These last 10 months have zipped by. It seems there is never enough time in the day to relax and fully appreciate these little beings we are raising. Having a four day weekend to play was so much fun!
At 10 months old, Logan is now a deliberate being. He knows where he wants to go, what he wants to play with, whether or not he wants to eat or sleep. (Yes, yes, yes to the former, absolutely no to the latter.) He crawls all over the place and rarely wants to sit and snuggle now that he knows he can get places. He does do a traditional crawl, but just as often crawls on hands and feet, especially when outside on rough terrain or cement. Although it looks rather awkward, he really has it down and it is nice to not worry about him scraping those little knees. He also now pulls himself up on everything. He cruises along and we can see him getting more adventurous about letting go. He often stands holding on with only one hand, and people have commented on him letting go with both, but only for a second before he drops. He can easily climb a flight of stairs, as demonstrated at a friend's house when we saw him do that for the first time, as if he had been doing it for years. We didn't find out if he could go down, as we don't want to see how quickly he can tumble. He can go down one or two steps, and is even starting to go feet first, as opposed to doing a nosedive, and getting lucky half the time to catch himself with his hands. He tries the same technique off our hearth, but the results aren't so good. He does get help from his big brother getting off the hearth. Those results are a bit worse. He does like to sit up there though, clapping and giggling as if he knows he is the Greatest Show on Earth. Who am I kidding? He kinda is. Logan now waves coming and going, but not consistently. Sometimes there is a delayed reaction, and he will wave after we have walked away from someone. He still has a bit of separation anxiety, as well as reunion anxiety. It doesn't matter if we walk away or come back in- it bugs him either way. Upon our return to the room, he wants a snuggle or he complains.
Food is definitely his friend. This kid eats an amazing amount. He is in the 10th percentile for weight and 25th for height, so he is a tiny little thing, but has a seemingly limitless appetite. He only nurses for a few minutes, preferring instead to crawl around, but does drink bottles when away from me. He nurses a bit more in the early morning, and sometimes before bed. He isn't picky, although he does prefer things much milder than Hayden ever did. He loves his cereal, likes his yogurt and most anything else. He drinks well from a cup or sippy cup, and anything that resembles a cup to him gets used as one, whether at the table, playing, or in the bath. It is so cute to see him play with a giant sports cup, tipping his head back as if he is chugging a 32 oz soda. He seems to have a short attention span, so when he is feeding himself, it quickly leads to just throwing everything on the floor. We sweep EVERY day. Fillip rarely even lets him feed himself, but feeds him instead. I do both, depending on how hungry I happen to be, or how much attention Hayden needs.
Logan does babble as he plays, which I just love. He also still makes that funny Flipper noise, so unique to him. He has made this noise since birth, and it is definitely a happy noise. He is also a giggler, most often at his brother. He is Hayden's best audience. Those two get each other going, and it is hilarious to see. Logan is such a flirt with everyone, everywhere. He loves when pretty girls are nearby, catching their eye with a twinkle in his, smiling sweetly. Then, once they have noticed him, he turns up the charm with a big grin. People stop us all the time to comment on his bright blue eyes. Just when I started to waver in my belief that his eyes would change to green, Fillip now thinks they might. We'll see. He still has no teeth, although his gums do swell. He has chronic ear infections and Dr. J just recommended seeing and ENT to discuss tubes. The benchmark is 4 infections in 6 months, which we have easily reached. This last one was tough to clear and last Friday night we (me and Logan)were up every 1-2 hours. He bats at his ear and has been so fussy. Poor guy.
He plays independently pretty well. His favorite thing to do is either bang things together or throw them on the floor to see how loud and far they will bounce. He loves turn taking where I pass him something, and he passes it right back. Each time I return the toy he babbles and claps his hands, which I take as praise for being a genius Mommy. Bedtime can be a bit challengins as he like lots of snuggling before going down, which Daddy gladly indulges. He usually sleeps in his crib, but often his swing. He does nap well, going down without much fuss at all. In the mornings, I nurse him before work, then we snuggle up in bed together. I love that sleepy sweet lump next to me. His teachers constantly tell us how good his is, that he is such a happy baby. He certainly brings us tons of joy, and I am so happy we are lucky enough to be his parents.
Thursday, July 06, 2006
Monday, June 26, 2006
Lessons Learned
- Don't put an egg on the counter before being ready to add it to the cookie dough.
- It takes a two year old about half a second to grab an egg off the counter, and crack it open. Saying "No!" a quarter second after putting it down, is already much too late.
- One egg can cover the counter, the mixer, the front of all four drawers below the mixer, most of the bottom of the drawer that was left slightly open, and much of the floor.
- One egg can take approximately 10 minutes to clean up.
- A 9 month old boy can eat about half a container of baby snacks in the time it takes to clean up one egg.
- Half a container of baby snacks can fill up the tray of a booster seat, the seat of the booster seat, and half the kitchen floor.
- Baby snacks mixed with egg are very hard to get off the floor.
- If you think you can whip up cookies in 10 minutes with a toddler, you aren't accounting for cleaning up the egg.
Bi-Polar Parenting
Sometimes, I feel like the best parent in the world.
You know, like when I told Hayden that we say "oh shoot" and he actually stopped swearing. Or when I bargained that if he took just one taste of a green bean (which I know he likes, despite him telling me he doesn't) that he could have one of the cookies we baked. And once he took that one bite, he ate the rest of the green beans while I patted myself on the back for being so intuitive to what works with him, and gave him that cookie, which I knew he'd hardly eat anyway, being his father's son who likes to bake, but doesn't like baked goods so much. Or when we sit down to read stories together and he knows that Curious George is in prison because there was no fire, only a naughty little monkey, and he is really listening and absorbing these books, and hopefully on some level absorbing the love I have for him that I hope is seeping through me to the little boy in my lap holding a stuffed Froggy, a sandwich of security.
Then, there are those other times when I know that nobody is less fit to be a parent than me. Like when I am alone with the two screaming boys, neither of which care that I can't be in two places at once, or that I would gladly indulge their every whim if possible, but am simply trying to maintain some level of sanity while making dinner, and putting out the fire from the plastic drumstick that was mysteriously left on the burner while I was checking the meat on the barbecue. Like when I have told Hayden one too many times to "Stop that!" and he won't and yells "No!" at me over and over, and gets put on time-out, yet just keeps yelling and screaming and won't Stop It, or stay in one spot, or stop kicking the wall, and I finally just lose it and actually scream at him, really put a frightened look on that gorgeous, rebellious face because time-out is my last resort, because what else could I do? and I'm not going to spank him, and I'm not going to take away Robbie the Froggy because it is his Security Object, so my only tool is my anger and frustration at my complete ineptness and absolute lack of efficacy in parenting this not so bad little boy.
It is at these low moments that I know I am the Worst Parent Ever.
You know, like when I told Hayden that we say "oh shoot" and he actually stopped swearing. Or when I bargained that if he took just one taste of a green bean (which I know he likes, despite him telling me he doesn't) that he could have one of the cookies we baked. And once he took that one bite, he ate the rest of the green beans while I patted myself on the back for being so intuitive to what works with him, and gave him that cookie, which I knew he'd hardly eat anyway, being his father's son who likes to bake, but doesn't like baked goods so much. Or when we sit down to read stories together and he knows that Curious George is in prison because there was no fire, only a naughty little monkey, and he is really listening and absorbing these books, and hopefully on some level absorbing the love I have for him that I hope is seeping through me to the little boy in my lap holding a stuffed Froggy, a sandwich of security.
Then, there are those other times when I know that nobody is less fit to be a parent than me. Like when I am alone with the two screaming boys, neither of which care that I can't be in two places at once, or that I would gladly indulge their every whim if possible, but am simply trying to maintain some level of sanity while making dinner, and putting out the fire from the plastic drumstick that was mysteriously left on the burner while I was checking the meat on the barbecue. Like when I have told Hayden one too many times to "Stop that!" and he won't and yells "No!" at me over and over, and gets put on time-out, yet just keeps yelling and screaming and won't Stop It, or stay in one spot, or stop kicking the wall, and I finally just lose it and actually scream at him, really put a frightened look on that gorgeous, rebellious face because time-out is my last resort, because what else could I do? and I'm not going to spank him, and I'm not going to take away Robbie the Froggy because it is his Security Object, so my only tool is my anger and frustration at my complete ineptness and absolute lack of efficacy in parenting this not so bad little boy.
It is at these low moments that I know I am the Worst Parent Ever.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Just making sure
My boys do love their penises. Hayden holds it at all times when he is naked, as if it is attached to a rudder and he is steering himself around the house with it. Logan recently discovered his- what a glorious bath that was! It was a little disturbing how proficient he was with it. Innate. He hasn't bothered with it much lately, instead focusing on carrying toys around in his mouth like a puppy with its ball. We've been calling him Fido.
I do go around naked in front of them, but feel a bit self-conscious with Hayden. He is very interested in body parts these days, randomly asking and taking inventory. Recently he came up to me while I was naked, pointed to my crotch and said "dat yo penis?" I told him no, I don't have a penis. "Mommy, you don't have penis?! Why?" Mommies don't have penises because we are girls. A glance over at Fillip showed him intensely (intentionally) unaware of what was going on, no help at all in my awkward situation.
Recently, while friends were over for dinner, Hayden looked across and asked me "Mommy, you have boobies?" Yes Sweetie, I have boobies. This led to pointing out everyone's boobies, then determining who had penises.
At dinner with Fillip's Grandmother the next night at a restaurant, Hayden loudly confirmed "Mommy, you don't have penis?" No, no I don't have a penis.
A look at Fillip, and he was doubled over laughing, no help at all.
Thanks Honey.
I do go around naked in front of them, but feel a bit self-conscious with Hayden. He is very interested in body parts these days, randomly asking and taking inventory. Recently he came up to me while I was naked, pointed to my crotch and said "dat yo penis?" I told him no, I don't have a penis. "Mommy, you don't have penis?! Why?" Mommies don't have penises because we are girls. A glance over at Fillip showed him intensely (intentionally) unaware of what was going on, no help at all in my awkward situation.
Recently, while friends were over for dinner, Hayden looked across and asked me "Mommy, you have boobies?" Yes Sweetie, I have boobies. This led to pointing out everyone's boobies, then determining who had penises.
At dinner with Fillip's Grandmother the next night at a restaurant, Hayden loudly confirmed "Mommy, you don't have penis?" No, no I don't have a penis.
A look at Fillip, and he was doubled over laughing, no help at all.
Thanks Honey.
Apparantly, two year olds are tasty
Hayden continues to bite others at school. Although he has gotten a positive report here and there, most days we are hearing from his teacher about his inappropriate behavior toward his classmates. We are at our wits' end. We think he is craving attention, and are trying to give him more personal attention at home, while making sure time-outs are free from any interaction other than putting him back in the chair.
At school one day, he got sent to the Director's office for awhile, then back to his class where he immediately bit another kid. He spent the remainder of the day in the Director's office. The next day, he didn't want to stay at school and the teacher promised Fillip would call him before naptime (before consulting Fillip about this.) Fillip didn't have time, so I called. Before speaking with Hayden, I spoke with the school Director, who told me about another "incident." She had gone to visit the class, and as soon as she left, Hayden bit his teacher! He then told the teacher to call the Director so he could go to her office. He is only 2 years old! The Director came to talk with him, but said he would spend time with her when he was behaving and had to return to class. We determined that he would be isolated from the other students when he acts out by standing in a corner in the classroom. He would miss whatever activity was going on at that time, hoping he will realize that the consequences of hurting others are not fun.
We learned later that instead of doing this, his teacher is taking him outside with her, talking with him, and holding his hand. This is the exact opposite of what we agreed would happen, as we feel it is reinforcing the behavior. We spoke with the Director again, and she suggested having him spend time in the Threes class as it might be more stimulating, structured better for him. They get split into smaller groups, while learning similar curriculum. We are all also beginning to speculate that his teacher may not be a good match for him given recent events and the timing of when this all developed.
When Fillip dropped him off today, his teacher said he wouldn't be going to the other class, putting him in the corner is against licensing and that if he acted out he would be sent home. All in front of Hayden. Fillip was fit to be tied when he left, feeling like this teacher is undermining everything, and completely disregarding any plan of action we come to with the school Director. Not to mention, lying about licensing regulations. We are so frustrated. So, I called and spoke with the Assistant Director (the Director is at a meeting today) who is totally on board with us, and let me know that his teachers comments this morning were inaccurate and inappropriate.
Hopefully, being in the Threes class this morning, he is having a better day and we can start resolving this problem. We think that class may be a permanent thing, as the teacher in the Twos class clearly isn't willing to work with us or the Director of the school in a consistent manner. We truly recognize that this can't continue, whatever the source is, but we can't hope to make much progress if we feel the person he spends so much time with is perpetuating it.
He is such a sweet boy generally and it is so sad to see him constantly in trouble, and now choosing to play by himself rather than with other kids. He was brought into the Baby Room this week to see Logan and was so gentle with those kids. I don't know if this is realistic, but maybe he is going through some sort of slight depression, as he has had some trouble falling asleep lately and hardly eats his dinner. Poor little guy. How can a parent know exactly what is best in a situation like this? There is such a fine balance between supporting his obvious need for attention and making sure he feels loved and secure unconditionally, while being stern enough to teach him what is unacceptable and motivate him to stop that behavior.
At school one day, he got sent to the Director's office for awhile, then back to his class where he immediately bit another kid. He spent the remainder of the day in the Director's office. The next day, he didn't want to stay at school and the teacher promised Fillip would call him before naptime (before consulting Fillip about this.) Fillip didn't have time, so I called. Before speaking with Hayden, I spoke with the school Director, who told me about another "incident." She had gone to visit the class, and as soon as she left, Hayden bit his teacher! He then told the teacher to call the Director so he could go to her office. He is only 2 years old! The Director came to talk with him, but said he would spend time with her when he was behaving and had to return to class. We determined that he would be isolated from the other students when he acts out by standing in a corner in the classroom. He would miss whatever activity was going on at that time, hoping he will realize that the consequences of hurting others are not fun.
We learned later that instead of doing this, his teacher is taking him outside with her, talking with him, and holding his hand. This is the exact opposite of what we agreed would happen, as we feel it is reinforcing the behavior. We spoke with the Director again, and she suggested having him spend time in the Threes class as it might be more stimulating, structured better for him. They get split into smaller groups, while learning similar curriculum. We are all also beginning to speculate that his teacher may not be a good match for him given recent events and the timing of when this all developed.
When Fillip dropped him off today, his teacher said he wouldn't be going to the other class, putting him in the corner is against licensing and that if he acted out he would be sent home. All in front of Hayden. Fillip was fit to be tied when he left, feeling like this teacher is undermining everything, and completely disregarding any plan of action we come to with the school Director. Not to mention, lying about licensing regulations. We are so frustrated. So, I called and spoke with the Assistant Director (the Director is at a meeting today) who is totally on board with us, and let me know that his teachers comments this morning were inaccurate and inappropriate.
Hopefully, being in the Threes class this morning, he is having a better day and we can start resolving this problem. We think that class may be a permanent thing, as the teacher in the Twos class clearly isn't willing to work with us or the Director of the school in a consistent manner. We truly recognize that this can't continue, whatever the source is, but we can't hope to make much progress if we feel the person he spends so much time with is perpetuating it.
He is such a sweet boy generally and it is so sad to see him constantly in trouble, and now choosing to play by himself rather than with other kids. He was brought into the Baby Room this week to see Logan and was so gentle with those kids. I don't know if this is realistic, but maybe he is going through some sort of slight depression, as he has had some trouble falling asleep lately and hardly eats his dinner. Poor little guy. How can a parent know exactly what is best in a situation like this? There is such a fine balance between supporting his obvious need for attention and making sure he feels loved and secure unconditionally, while being stern enough to teach him what is unacceptable and motivate him to stop that behavior.
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Hawaii
Damn your state and your delicious Maui Caramacs!!
My co-worker is totally sabotaging my dietary efforts by bringing me an entire box of these chocolate coated caramel macadamia dream candies. Despite standard office etiquette, I did not put them generously on my desk for all to sample. No, they are stashed deep in my snack drawer, ready for me to slyly devour every day whenever my sweet tooth sneaks up on me.
Ok, of course I know she was just being nice by bringing me something from her vacation. And....I'll even admit that I requested she bring me these specifically.
But...I still won't forgive Hawaii for producing them or making them available to all the people who visit then return to mock me with their delicious chewy sweetness. If not those, then chocolate covered macadamia nuts, oven roasted macadamia nuts, they even make a variety pack of macadamia nuts. They are strategically placed in the office so as not to be missed on the way to the fax machine or water cooler. It's as if everyone who returns to the office after their Hawaii vacation is saying "Thanks for covering my desk while I was gone. Look how tan and relaxed I am. Now you will not only be pastey while, but fat!" How depressing.
Maybe some candy will help.
My co-worker is totally sabotaging my dietary efforts by bringing me an entire box of these chocolate coated caramel macadamia dream candies. Despite standard office etiquette, I did not put them generously on my desk for all to sample. No, they are stashed deep in my snack drawer, ready for me to slyly devour every day whenever my sweet tooth sneaks up on me.
Ok, of course I know she was just being nice by bringing me something from her vacation. And....I'll even admit that I requested she bring me these specifically.
But...I still won't forgive Hawaii for producing them or making them available to all the people who visit then return to mock me with their delicious chewy sweetness. If not those, then chocolate covered macadamia nuts, oven roasted macadamia nuts, they even make a variety pack of macadamia nuts. They are strategically placed in the office so as not to be missed on the way to the fax machine or water cooler. It's as if everyone who returns to the office after their Hawaii vacation is saying "Thanks for covering my desk while I was gone. Look how tan and relaxed I am. Now you will not only be pastey while, but fat!" How depressing.
Maybe some candy will help.
Sunday, June 18, 2006
Inspired by a little boy in JHB
Yesterday I let the baby play in a baby pool, in just his diaper, on muddy grass. He had a muddy bum, dirt encrusted legs, and I think he likely ate a fair amount of grass. Dh didn't seem too happy. The baby was ecstatic.
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Bite this
The last two days in a row, Hayden's teacher has needed to have a talk with Fillip about his behaviour. Hayden's behaviour, not Fillip's. Fillip is a good boy. Hayden has been very aggressive lately, hitting, biting and pushing other kids. It is so frustrating, as nothing seems to be working to correct this. Our current plan is to be hard asses about timeout, yet give him daily one-on-one special time, hoping to give him the attention he is craving. From what I've seen, that is the root of this, but what do I know!
Logan is going through separation anxiety these days. Getting him to bed is so difficult, requiring much snuggling, patting, rocking, swinging, and swaddling. When I went to my friend's house earlier in the week, Fillip called to say the kids were asleep. Hayden went down fairly easily, but he had to mummify the baby. Hey, whatever works!
This parenting thing is like a big rollercoaster. Just when you hit a high point, you come cruising on down, not knowing what's around the bend.
Logan is going through separation anxiety these days. Getting him to bed is so difficult, requiring much snuggling, patting, rocking, swinging, and swaddling. When I went to my friend's house earlier in the week, Fillip called to say the kids were asleep. Hayden went down fairly easily, but he had to mummify the baby. Hey, whatever works!
This parenting thing is like a big rollercoaster. Just when you hit a high point, you come cruising on down, not knowing what's around the bend.
Tuesday, June 13, 2006
Much better
Our sweetheart was back last night. Hayden took a late, 2 hour nap and was so fun all through dinner. He is so cute, and so silly, giggling at everything, and trying to crack up his brother. This is generally easily achieved. I love hearing the sounds of him laughing and playing rather than crying and raging.
This morning he was awake when I left for work. I got him a "bar breakfast" to snack on until Fillip woke for the day. As I was closing his door and leaving, I heard him say something. I opened the door and peeked in. This sweet little voice said "Have a nice day, Mommy." Awww. What a sweetie!
This morning he was awake when I left for work. I got him a "bar breakfast" to snack on until Fillip woke for the day. As I was closing his door and leaving, I heard him say something. I opened the door and peeked in. This sweet little voice said "Have a nice day, Mommy." Awww. What a sweetie!
Sunday, June 11, 2006
At my wit's end
Getting Hayden ready for bed, after a very trying weekend. He is challenging us on everything. He says no, ignores us completely, or throws himself down in a tantrum. Logan didn't want to go to bed either and had been screaming for sometime, despite Fillip repeatedly settling him down. I wanted Hayden to climb onto his changing table to get ready for bed, but he spotted a pair of jammies on a toy.
H- "What happened to the jammies?"
M- "Nothing happened to them."
H-"What happened to the jammies?"
M- "Nothing, they are just laying there."
H-"But, what happened?" Still not climbing onto the changing table.
M-"Hayden, nothing happened to them. They are fine."
H-"What happened to the jammies?"
M- Completely exacerbated at this point. "They flew there, Hayden. A dragon picked them up, flew them all the way around the world, through the sky, and dropped them here in your room, on that toy. That's what happened. Ok?!"
Silence.
I feel relieved.
Maybe now he will climb onto the changing table and we can get things moving.
H-"Why?"
*sigh*
H- "What happened to the jammies?"
M- "Nothing happened to them."
H-"What happened to the jammies?"
M- "Nothing, they are just laying there."
H-"But, what happened?" Still not climbing onto the changing table.
M-"Hayden, nothing happened to them. They are fine."
H-"What happened to the jammies?"
M- Completely exacerbated at this point. "They flew there, Hayden. A dragon picked them up, flew them all the way around the world, through the sky, and dropped them here in your room, on that toy. That's what happened. Ok?!"
Silence.
I feel relieved.
Maybe now he will climb onto the changing table and we can get things moving.
H-"Why?"
*sigh*
Friday, June 09, 2006
Music to my ears
Well, after my diatribe from yesterday, I suppose my evening was fitting. Once the kids were in bed, I was not particularly motivated to tackle the housework, so decided to check my email. I heard a symphony coming over the baby monitor and started to pay attention. I knew it was Beethoven, but did not immediately register which symphony, only that I really like this one. So, I sat there vaguely listening and screwing around on the computer for awhile. It was so nice to hear a piece of music that I truly love. I finally realized that it wasn't the 5th (one of my favorite pieces) or even the 7th (Uncle Stu's alltime fav), but the 9th! This particular music has the ability to really move me, uplifting my mood, soothing my mind, a therapy in itself.
Every year there is a live performance of Beethoven's 9th Symphony at the Hollywood Bowl, and I have never ever seen it perfomed live. Ever. I'm not the only person partial to this music. It is labeled as one of the all time greatest pieces ever composed, (although there are mixed opinions as to the quality of content used, and consistency in theme). Even more remarkable is that this miracle of humanity came from a person who was deaf, who never even heard those beautiful notes that he so geniusly crafted together. Beethoven conducted the orchestra and choir himself on the debut performance, yet was exposed as completely deaf when it was necessary to turn him to face the audience, showing him the applause that was offered at the performance. After spending 10 years working on the symphony, he never heard a single note, nevermind the audience's fantastic reaction to such a bold and original piece, the first to pair a choir with musicians, putting a popular poem to a melody, and forging a place in history that could not have been anticipated. This music is used around the world as a benchmark, a theme for significant moments including the fall of the Berlin wall. Originally cd's were designed to hold 74 minutes of music, specifically to be the first media to be able to play the 9th Sympony in its entirety without having to turn over the record or change the tape.
As I heard the orchestra begin the last movement, Ode to Joy, I decided that I wanted to simply enjoy the moment. I turned on the stereo (much better sound quality than the baby monitor), turned off the lights, and sat on the couch absorbing the music around me. It had been a very long time since I had heard this piece, and even longer since I have truly listened to it. It is stunning. The music washes over you in waves, with several distinct parts, all coming together in the end. It begins so simply with the bass introducing the melody, then a couple more instruments start to come in, until there is such depth of layering, you could listen a hundred times and find something new each time. I am not generally partial to choral music, but this is unique. Where the sopranos could easily be shrill, these voices were sweet. The tenors lend stability and a voice to support those upper octaves all around them. The whole movement is incredibly dynamic in intensity, and pace, keeping you engaged the whole time. To hear the finite details of the melody and submelodies woven together gives me such an inner sense of satisfaction and peace. I needed that.
It has been so long since music was a large part of my life. For so many years, I played everyday, taking great satisfaction in learning a new piece, getting a rush to hear the orchestra or band around me nail it after weeks of rehearsal. For Fillip and I, this was one of our major common denominators, and we both still have the sheet music from the duet we performed together so long ago. For years I have said I want to pick up a new instrument and have not made the time to do it. Although that is going to be delayed for awhile longer, my interest is renewed, and I recognize the void in my psyche from not seeking out and playing quality music, old and new.
If you have never truly listened to Beethoven's 9th Symphony, find a copy and sit down with that last movement to start. It is soul shaking.
It turns out, that was a live performance, and I just got lucky. Again, I will try to go to the Hollywood Bowl to hear it in person. Who's with me?
Every year there is a live performance of Beethoven's 9th Symphony at the Hollywood Bowl, and I have never ever seen it perfomed live. Ever. I'm not the only person partial to this music. It is labeled as one of the all time greatest pieces ever composed, (although there are mixed opinions as to the quality of content used, and consistency in theme). Even more remarkable is that this miracle of humanity came from a person who was deaf, who never even heard those beautiful notes that he so geniusly crafted together. Beethoven conducted the orchestra and choir himself on the debut performance, yet was exposed as completely deaf when it was necessary to turn him to face the audience, showing him the applause that was offered at the performance. After spending 10 years working on the symphony, he never heard a single note, nevermind the audience's fantastic reaction to such a bold and original piece, the first to pair a choir with musicians, putting a popular poem to a melody, and forging a place in history that could not have been anticipated. This music is used around the world as a benchmark, a theme for significant moments including the fall of the Berlin wall. Originally cd's were designed to hold 74 minutes of music, specifically to be the first media to be able to play the 9th Sympony in its entirety without having to turn over the record or change the tape.
As I heard the orchestra begin the last movement, Ode to Joy, I decided that I wanted to simply enjoy the moment. I turned on the stereo (much better sound quality than the baby monitor), turned off the lights, and sat on the couch absorbing the music around me. It had been a very long time since I had heard this piece, and even longer since I have truly listened to it. It is stunning. The music washes over you in waves, with several distinct parts, all coming together in the end. It begins so simply with the bass introducing the melody, then a couple more instruments start to come in, until there is such depth of layering, you could listen a hundred times and find something new each time. I am not generally partial to choral music, but this is unique. Where the sopranos could easily be shrill, these voices were sweet. The tenors lend stability and a voice to support those upper octaves all around them. The whole movement is incredibly dynamic in intensity, and pace, keeping you engaged the whole time. To hear the finite details of the melody and submelodies woven together gives me such an inner sense of satisfaction and peace. I needed that.
It has been so long since music was a large part of my life. For so many years, I played everyday, taking great satisfaction in learning a new piece, getting a rush to hear the orchestra or band around me nail it after weeks of rehearsal. For Fillip and I, this was one of our major common denominators, and we both still have the sheet music from the duet we performed together so long ago. For years I have said I want to pick up a new instrument and have not made the time to do it. Although that is going to be delayed for awhile longer, my interest is renewed, and I recognize the void in my psyche from not seeking out and playing quality music, old and new.
If you have never truly listened to Beethoven's 9th Symphony, find a copy and sit down with that last movement to start. It is soul shaking.
It turns out, that was a live performance, and I just got lucky. Again, I will try to go to the Hollywood Bowl to hear it in person. Who's with me?
Thursday, June 08, 2006
Is it July 4th yet?
I want my independence! Not being able to drive is driving me insane. These days, people often comment how great it must be to have a hired driver to and from work.
"You don't have to battle traffic!"
"You get to ride in style!"
"Do you make them play your music and ignore them for an hour?"
Well, let me tell you all that anyone who knows me should realize I am way too much of a control freak to enjoy being in someone else's car, going the route they want to take, sitting in their choice of climate control bliss. Yes, of course I can have them change all of this. After all, these guys are working for me and will listen to whatever crappy music I want, wind through the canyon roads I like, and damn well enjoy that fresh Los Angeles air rather than keep the AC cranked to 66F, anytime of day.
However, these drivers are in their cars all day, putting up with people who may even have a right to be snooty, who definitely feel superior to this person in charge of your timeliness and safety, and who don't hesitate to treat them like dirt. How do I know that? 'Cuz I'm the one who schedules my bosses to take this car service. So, I really feel like if it is hot outside, the guy in the black hat driving me should be comfortable and cool. That guy who has to sit in the driver's seat all day, except when gallantly opening my door should get to listen (or not listen) to whatever he chooses. When he chooses the freeway over a quicker moving route, well, if wants to sit in that crap that's his choice. I don't feel comfortable changing someone's entire environment to suit my whims when I am only there briefly.
I have started requesting the canyon roads though. It just makes sense for everyone. I get to where I'm going quicker, it's prettier, and the driver has more time to either relax or pick up another passenger, making more money. I did comment on one driver's very aggressive, dangerous and all out asshole move blazing through an "orange" light, cutting to the right of a grid-locked intersection and cutting back over. "Um, that was not cool!" His response, "well the intersection was full." Yeah, maybe that means to heed the red light and stay put for a minute.
Ok, and I did kindly offer another driver that if he usually listens to the radio, to please go ahead, I don't mind at all. He took the hint, turned on the radio, to smooth jazz. "Is that what you normally listen to?" "Yeah, sometimes." Yeah, sometimes when you think it is more professional to play that instead of the Latin disco you were bumping when I got in. Please, go back to that! I crave the edginess of rock, whatever culture it comes from. I'm not so sophisticated to want smooth jazz. Maybe traditional, big band jazz with some brass, some Satchmo or Miles Davis. Not smooth jazz which takes otherwise great songs, and substitutes a flute line for vocals, adds a sax and snare and calls it a day. Really, Carlos Santana got it right the first time with Oye Como Va. That's good stuff. A flute can not stand in for Santana and there is nothing smooth about a cow bell. I was actually thrilled to hear Terence Trent D'Arby's Sign Your Name, with vocals. It's got a great melody woven through those syncopated rhythms. One morning, Fillip sent me off in surprise when the tinted black surburban was thump-ing some sort of Persian House music. Please...keep it on!
Even the crazy extreme political talk show is welcome over the option of uncomfortable silence, or amateur psycho analysis coming from the driver's seat. No, I will not tell you on meeting you a) who I voted for in the Presidential election or b) if I am Catholic. Just because my still sleepy husband in his bathrobe doesn't greet you effusively, doesn't mean he needs to work on is interpersonal skills. Everyone has a story. I totally respect that. I'm just not that friendly. In the mornings I am used to my own isolated vehicle, with my own thoughtless radio shows droning on and on and on. They never request and answer from me.
I want to drive myself to the market, to the mall, to my friend's house, to the preschool, to a birthday party, to all the things that compose my busy life. I want the freedom to run out to the beauty supply store to replace my hair gel and avoid scaring small children with my freakishly big hair. (Picture me on rainy days, circa 1989 and you'll get the idea- not pretty.) I want to pick up Starbuck's if I feel like it. I want to compulsively change the radio station in that way symptomatic to a society of sound bites. I want to drive myself! Isn't that one of those inalienable rights?
"You don't have to battle traffic!"
"You get to ride in style!"
"Do you make them play your music and ignore them for an hour?"
Well, let me tell you all that anyone who knows me should realize I am way too much of a control freak to enjoy being in someone else's car, going the route they want to take, sitting in their choice of climate control bliss. Yes, of course I can have them change all of this. After all, these guys are working for me and will listen to whatever crappy music I want, wind through the canyon roads I like, and damn well enjoy that fresh Los Angeles air rather than keep the AC cranked to 66F, anytime of day.
However, these drivers are in their cars all day, putting up with people who may even have a right to be snooty, who definitely feel superior to this person in charge of your timeliness and safety, and who don't hesitate to treat them like dirt. How do I know that? 'Cuz I'm the one who schedules my bosses to take this car service. So, I really feel like if it is hot outside, the guy in the black hat driving me should be comfortable and cool. That guy who has to sit in the driver's seat all day, except when gallantly opening my door should get to listen (or not listen) to whatever he chooses. When he chooses the freeway over a quicker moving route, well, if wants to sit in that crap that's his choice. I don't feel comfortable changing someone's entire environment to suit my whims when I am only there briefly.
I have started requesting the canyon roads though. It just makes sense for everyone. I get to where I'm going quicker, it's prettier, and the driver has more time to either relax or pick up another passenger, making more money. I did comment on one driver's very aggressive, dangerous and all out asshole move blazing through an "orange" light, cutting to the right of a grid-locked intersection and cutting back over. "Um, that was not cool!" His response, "well the intersection was full." Yeah, maybe that means to heed the red light and stay put for a minute.
Ok, and I did kindly offer another driver that if he usually listens to the radio, to please go ahead, I don't mind at all. He took the hint, turned on the radio, to smooth jazz. "Is that what you normally listen to?" "Yeah, sometimes." Yeah, sometimes when you think it is more professional to play that instead of the Latin disco you were bumping when I got in. Please, go back to that! I crave the edginess of rock, whatever culture it comes from. I'm not so sophisticated to want smooth jazz. Maybe traditional, big band jazz with some brass, some Satchmo or Miles Davis. Not smooth jazz which takes otherwise great songs, and substitutes a flute line for vocals, adds a sax and snare and calls it a day. Really, Carlos Santana got it right the first time with Oye Como Va. That's good stuff. A flute can not stand in for Santana and there is nothing smooth about a cow bell. I was actually thrilled to hear Terence Trent D'Arby's Sign Your Name, with vocals. It's got a great melody woven through those syncopated rhythms. One morning, Fillip sent me off in surprise when the tinted black surburban was thump-ing some sort of Persian House music. Please...keep it on!
Even the crazy extreme political talk show is welcome over the option of uncomfortable silence, or amateur psycho analysis coming from the driver's seat. No, I will not tell you on meeting you a) who I voted for in the Presidential election or b) if I am Catholic. Just because my still sleepy husband in his bathrobe doesn't greet you effusively, doesn't mean he needs to work on is interpersonal skills. Everyone has a story. I totally respect that. I'm just not that friendly. In the mornings I am used to my own isolated vehicle, with my own thoughtless radio shows droning on and on and on. They never request and answer from me.
I want to drive myself to the market, to the mall, to my friend's house, to the preschool, to a birthday party, to all the things that compose my busy life. I want the freedom to run out to the beauty supply store to replace my hair gel and avoid scaring small children with my freakishly big hair. (Picture me on rainy days, circa 1989 and you'll get the idea- not pretty.) I want to pick up Starbuck's if I feel like it. I want to compulsively change the radio station in that way symptomatic to a society of sound bites. I want to drive myself! Isn't that one of those inalienable rights?
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Logan at 9 months
Logan had his 9 months checkup yesterday, and I can't believe how quickly the time has gone. He did his best to charm Dr. J, completely shred the paper on the table, and see how quickly he could wiggle down. Trying to contain a naked, frisky baby and pay attention to the what the doc is saying is always a challenge. His stats are:
18lbs 3oz 10th percentile
28 inches 30th percentile
and although I don't know his head circumference, it is the 5th percentile. Yes, our guy is little! He's a good eater though, and the doc wasn't a bit concerned. He said that developmentally, he is right on target. Even the paper thing is one of the markers he looks at as I sheepishly tried to contain The Shredder. Logan is now allowed more foods like egg yolk and non-milk dairy. What the..? Cheese, cottage cheese, yogurt are all fine, but no mac n cheese, where we would be adding milk to the dish. He is still not allowed egg whites, nuts or honey, which is standard. Logan has an allergist appointment soon, so Dr. J said that doc may give some different parameters. He also told us no citrus, including strawberries. oops. Since we explained that he's been eating strawberries for about two weeks, he conceded that obviously they aren't a problem. Logan's lungs sounded clear, with no wheezing. Yippee! The only problem is that he has a double ear infection, and apparently it's a good one. Really? We had no idea, so that was a surprise. Of course, in hindsight I can see the signs, but didn't make the connection, and even now don't see him fussing about it. (Saturday night he was very hard to get to sleep, but I chalked it up to our house being nearly 90 degrees. Sunday night he fussed at bedtime, but he was really tired. He did swat at his ear a couple times, but he also slaps his own head, so it didn't get much attention from me. During the day he is not at all fussy.) Dr. J prescribed antibiotics again, told us to come back to recheck in 3 weeks, and Logan has avoided his shots once again. Mind you, he never got his 6 month shots, little bugger.
We were appropriately advised to babyproof everything since he is now everywhere. Really, like we hadn't noticed! Dr. J also repeatedly advised us that he should not be eating catfood. I guess we shouldn't have tried to illustrate the point of him being everywhere by describing finding him standing in the cats’ water, shoveling fat fistfuls of kibble into his mouth. Apparently, cat kibble is not an approved snack. Go figure.
Logan loves to eat, and has decided table food is the way to go. The jars have gone by the wayside, but he still loves his cereal. He is a little fresser (Fresser Desser?), eating way more than we think he could. He isn't picky, but once he is done, there is nothing getting passed those lips. He eats fruits, veggies, meats, all without a particular preference, although sausage is met with great approval and impatience between bites. I suspect his weight will catch up shortly as his appetite catches up to his new mobility. He nurses each morning and once or twice in the evening, depending on how the timing works out. He gets two pumped bottles each day, and daycare often gives him a bottle of formula as well.
This particular age is really among my favorite times with a baby. Logan is so incredibly charming, and such a happy little guy. He has a smile that lights up his face, and that of anyone around him. Just when you think it has been turned on full force, he kicks it up a notch, and it gets even brighter. He loves to talk and babble with several sounds- da da, ma ma, ya ya, fa fa, ga ga. Sometimes they are repeated, sometimes yelled or used with different inflections. Raspberries are constant, and done with such irreverance that it cracks us up. He also still sucks his bottom lip to his top gum to make a kissing sound. He still makes his "dolphin noise" prompting us to call him Flipper. It is a happy sound and one we can usually get him to repeat when he really gets going. Even his teachers make him do this since it is so funny, and something he has done since birth. He loves to giggle, especially when nuzzled in his ribs or under one side of his jaw. (No, I'm not sure which side, although I think it is his right. It's hit and miss with me, but a definite Daddy spot.) He turns that little face up, exposing his jaw so we can get in there. Often, he sticks his tongue out now as if in deep concentration, and sometimes just to see what it can do.
He is cruising, pulling himself up on everything. He can go up single steps (haven’t seen him try a staircase), and isn't at all phased getting up onto our hearth, which is about 18" off the ground. He has no problem getting down, but usually isn't too pleased with the result of toppling down onto the floor, usually bumping his head. He enjoys manipulating things, opening and closing things, putting things in and out of a container, seeing how they work. He crawls everywhere, and we can even get him to hurry by cheering him on. This is hilarious to see him slapping those little hands down, shuffling along with a huge grin, excited to get someplace else, wherever that may be. Logan loves water whether in the bathtub, or the wading pool outside. He crawls and splashes, sometimes tumbling over without a sputter or whimper. I have to watch him so carefully though as I have fished him out from under the surface twice in the last couple days. Again, he didn't even seem to care. He loves to chase after and play with Hayden, who is all over Logan these days. Logan also stalks the kitties, fascinated by those creatures who reside on his eye level. The cats are indifferent, but we don't really want him too immersed in them, fearing the wheezing will start again.
Everywhere we go, Logan attracts attention, engaging everyone around him with those intense blue eyes and huge grin. Waitresses take him around the restaurants, and our friends snuggle up to him giving me a hard time when he doesn’t come to book club. C’mon, this mommy needs a night off now and then! Overall, he is such a delicious little baby and I am trying to savor each moment, since it is such a fleeting time.
18lbs 3oz 10th percentile
28 inches 30th percentile
and although I don't know his head circumference, it is the 5th percentile. Yes, our guy is little! He's a good eater though, and the doc wasn't a bit concerned. He said that developmentally, he is right on target. Even the paper thing is one of the markers he looks at as I sheepishly tried to contain The Shredder. Logan is now allowed more foods like egg yolk and non-milk dairy. What the..? Cheese, cottage cheese, yogurt are all fine, but no mac n cheese, where we would be adding milk to the dish. He is still not allowed egg whites, nuts or honey, which is standard. Logan has an allergist appointment soon, so Dr. J said that doc may give some different parameters. He also told us no citrus, including strawberries. oops. Since we explained that he's been eating strawberries for about two weeks, he conceded that obviously they aren't a problem. Logan's lungs sounded clear, with no wheezing. Yippee! The only problem is that he has a double ear infection, and apparently it's a good one. Really? We had no idea, so that was a surprise. Of course, in hindsight I can see the signs, but didn't make the connection, and even now don't see him fussing about it. (Saturday night he was very hard to get to sleep, but I chalked it up to our house being nearly 90 degrees. Sunday night he fussed at bedtime, but he was really tired. He did swat at his ear a couple times, but he also slaps his own head, so it didn't get much attention from me. During the day he is not at all fussy.) Dr. J prescribed antibiotics again, told us to come back to recheck in 3 weeks, and Logan has avoided his shots once again. Mind you, he never got his 6 month shots, little bugger.
We were appropriately advised to babyproof everything since he is now everywhere. Really, like we hadn't noticed! Dr. J also repeatedly advised us that he should not be eating catfood. I guess we shouldn't have tried to illustrate the point of him being everywhere by describing finding him standing in the cats’ water, shoveling fat fistfuls of kibble into his mouth. Apparently, cat kibble is not an approved snack. Go figure.
Logan loves to eat, and has decided table food is the way to go. The jars have gone by the wayside, but he still loves his cereal. He is a little fresser (Fresser Desser?), eating way more than we think he could. He isn't picky, but once he is done, there is nothing getting passed those lips. He eats fruits, veggies, meats, all without a particular preference, although sausage is met with great approval and impatience between bites. I suspect his weight will catch up shortly as his appetite catches up to his new mobility. He nurses each morning and once or twice in the evening, depending on how the timing works out. He gets two pumped bottles each day, and daycare often gives him a bottle of formula as well.
This particular age is really among my favorite times with a baby. Logan is so incredibly charming, and such a happy little guy. He has a smile that lights up his face, and that of anyone around him. Just when you think it has been turned on full force, he kicks it up a notch, and it gets even brighter. He loves to talk and babble with several sounds- da da, ma ma, ya ya, fa fa, ga ga. Sometimes they are repeated, sometimes yelled or used with different inflections. Raspberries are constant, and done with such irreverance that it cracks us up. He also still sucks his bottom lip to his top gum to make a kissing sound. He still makes his "dolphin noise" prompting us to call him Flipper. It is a happy sound and one we can usually get him to repeat when he really gets going. Even his teachers make him do this since it is so funny, and something he has done since birth. He loves to giggle, especially when nuzzled in his ribs or under one side of his jaw. (No, I'm not sure which side, although I think it is his right. It's hit and miss with me, but a definite Daddy spot.) He turns that little face up, exposing his jaw so we can get in there. Often, he sticks his tongue out now as if in deep concentration, and sometimes just to see what it can do.
He is cruising, pulling himself up on everything. He can go up single steps (haven’t seen him try a staircase), and isn't at all phased getting up onto our hearth, which is about 18" off the ground. He has no problem getting down, but usually isn't too pleased with the result of toppling down onto the floor, usually bumping his head. He enjoys manipulating things, opening and closing things, putting things in and out of a container, seeing how they work. He crawls everywhere, and we can even get him to hurry by cheering him on. This is hilarious to see him slapping those little hands down, shuffling along with a huge grin, excited to get someplace else, wherever that may be. Logan loves water whether in the bathtub, or the wading pool outside. He crawls and splashes, sometimes tumbling over without a sputter or whimper. I have to watch him so carefully though as I have fished him out from under the surface twice in the last couple days. Again, he didn't even seem to care. He loves to chase after and play with Hayden, who is all over Logan these days. Logan also stalks the kitties, fascinated by those creatures who reside on his eye level. The cats are indifferent, but we don't really want him too immersed in them, fearing the wheezing will start again.
Everywhere we go, Logan attracts attention, engaging everyone around him with those intense blue eyes and huge grin. Waitresses take him around the restaurants, and our friends snuggle up to him giving me a hard time when he doesn’t come to book club. C’mon, this mommy needs a night off now and then! Overall, he is such a delicious little baby and I am trying to savor each moment, since it is such a fleeting time.
Monday, June 05, 2006
Our coastal adventures- part 2
Friday, May 26
Our morning in Carmel by the River was very nice. I slept a little later snuggled up with Logan while Fillip and Hayden went down to the river to “skip” stones and look at the pollywogs. Once I got up, Hayden and I took a walk over to the campground “store.” They have a few provisions and some chatchkes. There were several resident dogs that Hayden just wasn’t sure about. He would greet them, but it took a bit for him to get comfortable enough to pet them. They were happy for any attention they could get (and I suspect they get a lot) so we spent some time scratching their backs and talking about the difference in how the smooth coat of the boxer felt compared to the soft coat of the springer spaniel. At the store I really wanted to find baking pans and muffin mix to whip up something with Hayden. Well, they had blueberry muffin mix, and the guy running the shop, who also lives there, loaned us a glass baking pan. I returned it to him later with a fresh hunk of blueberry bread. We also got bottles of Starbucks Frappucino….mmmm…
Back at camp Hayden and I made the blueberry bread, and I made eggs and sausage. He is so fun to bake with, earnestly mixing and taking turns “My turn! Ok Mommy, your turn!” Logan was a happy boy at breakfast, given the precious sausages. Cereal and fruit are fine, but sausage…now you’ve got breakfast! I got to take a shower, which for some reason wasn’t all that easy to do on this trip. Often our gray water needed to be emptied, or our mornings were just too hectic. Although it was nice to get clean, I missed seeing Tirsa and Nick who had come by briefly. Hayden and I walked down to the river where he had a great time throwing rocks into the river. It was really a tough path for me to navigate with my cast- steep and a little muddy and unstable, but worth it once we got there, since Hayden had so much fun. He is so cute yelling “My turn! Now….your turn!” See a theme here? Yea for school! Besides, how often is a little boy allowed to throw rocks? After awhile I convinced him to go back (convinced being “ok, Hayden I’m going back now. See you later” and heading up the path. Hayden- “No! I come too! I listen!”). When we got back Logan was happily playing in his pack n play and Fillip was packing up to go. We were off to Monterey!
Monterey is only a few miles from Carmel, but we decided to take the 17 Mile Drive on the way to let the boys nap. There is a fee to do that as it is a private road, but the views are stunning. Seeing those golf course holes right on the water was really neat. The surf is notorious for being very dangerous there, but it makes it that much prettier with the white capped waves over the rocks. There were some spectacular houses and amazing properties throughout the area. The tree canopy makes you feel like you are up in the mountains, yet you turn a bend with a stunning view of the Pacific.
From there we headed into Monterey, where we discovered that it isn’t easy to find parking for that large vehicle. We finally took two metered spots on the street, figuring that will have to do. The walk (or in my case, hobble) to the aquarium wasn’t bad. I was very excited about taking Hayden to the aquarium, but he has different interests than me. We saw Hans, Tirsa and Nick on their way out, then headed into the exhibits. Hayden was back in meltdown mode, causing us to take him outside for some downtime and a little chat. When we went back inside, he was strapped into the stroller, but only wanted to press the buttons on the exhibits. It was a much more enjoyable visit to let him press buttons until other kids came along and I could say “Hayden, it’s their turn now” and he would let us move on without a fuss.
The Monterey Aquarium has some stunning exhibits. There was an enormous tank of tuna, which I didn’t realize are such big fish. Some must have been the size of a queen bed! There were giant rays of all colors, seals, penguins, etc.. The jellyfish exhibit was my favorite. One enormous tank is all royal blue with large orange jellyfish. It was probably 10 feet square at least. Another area had black water with white jellyfish (the colors are probably all lighting, but the effect was great) along an entire wall, with mirrors all around. It looking like there was nothing but darkness with white jellyfish, floor to ceiling, along a long corridor, when in fact it was “only” about 40 feet. Stunning. They also had smaller jellyfish with irridescent strips, large blue jellyfish with white dots, upside down jellyfish (picture cauliflower in water) and jellyfish in different stages of development for comparison. Very cool. The aquarium also has a shark exhibit right now. It’s wild to get right up to these animals. Hayden liked the zebra shark which was white with black spots and about 4 feet long. (Why zebra as opposed to leopard? It’s maturity thing according to the sign.) He would put his little hand out to touch the glass as it came by, then pull back afraid, then do it again until he discovered the glass. I don’t know why, but he called this shark “taco!” Maybe he was hungry. There are areas where you can reach in and touch things like shells and starfish and he loved that. He is so tactile, which we need to keep in mind on excursions. Just looking or listening simply doesn’t engage him at all. Logan spent most of the time on Fillip in the Baby Bjorn, happy as a clam- quite appropriate for an aquarium. Each time we all caught up I would get his big grin and he would be squealing and pumping those little arms and legs.
After a couple hours we were very tired, hungry and the aquarium was about to close. I had hoped to find a cute aquarium related board book in the gift shop, but One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish just didn’t seem all that unique. We headed back to the motorhome for diaper changes, snacks and headed to Fisherman’s Wharf for dinner. Navigating the busy streets of Monterey in that rv was tricky, but Fillip did a great job. At one point we looked up a one way street to see three deer walking along. “That’s really weird right? I just saw deer right?!” Spoken like true city folk. We found parking, and Fillip scouted out a restaurant while I nursed Logan. We went to Sapporos, a steakhouse and sushi restaurant right on the marina. Our table was at the window and perfect- our first meal “out!” Despite the late hour and rocky afternoon, Hayden and Logan were both in giddy moods and we were a happy bunch. Dinner was delicious. We started with an order of fried calamari strips, which Hayden loved. Hayden ordered the child’s steak teriyaki which was the most tender and flavorful I’ve ever had. Fillip and I had sushi. There was some miscommunication at the sushi bar, so my last order was put to go and comped since it took nearly 40 mins to get. However, it didn’t matter. The food was all delicious and there were families with kids all around us so the staff was very accomodating. Logan had a jar of food for dinner and I gave him some sticky white rice. It is amazing how far a spoonful of rice can go. I looked over and his dark blue pants were nearly solid white! Because it was sticky rice, it wouldn’t brush off. He was a mess!! It was really funny to see him and we did our best to pick it all off, glad he was enjoying himself. People all around us were laughing at the amount of rice one little guy could have on his pants.
After our delicious dinner, we piled back into our motorhome and got the kids in jammies. They fell asleep quickly and we headed north to Half Moon Bay. I suspect the darkness was hiding a beautiful drive, but we had a relaxing time anyway. Because it was the beginning of the holiday weekend, we ran into our first challenge getting a campsite. Each campground we came to had closed gates and no vacancy. We finally pulled into the harbor, but almost left as the signs said we were required to have a boat. It was about 1:30am by this time and we were frustrated and tired. Fortunately, the harbormaster came by and said that since it was so late and not crowded, we would just have to pay the overnight fee and it would be fine. We were relieved and settled in for the night. Fillip needed time to come down from driving so went and got all the local scoop from the harbormaster while I went to bed. At some point in the night it rained, hard, and we had to shut the overhead vent, but that was the only “weather” we encountered all week, and given we didn’t have surf or frogsong to listen to, the pounding rain was welcome.
Saturday, May 27
Our morning began early as always, despite the kids being up later every night. Fillip scouted out a breakfast joint and we dragged ourselves over there, barely getting ourselves dressed. The kids were lucky they got clean diapers, but went in their jammies. Hayden even got to bring his blankie, a rare treat. We went to the breakfast café on the wharf, which was a great local hangout. Our server was a local girl who punctuated every sentence with “right?” and fell in love with our kids. She was friendly and chatty and we enjoyed sitting down to breakfast with the local fishermen. At one point the server asked if we would mind her holding Logan, and off he went for a tour of the kitchen. After a few minutes we heard a table ask if it was her baby and she said “oh no, it’s table 8’s baby!” Since Hayden was missing Tony and Lisa from our usual breakfast haunt, it was nice to be someplace relaxed and casual again. By the time we left, a more touristy crowd was coming in, so we were glad to have been there early.
We got some gas and Starbuck’s (whoo hoo!!!!!!) and hit the road, headed for the Bay Area. It was an easy drive on the road, but not in the rv. Fillip had asked me to charge his cell phone, but I didn’t secure it in the cabinet, so it fell in and soaked in pot of water. Oops. This made it very difficult to reach Ben about where to find him in Sausalito. Fillip fortunately remembered his number and we were able to use the little bit of juice left in my phone (as opposed to the juice actually floating across the screen of Fillip’s phone) to get in touch with and find Ben. We drove across part of the city, and then on to the Golden Gate bridge! I always find this thrilling, even though I’ve done it a few times. I loved seeing the red towers pass the boys in the window. Hayden was thrilled to be looking at the boats and water of the bay, and Logan was just not happy. Food was not forthcoming for a few minutes, and he wasn’t feeling patient. Sorry kid, that’s the breaks.
We found Ben’s house after a couple wrong turns, cuz you know how easy it to just flip a bitch in a motorhome! (Ben, go straight off the freeway, not right. How do you find your way home, man?) Ben lives on the waterfront in Sausalito with housemates. It’s an artist colony mostly and the houseboat neighborhoods are right there. We hung out most of the afternoon, feeding the kids and letting them roam free. Ben and Fillip took a walk into town while I put the kids down for a nap. It was lowkey and slow-paced, as expected when visiting Ben. That evening we headed into San Anselmo to the restaurant where Clementine works. It is a 50’s style diner, but with a more modern gourmet menu. Everything we had was delicious. Hayden was happy to have real, actual brown, chocolate milk, rather than the fake stuff we give him. Logan was just happy. As usual, he got carried around the restaurant for awhile, this time by Clementine, at least someone we know! That kid is bound to work in restaurants one day. We were there late, as it was good to give Clem a break by sitting in her station (actually since she is the only server, the whole place is her station) and took our time ordering and eating. Ben and I split a spinach chicken salad and a pulled pork sandwich with french fries. Big mistake..I wanted the whole sandwich it was so good! Hayden got a hotdog and french fries at his request:
“Hayden, what do you want for dinner?”
“Fesh fies, katup and dotdog.”
“Do you want a hamburger?”
“No hambuger.”
“Do you want chicken?”
“No chichen.”
“Do you want…..a sandwich?”
“No! No sammich!! (now scowling, nodding, and getting louder with every word, hence our persistance in this game) I! Wan! Fesh fies! Katup! Dotdog!”
“Ok, no problem, geez.” Wink.
He didn’t touch the hotdog. Clementine ate it. The fries went down just fine as well as some of the fresh strawberries she brought by. Strangely, he didn’t even want his icecream. By 10:30pm it was just too late for him to want anything. Despite the very late hour, the kids were really great, and we had a good meal. We all got back to the motorhome, and got the kids in jammies for the ride. Clementine joined us for storytime, then we kidnapped Ben and headed for the hills.
Fillip had made us a reservation at Olimas State Park, which we found almost easily. Our name was not on the after hours list, but somehow Ben remembered our assigned spot number and all went fine. The park was my favorite as our campsite was very large and we weren’t on top of the other campers. The guys got a fire going, then out, then going, then out… Those two couldn’t just leave it alone and as soon as one would get a good blaze going, the other had to make it better, likely putting it out- giving each other a good-natured ration of shit the whole time. Good times. I sat through the testosterone show for awhile, admiring the stars, wishing I had brought out the s’mores fixin’s (which I never did use) and taking in the fresh air before retiring to bed with my book. They had a good time until the fire went out in the wee hours of the morning.
Sunday, May 28
We woke up in the woods grateful to sleep a tiny bit later. Well, Logan had done his usual early morning wake up and come into our bed. We had joked to Ben that Hayden was his responsibility. Well, the little stinker slept until 9:30am. No loyalty. We were up with Logan from about 8am, which is still really late for him. Breakfast was more burritos from the leftovers of previous days and Ben was duly impressed. Hayden and I took a walk around the campground, which was a morning tradition at that point. He is really fun to walk with, holding my hand and pointing out the sites. Every now and then he stops to be picked up “picky my up!” so I do. It’s really brief until he tells me “takey my down.” He says hi to all the dogs, points out bicycles, other motorhomes, and people who look familiar to him. It’s just amazing to me how much goes on in that tiny little person, and how in just two years he has become a thinking individual all on his own. We didn’t do that, just provided the environment in which it could happen. After our usual relaxed morning we packed up and headed down the hills. It was a beautiful drive, the kids were happy and we were to spend the day in Sausalito.
Fillip parked the motorhome in a business lot near Ben’s place. In trying to park he knocked over a post and did a bit of damage to the rv. So, he and Ben went to the hardware store while I stayed with the sleeping munchkins. It gave me about half an hour to relax and read. It would have been nice to be outside, but the downtime was nice anyway. When Fillip and Ben returned we finally headed to downtown Sausalito to walk around.
It is a beautiful area, right on the water. We went in a couple shops then got a snack at a gourmet deli. We sat near the park eating crusty french bread with provolone, italian salame and black forest ham. It was surprisingly delicious. My snack had the bonus of an icecream cone, which made the rounds despite everyone saying they didn’t want any when I offered to get them their own. Both boys loved our little picnic, eating heartily which was good as we were going for another late dinner. The waterfront and shopping district was crowded with people out for the holiday weekend, also taking in the beautiful weather and view. We walked along the waterfront, then headed back to Ben’s car and over to the fishing pier.
The pier is right near the Golden Gate Bridge, with the San Francisco skyline right in front of us. Spectacular!! I couldn’t help sending pics from my phone of such a fantastic sight. People were catching fish from the pier and Hayden was fascinated by the cooler full of live fish. One lady even pulled up some crabs. Eventually, Hayden lost interest and before we knew it, Ben (who was wearing Logan) and I realized Fillip and Hayden were back at the car. It was very breezy and chilly, so that might be what made Hayden want to go back. I could have stayed there all day, and will make it a point to hit that spot when we go back to the Bay Area.
Next we headed back to San Anselmo for dinner at Bubba’s, Clementine’s diner. I was smart enough to get another pulled pork sandwich, this one all to myself. Hayden at least took a couple bites of hotdog, and Logan was just happy to be. We lingered over dinner again, with our plan for me and Clementine to go out for a bit in the city. Fillip and I walked to the bookstore across the street, as Goodnight Moon really needed to be replaced. I also got a couple more books including one about San Francisco. I love getting books local to where we are traveling. We came back to the diner and I said goodnight to the kids. The boys all headed back to Ben’s and Clem and I went into the city.
Our plan was to briefly stop at her apartment for her to change, then go get a drink at a local restaurant bar, then she would drive me back to Ben’s place around midnight and Fillip, me and the boys would start our drive back to Los Angeles. The restaurant bar she likes is nice and she seems to be pretty friendly with the bartender. It was nice to be out as a grownup for a change, not just a mommy. It was a friendly crowd, maybe a bit friendlier than I like, since the singles scene is something I’ve never been particularly comfortable with. However, Clementine seems to be pretty familiar with the place, a regular on Sunday nights when she needs to let off steam after a tough week. She is off Mondays and Tuesdays, so it the beginning of her weekend. We got there late, and time went quickly. I spoke with Fillip around 12:45pm, convinced Clem and I would be leaving soon, but when I finally started really badgering her and it got to 1:30am, she said she was in no condition to drive, and Ben had to come get me. I told her to make that phone call, as I did not want to hear the irritation on the other side of the line. Ben got to me around 2:30am, we followed Clementine the few blocks home as she absolutely insisted on driving herself. Fillip had to move the motorhome by 2am so drove around waiting for me, and we hit the road after 3:00am. It was so frustrating!
Needless to say, Fillip was extremely tired, which wasn’t the safest situation. However, we didn’t have a place to keep the motorhome that night, so we had to hit the road. We drove for over two hours, and got the last spot at a rest area on the I-5. Phew! We laid our heads down to sleep at 5:30am.
Monday, May 29
At 5:40am Logan woke up. I fed him and got him settled by 6:15am, then dozed off. Hayden woke at 6:45am. I kept the kids quiet and occupied for the next several hours, so Fillip could sleep. After all, he was the one who would be driving and needed the rest. The boys had snacks, played, watched movies, and were very good. I got Fillip up before 11am. We had a quick breakfast, walked Hayden around the rest area a bit and went to see the passing herd of cattle. I don’t know that I actually have ever heard cows moo before, but it was fun to watch Hayden moo at them. We hit the road around 11am without any more rest or showers (eyww!) and had a long drive ahead of us. We had McDonalds for lunch then the kids fell asleep. I laid down for about 30 minutes before needing to be back up while Fillip used a rest stop. Hayden was up by then. Given that we drove for about 4 hours straight, the kids were incredible! They didn’t complain and were so content in their carseats. When we would stop now and then for Fillip to stretch, we would let them get out and stretch as well. Logan would crawl around the motorhome, and Hayden would go with one of us for a walk. We dragged into town with very little traffic and went straight to Tami’s house for a Memorial Day BBQ.
It was truly a fun trip. Traveling with little kids is still so busy, not much different than home. It is so fun to see their faces in new situations, and learn how flexible and open to new experiences they are. Hayden now talks about castles and we can tell him how he has been up and down our state. Logan began the trip crawling, eating only pureed food, and now stands on his own easily and wants almost all tablefood. We had seven days together to get to know each other so much better, while seeing how absolutely beautiful much of California is.
Our morning in Carmel by the River was very nice. I slept a little later snuggled up with Logan while Fillip and Hayden went down to the river to “skip” stones and look at the pollywogs. Once I got up, Hayden and I took a walk over to the campground “store.” They have a few provisions and some chatchkes. There were several resident dogs that Hayden just wasn’t sure about. He would greet them, but it took a bit for him to get comfortable enough to pet them. They were happy for any attention they could get (and I suspect they get a lot) so we spent some time scratching their backs and talking about the difference in how the smooth coat of the boxer felt compared to the soft coat of the springer spaniel. At the store I really wanted to find baking pans and muffin mix to whip up something with Hayden. Well, they had blueberry muffin mix, and the guy running the shop, who also lives there, loaned us a glass baking pan. I returned it to him later with a fresh hunk of blueberry bread. We also got bottles of Starbucks Frappucino….mmmm…
Back at camp Hayden and I made the blueberry bread, and I made eggs and sausage. He is so fun to bake with, earnestly mixing and taking turns “My turn! Ok Mommy, your turn!” Logan was a happy boy at breakfast, given the precious sausages. Cereal and fruit are fine, but sausage…now you’ve got breakfast! I got to take a shower, which for some reason wasn’t all that easy to do on this trip. Often our gray water needed to be emptied, or our mornings were just too hectic. Although it was nice to get clean, I missed seeing Tirsa and Nick who had come by briefly. Hayden and I walked down to the river where he had a great time throwing rocks into the river. It was really a tough path for me to navigate with my cast- steep and a little muddy and unstable, but worth it once we got there, since Hayden had so much fun. He is so cute yelling “My turn! Now….your turn!” See a theme here? Yea for school! Besides, how often is a little boy allowed to throw rocks? After awhile I convinced him to go back (convinced being “ok, Hayden I’m going back now. See you later” and heading up the path. Hayden- “No! I come too! I listen!”). When we got back Logan was happily playing in his pack n play and Fillip was packing up to go. We were off to Monterey!
Monterey is only a few miles from Carmel, but we decided to take the 17 Mile Drive on the way to let the boys nap. There is a fee to do that as it is a private road, but the views are stunning. Seeing those golf course holes right on the water was really neat. The surf is notorious for being very dangerous there, but it makes it that much prettier with the white capped waves over the rocks. There were some spectacular houses and amazing properties throughout the area. The tree canopy makes you feel like you are up in the mountains, yet you turn a bend with a stunning view of the Pacific.
From there we headed into Monterey, where we discovered that it isn’t easy to find parking for that large vehicle. We finally took two metered spots on the street, figuring that will have to do. The walk (or in my case, hobble) to the aquarium wasn’t bad. I was very excited about taking Hayden to the aquarium, but he has different interests than me. We saw Hans, Tirsa and Nick on their way out, then headed into the exhibits. Hayden was back in meltdown mode, causing us to take him outside for some downtime and a little chat. When we went back inside, he was strapped into the stroller, but only wanted to press the buttons on the exhibits. It was a much more enjoyable visit to let him press buttons until other kids came along and I could say “Hayden, it’s their turn now” and he would let us move on without a fuss.
The Monterey Aquarium has some stunning exhibits. There was an enormous tank of tuna, which I didn’t realize are such big fish. Some must have been the size of a queen bed! There were giant rays of all colors, seals, penguins, etc.. The jellyfish exhibit was my favorite. One enormous tank is all royal blue with large orange jellyfish. It was probably 10 feet square at least. Another area had black water with white jellyfish (the colors are probably all lighting, but the effect was great) along an entire wall, with mirrors all around. It looking like there was nothing but darkness with white jellyfish, floor to ceiling, along a long corridor, when in fact it was “only” about 40 feet. Stunning. They also had smaller jellyfish with irridescent strips, large blue jellyfish with white dots, upside down jellyfish (picture cauliflower in water) and jellyfish in different stages of development for comparison. Very cool. The aquarium also has a shark exhibit right now. It’s wild to get right up to these animals. Hayden liked the zebra shark which was white with black spots and about 4 feet long. (Why zebra as opposed to leopard? It’s maturity thing according to the sign.) He would put his little hand out to touch the glass as it came by, then pull back afraid, then do it again until he discovered the glass. I don’t know why, but he called this shark “taco!” Maybe he was hungry. There are areas where you can reach in and touch things like shells and starfish and he loved that. He is so tactile, which we need to keep in mind on excursions. Just looking or listening simply doesn’t engage him at all. Logan spent most of the time on Fillip in the Baby Bjorn, happy as a clam- quite appropriate for an aquarium. Each time we all caught up I would get his big grin and he would be squealing and pumping those little arms and legs.
After a couple hours we were very tired, hungry and the aquarium was about to close. I had hoped to find a cute aquarium related board book in the gift shop, but One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish just didn’t seem all that unique. We headed back to the motorhome for diaper changes, snacks and headed to Fisherman’s Wharf for dinner. Navigating the busy streets of Monterey in that rv was tricky, but Fillip did a great job. At one point we looked up a one way street to see three deer walking along. “That’s really weird right? I just saw deer right?!” Spoken like true city folk. We found parking, and Fillip scouted out a restaurant while I nursed Logan. We went to Sapporos, a steakhouse and sushi restaurant right on the marina. Our table was at the window and perfect- our first meal “out!” Despite the late hour and rocky afternoon, Hayden and Logan were both in giddy moods and we were a happy bunch. Dinner was delicious. We started with an order of fried calamari strips, which Hayden loved. Hayden ordered the child’s steak teriyaki which was the most tender and flavorful I’ve ever had. Fillip and I had sushi. There was some miscommunication at the sushi bar, so my last order was put to go and comped since it took nearly 40 mins to get. However, it didn’t matter. The food was all delicious and there were families with kids all around us so the staff was very accomodating. Logan had a jar of food for dinner and I gave him some sticky white rice. It is amazing how far a spoonful of rice can go. I looked over and his dark blue pants were nearly solid white! Because it was sticky rice, it wouldn’t brush off. He was a mess!! It was really funny to see him and we did our best to pick it all off, glad he was enjoying himself. People all around us were laughing at the amount of rice one little guy could have on his pants.
After our delicious dinner, we piled back into our motorhome and got the kids in jammies. They fell asleep quickly and we headed north to Half Moon Bay. I suspect the darkness was hiding a beautiful drive, but we had a relaxing time anyway. Because it was the beginning of the holiday weekend, we ran into our first challenge getting a campsite. Each campground we came to had closed gates and no vacancy. We finally pulled into the harbor, but almost left as the signs said we were required to have a boat. It was about 1:30am by this time and we were frustrated and tired. Fortunately, the harbormaster came by and said that since it was so late and not crowded, we would just have to pay the overnight fee and it would be fine. We were relieved and settled in for the night. Fillip needed time to come down from driving so went and got all the local scoop from the harbormaster while I went to bed. At some point in the night it rained, hard, and we had to shut the overhead vent, but that was the only “weather” we encountered all week, and given we didn’t have surf or frogsong to listen to, the pounding rain was welcome.
Saturday, May 27
Our morning began early as always, despite the kids being up later every night. Fillip scouted out a breakfast joint and we dragged ourselves over there, barely getting ourselves dressed. The kids were lucky they got clean diapers, but went in their jammies. Hayden even got to bring his blankie, a rare treat. We went to the breakfast café on the wharf, which was a great local hangout. Our server was a local girl who punctuated every sentence with “right?” and fell in love with our kids. She was friendly and chatty and we enjoyed sitting down to breakfast with the local fishermen. At one point the server asked if we would mind her holding Logan, and off he went for a tour of the kitchen. After a few minutes we heard a table ask if it was her baby and she said “oh no, it’s table 8’s baby!” Since Hayden was missing Tony and Lisa from our usual breakfast haunt, it was nice to be someplace relaxed and casual again. By the time we left, a more touristy crowd was coming in, so we were glad to have been there early.
We got some gas and Starbuck’s (whoo hoo!!!!!!) and hit the road, headed for the Bay Area. It was an easy drive on the road, but not in the rv. Fillip had asked me to charge his cell phone, but I didn’t secure it in the cabinet, so it fell in and soaked in pot of water. Oops. This made it very difficult to reach Ben about where to find him in Sausalito. Fillip fortunately remembered his number and we were able to use the little bit of juice left in my phone (as opposed to the juice actually floating across the screen of Fillip’s phone) to get in touch with and find Ben. We drove across part of the city, and then on to the Golden Gate bridge! I always find this thrilling, even though I’ve done it a few times. I loved seeing the red towers pass the boys in the window. Hayden was thrilled to be looking at the boats and water of the bay, and Logan was just not happy. Food was not forthcoming for a few minutes, and he wasn’t feeling patient. Sorry kid, that’s the breaks.
We found Ben’s house after a couple wrong turns, cuz you know how easy it to just flip a bitch in a motorhome! (Ben, go straight off the freeway, not right. How do you find your way home, man?) Ben lives on the waterfront in Sausalito with housemates. It’s an artist colony mostly and the houseboat neighborhoods are right there. We hung out most of the afternoon, feeding the kids and letting them roam free. Ben and Fillip took a walk into town while I put the kids down for a nap. It was lowkey and slow-paced, as expected when visiting Ben. That evening we headed into San Anselmo to the restaurant where Clementine works. It is a 50’s style diner, but with a more modern gourmet menu. Everything we had was delicious. Hayden was happy to have real, actual brown, chocolate milk, rather than the fake stuff we give him. Logan was just happy. As usual, he got carried around the restaurant for awhile, this time by Clementine, at least someone we know! That kid is bound to work in restaurants one day. We were there late, as it was good to give Clem a break by sitting in her station (actually since she is the only server, the whole place is her station) and took our time ordering and eating. Ben and I split a spinach chicken salad and a pulled pork sandwich with french fries. Big mistake..I wanted the whole sandwich it was so good! Hayden got a hotdog and french fries at his request:
“Hayden, what do you want for dinner?”
“Fesh fies, katup and dotdog.”
“Do you want a hamburger?”
“No hambuger.”
“Do you want chicken?”
“No chichen.”
“Do you want…..a sandwich?”
“No! No sammich!! (now scowling, nodding, and getting louder with every word, hence our persistance in this game) I! Wan! Fesh fies! Katup! Dotdog!”
“Ok, no problem, geez.” Wink.
He didn’t touch the hotdog. Clementine ate it. The fries went down just fine as well as some of the fresh strawberries she brought by. Strangely, he didn’t even want his icecream. By 10:30pm it was just too late for him to want anything. Despite the very late hour, the kids were really great, and we had a good meal. We all got back to the motorhome, and got the kids in jammies for the ride. Clementine joined us for storytime, then we kidnapped Ben and headed for the hills.
Fillip had made us a reservation at Olimas State Park, which we found almost easily. Our name was not on the after hours list, but somehow Ben remembered our assigned spot number and all went fine. The park was my favorite as our campsite was very large and we weren’t on top of the other campers. The guys got a fire going, then out, then going, then out… Those two couldn’t just leave it alone and as soon as one would get a good blaze going, the other had to make it better, likely putting it out- giving each other a good-natured ration of shit the whole time. Good times. I sat through the testosterone show for awhile, admiring the stars, wishing I had brought out the s’mores fixin’s (which I never did use) and taking in the fresh air before retiring to bed with my book. They had a good time until the fire went out in the wee hours of the morning.
Sunday, May 28
We woke up in the woods grateful to sleep a tiny bit later. Well, Logan had done his usual early morning wake up and come into our bed. We had joked to Ben that Hayden was his responsibility. Well, the little stinker slept until 9:30am. No loyalty. We were up with Logan from about 8am, which is still really late for him. Breakfast was more burritos from the leftovers of previous days and Ben was duly impressed. Hayden and I took a walk around the campground, which was a morning tradition at that point. He is really fun to walk with, holding my hand and pointing out the sites. Every now and then he stops to be picked up “picky my up!” so I do. It’s really brief until he tells me “takey my down.” He says hi to all the dogs, points out bicycles, other motorhomes, and people who look familiar to him. It’s just amazing to me how much goes on in that tiny little person, and how in just two years he has become a thinking individual all on his own. We didn’t do that, just provided the environment in which it could happen. After our usual relaxed morning we packed up and headed down the hills. It was a beautiful drive, the kids were happy and we were to spend the day in Sausalito.
Fillip parked the motorhome in a business lot near Ben’s place. In trying to park he knocked over a post and did a bit of damage to the rv. So, he and Ben went to the hardware store while I stayed with the sleeping munchkins. It gave me about half an hour to relax and read. It would have been nice to be outside, but the downtime was nice anyway. When Fillip and Ben returned we finally headed to downtown Sausalito to walk around.
It is a beautiful area, right on the water. We went in a couple shops then got a snack at a gourmet deli. We sat near the park eating crusty french bread with provolone, italian salame and black forest ham. It was surprisingly delicious. My snack had the bonus of an icecream cone, which made the rounds despite everyone saying they didn’t want any when I offered to get them their own. Both boys loved our little picnic, eating heartily which was good as we were going for another late dinner. The waterfront and shopping district was crowded with people out for the holiday weekend, also taking in the beautiful weather and view. We walked along the waterfront, then headed back to Ben’s car and over to the fishing pier.
The pier is right near the Golden Gate Bridge, with the San Francisco skyline right in front of us. Spectacular!! I couldn’t help sending pics from my phone of such a fantastic sight. People were catching fish from the pier and Hayden was fascinated by the cooler full of live fish. One lady even pulled up some crabs. Eventually, Hayden lost interest and before we knew it, Ben (who was wearing Logan) and I realized Fillip and Hayden were back at the car. It was very breezy and chilly, so that might be what made Hayden want to go back. I could have stayed there all day, and will make it a point to hit that spot when we go back to the Bay Area.
Next we headed back to San Anselmo for dinner at Bubba’s, Clementine’s diner. I was smart enough to get another pulled pork sandwich, this one all to myself. Hayden at least took a couple bites of hotdog, and Logan was just happy to be. We lingered over dinner again, with our plan for me and Clementine to go out for a bit in the city. Fillip and I walked to the bookstore across the street, as Goodnight Moon really needed to be replaced. I also got a couple more books including one about San Francisco. I love getting books local to where we are traveling. We came back to the diner and I said goodnight to the kids. The boys all headed back to Ben’s and Clem and I went into the city.
Our plan was to briefly stop at her apartment for her to change, then go get a drink at a local restaurant bar, then she would drive me back to Ben’s place around midnight and Fillip, me and the boys would start our drive back to Los Angeles. The restaurant bar she likes is nice and she seems to be pretty friendly with the bartender. It was nice to be out as a grownup for a change, not just a mommy. It was a friendly crowd, maybe a bit friendlier than I like, since the singles scene is something I’ve never been particularly comfortable with. However, Clementine seems to be pretty familiar with the place, a regular on Sunday nights when she needs to let off steam after a tough week. She is off Mondays and Tuesdays, so it the beginning of her weekend. We got there late, and time went quickly. I spoke with Fillip around 12:45pm, convinced Clem and I would be leaving soon, but when I finally started really badgering her and it got to 1:30am, she said she was in no condition to drive, and Ben had to come get me. I told her to make that phone call, as I did not want to hear the irritation on the other side of the line. Ben got to me around 2:30am, we followed Clementine the few blocks home as she absolutely insisted on driving herself. Fillip had to move the motorhome by 2am so drove around waiting for me, and we hit the road after 3:00am. It was so frustrating!
Needless to say, Fillip was extremely tired, which wasn’t the safest situation. However, we didn’t have a place to keep the motorhome that night, so we had to hit the road. We drove for over two hours, and got the last spot at a rest area on the I-5. Phew! We laid our heads down to sleep at 5:30am.
Monday, May 29
At 5:40am Logan woke up. I fed him and got him settled by 6:15am, then dozed off. Hayden woke at 6:45am. I kept the kids quiet and occupied for the next several hours, so Fillip could sleep. After all, he was the one who would be driving and needed the rest. The boys had snacks, played, watched movies, and were very good. I got Fillip up before 11am. We had a quick breakfast, walked Hayden around the rest area a bit and went to see the passing herd of cattle. I don’t know that I actually have ever heard cows moo before, but it was fun to watch Hayden moo at them. We hit the road around 11am without any more rest or showers (eyww!) and had a long drive ahead of us. We had McDonalds for lunch then the kids fell asleep. I laid down for about 30 minutes before needing to be back up while Fillip used a rest stop. Hayden was up by then. Given that we drove for about 4 hours straight, the kids were incredible! They didn’t complain and were so content in their carseats. When we would stop now and then for Fillip to stretch, we would let them get out and stretch as well. Logan would crawl around the motorhome, and Hayden would go with one of us for a walk. We dragged into town with very little traffic and went straight to Tami’s house for a Memorial Day BBQ.
It was truly a fun trip. Traveling with little kids is still so busy, not much different than home. It is so fun to see their faces in new situations, and learn how flexible and open to new experiences they are. Hayden now talks about castles and we can tell him how he has been up and down our state. Logan began the trip crawling, eating only pureed food, and now stands on his own easily and wants almost all tablefood. We had seven days together to get to know each other so much better, while seeing how absolutely beautiful much of California is.
Saturday, June 03, 2006
One hot momma
My next post was intended to be the rest of our vacation but....
Fuck it's hot! Yes, that is where my boy gets his language and I'll say it again. Fuck!
Our fucking airconditioner isn't working. We live in the fucking valley where it is literally as hot as the depths of hell. Dante, I feel your pain man. It is 10:15pm and it is 87 degrees F in here. All the doors and windows are open and we have fans going everywhere.
Hayden insisted I cover him before bed, but I got lucky that his pre-bedtime meltdown sapped the last of his energy and he fell asleep anyway. Logan however was awake until nearly 9:30pm, which is really late for him. He was screaming in his swing, then in his bed, then I laid down with him on the couch and he couldn't even keep that little head up. He tried crawling across the couch, but had to rest that heavy head every few inches. Finally I put him back in his crib, set up a fan, removed the bumper to let the air get through and patted him until he finally went down. This included mistakenly thinking he was asleep, and being told in not so uncertain terms by his wailing "no Mommy, I really need you near me right now. Keep patting and I will be quiet in an instant, but stop and I will scream bloody murder. It's up to you." Pat pat pat pat pat pat pat.... you get the idea.
AC guy is supposed to be here early tomorrow morning. I will do anything he wants to make it cooler in here. I'm pretty sure Fillip is on board.
Fuck it's hot! Yes, that is where my boy gets his language and I'll say it again. Fuck!
Our fucking airconditioner isn't working. We live in the fucking valley where it is literally as hot as the depths of hell. Dante, I feel your pain man. It is 10:15pm and it is 87 degrees F in here. All the doors and windows are open and we have fans going everywhere.
Hayden insisted I cover him before bed, but I got lucky that his pre-bedtime meltdown sapped the last of his energy and he fell asleep anyway. Logan however was awake until nearly 9:30pm, which is really late for him. He was screaming in his swing, then in his bed, then I laid down with him on the couch and he couldn't even keep that little head up. He tried crawling across the couch, but had to rest that heavy head every few inches. Finally I put him back in his crib, set up a fan, removed the bumper to let the air get through and patted him until he finally went down. This included mistakenly thinking he was asleep, and being told in not so uncertain terms by his wailing "no Mommy, I really need you near me right now. Keep patting and I will be quiet in an instant, but stop and I will scream bloody murder. It's up to you." Pat pat pat pat pat pat pat.... you get the idea.
AC guy is supposed to be here early tomorrow morning. I will do anything he wants to make it cooler in here. I'm pretty sure Fillip is on board.
Thursday, June 01, 2006
Our coastal adventures- Part 1
We had a wonderful time on our vacation, and although happy to be home, would have been happier to have more time off. We saw the beautiful California coast, stayed in the lap of luxury on our motorhome, and realized that vacation with kids is as busy as being home with kids. Gee, there's a surprise! Logan didn't wheeze at all on our trip. As much as a relief as that is, it doesn't bode well for our kitties. He has been home and wheez-free for two days, so I am interested to see what comes of our allergist appointment in a couple weeks.
Monday, May 22
Monday was spent packing and getting ready for our departure. I had a doc appointment in the morning to get my cast off, and a removable AirCast put on, which the Mini Cooper kindly got us to, then promptly died in the parking structure. Fillip waited for the towtruck during my appointment. A frustrating start to the day, but we didn’t let it get us down. While Fillip went for the motorhome, I stayed home packing. The kids were with Mickey, enjoying a day at Grandma’s house. By the time we got the motorhome packed, I was exhausted, and we got quite a late start. We were very excited. We had to make a “quick” stop at Erawan’s house for Fillip’s forgotten jacket, which was less quick than we intended, not surprisingly. I was to stay in the motorhome while Fillip just ran in. However, Erawan’s parents and aunt came to see our rig, and before I knew it, had scooped up the kids and taken them in the house. I sheepishly came in to tell Fillip, I had lost control, and the kids! Jessica kindly (and insistently) stocked us with tons of food and goodies, which was a great help, delaying our need to grocery shop. Delicious croissants and sweet fresh fruit! Well, also some cookies, brownies, chips, more fruit, and a big hat. Ok, now we were ready to hit the road!
The motorhome itself was great. It was 31’ with a bed over the cab, the couch and table each converted into beds, and there was a king size bed in the back. It was less than a year old, and immaculate, with “tile” floors and nice upholstery and cabinets. The carseats installed well facing each other on the kitchenette banquettes, so Logan was still rear-facing as required, and they could amuse each other on the road. Hayden’s face was priceless when he boarded, wanting to check everything out. For him it was great, as he could see the scenery going by, much better than in our cars. The law on carseat requirements for kids isn’t clear to us, but what was clear was that they needed to be restrained. It was difficult for me to walk around while moving, which I had to do more often than I liked, and there is no way the little ones could have been let to roam free while traveling. The side of the motorhome “popped out” at the touch of a button, giving us lots of space to walk by once camped. We used our Pack n Play for Logan as well as the baby swing!
We got a great spot at Thornhill Broom beach for our first night, right on the beach! Dinner was kept simple with the kids eating first, and us heating up leftover bbq after they went to bed. Hayden played in his bed over the cab for awhile when we first got there. He was so excited! We were slightly concerned about him falling off, but it wasn’t much of an issue. He had all his familiar bedding and Robby’s so was a happy boy. He went down with little fuss after little fuss, and Logan went to sleep in his swing. We had a quiet dinner on the beach to the sound of the waves on the shore. The sky was beautiful and we were very happy to be on the road, despite being very local still. We slept with the windows open, listening to the pounding of the surf all night.
Tuesday, May 23
The first morning (actually, every morning) the kids woke bright and early. Logan woke first and came into bed with us. Shortly after we heard a thump and Hayden crying. He had jumped out of bed himself, but was just fine. Nothing a kiss on the knee couldn’t cure. The four of us stayed in our bed for awhile before getting up to make breakfast (mmmm… toasted croissants a la Jessica!) and play on the beach. The boys were content to snack in their booster seats for awhile. Hayden really just wanted to play in the driver’s seat for most of the trip “I drive! Daddy give me keys to drive!”, but did enjoy the beach that morning. We spent a relaxing, yet busy morning there. Hayden walked around the beach, desperately wanting to get closer to the water. I even got some time alone to sit and gaze at the water. Late in the morning when the kids were ready for a nap, we packed up and moved out.
We had a beautiful drive up the coast, went through some towns following Highway 1, and then dared to go through the hills of Santa Barbara. Fillip handled the motorhome like pro, although it must have been harder than he made it look. We were on an adventure and enjoying the journey. We made camp in El Capitan State Park north of Santa Barbara. It is a beautiful park with woods and a view of the bay. We could see the water from our campsite under the trees, and were excited about camping. Hayden was happier playing in the driver’s seat and rear storage compartment of the rv, while Logan was delighted to be outside in his piano exersaucer. Yes, we even had that monstrous toy- we had that much room! I kept him company knitting and providing snacks. Fillip built a campfire, although the firewood we had was slightly wet and wouldn’t catch. We smoked our tritip as much as grilled it, but it was delicious! The weather was clear and crisp, requiring jackets or sweaters in the evening, but nothing heavier until after nightfall. After the kids went to bed, we sat down by the campfire to relax over a game of dominoes. Fillip kicked my ass and I went to bed late in defeat. We each got our usual time to wind down- me reading and Fillip wandering about until late in the night while the campfire died down. We could hear the bass of the waves on the shore, despite the distance to the water, and it was so nice.
Wednesday, May 24
Wednesday morning we were up early as always. Fillip made us “eggs cheese and sausage,” Hayden’s favorite breakfast and we sat at the picnic table enjoying the atmosphere and the view. Logan decided sausage is the food for him, and ate an entire one each day we had them. It takes a really long time to feed him a whole sausage and crumble it as little as he needs it, but he was a happy boy. Hayden and I took a walk to check out the dolphins in the bay that Fillip had seen earlier. There were about a half dozen of them frolicking in the water, and other campers mentioned seeing even more the previous evening. They likely reside there in the bay and were very fun to watch. After breakfast the four of us descended the staircase to the beach. This was quite a challenge for me in my cast. Fillip had Logan in the Baby Bjorn, and Hayden held his hand while I hobbled down. Of course, it took longer as I kept making them stop so I could take pictures, but that’s all part of the package with me! We finally made it down to the rocky beach and Fillip said we needed to head right back up, as we hadn’t given Logan any sunscreen and there wasn’t any shade. He had already been in the sun for some time while we got down there. We stayed for about 5 minutes before heading back up. Going up was much easier for me. Hayden and I played with my big floppy hat and a squirrel while Fillip got the rv. Off we went for another day on the road. Lunch generally consisted of snacks for Hayden who is always happy with a breakfast bar and Cheez Its, and a jar of something for Logan while driving. These days he really wants table food so I would also take time to give him tiny bits of turkey lunchmeat. Fillip and I would have sandwiches that I made as we drove.
This was another traveling day. The kids napped for part of the drive and we got to see more of California. Despite being on vacation, we were still quite busy with the kids. Once they would wake up, I would frequently be up and about while driving to get them snacks, toys, etc. This was a bit tiresome, but certainly preferable to hungry screaming kids! We would stop now and then for gas or provisions. I would stay in the rv nursing or doing diaper changes, while Fillip usually took Hayden and sometimes Logan so they could have a break from being cooped up. We got to Morro Bay State Park late in the afternoon, and had a similar time from the day before. Relaxing, playing, walking, knitting, snacking. Fillip had better luck with the fire, but that wood still didn’t really want to catch. This park had so many campers with dogs and Hayden had a good time greeting all of them. “Hi doggy! How are you?” Logan had determined that the motorhome was the best playpen ever, and was such a happy boy. He got some play time outside in his pack n play, while Hayden just wanted to “drive.” The campground was right on the bay next to the marina. It wasn’t quite as “woodsy,” and the rv spots were packed close together.
People were very friendly, waving and saying high as they passed by. We had grilled hot dogs and chili for dinner, a good camping dinner. We also had fondue, how fancy!! Bedtime was the usual blur of activity, complete with storytime, my favorite time with Hayden. He now reads along with his books, which is so sweet. Most nights we read his fire engine book of vehicle sounds, a Curious George book (“Hi George!”), the Cat in the Hat which Hayden calls the fish book (“hish fall down get hurt? hish get back in his bowl? Where’s hish?”), a book about Shabbat where Hayden pauses to recite the Kiddush and cover his eyes for candle lighting and Goodnight Moon (in the great green room there was a telephone “Right there!” and a red balloon “Right there!”…). Storytime has gotten quite long, but is such an enjoyable time of the day. For the first time he noticed the ship in the Cat in the Hat (remember…the cat sank the ship in the cake) and said “there’s the ship! Arrrgh Matey!” in his surly pirate voice. He cracks me up. Fillip and I sat down for another game of dominoes. I got schooled again, despite talking a good amount of smack before hand. I’m bound to win a game eventually, right? We enjoyed another evening relaxing by the fire and gazing at the beautiful sky, trying to find constellations we know we knew at one point in time.
Thursday, May 25
Our morning in Morro Bay began early like the others. We had yummy breakfast burritos with eggs, tritip, cheese and salsa, and our usual morning busy-ness. Hayden and I took a walk around the campground, getting caught in some kind of loop where we finally ended up walking across other campsites (gasp!) to get back to our own. There is something I just love about morning air, and being out in nature makes it so much better. I really did miss the ability to go for a long, hard walk, but had to be content with a short stroll and the good company of Hayden. I was very excited to be heading to Hearst Castle that day.
The drive was nice, the scenery absolutely beautiful. We made our tour reservation by phone and showed up right on time for the bus. Hayden was excited to go on the bus (and seriously disappointed by every unboarded bus thereafter!), but a little hard to keep seated. Logan was happy to be repeatedly throwing Legos on the floor, and getting us to retrieve them. He even managed to throw one onto an unsuspecting lady in front of us who didn’t quite realize what had happened. The Hearst Castle tour is very structured, with a lot of lecture and not much touring. Hayden was simply everywhere loudly. That child was uncontainable. The assistant docent asked him at one point to use a quieter voice. Not surprising, that didn’t work. We kept pulling him aside and trying to calm him, but once he gets into meltdown mode, it is rather hopeless much of the time. We were finally strongly encouraged to go to the children’s room where there was a changing pad, toys, a bathroom, and a door they could close on our chaos. As were being ejected from the tour, a lady looked at Hayden and said “Shhh! I can’t hear!” Well, I could not hold my tongue and told her if the would have worked, didn’t she think we would have tried that! We were doing our best! By this time, Fillip was football carrying a screaming Hayden and I was hobbling along with Logan in the Baby Bjorn. Don’t mess with me right now lady! Once we got to the room, I told Fillip to go back to the tour, since there was no reason we should both miss it. He said I didn’t miss much, but I hadn’t heard anything prior to that anyway, so it was rather disappointing. Of course, once we were ensconced in Hearst Siberia, Hayden was a perfect angel, happy to play quietly. We sheepishly rejoined our tour before boarding the bus, and were happy to receive more supportive comments from other parents who could commiserate from experience. Needless to say, we were happy to back to our motorhome, which from that point forward Hayden called his castle.
We had some snacks while Fillip went to purchase our oh so touristy Hearst Castle portrait package (I had forgotten my camera) and hit the road with two sleepy kids, ready for our next adventure. Little did I know what an adventure it would be!
Despite warnings against it, we decided to continue up the coast through Big Sur. The kids quickly zonked out, and we had an opportunity to marvel at the beauty of the California coastline. It was truly spectacular. The combination of the dark jagged coastline, rich greenery, white frothy waves and blue water was stunning. However, the road was treacherous, especially in a 31’ motorhome. Fillip was very calm, but nervous navigating through there. There were hairpin turns, bumps, dips, the face of the mountain on our right ,and a sheer drop to the water on the left. There was no way we would take that drive going the other direction. This way we could at least hug the mountain.
Although Hayden remained asleep, Logan woke up cranky. We definitely didn’t want to wake Hayden early after the trying afternoon we’d had, so I took Logan to the back thinking to put him back to sleep, then back in his carseat. Hah!! It was wild ride back there. We were lying on the bed, but barely as each bump and turn had us jumping and flying around. At one point, I was trying to build a pillow barricade for us and had let go of Logan. That baby went flying and bouncing from side to side across the bed, giggling all the way! It was very funny, but scary at the same time. I finally weighted him down with my body, laughing with him through the bigger bumps. At first he giggled, then fussed, then cried, then eventually went fast asleep for the next hour and a half. I stayed awake trying to take in as much of the scenery as I could out the back windows. It was so sweet to hold Logan tight like that while he slept, but I had really been enjoying the drive with Fillip. There was no way I could get us up and navigate back to our seats under those conditions, so I had no choice but to stay put. I wedged us in with pillows and enjoyed the ride.
Hayden eventually woke up and Fillip stopped to tend to him, but I had no way to know if there was enough time to get up, so figured Fillip would get me when he got up. Nope. I finally got up as we started up a mountain road to our campsite in Carmel by the River. I could gauge the stoplights and made my way back to the front.
This next campsite was pricey, but beautiful. Each spot was very small, so we were very close to our neighbors. Friendly campers as always. The river was right behind us over the grassy embankment. As we were getting settled, a lady and her toddler walked by and we started chatting. Eventually, her husband came by too looking for them. Hans, Tirsa, and Nick are from Holland and had taken a three week vacation starting in San Francisco. They were at the end of their trip and had been all over. After over an hour it was getting late, so we invited them to stick around for dinner. They were happy to accept as their provisions were low, and we had plenty to share. It was a wonderful evening with them, and the kids played nicely too. Hayden was so happy to have someone to play with. They each held their own, stealing and sharing the toys. The family was laid back about things, so didn’t care if I gave the kids yogurt or Doritos. Whatever! One of the boys determined that Logan can in fact eat Doritos. The orange powder in and around Logan’s smiling mouth gave him away. He was just happy to be part of the chaos. Dinner ended well after 10pm, but the kids were great. This was to become a pattern, and they surprised us with their endurance. We finally bid each other goodnight after taking pics and exchanging info. We’ve already exchanged a couple emails. We saw them briefly the next day at the aquarium, and we are promised lodging should we ever make it back to Holland.
Fillip and I stayed up for a bit with the fire. We watched the stars and chatted a bit about how great it was to meet another young family. I was exhausted and shortly went to bed with the windows open enjoying the rhythm of the surprisingly loud frogsong on the river.
Monday, May 22
Monday was spent packing and getting ready for our departure. I had a doc appointment in the morning to get my cast off, and a removable AirCast put on, which the Mini Cooper kindly got us to, then promptly died in the parking structure. Fillip waited for the towtruck during my appointment. A frustrating start to the day, but we didn’t let it get us down. While Fillip went for the motorhome, I stayed home packing. The kids were with Mickey, enjoying a day at Grandma’s house. By the time we got the motorhome packed, I was exhausted, and we got quite a late start. We were very excited. We had to make a “quick” stop at Erawan’s house for Fillip’s forgotten jacket, which was less quick than we intended, not surprisingly. I was to stay in the motorhome while Fillip just ran in. However, Erawan’s parents and aunt came to see our rig, and before I knew it, had scooped up the kids and taken them in the house. I sheepishly came in to tell Fillip, I had lost control, and the kids! Jessica kindly (and insistently) stocked us with tons of food and goodies, which was a great help, delaying our need to grocery shop. Delicious croissants and sweet fresh fruit! Well, also some cookies, brownies, chips, more fruit, and a big hat. Ok, now we were ready to hit the road!
The motorhome itself was great. It was 31’ with a bed over the cab, the couch and table each converted into beds, and there was a king size bed in the back. It was less than a year old, and immaculate, with “tile” floors and nice upholstery and cabinets. The carseats installed well facing each other on the kitchenette banquettes, so Logan was still rear-facing as required, and they could amuse each other on the road. Hayden’s face was priceless when he boarded, wanting to check everything out. For him it was great, as he could see the scenery going by, much better than in our cars. The law on carseat requirements for kids isn’t clear to us, but what was clear was that they needed to be restrained. It was difficult for me to walk around while moving, which I had to do more often than I liked, and there is no way the little ones could have been let to roam free while traveling. The side of the motorhome “popped out” at the touch of a button, giving us lots of space to walk by once camped. We used our Pack n Play for Logan as well as the baby swing!
We got a great spot at Thornhill Broom beach for our first night, right on the beach! Dinner was kept simple with the kids eating first, and us heating up leftover bbq after they went to bed. Hayden played in his bed over the cab for awhile when we first got there. He was so excited! We were slightly concerned about him falling off, but it wasn’t much of an issue. He had all his familiar bedding and Robby’s so was a happy boy. He went down with little fuss after little fuss, and Logan went to sleep in his swing. We had a quiet dinner on the beach to the sound of the waves on the shore. The sky was beautiful and we were very happy to be on the road, despite being very local still. We slept with the windows open, listening to the pounding of the surf all night.
Tuesday, May 23
The first morning (actually, every morning) the kids woke bright and early. Logan woke first and came into bed with us. Shortly after we heard a thump and Hayden crying. He had jumped out of bed himself, but was just fine. Nothing a kiss on the knee couldn’t cure. The four of us stayed in our bed for awhile before getting up to make breakfast (mmmm… toasted croissants a la Jessica!) and play on the beach. The boys were content to snack in their booster seats for awhile. Hayden really just wanted to play in the driver’s seat for most of the trip “I drive! Daddy give me keys to drive!”, but did enjoy the beach that morning. We spent a relaxing, yet busy morning there. Hayden walked around the beach, desperately wanting to get closer to the water. I even got some time alone to sit and gaze at the water. Late in the morning when the kids were ready for a nap, we packed up and moved out.
We had a beautiful drive up the coast, went through some towns following Highway 1, and then dared to go through the hills of Santa Barbara. Fillip handled the motorhome like pro, although it must have been harder than he made it look. We were on an adventure and enjoying the journey. We made camp in El Capitan State Park north of Santa Barbara. It is a beautiful park with woods and a view of the bay. We could see the water from our campsite under the trees, and were excited about camping. Hayden was happier playing in the driver’s seat and rear storage compartment of the rv, while Logan was delighted to be outside in his piano exersaucer. Yes, we even had that monstrous toy- we had that much room! I kept him company knitting and providing snacks. Fillip built a campfire, although the firewood we had was slightly wet and wouldn’t catch. We smoked our tritip as much as grilled it, but it was delicious! The weather was clear and crisp, requiring jackets or sweaters in the evening, but nothing heavier until after nightfall. After the kids went to bed, we sat down by the campfire to relax over a game of dominoes. Fillip kicked my ass and I went to bed late in defeat. We each got our usual time to wind down- me reading and Fillip wandering about until late in the night while the campfire died down. We could hear the bass of the waves on the shore, despite the distance to the water, and it was so nice.
Wednesday, May 24
Wednesday morning we were up early as always. Fillip made us “eggs cheese and sausage,” Hayden’s favorite breakfast and we sat at the picnic table enjoying the atmosphere and the view. Logan decided sausage is the food for him, and ate an entire one each day we had them. It takes a really long time to feed him a whole sausage and crumble it as little as he needs it, but he was a happy boy. Hayden and I took a walk to check out the dolphins in the bay that Fillip had seen earlier. There were about a half dozen of them frolicking in the water, and other campers mentioned seeing even more the previous evening. They likely reside there in the bay and were very fun to watch. After breakfast the four of us descended the staircase to the beach. This was quite a challenge for me in my cast. Fillip had Logan in the Baby Bjorn, and Hayden held his hand while I hobbled down. Of course, it took longer as I kept making them stop so I could take pictures, but that’s all part of the package with me! We finally made it down to the rocky beach and Fillip said we needed to head right back up, as we hadn’t given Logan any sunscreen and there wasn’t any shade. He had already been in the sun for some time while we got down there. We stayed for about 5 minutes before heading back up. Going up was much easier for me. Hayden and I played with my big floppy hat and a squirrel while Fillip got the rv. Off we went for another day on the road. Lunch generally consisted of snacks for Hayden who is always happy with a breakfast bar and Cheez Its, and a jar of something for Logan while driving. These days he really wants table food so I would also take time to give him tiny bits of turkey lunchmeat. Fillip and I would have sandwiches that I made as we drove.
This was another traveling day. The kids napped for part of the drive and we got to see more of California. Despite being on vacation, we were still quite busy with the kids. Once they would wake up, I would frequently be up and about while driving to get them snacks, toys, etc. This was a bit tiresome, but certainly preferable to hungry screaming kids! We would stop now and then for gas or provisions. I would stay in the rv nursing or doing diaper changes, while Fillip usually took Hayden and sometimes Logan so they could have a break from being cooped up. We got to Morro Bay State Park late in the afternoon, and had a similar time from the day before. Relaxing, playing, walking, knitting, snacking. Fillip had better luck with the fire, but that wood still didn’t really want to catch. This park had so many campers with dogs and Hayden had a good time greeting all of them. “Hi doggy! How are you?” Logan had determined that the motorhome was the best playpen ever, and was such a happy boy. He got some play time outside in his pack n play, while Hayden just wanted to “drive.” The campground was right on the bay next to the marina. It wasn’t quite as “woodsy,” and the rv spots were packed close together.
People were very friendly, waving and saying high as they passed by. We had grilled hot dogs and chili for dinner, a good camping dinner. We also had fondue, how fancy!! Bedtime was the usual blur of activity, complete with storytime, my favorite time with Hayden. He now reads along with his books, which is so sweet. Most nights we read his fire engine book of vehicle sounds, a Curious George book (“Hi George!”), the Cat in the Hat which Hayden calls the fish book (“hish fall down get hurt? hish get back in his bowl? Where’s hish?”), a book about Shabbat where Hayden pauses to recite the Kiddush and cover his eyes for candle lighting and Goodnight Moon (in the great green room there was a telephone “Right there!” and a red balloon “Right there!”…). Storytime has gotten quite long, but is such an enjoyable time of the day. For the first time he noticed the ship in the Cat in the Hat (remember…the cat sank the ship in the cake) and said “there’s the ship! Arrrgh Matey!” in his surly pirate voice. He cracks me up. Fillip and I sat down for another game of dominoes. I got schooled again, despite talking a good amount of smack before hand. I’m bound to win a game eventually, right? We enjoyed another evening relaxing by the fire and gazing at the beautiful sky, trying to find constellations we know we knew at one point in time.
Thursday, May 25
Our morning in Morro Bay began early like the others. We had yummy breakfast burritos with eggs, tritip, cheese and salsa, and our usual morning busy-ness. Hayden and I took a walk around the campground, getting caught in some kind of loop where we finally ended up walking across other campsites (gasp!) to get back to our own. There is something I just love about morning air, and being out in nature makes it so much better. I really did miss the ability to go for a long, hard walk, but had to be content with a short stroll and the good company of Hayden. I was very excited to be heading to Hearst Castle that day.
The drive was nice, the scenery absolutely beautiful. We made our tour reservation by phone and showed up right on time for the bus. Hayden was excited to go on the bus (and seriously disappointed by every unboarded bus thereafter!), but a little hard to keep seated. Logan was happy to be repeatedly throwing Legos on the floor, and getting us to retrieve them. He even managed to throw one onto an unsuspecting lady in front of us who didn’t quite realize what had happened. The Hearst Castle tour is very structured, with a lot of lecture and not much touring. Hayden was simply everywhere loudly. That child was uncontainable. The assistant docent asked him at one point to use a quieter voice. Not surprising, that didn’t work. We kept pulling him aside and trying to calm him, but once he gets into meltdown mode, it is rather hopeless much of the time. We were finally strongly encouraged to go to the children’s room where there was a changing pad, toys, a bathroom, and a door they could close on our chaos. As were being ejected from the tour, a lady looked at Hayden and said “Shhh! I can’t hear!” Well, I could not hold my tongue and told her if the would have worked, didn’t she think we would have tried that! We were doing our best! By this time, Fillip was football carrying a screaming Hayden and I was hobbling along with Logan in the Baby Bjorn. Don’t mess with me right now lady! Once we got to the room, I told Fillip to go back to the tour, since there was no reason we should both miss it. He said I didn’t miss much, but I hadn’t heard anything prior to that anyway, so it was rather disappointing. Of course, once we were ensconced in Hearst Siberia, Hayden was a perfect angel, happy to play quietly. We sheepishly rejoined our tour before boarding the bus, and were happy to receive more supportive comments from other parents who could commiserate from experience. Needless to say, we were happy to back to our motorhome, which from that point forward Hayden called his castle.
We had some snacks while Fillip went to purchase our oh so touristy Hearst Castle portrait package (I had forgotten my camera) and hit the road with two sleepy kids, ready for our next adventure. Little did I know what an adventure it would be!
Despite warnings against it, we decided to continue up the coast through Big Sur. The kids quickly zonked out, and we had an opportunity to marvel at the beauty of the California coastline. It was truly spectacular. The combination of the dark jagged coastline, rich greenery, white frothy waves and blue water was stunning. However, the road was treacherous, especially in a 31’ motorhome. Fillip was very calm, but nervous navigating through there. There were hairpin turns, bumps, dips, the face of the mountain on our right ,and a sheer drop to the water on the left. There was no way we would take that drive going the other direction. This way we could at least hug the mountain.
Although Hayden remained asleep, Logan woke up cranky. We definitely didn’t want to wake Hayden early after the trying afternoon we’d had, so I took Logan to the back thinking to put him back to sleep, then back in his carseat. Hah!! It was wild ride back there. We were lying on the bed, but barely as each bump and turn had us jumping and flying around. At one point, I was trying to build a pillow barricade for us and had let go of Logan. That baby went flying and bouncing from side to side across the bed, giggling all the way! It was very funny, but scary at the same time. I finally weighted him down with my body, laughing with him through the bigger bumps. At first he giggled, then fussed, then cried, then eventually went fast asleep for the next hour and a half. I stayed awake trying to take in as much of the scenery as I could out the back windows. It was so sweet to hold Logan tight like that while he slept, but I had really been enjoying the drive with Fillip. There was no way I could get us up and navigate back to our seats under those conditions, so I had no choice but to stay put. I wedged us in with pillows and enjoyed the ride.
Hayden eventually woke up and Fillip stopped to tend to him, but I had no way to know if there was enough time to get up, so figured Fillip would get me when he got up. Nope. I finally got up as we started up a mountain road to our campsite in Carmel by the River. I could gauge the stoplights and made my way back to the front.
This next campsite was pricey, but beautiful. Each spot was very small, so we were very close to our neighbors. Friendly campers as always. The river was right behind us over the grassy embankment. As we were getting settled, a lady and her toddler walked by and we started chatting. Eventually, her husband came by too looking for them. Hans, Tirsa, and Nick are from Holland and had taken a three week vacation starting in San Francisco. They were at the end of their trip and had been all over. After over an hour it was getting late, so we invited them to stick around for dinner. They were happy to accept as their provisions were low, and we had plenty to share. It was a wonderful evening with them, and the kids played nicely too. Hayden was so happy to have someone to play with. They each held their own, stealing and sharing the toys. The family was laid back about things, so didn’t care if I gave the kids yogurt or Doritos. Whatever! One of the boys determined that Logan can in fact eat Doritos. The orange powder in and around Logan’s smiling mouth gave him away. He was just happy to be part of the chaos. Dinner ended well after 10pm, but the kids were great. This was to become a pattern, and they surprised us with their endurance. We finally bid each other goodnight after taking pics and exchanging info. We’ve already exchanged a couple emails. We saw them briefly the next day at the aquarium, and we are promised lodging should we ever make it back to Holland.
Fillip and I stayed up for a bit with the fire. We watched the stars and chatted a bit about how great it was to meet another young family. I was exhausted and shortly went to bed with the windows open enjoying the rhythm of the surprisingly loud frogsong on the river.
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Out of the mouths of babes
"Conan, stop bitching!"
Um, what did you say Hayden?
"Kitty is bitching!"
Yea, Hayden doesn't like when the cat is bitching.
Another choice phrase is "oh shit!" He uses it quite appropriately, if a two year old saying shit has any way of being appropriate, muttering under his breath when his book falls to the floor or the legos don't quite go together. He also modifies it from time to time. A recent whopper "oh fuck oh shit."
Hmmm...maybe we need to watch our language around here. He's supposed to be potty trained, not a potty mouth! He hears it all over as I'm not exactly perfect about it, my MIL uses that one frequently, and dh's language is atrocious. Our strategy had been to just ignore it thinking if it doesn't get him attention, he'll lose interest in these new and interesting phrases. Live and learn. Now what?
Um, what did you say Hayden?
"Kitty is bitching!"
Yea, Hayden doesn't like when the cat is bitching.
Another choice phrase is "oh shit!" He uses it quite appropriately, if a two year old saying shit has any way of being appropriate, muttering under his breath when his book falls to the floor or the legos don't quite go together. He also modifies it from time to time. A recent whopper "oh fuck oh shit."
Hmmm...maybe we need to watch our language around here. He's supposed to be potty trained, not a potty mouth! He hears it all over as I'm not exactly perfect about it, my MIL uses that one frequently, and dh's language is atrocious. Our strategy had been to just ignore it thinking if it doesn't get him attention, he'll lose interest in these new and interesting phrases. Live and learn. Now what?
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Casting Couch
Most people who live in Los Angeles have a different concept of the casting couch. I wound up there three times in the last two days.
Monday was my orthopedic checkup. The doc decided I would benefit from another week in a cast. Lovely. I made the bold choice of a purple cast this time. That evening I went home and promptly got it soaked in the shower. Eyww! The next day, I took my waterlogged foot back to the doc and had the cast done again. Unfortunately, something just didn't feel right, so they had to do it twice. Still purple, although I did consider the glow-in-the-dark one. Cool, huh? This stays on until Monday morning. Hopefully, that will be the end of it as we leave on vacation that day.
Hayden is well accustomed to his gimpy mom. He constantly asks "Ok Mommy? I kiss it. Better?" He loves to hand me my crutches and talk about my purple cast. He frequently kisses my foot better, which is so sweet. These days if he even brushes something against something else, we get the most pitiful "My ___ hurts. Kiss my ___." We are often told to kiss his butt. Somehow, I think this is only the beginning.
Logan has decided I am simply a milk bar, and useless for anything else. He only wants Fillip, collapsing in tears of heartbreak everytime Fillip walks away. This just cracks me up to watch my husband get totally played by that little guy. It's all a great act since my MIL reports what an angel he is for her. Too funny. I miss his snuggles, so when he woke at 4:15am, I kept him in bed instead of having dh tuck him back in after a snack. He slept on my chest, and although I didn't get back to sleep, it was so sweet to snuggle him. Aah, the small rewards in life.
Monday was my orthopedic checkup. The doc decided I would benefit from another week in a cast. Lovely. I made the bold choice of a purple cast this time. That evening I went home and promptly got it soaked in the shower. Eyww! The next day, I took my waterlogged foot back to the doc and had the cast done again. Unfortunately, something just didn't feel right, so they had to do it twice. Still purple, although I did consider the glow-in-the-dark one. Cool, huh? This stays on until Monday morning. Hopefully, that will be the end of it as we leave on vacation that day.
Hayden is well accustomed to his gimpy mom. He constantly asks "Ok Mommy? I kiss it. Better?" He loves to hand me my crutches and talk about my purple cast. He frequently kisses my foot better, which is so sweet. These days if he even brushes something against something else, we get the most pitiful "My ___ hurts. Kiss my ___." We are often told to kiss his butt. Somehow, I think this is only the beginning.
Logan has decided I am simply a milk bar, and useless for anything else. He only wants Fillip, collapsing in tears of heartbreak everytime Fillip walks away. This just cracks me up to watch my husband get totally played by that little guy. It's all a great act since my MIL reports what an angel he is for her. Too funny. I miss his snuggles, so when he woke at 4:15am, I kept him in bed instead of having dh tuck him back in after a snack. He slept on my chest, and although I didn't get back to sleep, it was so sweet to snuggle him. Aah, the small rewards in life.
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Duh!
Fuck! Last night I was dog-tired. It was my first day back at work, my foot was giant and killing me, and my girlfriends came over for dinner. No, I didn't need to entertain. They made dinner, helped me with the kids, and let Fillip go out for a much needed break, but I was still up more than I should have been. So, by the time I went to draw my bath I really needed to lie down and sleep. I turned on the tub then went to quickly (or so I thought) check my email. Oh, the clever responses I sent out! Oh, yea, I'm soooo witty! So witty in fact that when it occurred to me a few minutes later to check the tub, the water had flowed over the sides, all over the bathroom, and was headed into the hall. Clever girl, my ass.
So there I was late last night, husband out as suggested, trying to mop up the floor with the last two clean towels, on crutches. Pitiful. I did take my bath anyway. As long as it was already a hazard, I may as well get clean.
So there I was late last night, husband out as suggested, trying to mop up the floor with the last two clean towels, on crutches. Pitiful. I did take my bath anyway. As long as it was already a hazard, I may as well get clean.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
Logan is on the go!
Logan is now crawling! Well, sorta. Sometimes he does make crawling motions, but must of the time his locomotion style is wild. He will start out on hands and knees then straighten his arms. I thing he is "telescoping" because he raises his head looking out over the room. If he spots me, he smiles and giggles, they coyly looks down. Once he has spotted his target, he straightens his legs so he is on straight arms and legs looking around. Next, his head just drops, and then his chest and his feet push him forward. After gaining a few inches that head swings back up again to check his progress. Sometimes he does all this rapidly and it is wild to see. On the flooring he gets frustrated because he can't always get traction, and he really doesn't like shorts because his little knees get irritated. He will play independently for extended periods now, and is just growing up so fast!
All tore up
The fracture is very minor and not the cause of my pain, swelling and bruising. I have a level 3 sprain meaning I completely, or near completely tore the ligament. The doc casted it to my knee and said to keep it elevated above my heart for a week. I love the blue color of the cast, which is a good thing since I am stuck with it for now. I haven't yet spoken to my boss and don't look forward to that conversation. The pain is bearable (especially after two babies!) which is lucky since I can only take Tylenol while nursing. Having my entire body hurt is what is driving me crazy.
Fillip is struggling to take care of all of us, and apparantly I'm not grateful. So, I am continuing to ask him for very little and saying Thank You louder than I was before (since he "hadn't heard me say it once!") and somehow we will get through this. I am fully aware of my frustration and crankiness, but really don't think I am asking for much from Fillip. Guess I was wrong. He is juggling a lot right now and I understand that. He wants to take care of us all, but we all know how difficult it is to do everything. Captain Hero shot down my suggestion of a cleaning lady, choosing to take it as a criticism of what he isn't doing. I couldn't seem to convey that I was sympathetic to all he needed to do and thought that would be helpful; that it is unfair to expect him to do everything when we weren't able to keep up the house together. No dice.
Not surprisingly, Hayden is started to act out and was very surprised yesterday when I hopped off the couch to enforce my order to go to his room. It was not easy or comfortable to do, but since I can't easily get up, he needs to listen to what I tell him. Generally though, he is so sweet. He kisses my foot to make it better, is happy to help when I want him to bring me things, and is just so cute in general. If my crutches or slipper are across the room, he will bring them over, insisting I should have them right next to me.
I'm trying to keep this in perspective, that people go through so much worse, for much longer times, with less or no resources, but it still sucks.
Fillip is struggling to take care of all of us, and apparantly I'm not grateful. So, I am continuing to ask him for very little and saying Thank You louder than I was before (since he "hadn't heard me say it once!") and somehow we will get through this. I am fully aware of my frustration and crankiness, but really don't think I am asking for much from Fillip. Guess I was wrong. He is juggling a lot right now and I understand that. He wants to take care of us all, but we all know how difficult it is to do everything. Captain Hero shot down my suggestion of a cleaning lady, choosing to take it as a criticism of what he isn't doing. I couldn't seem to convey that I was sympathetic to all he needed to do and thought that would be helpful; that it is unfair to expect him to do everything when we weren't able to keep up the house together. No dice.
Not surprisingly, Hayden is started to act out and was very surprised yesterday when I hopped off the couch to enforce my order to go to his room. It was not easy or comfortable to do, but since I can't easily get up, he needs to listen to what I tell him. Generally though, he is so sweet. He kisses my foot to make it better, is happy to help when I want him to bring me things, and is just so cute in general. If my crutches or slipper are across the room, he will bring them over, insisting I should have them right next to me.
I'm trying to keep this in perspective, that people go through so much worse, for much longer times, with less or no resources, but it still sucks.
Monday, May 01, 2006
My Left Foot...
is fine. My right one, however, is broken.
I was holding Logan and going out our side door and somehow missed a step. I went down HARD and felt like Logan flew onto the concrete. (He is fine, which I will get to, but just want to avoid any extra worry here!) I was screaming in pain and for Fillip. When he came out I just kept screaming for him to get the baby. Once Fillip got me up and in the house (I fell in the sprinkling of cat litter around the box, just to add insult to injury! f-ing cats!) I nursed Logan, but he kept falling asleep. We rushed off the ER, stopping numerous times to wake up Logan. Hayden would call from the backseat "baby eyes closed" and we would pull over, Fillip would scoop L out of his carseat and make sure he was awake (and therefore annoyed and screaming) before going further.
Once we arrived at the ER, Fillip dashed in with Logan while I waited in the car. It seemed like forever before they stopped hassling Fillip with paperwork and would actually look at Logan. After the initial eval, they sent him on the the ER Express (express, my ass) where we waited for 2 hrs to be seen. He got a clean bill of health and we gave a great sigh of relief. To Logan's relief, he was finally able to go to sleep and Fillip took him to my MIL to meet up w/ Hayden while I waited for xrays. My MIL had met us at the ER to take Hayden. Since Fillip rushed in w/ Logan leaving me in the car, my MIL eventually went in to have medical staff retrieve my sorry self in a wheelchair. MIL then moved the car and made sure I was checked in before taking Hayden.
Hayden was sooo good through all this as he was really freaked out. Before we left he refused anything to eat (very unlike him) and throughout the day would start bawling at the slightest hint of stress. It didn't help that this was all precipitated by a blowout fight, for which I can't express my regret enough (for the kids, not Fillip who was being extremely unreasonable and I was reacting poorly). The only good part of that was Hayden was in the car when I actually fell, so was spared the sight and sound of me on the ground howling.
I see an orthopedist tomorrow to get more info. Today I am home alone and so frustrated by the whole thing. We were worn out emotionally by fear for Logan and I am worn out physically. I'm supposed to be flat on my back to elevate my foot above my heart. (Something I am achieving occasionally) I seemed to have also wrenched my back and my chest and shoulders are sore from the crutches. I have no upper body strength and am struggling to do anything. Just getting a drink of water is tough because I can't use the crutches and carry the glass. My boss isn't happy with me. Dh is stressed out. ughh!! Oh yeah, and our vacation, which we booked on Sat is non-refundable. First vacation in years and I don't know if I will be on crutches!
Things could always be worse, as I keep telling myself. This will pass, but until it does what a pain! I have made one decision..we are getting cleaning lady! We weren't keeping up as it is, and now Fillip simply cannot do everything. So there!
I was holding Logan and going out our side door and somehow missed a step. I went down HARD and felt like Logan flew onto the concrete. (He is fine, which I will get to, but just want to avoid any extra worry here!) I was screaming in pain and for Fillip. When he came out I just kept screaming for him to get the baby. Once Fillip got me up and in the house (I fell in the sprinkling of cat litter around the box, just to add insult to injury! f-ing cats!) I nursed Logan, but he kept falling asleep. We rushed off the ER, stopping numerous times to wake up Logan. Hayden would call from the backseat "baby eyes closed" and we would pull over, Fillip would scoop L out of his carseat and make sure he was awake (and therefore annoyed and screaming) before going further.
Once we arrived at the ER, Fillip dashed in with Logan while I waited in the car. It seemed like forever before they stopped hassling Fillip with paperwork and would actually look at Logan. After the initial eval, they sent him on the the ER Express (express, my ass) where we waited for 2 hrs to be seen. He got a clean bill of health and we gave a great sigh of relief. To Logan's relief, he was finally able to go to sleep and Fillip took him to my MIL to meet up w/ Hayden while I waited for xrays. My MIL had met us at the ER to take Hayden. Since Fillip rushed in w/ Logan leaving me in the car, my MIL eventually went in to have medical staff retrieve my sorry self in a wheelchair. MIL then moved the car and made sure I was checked in before taking Hayden.
Hayden was sooo good through all this as he was really freaked out. Before we left he refused anything to eat (very unlike him) and throughout the day would start bawling at the slightest hint of stress. It didn't help that this was all precipitated by a blowout fight, for which I can't express my regret enough (for the kids, not Fillip who was being extremely unreasonable and I was reacting poorly). The only good part of that was Hayden was in the car when I actually fell, so was spared the sight and sound of me on the ground howling.
I see an orthopedist tomorrow to get more info. Today I am home alone and so frustrated by the whole thing. We were worn out emotionally by fear for Logan and I am worn out physically. I'm supposed to be flat on my back to elevate my foot above my heart. (Something I am achieving occasionally) I seemed to have also wrenched my back and my chest and shoulders are sore from the crutches. I have no upper body strength and am struggling to do anything. Just getting a drink of water is tough because I can't use the crutches and carry the glass. My boss isn't happy with me. Dh is stressed out. ughh!! Oh yeah, and our vacation, which we booked on Sat is non-refundable. First vacation in years and I don't know if I will be on crutches!
Things could always be worse, as I keep telling myself. This will pass, but until it does what a pain! I have made one decision..we are getting cleaning lady! We weren't keeping up as it is, and now Fillip simply cannot do everything. So there!
Friday, April 28, 2006
The first number two!
Hayden pooped on the potty last night!
oh...for anyone reading who doesn't have kids and therefore a vested interest in the elimination habits of another human being, you may want to skip this one.
Two nights ago he wanted to sit on his potty sans diaper for the first time, at least the first time with me. Then he took the little seat to "mommy's potty" (at least something is mine around here) and sat there for the longest time. Now, when you are two years old, there is only so much to occupy you when you are sitting bare bottomed with your feet swinging in the air. You can talk to Mommy, comment on your cranky brother rolling around on the bathroom floor, keep threatening to unroll all the toilet paper, and play with your penis. So, that is what he did. He really wanted some toilet paper (which he calls paper towels) so I said if he went pee pee in the potty, he could use some. A few minutes later he allegedly did. Now, I can't confirm either way and he seems too honest for his own good (ie: to the sound of Logan screaming "Mommy, I pushed brother!"), so I told him Good Job! and gave him some paper. He thrives on praise and then wanted to stay up there to do it again. Since it was bedtime, he was doing an excellent job of stalling, something he has made into an art form lately, and I had to eventually drag him off and force his jammies onto him. As much as I want to encourage the potty, there is a point where we need to move on to something else. How do I find a balance without discouraging him?
Last night he said he wanted to sit on the potty again and by the time I got into the bathroom he had put his seat on the toilet and removed his diaper. Well, lo and behold, I think he was as surprised as I was when he pooped. Had I had the setup to pull a string to set off confetti and a fanfare in our bathroom, I would have! Of course, then he wanted to stay up there to do it again, and was not happy to get down and go put on jammies. We called Fillip and told him the good news, who dutifully praised Hayden as if he had won the Nobel Prize.
So, it looks like we are definitely moving onto potty training. We had no intention of even starting yet, feeling like Hayden wasn't near ready, but like everything else he is leading us. We still don't feel the need to worry about it too much, but he is welcome to go on the potty any time he wants. He sees the kids at school and I suspect that is what prompted this. My little guy is growing up so fast!
oh...for anyone reading who doesn't have kids and therefore a vested interest in the elimination habits of another human being, you may want to skip this one.
Two nights ago he wanted to sit on his potty sans diaper for the first time, at least the first time with me. Then he took the little seat to "mommy's potty" (at least something is mine around here) and sat there for the longest time. Now, when you are two years old, there is only so much to occupy you when you are sitting bare bottomed with your feet swinging in the air. You can talk to Mommy, comment on your cranky brother rolling around on the bathroom floor, keep threatening to unroll all the toilet paper, and play with your penis. So, that is what he did. He really wanted some toilet paper (which he calls paper towels) so I said if he went pee pee in the potty, he could use some. A few minutes later he allegedly did. Now, I can't confirm either way and he seems too honest for his own good (ie: to the sound of Logan screaming "Mommy, I pushed brother!"), so I told him Good Job! and gave him some paper. He thrives on praise and then wanted to stay up there to do it again. Since it was bedtime, he was doing an excellent job of stalling, something he has made into an art form lately, and I had to eventually drag him off and force his jammies onto him. As much as I want to encourage the potty, there is a point where we need to move on to something else. How do I find a balance without discouraging him?
Last night he said he wanted to sit on the potty again and by the time I got into the bathroom he had put his seat on the toilet and removed his diaper. Well, lo and behold, I think he was as surprised as I was when he pooped. Had I had the setup to pull a string to set off confetti and a fanfare in our bathroom, I would have! Of course, then he wanted to stay up there to do it again, and was not happy to get down and go put on jammies. We called Fillip and told him the good news, who dutifully praised Hayden as if he had won the Nobel Prize.
So, it looks like we are definitely moving onto potty training. We had no intention of even starting yet, feeling like Hayden wasn't near ready, but like everything else he is leading us. We still don't feel the need to worry about it too much, but he is welcome to go on the potty any time he wants. He sees the kids at school and I suspect that is what prompted this. My little guy is growing up so fast!
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Professional Administrative Assistants' Day
To all you working stiffs out there- Happy Day!! I hope your boss(es) did something great for you!
They can be taught!
Last year, my main (#1) boss called to apologize at the end of the day for forgetting all about it. He said he would make it up to me, he appreciated all my hard work, and would do something really nice. He then promptly forgot all about it. Had he just forgotten to begin with, I wouldn't have cared a bit. However, making a promise, then forgetting is never acceptable to me.
This year two of my other bosses (#4 & #5) approached me and invited me out to lunch. As nice as that is, I was so nervous. What could we possibly have to say to each other? It turned out quite nice and more relaxed than I expected. I truly tried to have topics of conversation other than my kids, but they just kept asking me about those munchkins. As we were leaving, my main boss apologized for not taking me to lunch. He was rushing out early to take care of details before his wife has a baby tomorrow. Ok Mr., you're excused- this time! Well, when I returned he was gone, but there was a nice card with an even nicer note and a check! That's more like it! The note really means the most since he actually put some thought into it. A little appreciation goes a loooooong way.
A fourth boss (#3 actually) has ignored the day completely. See the Memo in another post to get feel for this guy. He did call to speak with Boss #1, asking if he would be out tomorrow. Me- "No, his wife is having the baby tomorrow." Boss #3- "Yeah, I know. I was just wondering." Really? Do you really think he will be here while his wife gives birth? What a bozo! Bosses #2 and #6 haven't said anything, but they did just tranfer from NY last week, so hopefully they took very good care of their gal in that office.
All in all I feel good about the day. Having had no expectations whatsoever, it was a very nice day!
They can be taught!
Last year, my main (#1) boss called to apologize at the end of the day for forgetting all about it. He said he would make it up to me, he appreciated all my hard work, and would do something really nice. He then promptly forgot all about it. Had he just forgotten to begin with, I wouldn't have cared a bit. However, making a promise, then forgetting is never acceptable to me.
This year two of my other bosses (#4 & #5) approached me and invited me out to lunch. As nice as that is, I was so nervous. What could we possibly have to say to each other? It turned out quite nice and more relaxed than I expected. I truly tried to have topics of conversation other than my kids, but they just kept asking me about those munchkins. As we were leaving, my main boss apologized for not taking me to lunch. He was rushing out early to take care of details before his wife has a baby tomorrow. Ok Mr., you're excused- this time! Well, when I returned he was gone, but there was a nice card with an even nicer note and a check! That's more like it! The note really means the most since he actually put some thought into it. A little appreciation goes a loooooong way.
A fourth boss (#3 actually) has ignored the day completely. See the Memo in another post to get feel for this guy. He did call to speak with Boss #1, asking if he would be out tomorrow. Me- "No, his wife is having the baby tomorrow." Boss #3- "Yeah, I know. I was just wondering." Really? Do you really think he will be here while his wife gives birth? What a bozo! Bosses #2 and #6 haven't said anything, but they did just tranfer from NY last week, so hopefully they took very good care of their gal in that office.
All in all I feel good about the day. Having had no expectations whatsoever, it was a very nice day!
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
Wheezy McGee hits the road
Well, it certainly looks like Logan got my genes. Although he hasn't officially been diagnosed with asthma, it is pretty clear. He does fine as long as we continue the nebulizer treatments, but is wheezing within a couple days of stopping the medication. The pediatrician had two recommendations for us. The first one is to get Logan away from the cats for a week. He suggested going to my inlaws for a week or taking a vacation. Hmmm... I wonder what we'd rather do.... So, we are planning a vacation! The second recommendation is to see an allergist. We are happy to do that, as we feel like we aren't getting to the root of the problem, just treating symptoms, rather than trying find out why he is having trouble.
So, vacation...
We are talking about renting a motor home and hitting the road! I'm really excited as we haven't had a vacation in about 3 years. Well, we did go to Chicago for a family reunion for a few days, but it was a whirlwind, with little time to see the sights. A few years ago we went to Hawaii for a family wedding, but it was a whirlwind with little time to see the sights. See a theme here? This way, we can see the sights at our leisure with no other family obligations, cook some meals as we want, etc... I think it will be really fun! It was Fillip's idea, and a great one.
So, vacation...
We are talking about renting a motor home and hitting the road! I'm really excited as we haven't had a vacation in about 3 years. Well, we did go to Chicago for a family reunion for a few days, but it was a whirlwind, with little time to see the sights. A few years ago we went to Hawaii for a family wedding, but it was a whirlwind with little time to see the sights. See a theme here? This way, we can see the sights at our leisure with no other family obligations, cook some meals as we want, etc... I think it will be really fun! It was Fillip's idea, and a great one.
Passover cont'd
Saturday we made the long journey for another seder at my mom's house. Despite a rough beginning, this was the most enjoyable of the bunch.
The first two hours of our ride were filled with alternate yelling by Fillip and Hayden. We tried to time the trip so that both boys would nap for most of the ride, but Hayden hadn't agreed to that plan. After two hours, we decided he was up for the duration and we may as well get lunch. Well, an entire hamburger patty and some french fried induced a very effective food coma in our little guy, who fell sound asleep still clutching his french fries. Phew! At one point, he started to stir, ate the french fries in his hand, licked his fingers, then passed back out, having never even opened his eyes. Fillip almost crashed the car from laughing so hard!
At my mom's Hayden was free to run once again, at least for a few minutes. Papa Arnie was greeted with "ride Papa's cart!" So, Papa Arnie immediately took Hayden for a ride in the golf cart. Nothing like a dose of grandparents to spoil a kid! I guess that's their privelege, and a fun part about being a kid. Both boys did really great. Hayden wowed the relatives with his piety. As soon as the candle lighting begins, he covers his eyes "Shabbat style" and says the blessing over the wine. He then gives a very solemn Amen, and looks around like we should all do the same. My little mensch. Very funny. My mom was kvelling. The seder is more like highlights of a seder and lasted about 30 mins. When it comes to drinking your four glasses of wine, you've got to really keep up! Fillip was having a good time in that arena and it was a fun time overall. Desserts were delicious (a nice change from the awful Passover desserts of my childhood) and I was very happy to be there. The drive home was long and very late, but worth it, I think.
We have a few more days of Passover, but things are pretty routine now except for the dietary restrictions. It is only 8 days, but I want a bagel so bad!!! The holiday is actually forcing me to eat a bit healthier since I don't like matzah. Instead of a bagel and cream cheese for breakfast, I am having a yogurt and fruit. For lunch I get a salad (well, except yesterday when my salad was accompanied by a loaded baked potato.) Maybe I'll lose those last few pounds after all.
The first two hours of our ride were filled with alternate yelling by Fillip and Hayden. We tried to time the trip so that both boys would nap for most of the ride, but Hayden hadn't agreed to that plan. After two hours, we decided he was up for the duration and we may as well get lunch. Well, an entire hamburger patty and some french fried induced a very effective food coma in our little guy, who fell sound asleep still clutching his french fries. Phew! At one point, he started to stir, ate the french fries in his hand, licked his fingers, then passed back out, having never even opened his eyes. Fillip almost crashed the car from laughing so hard!
At my mom's Hayden was free to run once again, at least for a few minutes. Papa Arnie was greeted with "ride Papa's cart!" So, Papa Arnie immediately took Hayden for a ride in the golf cart. Nothing like a dose of grandparents to spoil a kid! I guess that's their privelege, and a fun part about being a kid. Both boys did really great. Hayden wowed the relatives with his piety. As soon as the candle lighting begins, he covers his eyes "Shabbat style" and says the blessing over the wine. He then gives a very solemn Amen, and looks around like we should all do the same. My little mensch. Very funny. My mom was kvelling. The seder is more like highlights of a seder and lasted about 30 mins. When it comes to drinking your four glasses of wine, you've got to really keep up! Fillip was having a good time in that arena and it was a fun time overall. Desserts were delicious (a nice change from the awful Passover desserts of my childhood) and I was very happy to be there. The drive home was long and very late, but worth it, I think.
We have a few more days of Passover, but things are pretty routine now except for the dietary restrictions. It is only 8 days, but I want a bagel so bad!!! The holiday is actually forcing me to eat a bit healthier since I don't like matzah. Instead of a bagel and cream cheese for breakfast, I am having a yogurt and fruit. For lunch I get a salad (well, except yesterday when my salad was accompanied by a loaded baked potato.) Maybe I'll lose those last few pounds after all.
Friday, April 14, 2006
Passover recap
Last night was the second night of Passover. I'm beat.
The first night:
I think there were about 30 pp at the seder. Fillip's Aunt made a whole thing before hand about "squeezing in" the kids. We even brought our own chair for Logan. You know, "the family is growing so rapidly, and I really like to include my friends too." We were seated off to the side, where we couldn't see or hear a thing. Seems to me the reason you do this is to keep the tradition going by teaching the kids. When they can't see or hear what is going on, they are just bored sitting there for 2 hours for no good reason. When you are asked to arrived promptly at 5:30pm, you don't expect dinner to be served after nine. The kids were going crazy from being hungry and tired. Fillip's Aunt seemed put out and surprised when I finally went into the kitchen to make Hayden a plate. I found the brisket and gave him a tiny bit and she said "well, isn't that enough for him? He ate his hard boiled egg, right?" WTF?! No, that's not enough. We generally give our kid a full meal, which he eats when he isn't so tired he could drop. Not only do we give him food, we also give him a plate, a fork and a napkin- which I had to practically beg her for, item by item. Does she think we just put him and Logan on the floor and throw food at them like dogs?
Can you tell I'm kinda pissed? I am really ticked about the whole thing. Fillip's bro joked that we should have our own seder next year. That sounds great.
Last night was better, but still such a late evening. Also, Hayden was already overtired from the night before, so chances of avoiding a meltdown (our goal for most outings) was next to nothing.
The second night:
This Aunt was much more mindful of having kids. Instead of gourmet eggplant or trout spreads, she had fruit gel candies, which we got in trouble for trying to curtail the kids' consumption of. She provided Passover placemats with markers to give the little ones something to do. She approached me and asked if Hayden was hungry, bringing him a matzoh ball. She truly went beyond what anyone could expect of a very busy hostess to make us feel welcome and accomodate little kids. The fact that it was still late is just the nature of things, and we ate much earlier than the previous evening.
Overall, I think Hayden had a good time, aside from the seder. He loves playing with his cousins and was running around chasing after all of them. After dinner, the tradition is for the kids to find the afikomin (a hidden piece of matzah, symbolizing dessert. We get actual dessert after all is said and done.) Since obviously Hayden had no clue what was going on, I got to help! The excitement of the kids was contagious and he eagerly ran to go look for whatever we said was hidden. I instructed him to look under this and that, and all of a sudden I saw that white paper towel peeking out from under magazines. "Hayden, that's what you are looking for. Pull it out!" He hesitantly grabbed it (being far more used to instructions not to touch anything rather than pillaging an unfamiliar living room) and held it up. It was like Charlie finding the Golden Ticket. Hayden found it! Hayden found it! Go give it to Uncle Marvin! Off we went to hand in the prize. Uncle Marvin handed over $20! Wowzers! I used to get $2 back in the day. Hayden doesn't know $2 from $20, but he does like having money. In Fillip's family, the winner gives part of the winnings to each kids who searched (guess when you only get two bucks, not much to go around, but with twenty, its a different story.) So Hayden was given one dollar bills, and handed them to each kid. It was very cute. I especially liked when my 5 year old nephew patted him on the back saying "Good job Hayden. That was really good." What a good sport!
Although that was toward the end of the evening, it definitely lightened things up, as we were no longer having to sit still and quiet (well, there was an attempt to achieve this, but it didn't fly too well.) We were told what angels our children are, even by those sitting next to us. By the time we got home we were absolutely exhausted.
btw- Lest anyone think I have forgotten about Logan, he was great. He charmed the relatives endlessly with his latest schtick. He ate his dinner and played until the end of the seder. At that point he started to get cranky, so I changed him into jammies, gave him a good washdown with the wipes (did Fillip bathe him in Gerber chicken and rice? His face, hands and chest were completely encrusted), and tucked him in to his carrier to go to sleep. He was so tired and, I think, relieved to go to sleep. I stayed with him a few mins, as he kept checking to make sure I was there. I find that sweet and am happy to indulge him, especially when the house is unfamiliar. (While I was peacefully getting Logan undressed and to sleep, Fillip and Hayden were battling in the hallway over Hayden crumbling his matzah all over the floor, for the third time!)
My MIL has the joy of taking care of my most likely cranky boys today. Lucky her! Lucky us in that we aren't having Shabbat dinner tonight. We need a night off from large, late family gatherings. Our last seder is tomorrow evening at my mom's house. The seder itself will be much shorter, but the drive is almost 3 hours each way. Hopefully, the boys will sleep most of the way. Hopefully, I will sleep sometime in the next decade.
The first night:
I think there were about 30 pp at the seder. Fillip's Aunt made a whole thing before hand about "squeezing in" the kids. We even brought our own chair for Logan. You know, "the family is growing so rapidly, and I really like to include my friends too." We were seated off to the side, where we couldn't see or hear a thing. Seems to me the reason you do this is to keep the tradition going by teaching the kids. When they can't see or hear what is going on, they are just bored sitting there for 2 hours for no good reason. When you are asked to arrived promptly at 5:30pm, you don't expect dinner to be served after nine. The kids were going crazy from being hungry and tired. Fillip's Aunt seemed put out and surprised when I finally went into the kitchen to make Hayden a plate. I found the brisket and gave him a tiny bit and she said "well, isn't that enough for him? He ate his hard boiled egg, right?" WTF?! No, that's not enough. We generally give our kid a full meal, which he eats when he isn't so tired he could drop. Not only do we give him food, we also give him a plate, a fork and a napkin- which I had to practically beg her for, item by item. Does she think we just put him and Logan on the floor and throw food at them like dogs?
Can you tell I'm kinda pissed? I am really ticked about the whole thing. Fillip's bro joked that we should have our own seder next year. That sounds great.
Last night was better, but still such a late evening. Also, Hayden was already overtired from the night before, so chances of avoiding a meltdown (our goal for most outings) was next to nothing.
The second night:
This Aunt was much more mindful of having kids. Instead of gourmet eggplant or trout spreads, she had fruit gel candies, which we got in trouble for trying to curtail the kids' consumption of. She provided Passover placemats with markers to give the little ones something to do. She approached me and asked if Hayden was hungry, bringing him a matzoh ball. She truly went beyond what anyone could expect of a very busy hostess to make us feel welcome and accomodate little kids. The fact that it was still late is just the nature of things, and we ate much earlier than the previous evening.
Overall, I think Hayden had a good time, aside from the seder. He loves playing with his cousins and was running around chasing after all of them. After dinner, the tradition is for the kids to find the afikomin (a hidden piece of matzah, symbolizing dessert. We get actual dessert after all is said and done.) Since obviously Hayden had no clue what was going on, I got to help! The excitement of the kids was contagious and he eagerly ran to go look for whatever we said was hidden. I instructed him to look under this and that, and all of a sudden I saw that white paper towel peeking out from under magazines. "Hayden, that's what you are looking for. Pull it out!" He hesitantly grabbed it (being far more used to instructions not to touch anything rather than pillaging an unfamiliar living room) and held it up. It was like Charlie finding the Golden Ticket. Hayden found it! Hayden found it! Go give it to Uncle Marvin! Off we went to hand in the prize. Uncle Marvin handed over $20! Wowzers! I used to get $2 back in the day. Hayden doesn't know $2 from $20, but he does like having money. In Fillip's family, the winner gives part of the winnings to each kids who searched (guess when you only get two bucks, not much to go around, but with twenty, its a different story.) So Hayden was given one dollar bills, and handed them to each kid. It was very cute. I especially liked when my 5 year old nephew patted him on the back saying "Good job Hayden. That was really good." What a good sport!
Although that was toward the end of the evening, it definitely lightened things up, as we were no longer having to sit still and quiet (well, there was an attempt to achieve this, but it didn't fly too well.) We were told what angels our children are, even by those sitting next to us. By the time we got home we were absolutely exhausted.
btw- Lest anyone think I have forgotten about Logan, he was great. He charmed the relatives endlessly with his latest schtick. He ate his dinner and played until the end of the seder. At that point he started to get cranky, so I changed him into jammies, gave him a good washdown with the wipes (did Fillip bathe him in Gerber chicken and rice? His face, hands and chest were completely encrusted), and tucked him in to his carrier to go to sleep. He was so tired and, I think, relieved to go to sleep. I stayed with him a few mins, as he kept checking to make sure I was there. I find that sweet and am happy to indulge him, especially when the house is unfamiliar. (While I was peacefully getting Logan undressed and to sleep, Fillip and Hayden were battling in the hallway over Hayden crumbling his matzah all over the floor, for the third time!)
My MIL has the joy of taking care of my most likely cranky boys today. Lucky her! Lucky us in that we aren't having Shabbat dinner tonight. We need a night off from large, late family gatherings. Our last seder is tomorrow evening at my mom's house. The seder itself will be much shorter, but the drive is almost 3 hours each way. Hopefully, the boys will sleep most of the way. Hopefully, I will sleep sometime in the next decade.
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
I'm pitiful
After two years, you would think I could handle the separation anxiety of dropping the kids off at daycare. I was soooo cocky about my delight in staying home sick. Oh yeah, I'm gonna have a grand ol' time! Yeah, well, have I mentioned my feeling that mommies don't get sick time? Dh happened to oversleep this morning, and with his infected elbow can't easily lift the kids so he couldn't take them in the shower (as agreed, or I would have bathed them last night) and now didn't have time to take them to school. So, of course, I get to. Hello! I'm home sick here!
Anyway, off we go to school. I drop Hayden in his classroom and say I will be back in a few mins to say goodbye. Logan's classroom is hopping with Old School rap, dancing babies and teachers, and all kinds of fun. (Gee, I wish I could remember what song it was, because it just struck me as so funny to see those babies bopping to that.) Apparantly Logan can stand by himself holding onto something, which I didn't even know! (Last night he actually stood for a few seconds completely on his own. Eek!) I got all his stuff put away then went to say bye to him and of course he decided to pull all the Mommy heartstrings by getting sad each time I tried to walk away. I wanted to just scoop him up and take him back home with me! I finally pulled myself away (I'm sure he just went back to happily playing once he saw it didn't work, little stinker) and went to say bye to Hayden who said "I wan go home." What? Why? Of course, as soon as he realized Miss Carmen would give him more cheese, he was happy to stay, but oh I wanted to just take them both.
All the way home I was so sad and thinking why I am I doing this? I don't need to be away from them today. I'm home and they can be with me. But, I am home because I need to rest and finally get better. If I would just stop and catch my breath once in awhile, I may not be feeling so miserable now. So, I am sad, but alone. Chances are I will go pick them early. They are just too cute to leave all day! Why should their teachers have all the fun!
btw- You'd better believe we will be playing some of that rap at home! Sure beats kids' music ALL the time.
Anyway, off we go to school. I drop Hayden in his classroom and say I will be back in a few mins to say goodbye. Logan's classroom is hopping with Old School rap, dancing babies and teachers, and all kinds of fun. (Gee, I wish I could remember what song it was, because it just struck me as so funny to see those babies bopping to that.) Apparantly Logan can stand by himself holding onto something, which I didn't even know! (Last night he actually stood for a few seconds completely on his own. Eek!) I got all his stuff put away then went to say bye to him and of course he decided to pull all the Mommy heartstrings by getting sad each time I tried to walk away. I wanted to just scoop him up and take him back home with me! I finally pulled myself away (I'm sure he just went back to happily playing once he saw it didn't work, little stinker) and went to say bye to Hayden who said "I wan go home." What? Why? Of course, as soon as he realized Miss Carmen would give him more cheese, he was happy to stay, but oh I wanted to just take them both.
All the way home I was so sad and thinking why I am I doing this? I don't need to be away from them today. I'm home and they can be with me. But, I am home because I need to rest and finally get better. If I would just stop and catch my breath once in awhile, I may not be feeling so miserable now. So, I am sad, but alone. Chances are I will go pick them early. They are just too cute to leave all day! Why should their teachers have all the fun!
btw- You'd better believe we will be playing some of that rap at home! Sure beats kids' music ALL the time.
Monday, April 10, 2006
Our latest
**actually written a couple days ago, but just got around to posting**
Hayden got glowing reports from school last week and was a total pill with my MIL today. He even came home with a bruised eye. Not quite sure what happened there, but he seems fine. He is very loud these days and we are constantly telling him to use a softer voice. He is also very bossy, especially to the cats - "Get out under table, kitty!!" "Get out Hayden's room, kitty!!" "No pitting (spitting) Yogan!!" It's hard to distinguish between Logan's cute raspberries and Hayden's obnoxious spitting. ::) Fortunately, despite all that he is so cute these days playing with trains and cars, inviting us to join in. I never knew how much I would enjoy this age. He makes up songs and requests books, insists on hugs AND kisses from everyone.
Logan is a cutie and I adore this age. He is now clapping, especially with the encouragement of Hayden. On his belly he pushes up, kinda gets to knees, but does a good job pushing himself backward, although he doesn't really motor around much yet. He is babbling and loves all different toys. Hayden has a Little People Racetrack that Logan thinks is a game of catch. Each time the car comes around Logan tries to grab it, infuriating Hayden. "No baby!!!" Hayden then resets it, gases it up, and they start again. It's very funny. Until this latest ear infection, I would say Logan was an excellent eater. Now, it is getting better again, but not fabulous. He loves cereal, likes fruits and veggies and HATES meat. Who's kid is this?! Once he can eat soft solids, we will make him some since I agree the jar stuff is nasty.
Hayden is the only well one in our house. Fillip has some weird infection in his elbow. It is swollen to the size of a baseball and the dermatologist he saw today said to see an orthopedist asap, which he is doing in the morning. Logan is recovering from he ear infection, and doesn't seem to be wheezing so we have cut down the meds, and I have strep throat. I came to a bit of a sad realization a little while ago. As truly miserable as I am, I'm a bit happy to be sick. I don't get "sick days" at home since I almost ALWAYS get up with the kids. Domestic obligations can be overwhelming to say the least. So, these last couple days I have been going back to bed and taking naps. Normally I regret any time away from the kids that isn't work or otherwise absolutely necessary. I take one or both everywhere, and rarely take time to relax on my own. Once a month I go to book club for a couple hours, but that is it. This is purely by choice, as I am often encouraged by dh to do otherwise, and lately to go on a trip, which is a whole other topic. Lately I had been so rundown, a bit resentful, and desperately needing some time. So, it isn't surprising a) that I have been so sick these last couple weeks with pink eye twice, an ongoing cold, and now strep and b) I am so happy to be out of work tomorrow with time to myself. I feel a bit guilty, not for giving up time I could have with the kids, but for the joy I am taking in that time.
Hayden got glowing reports from school last week and was a total pill with my MIL today. He even came home with a bruised eye. Not quite sure what happened there, but he seems fine. He is very loud these days and we are constantly telling him to use a softer voice. He is also very bossy, especially to the cats - "Get out under table, kitty!!" "Get out Hayden's room, kitty!!" "No pitting (spitting) Yogan!!" It's hard to distinguish between Logan's cute raspberries and Hayden's obnoxious spitting. ::) Fortunately, despite all that he is so cute these days playing with trains and cars, inviting us to join in. I never knew how much I would enjoy this age. He makes up songs and requests books, insists on hugs AND kisses from everyone.
Logan is a cutie and I adore this age. He is now clapping, especially with the encouragement of Hayden. On his belly he pushes up, kinda gets to knees, but does a good job pushing himself backward, although he doesn't really motor around much yet. He is babbling and loves all different toys. Hayden has a Little People Racetrack that Logan thinks is a game of catch. Each time the car comes around Logan tries to grab it, infuriating Hayden. "No baby!!!" Hayden then resets it, gases it up, and they start again. It's very funny. Until this latest ear infection, I would say Logan was an excellent eater. Now, it is getting better again, but not fabulous. He loves cereal, likes fruits and veggies and HATES meat. Who's kid is this?! Once he can eat soft solids, we will make him some since I agree the jar stuff is nasty.
Hayden is the only well one in our house. Fillip has some weird infection in his elbow. It is swollen to the size of a baseball and the dermatologist he saw today said to see an orthopedist asap, which he is doing in the morning. Logan is recovering from he ear infection, and doesn't seem to be wheezing so we have cut down the meds, and I have strep throat. I came to a bit of a sad realization a little while ago. As truly miserable as I am, I'm a bit happy to be sick. I don't get "sick days" at home since I almost ALWAYS get up with the kids. Domestic obligations can be overwhelming to say the least. So, these last couple days I have been going back to bed and taking naps. Normally I regret any time away from the kids that isn't work or otherwise absolutely necessary. I take one or both everywhere, and rarely take time to relax on my own. Once a month I go to book club for a couple hours, but that is it. This is purely by choice, as I am often encouraged by dh to do otherwise, and lately to go on a trip, which is a whole other topic. Lately I had been so rundown, a bit resentful, and desperately needing some time. So, it isn't surprising a) that I have been so sick these last couple weeks with pink eye twice, an ongoing cold, and now strep and b) I am so happy to be out of work tomorrow with time to myself. I feel a bit guilty, not for giving up time I could have with the kids, but for the joy I am taking in that time.
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Lame.
I just want to cry. My days at work have become ridiculously stressful (see below memo). I'm on the go all the time, had to go to the Unhappiest Place on Earth at lunch (DMV), I've been sick for days, had to throw out all my makeup because I got pinkeye again, and now, the treat I looked forward to all day, my big red delicious looking strawberries-
are moldy.
Lame.
are moldy.
Lame.
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