciate [your offer of a time-out], but I'm not done with my work here."
To wit:
Last night, M was giving Monkey a bath. When it was time to depart the tub, she declined. After much negotiation, M initiated the "count-down" to a time-out. (As in, I'm going to count down from 5 and if you haven't done [whatever] by the time I finish, you get a time-out). Usually this works like a charm.
But, last night it didn't work.
Upon hearing his pronouncement, mid-count, Monkey turned to M and said:
"I appreciate [your offer of a time-out], but I'm not done with my work here."
Monday, August 10, 2009
And oh crap we need to babyproof - and now!
Because Jellybean is on the move!
On the move.... from MamaCarter on Vimeo.
CHOMp chomp
And. and. and.....
Not only is Jellybean crawling....she has TWO teeth!
CHOMP CHOMP CHOMP
Not only is Jellybean crawling....she has TWO teeth!
CHOMP CHOMP CHOMP
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Dinosaur Fricassee
Two week ends ago our best friends visited. We had a wonderful time, despite the psychotic NYC weather; hot, then rainy, then hot, then rainy
ButWhyMommy, Bubs and Bunny all stayed with us. Yes, there were 7 people (and one cat!) in our apartment. Sleeping arrangements were....a bit different than we had anticipated, but now we know that Bubs can sleep on the carpet if tired enough. (And for the record, NO. I do not make a habit of making my guests sleep on the floor..but look, when their OWN KID kicks them out of bed, whattaya gonna do? But I digress).
Bunny is obsessed with dinosaurs. She has a lovey stuffed animal Triceratops, and another one with some sort of a duck bill she calls Machine (my own knowledge of dinosaurs fails me here), and again - she LOVES dinosaurs. A lot. A lot, a lot, a lot. Which is why she was so happy to see that Monkey has a collection of small plastic dinosaurs.
Unfortunately, Monkey has a very slightly different idea how to play with these dinosaurs. Which is to say that she was cooking them on her play-kitchen,"with carrots."
This was not acceptable to Bunny.
And by not acceptable I mean that Bunny was bound and determined to rescue the dinosaur AT ALL COSTS; she snatched that dinosaur out of Monkey's hand and (no surprise) was then chased by Monkey around the room until Bunny was literally standing on the couch, with her hand stretched up into the air, trying to get the dinosaur as far away from Monkey's outstretched hand as humanly possible.
You know, to save it from extinction a second time.
ButWhyMommy and I intervened, and there was a discussion about sharing. Bunny apologized to Monkey, and Monkey.....well, she went back to cooking the dinosaur as if nothing had happened. (hoo boy is she stubborn. Yes, yes, pot meet kettle. I know.)
I imagine twenty years from now this story will have a well-worn feeling, from being trotted out again and again, and rehashed under the "do you remember when" rubric of storytelling that helps tie friends (and family) together. I can't wait to accumulate the stories these two friends will have.
ButWhyMommy, Bubs and Bunny all stayed with us. Yes, there were 7 people (and one cat!) in our apartment. Sleeping arrangements were....a bit different than we had anticipated, but now we know that Bubs can sleep on the carpet if tired enough. (And for the record, NO. I do not make a habit of making my guests sleep on the floor..but look, when their OWN KID kicks them out of bed, whattaya gonna do? But I digress).
Bunny is obsessed with dinosaurs. She has a lovey stuffed animal Triceratops, and another one with some sort of a duck bill she calls Machine (my own knowledge of dinosaurs fails me here), and again - she LOVES dinosaurs. A lot. A lot, a lot, a lot. Which is why she was so happy to see that Monkey has a collection of small plastic dinosaurs.
Unfortunately, Monkey has a very slightly different idea how to play with these dinosaurs. Which is to say that she was cooking them on her play-kitchen,"with carrots."
This was not acceptable to Bunny.
And by not acceptable I mean that Bunny was bound and determined to rescue the dinosaur AT ALL COSTS; she snatched that dinosaur out of Monkey's hand and (no surprise) was then chased by Monkey around the room until Bunny was literally standing on the couch, with her hand stretched up into the air, trying to get the dinosaur as far away from Monkey's outstretched hand as humanly possible.
You know, to save it from extinction a second time.
ButWhyMommy and I intervened, and there was a discussion about sharing. Bunny apologized to Monkey, and Monkey.....well, she went back to cooking the dinosaur as if nothing had happened. (hoo boy is she stubborn. Yes, yes, pot meet kettle. I know.)
I imagine twenty years from now this story will have a well-worn feeling, from being trotted out again and again, and rehashed under the "do you remember when" rubric of storytelling that helps tie friends (and family) together. I can't wait to accumulate the stories these two friends will have.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Octagenarian Toy
So apparently there is an 80-year old toy-mouse that lives in my stroller.
What’s that you say? An octogenarian toy mouse? Yes, yes, you heard (*read*) that correctly.
How else could you explain the fact that Monkey named the mouse finger-puppet "Ira?"
I mean, seriously! Only grandpas are named Ira. Not that there is anything wrong with that.*
*kudos if you get that reference!
What’s that you say? An octogenarian toy mouse? Yes, yes, you heard (*read*) that correctly.
How else could you explain the fact that Monkey named the mouse finger-puppet "Ira?"
I mean, seriously! Only grandpas are named Ira. Not that there is anything wrong with that.*
*kudos if you get that reference!
Monday, August 3, 2009
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Monday, July 27, 2009
So apparently she's like her daddy
So the new Yankee stadium is wonderful. Wide, open spaces. Bathrooms not right ON TOP of the beer lines. Really, a pleasant space to enjoy a game! We had seats in the shade, with a beautiful view of the field. And it was great weather. It was a perfect day to take in a game with my little girl.
Too bad Jellybean and I saw exactly 1.5 at bats. Yeah, you read that correctly. 1.5……and then we were done.
Jellybean was great on the subway. She was charming in my lap. She was happy to sit and wonder at the crowd…..until it roared with appreciation at a great play. When the crowd got loud, and the PA system blared, she looked shocked, her lip started trembling, and then she started to cry. No, she started to scream. By the time I was able to walk up to the concourse in search of a quieter spot she looked like JackJack, from The Incredibles, when his face turned bright red and he burst into flames. SCREAMING.
A screaming baby at Yankee Stadium? NO FUN.
A screaming baby at Yankee Stadium when a Yankees Official notices and ushers you into a private elevator so you can sit in a luxurious leather couch in a cool, superbly air conditioned lounge for the private Suite ticketholders? SCORE!!!
Eventually she calmed down. So we tried again. And……….no. Nope. Noparino. No way, man. And plain old HELL NO. She was not happy.
We went home.
I guess she likes the Brewers like her daddy.
Too bad Jellybean and I saw exactly 1.5 at bats. Yeah, you read that correctly. 1.5……and then we were done.
Jellybean was great on the subway. She was charming in my lap. She was happy to sit and wonder at the crowd…..until it roared with appreciation at a great play. When the crowd got loud, and the PA system blared, she looked shocked, her lip started trembling, and then she started to cry. No, she started to scream. By the time I was able to walk up to the concourse in search of a quieter spot she looked like JackJack, from The Incredibles, when his face turned bright red and he burst into flames. SCREAMING.
A screaming baby at Yankee Stadium? NO FUN.
A screaming baby at Yankee Stadium when a Yankees Official notices and ushers you into a private elevator so you can sit in a luxurious leather couch in a cool, superbly air conditioned lounge for the private Suite ticketholders? SCORE!!!
Eventually she calmed down. So we tried again. And……….no. Nope. Noparino. No way, man. And plain old HELL NO. She was not happy.
We went home.
I guess she likes the Brewers like her daddy.
Daily reports
Jellybean gets sent home each day with reports. Diaper updates (i.e., how many and of what variety), feeding schedule, nap schedule, and then these adorable checkboxes of things that she did during the day – she rolled over – check! She rocked on her knees – check! She enjoyed music – check! She played with fabric scarves – check!
The best, however, is the “Other Comments” section at the bottom, where the teachers write free form comments about the day….
I think I like these because they are so earnest.
My favorite from this past week: Jellybean “loves to help feeding herself. She grabs the spoon and brings it to her mouth.” (Yup, she sure does; I now feed her with two spoons – one for me, one for her! The tussles over who got to hold the spoon were getting too intense, and food was splattering everywhere.) That part wasn’t what made me smile – what made me giggle was the next sentence: “One of the teachers usually lets her practice her eating skills when Jellybean is almost full, since the food doesn’t usually reach its proper destination when Jellybean does it.”
I beg to differ. I think the floor, ceilings, wall, and her hair are the “proper” destinations! Ha.
The best, however, is the “Other Comments” section at the bottom, where the teachers write free form comments about the day….
I think I like these because they are so earnest.
My favorite from this past week: Jellybean “loves to help feeding herself. She grabs the spoon and brings it to her mouth.” (Yup, she sure does; I now feed her with two spoons – one for me, one for her! The tussles over who got to hold the spoon were getting too intense, and food was splattering everywhere.) That part wasn’t what made me smile – what made me giggle was the next sentence: “One of the teachers usually lets her practice her eating skills when Jellybean is almost full, since the food doesn’t usually reach its proper destination when Jellybean does it.”
I beg to differ. I think the floor, ceilings, wall, and her hair are the “proper” destinations! Ha.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
A few firsts to list!
1) Monkey got her face painted at a picnic. It was her first time. Perhaps that is why, when the artist asked what she wanted painted on her face, she said "a pigeon."
2) Jellybean crawled forward. Only one little bit, but we all cheered! She has also developed this perplexingly adorable habit of trying to crawl on her hands and toes...not her knees. It is quite silly, and she flops onto the carpet 99% of the time.
3) First Yankee's game for Jellybean! That is, if she ever wakes up from her nap.
Phew.
2) Jellybean crawled forward. Only one little bit, but we all cheered! She has also developed this perplexingly adorable habit of trying to crawl on her hands and toes...not her knees. It is quite silly, and she flops onto the carpet 99% of the time.
3) First Yankee's game for Jellybean! That is, if she ever wakes up from her nap.
Phew.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Stilly teensy, part II
So, the 'bean had her 7 month check up today. And yes, she's still teensy. But bigger than before!
Now, she's back up to the 5th% weight, at a WHOPPING 14 lbs, and is in the 50th% for height!!!! She was in the 35th, so she's getting tall!!!
Way to go Jellybean!
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Feminists march on Manhattan...
As a Manhattanite, Monkey gets an almost daily dose of safety lessons for walking on the sidewalks, across busy streets, etc. This occurs both at home and at school.
Approximately a year ago, when I first started walking with Monkey to school (i.e., walking to the bus stop and not using a stroller), I started a dialogue about the "walking man" and the "red hand that means stop."
By now, Monkey has it down pat. In fact, if you start to cross before the "walk" signal has officially turned on, she'll pull you back and chastise you "no mom!" (cough, not that I've done this....ahem)
However, last week was the best. On the way to school with a very happy insane toddler, I announced "let's go, it's the walking man".....
Monkey immediately whipped around and loudly announced "No, it's the walking GIRL!"
That's my girl!
Approximately a year ago, when I first started walking with Monkey to school (i.e., walking to the bus stop and not using a stroller), I started a dialogue about the "walking man" and the "red hand that means stop."
By now, Monkey has it down pat. In fact, if you start to cross before the "walk" signal has officially turned on, she'll pull you back and chastise you "no mom!" (cough, not that I've done this....ahem)
However, last week was the best. On the way to school with a very happy insane toddler, I announced "let's go, it's the walking man".....
Monkey immediately whipped around and loudly announced "No, it's the walking GIRL!"
That's my girl!
Monday, July 6, 2009
Elephant in a tree! Lost toy, 2 in a series...
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Best Out of Office Message, ever
We have an awesome babysitter I'll call C. She's not here in NYC this summer, but at home with her family and working with a reptile show. She popped in earlier this summer when visiting NYC and showed us the bite the baby gila monster gave her. I know, right? I trust my kids to someone with a baby gila monster scar on her forearm. Cool.
Anyway, I sent her an email this morning about setting up a recurring babysitting night (gym night for me - huzzah!). And she has her "out of office" message on. I about spit out my coffee laughing at this one:
Greetings! I am nowhere near a computer. I am, in fact, exposing
myself to hantavirus. I will get back to your email on or around July
15, assuming of course that I don't die of any mouse-born diseases.
I would normally say you can text me if necessary, but, I won't have
my phone at all. Try smoke signals! It could work.
Via con dios,
C
Anyway, I sent her an email this morning about setting up a recurring babysitting night (gym night for me - huzzah!). And she has her "out of office" message on. I about spit out my coffee laughing at this one:
Greetings! I am nowhere near a computer. I am, in fact, exposing
myself to hantavirus. I will get back to your email on or around July
15, assuming of course that I don't die of any mouse-born diseases.
I would normally say you can text me if necessary, but, I won't have
my phone at all. Try smoke signals! It could work.
Via con dios,
C
How did YOUR Monday start?
(to be sung to the tune of "Camptown Races")
Monday mornings really suck, doo dah, doo dah
Covered in poop that's just my luck, oh doo dah day
Gonna wash all day, gonna wash all night,
But my daughter's gonna poop again, eh it'll be allright....
Both 'Bean and stroller need a bath, doo dah, doo dah
My friends are really gonna laugh, oh doo dah day
Gonna laugh all night, gonna laugh all day
When I tell 'em the poopsplosion, happened as we went on our way....
Bugaboos they really are neat, doo dah, doo dah
But right now I need to wash the seat, oh doo dah day
Disassembly is a snap, I think I need a nap
I just wish it wasn't all covered in crap....
Monday mornings really suck, doo dah, doo dah
Covered in poop that's just my luck, oh doo dah day
Gonna wash all day, gonna wash all night,
But my daughter's gonna poop again, eh it'll be allright....
Both 'Bean and stroller need a bath, doo dah, doo dah
My friends are really gonna laugh, oh doo dah day
Gonna laugh all night, gonna laugh all day
When I tell 'em the poopsplosion, happened as we went on our way....
Bugaboos they really are neat, doo dah, doo dah
But right now I need to wash the seat, oh doo dah day
Disassembly is a snap, I think I need a nap
I just wish it wasn't all covered in crap....
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Pig on a Post.....aka a lost toy. 1st in a series...
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Saturday, July 4, 2009
Rollin', rollin' rollin', keep those doggies rollin'
Jellybean is mobile. She's not even 7 months old, and no she hasn't learned to crawl (yet), but MAN can she roll.
Side to side, over and around obstacles, this way and that. If she wants to go somewhere, she just rolls.
Today she rolled over M's foot. He was busy playing xBox and focused on the task at hand (killing mutant something or others...you know, precisely what you expect a Ph.D. to do with his free time! cough cough FINE I LIKE THAT GAME TOO). So, he didn't flinch and just let her roll over his foot.
I think she wanted some attention. Because when he didn't react to her rolling over his foot, she scooted around to gnaw on it. Yummy.
Side to side, over and around obstacles, this way and that. If she wants to go somewhere, she just rolls.
Today she rolled over M's foot. He was busy playing xBox and focused on the task at hand (killing mutant something or others...you know, precisely what you expect a Ph.D. to do with his free time! cough cough FINE I LIKE THAT GAME TOO). So, he didn't flinch and just let her roll over his foot.
I think she wanted some attention. Because when he didn't react to her rolling over his foot, she scooted around to gnaw on it. Yummy.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Requiem for a dinosaur
This past weekend we went to a birthday party for one of Monkey's best friends. His parents put up not one, but TWO kiddie pools in their backyard. Monkey had so much fun I thought we might need to live in their basement, as she was never ever going to want to leave.
But, R's parents made parting such sweet sorrow (instead of teeth-grinding temper-tantrums), by handing out goody bags to the kids as they left. So, you don't wanna leave? OK, no problem, no gifts for you........and lo and behold! Away those kids went! Such smart parents.
Monkey's bag was full of little plastic dinosaurs. Which are now about her most favorite posessions in the world. I think only her books and ABC blankie come first....
This morning she begged to take them to school. She had all of them in a bag, ready to go, and was very sad to be granted permission to only take two. She's such a haggler! I said one, she said "THREE" (while holding up her hand with three fingers....like that unbearably cute demonstration might sway me...oh crap, fine, it worked and she got two. What can I say, it was cute!).
Once we got to school, Monkey wanted to hold the elevator open to "help" out. Of course, her body is in the way so everyone is squeezing in and out and it's chaos. But hey, she's helping! And polite! and OH NOOOOOOOOO one of her little dinosaurs fell into the crack between the elevator and the building floor.
It had plummeted to its death. Tears were streaming down Monkey's cheeks and she was taking little, hitching, breaths as she told me what happened in between these sad little sobs.
I decided not to brush this off. We got to the next floor, and after everyone emptied out of the elevator, I took her hand and said "Monkey, let's take a moment to grieve and say goodbye. Your dinosaur has fallen into the center of the earth and won't be coming back."
Monkey leaned forward, looking down the crack as if she could see that teeny dinosaur at the bottom of the elevator shaft, waved, and said "bye bye dinosaur." It would have been hilarious if it wasn't just so sad!
But, R's parents made parting such sweet sorrow (instead of teeth-grinding temper-tantrums), by handing out goody bags to the kids as they left. So, you don't wanna leave? OK, no problem, no gifts for you........and lo and behold! Away those kids went! Such smart parents.
Monkey's bag was full of little plastic dinosaurs. Which are now about her most favorite posessions in the world. I think only her books and ABC blankie come first....
This morning she begged to take them to school. She had all of them in a bag, ready to go, and was very sad to be granted permission to only take two. She's such a haggler! I said one, she said "THREE" (while holding up her hand with three fingers....like that unbearably cute demonstration might sway me...oh crap, fine, it worked and she got two. What can I say, it was cute!).
Once we got to school, Monkey wanted to hold the elevator open to "help" out. Of course, her body is in the way so everyone is squeezing in and out and it's chaos. But hey, she's helping! And polite! and OH NOOOOOOOOO one of her little dinosaurs fell into the crack between the elevator and the building floor.
It had plummeted to its death. Tears were streaming down Monkey's cheeks and she was taking little, hitching, breaths as she told me what happened in between these sad little sobs.
I decided not to brush this off. We got to the next floor, and after everyone emptied out of the elevator, I took her hand and said "Monkey, let's take a moment to grieve and say goodbye. Your dinosaur has fallen into the center of the earth and won't be coming back."
Monkey leaned forward, looking down the crack as if she could see that teeny dinosaur at the bottom of the elevator shaft, waved, and said "bye bye dinosaur." It would have been hilarious if it wasn't just so sad!
Friday, June 26, 2009
Madlibs
Do you remember Madlibs? I do. I remember going to slumber parties and staying up all night in my friend's basements, listening to music and screaming with laughter at the silly stories that we would make up. Those were good times. As I sit here in my kitchen on a Friday night, I think back to all those birthday parties and the great fun we had with madlibs, and even now - decades later - I feel a swell of mirth bubbling up, and hear the echoes of laughter in my mind.
And veering off on a tangent...(trust me, this will make sense eventually)....
M and I are investigating schools for Monkey (and Jellybean too, eventually). The public school we are zoned for sucks. No other way to put it folks, it sucks. It is the kind of school that you only send your kids to because you have to. Because you have no other choice in life. And I'm not being an over-educated snob: even our superintendant, who is originally from Albania and may never have attended college for all I know, shudders at that school and managed to work the system (OK, cheat) to get his kids into a better school elsewhere.
We are looking at both public and private, but since public isn't an option until fall of 2011 when she turns 5, right now our focus is on private schools. (more about the insane admissions process later, I promise)
Private schools require the normal forms you'd expect, but most also require a statement/essay from the parent(s). One school asks how you would describe your child (skipping the physical attributes) to another person so that the child could be picked out of a crowd of kids.
It's a pretty cool question - asking you to identify the defining attributes of your child: what makes Monkey unique, what makes Monkey who she is....and it reminds me of Madlibs!
My daughter is _______, and can often be found holding_______in her hand while _____ about ____________ with _______________.
My daughter is insane about her books, and can often be found holding two or more library books in her hand while walking about the city with her parents.
OR
My daughter is exceptionally polite, and can often be found holding a full glass of apple juice in her hand while attending a birthday party and talking about robots with her best friend Caleb.
OR
My daughter is pigheaded stubborn, and can often be found holding her ABC blankie in her hand while grinding down her mother's resolve to not let her watch TV while asking about movies with no scary parts in them.
I could go on. Instead I'll go to bed.
And veering off on a tangent...(trust me, this will make sense eventually)....
M and I are investigating schools for Monkey (and Jellybean too, eventually). The public school we are zoned for sucks. No other way to put it folks, it sucks. It is the kind of school that you only send your kids to because you have to. Because you have no other choice in life. And I'm not being an over-educated snob: even our superintendant, who is originally from Albania and may never have attended college for all I know, shudders at that school and managed to work the system (OK, cheat) to get his kids into a better school elsewhere.
We are looking at both public and private, but since public isn't an option until fall of 2011 when she turns 5, right now our focus is on private schools. (more about the insane admissions process later, I promise)
Private schools require the normal forms you'd expect, but most also require a statement/essay from the parent(s). One school asks how you would describe your child (skipping the physical attributes) to another person so that the child could be picked out of a crowd of kids.
It's a pretty cool question - asking you to identify the defining attributes of your child: what makes Monkey unique, what makes Monkey who she is....and it reminds me of Madlibs!
My daughter is _______, and can often be found holding_______in her hand while _____ about ____________ with _______________.
My daughter is insane about her books, and can often be found holding two or more library books in her hand while walking about the city with her parents.
OR
My daughter is exceptionally polite, and can often be found holding a full glass of apple juice in her hand while attending a birthday party and talking about robots with her best friend Caleb.
OR
My daughter is pigheaded stubborn, and can often be found holding her ABC blankie in her hand while grinding down her mother's resolve to not let her watch TV while asking about movies with no scary parts in them.
I could go on. Instead I'll go to bed.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Her inner Tarzan
A few weekends ago, back when we were still familiar with that giant yellow ball of gas in the sky known as the sun (it's been raining here a lot. A LOT), we spent some quality family time in Riverside Park.
We had wandered over to dinner at the Hudson Beach Cafe, which overlooks/is adjacent to a manmade beach wtih a volleyball court and gymnast rings.
Kids were swinging back and forth, back and forth, moving from one ring to the next with the casual confidence of olympic gymnasts. They made it look easy.
Monkey was enthralled. So, without thinking about it too hard, M brought Monkey over and stood in line with her. When it was her turn, he lifted her up to hold a ring, and swung her back and forth. My only objection was that she was swinging over the upturned garbage can used as a launching point. (you know, if she dropped on it that would hurt more than the sand)
So when it was her turn again, M brought her out to the second ring, and she swung back and forth there. And I do mean swing. She was making it look easy.
Until she let go. And dropped 5 feet down, onto the hard packed sand. Ow. She cried, we comforted her, and she got over it. Home we went for a good bath before bedtime.
Only then, during the bath, did I realize just how hard she had hit the sand. She still had sand shoved up into her nose.
She is one tough toddler.
We had wandered over to dinner at the Hudson Beach Cafe, which overlooks/is adjacent to a manmade beach wtih a volleyball court and gymnast rings.
Kids were swinging back and forth, back and forth, moving from one ring to the next with the casual confidence of olympic gymnasts. They made it look easy.
Monkey was enthralled. So, without thinking about it too hard, M brought Monkey over and stood in line with her. When it was her turn, he lifted her up to hold a ring, and swung her back and forth. My only objection was that she was swinging over the upturned garbage can used as a launching point. (you know, if she dropped on it that would hurt more than the sand)
So when it was her turn again, M brought her out to the second ring, and she swung back and forth there. And I do mean swing. She was making it look easy.
Until she let go. And dropped 5 feet down, onto the hard packed sand. Ow. She cried, we comforted her, and she got over it. Home we went for a good bath before bedtime.
Only then, during the bath, did I realize just how hard she had hit the sand. She still had sand shoved up into her nose.
She is one tough toddler.
Monday, June 22, 2009
End of the school year
Last Thursday was officially the end of the "school year" for Monkey. So they threw a party!
All the parents were invited to attend a "social" which, loosely translated, means bringing tons of food, eating tons of food, and watching all the kids go crazy after they've had fruit, muffins, and apple juice. Good times.
I was expecting the usual mayhem. What I wasn't expecting was a short "slide show" put on by the head teacher, J. She took pictures from the year and put them to music. There were a few shows, each focused on a topic - working, running, sleeping, etc.
My favorite was sleeping. I loved seeing all those peaceful faces, including the one of Monkey. It flashed across the screen and I thought - awww, how cute, her best friend R is sleeping next to her.
Only later did I get the whole story. And I got a little choked up.
Apparently, when I was in the hospital after delivering Jellybean, Monkey was having a hard time at school. She was out of sorts because Mommy wasn't home, and because she knew her world as she knew it was changing. So she wasn't napping, crying for her mommy.
So do you know what R did? Every day he would go and sleep next to Monkey, to make her feel better. That's love.
Of all the things that Monkey's montessori is teaching her, I think that friendship has to be the most important.
All the parents were invited to attend a "social" which, loosely translated, means bringing tons of food, eating tons of food, and watching all the kids go crazy after they've had fruit, muffins, and apple juice. Good times.
I was expecting the usual mayhem. What I wasn't expecting was a short "slide show" put on by the head teacher, J. She took pictures from the year and put them to music. There were a few shows, each focused on a topic - working, running, sleeping, etc.
My favorite was sleeping. I loved seeing all those peaceful faces, including the one of Monkey. It flashed across the screen and I thought - awww, how cute, her best friend R is sleeping next to her.
Only later did I get the whole story. And I got a little choked up.
Apparently, when I was in the hospital after delivering Jellybean, Monkey was having a hard time at school. She was out of sorts because Mommy wasn't home, and because she knew her world as she knew it was changing. So she wasn't napping, crying for her mommy.
So do you know what R did? Every day he would go and sleep next to Monkey, to make her feel better. That's love.
Of all the things that Monkey's montessori is teaching her, I think that friendship has to be the most important.
out of the mouth of babes
This past Saturday night we drove out to Westchester to a birthday party. The birthday boy, as opposed to our more normal routine, was not an insane toddler, but rather M's boss. He has a lovely home, with a really nice wife, three kids, and an adorable little floppet of a puppy. The party was fun. The food (an assortment of Turkish items) was really good, there was plenty of wine and soda to go around, and there was even live music.
The live music was my favorite part. It was two guys with acoustic guitars, and they were awesome! I got to rock out to some Supertramp with Jellybean. She totally dug it, and was fascinated by the two musicians playing their guitars. If I could have put a lighter in her hand she would have been all over it. "Give a Little Bit" is officially her favorite song now. Come on now, rock out with me.... I think it cracked the musicians up that I was singing along with them...but come on, it was Supertramp!
Monkey could have cared less about the music, she got obsessed *cough sputter cough* OBSESSED I TELL YOU with.....a nasty piece of work called "My Pretty Pony." Ah, gawd, I think I just threw up in my mouth.
The funniest moment of the entire party came when we were getting into the car to drive home. I commented on the house, saying I liked it, and Monkey piped up with "Yeah, I want one!".....I about fell over laughing. M glowered and told Monkey to "stop egging your mother on...". It was hilarious.
Ok, I have two babes asleep right now. I need to go listen to some more Supertramp before they wake up! Happy Monday all.....
The live music was my favorite part. It was two guys with acoustic guitars, and they were awesome! I got to rock out to some Supertramp with Jellybean. She totally dug it, and was fascinated by the two musicians playing their guitars. If I could have put a lighter in her hand she would have been all over it. "Give a Little Bit" is officially her favorite song now. Come on now, rock out with me.... I think it cracked the musicians up that I was singing along with them...but come on, it was Supertramp!
Monkey could have cared less about the music, she got obsessed *cough sputter cough* OBSESSED I TELL YOU with.....a nasty piece of work called "My Pretty Pony." Ah, gawd, I think I just threw up in my mouth.
The funniest moment of the entire party came when we were getting into the car to drive home. I commented on the house, saying I liked it, and Monkey piped up with "Yeah, I want one!".....I about fell over laughing. M glowered and told Monkey to "stop egging your mother on...". It was hilarious.
Ok, I have two babes asleep right now. I need to go listen to some more Supertramp before they wake up! Happy Monday all.....
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
The Competition's (h)eating up
Well, so far, Jellybean's little cousin B (born to my brother and his beautiful wife G in early April), is totally kicking ass and taking names. This is a recent photo of her. Isn't she a beauty?
At B's two month checkup yesterday, she weighed in at 12 lbs and some ounces, and 24 inches long.
A Jellybean's six month checkup, she weighed in at 12 lbs 8 ounces, and 24.75 inches long.
Um, yeah. They are pretty much exactly the same size. THE SAME! Wow. I mean, seriously. Are they feeding B foie gras and clotted cream already?
If this keeps up there is NO WAY that Jellybean is going to win the hotdog eating contests at future gatherings of the cousins.
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