Yesterday was one of those days. AJU5 and AJU6 took a bath just before 9am. When AJU6 got out, he was ready for a nap (totally normal). I pulled out a dress and undies for AJU5 so we wouldn't wake him when she got dressed (they share a room). Well, the dress I picked wasn't "good enough" for AJU5. So, I either had to deal with her screaming (which would probably wake AJU6) or let her pick out a different dress from their closet. I thought there was a chance we could get in and out without waking AJU6, but it didn't work. Then he refused to go back to sleep. He stayed in bed for an hour total, but he only slept for 15-30 minutes. We had to go to AJU7's check-up, all four of us, and I knew it might be an adventure.
Getting to the doctor's office was easy. There weren't any real fights there. The waiting room time (only a couple of minutes) went easy too. The walk from the waiting room to the back had only one fit - because I was carrying AJU6's sippy cup and not him. But that was an easy fix. The weighing, measuring, and waiting in the exam room went okay. AJU6 didn't like when the door closed, but he was content with a book before too long. Then the doctor came in. First, she complimented us on AJU7's name, which always gets brownie points. Then came the big things I like about her.
AJU6 quickly insisted on being held. So, the doctor helped me put AJU7 on the table and did everything there (normally we just do it with the baby in my lap). I loved that she was so flexible with us. She wrapped AJU7 up afterwards for me so she would stay warm while I nursed her (she was waking up and was hungry but not upset). Then, when I nursed AJU7, AJU6 had a FIT! He wanted to go home. He was crying, pushing on me to stand up, and in general throwing a huge tantrum. The doctor came back in and asked if she could take the two older ones to get their stickers while I finished up with AJU7. It worked perfectly. They had Thomas the Tank Engine stickers, which both kids love. AJU5 picked Percy, and AJU6 picked Thomas. Add that AJU5 let AJU6 hold hers, and they were "happy" through the rest of the time we were there.
For AJU7's next appointment, we are trying afternoon. Hopefully that will avoid the lack of nap tantrum. But, of course AJU6 could change his schedule between now and then too...
Showing posts with label Behavior. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Behavior. Show all posts
Friday, August 26, 2011
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
The Past 5 Days (and 9 Months)
As most of you who read this already know, we welcomed AJU7 into the family last week. At first my husband wanted to keep the pregnancy quiet at work - just because he wanted the surprise factor I think. Then it got to the point where it just felt weird announcing it to the "world" on facebook and here, although I had told MANY people. This is part of the reason there had been so few posts the last 9 months - there wasn't much to talk about not involving being pregnant/I was too tired to post much.
So, now for the birth story. Let me just say in so many ways it was perfect.
We thought the baby would come by the due date, as AJU5 was 4 days early, and AJU6 was 2 days early. But, it wasn't to be. This one came one day late. We had decided to "force" the baby out the day she decided to come on her own, and I guess knowing her eviction date was what she needed.
At 4 am, I woke up in pain. She was on a nerve, and it HURT. It wasn't contractions - just a constant pain until she moved. This happened again at 5am. Most likely she had dropped some in the night, which is probably a good thing. So, at 5am, I took a shower, hoping that would move her to a better position. While in the shower, I thought I might have had a contraction. So, I took a bath. By the end of the bath, I knew I was in labor. So, at 6am, I texted my husband since he was on his way into work (he left shortly after I got in the shower). Well, he didn't get the text since he was already in the office and his computer hadn't synced yet. So, 30 minutes later I called him and "ordered" him home. I also called the doctor at this point because the contractions were real and fairly regular. The kids where watching TV, and my MIL had just gotten up (and was taking a quick shower).
Around 7 my husband got home and he finished packing up snacks and water, and we left. His mum was pushing us out the door although the two of us weren't so impatient. I just wanted to get to the car BETWEEN contractions. I had gotten "stuck" on the stairs mid-contraction, and I didn't want to repeat that for sure - OUCH. We got to the hospital before 7;30, and we figured out how to get into registration after a minute or two. They have "secured" both the labor and delivery unit and the post-partum unit in the last 20 months, so the doors were "locked". You had to go around the corner to get into registration, but luckily we finally saw the sign which said that. After going over all the registration stuff (since I didn't pre-register again), we walked to triage. Since I had already called the doctor, they lead us to the room. I of course had to change and pee in a cup, and then they hooked me up to the monitors and took my vital signs. Then the nurse came in and repeated the vital signs.
Eventually the midwife on duty (for my OB practice) came in an checked me. I was definitely having strong contractions at the point and was being a little vocal. The midwife was really nice and actually complimented me on how I was handling everything. She checked me, and I was 7 cm. She asked about pain meds, and I said if it lasts much longer I would like the epidural (because boy were they starting to hurt). She said they would move me to the real room and get things going as quickly as possible, but there weren't any guarantees there would be time. A few minutes later I was starting to have to say more during the contractions and have my husband rub my back at the worst of each one. And a few minutes after that I felt pressure. I told him to go get the nurse (he asked if I was sure), and just as he got into the hall, the nurse was coming in. They believed me, and rushed me to the L&D room. By the time they wheeled me into the room, they could see the head (but I had missed that conversation). I made it onto the real bed, pushed a couple of times (I had been pushing some along the way because, well, my body said I had to), and she was born. The midwife barely made it into the room before I moved beds, and she placed the little girl on my stomach so I could see what she was (just like the other two we didn't know the gender). AJU7 got to lay on my stomach for 30 minutes or more - they didn't move her until she had nursed already and everything was calm in the room.
From start to finish, labor was at most 3.5 hours (I am not 100% sure on the first contraction's time). I was able to deliver for the second time without drugs. There was no fetal distress or any of that craziness - something I had been praying about. I only had a VERY small tear and didn't need any stitches. The midwife that delivered her was great. She was very complimentary and joked with us afterwards. The rest of the medical staff welcomed us to have 5 more babies there (something that WILL NOT HAPPEN). Oh, and the hospital now does "room service" instead of set meal times, so I got breakfast in the L&D room (cereal and yogurt)!
Now, the only things that would have made it better:
1. My OB there (but I knew it wasn't that likely since she is only at the hospital 12 hours a week normally).
2. In the L&D room a few more minutes so I would have been more aware that they baby was coming out (but I am not sure how much of a good thing that would be).
3. No blood clots after birth. Having them work to get them all out was painful.
So, it was a great labor and delivery, especially compared to the craziness of the other two. We think we are done now, but of course God could have other plans...
My MIL left on Sunday, and my parents arrived about 2 hours later. They left this morning, and now we are working on getting the bigger kids adjusted to the new normal. AJU5 is being difficult and talking back at times, but we think a lack of sleep/over stimulation might be more behind it than the new baby. AJU6 is very clingy to either my husband or I. This is going to be the biggest challenge I think, especially since he can't say what he is feeling like his big sister can. Luckily my husband has a flexible work schedule for the rest of the week...
So, now for the birth story. Let me just say in so many ways it was perfect.
We thought the baby would come by the due date, as AJU5 was 4 days early, and AJU6 was 2 days early. But, it wasn't to be. This one came one day late. We had decided to "force" the baby out the day she decided to come on her own, and I guess knowing her eviction date was what she needed.
At 4 am, I woke up in pain. She was on a nerve, and it HURT. It wasn't contractions - just a constant pain until she moved. This happened again at 5am. Most likely she had dropped some in the night, which is probably a good thing. So, at 5am, I took a shower, hoping that would move her to a better position. While in the shower, I thought I might have had a contraction. So, I took a bath. By the end of the bath, I knew I was in labor. So, at 6am, I texted my husband since he was on his way into work (he left shortly after I got in the shower). Well, he didn't get the text since he was already in the office and his computer hadn't synced yet. So, 30 minutes later I called him and "ordered" him home. I also called the doctor at this point because the contractions were real and fairly regular. The kids where watching TV, and my MIL had just gotten up (and was taking a quick shower).
Around 7 my husband got home and he finished packing up snacks and water, and we left. His mum was pushing us out the door although the two of us weren't so impatient. I just wanted to get to the car BETWEEN contractions. I had gotten "stuck" on the stairs mid-contraction, and I didn't want to repeat that for sure - OUCH. We got to the hospital before 7;30, and we figured out how to get into registration after a minute or two. They have "secured" both the labor and delivery unit and the post-partum unit in the last 20 months, so the doors were "locked". You had to go around the corner to get into registration, but luckily we finally saw the sign which said that. After going over all the registration stuff (since I didn't pre-register again), we walked to triage. Since I had already called the doctor, they lead us to the room. I of course had to change and pee in a cup, and then they hooked me up to the monitors and took my vital signs. Then the nurse came in and repeated the vital signs.
Eventually the midwife on duty (for my OB practice) came in an checked me. I was definitely having strong contractions at the point and was being a little vocal. The midwife was really nice and actually complimented me on how I was handling everything. She checked me, and I was 7 cm. She asked about pain meds, and I said if it lasts much longer I would like the epidural (because boy were they starting to hurt). She said they would move me to the real room and get things going as quickly as possible, but there weren't any guarantees there would be time. A few minutes later I was starting to have to say more during the contractions and have my husband rub my back at the worst of each one. And a few minutes after that I felt pressure. I told him to go get the nurse (he asked if I was sure), and just as he got into the hall, the nurse was coming in. They believed me, and rushed me to the L&D room. By the time they wheeled me into the room, they could see the head (but I had missed that conversation). I made it onto the real bed, pushed a couple of times (I had been pushing some along the way because, well, my body said I had to), and she was born. The midwife barely made it into the room before I moved beds, and she placed the little girl on my stomach so I could see what she was (just like the other two we didn't know the gender). AJU7 got to lay on my stomach for 30 minutes or more - they didn't move her until she had nursed already and everything was calm in the room.
From start to finish, labor was at most 3.5 hours (I am not 100% sure on the first contraction's time). I was able to deliver for the second time without drugs. There was no fetal distress or any of that craziness - something I had been praying about. I only had a VERY small tear and didn't need any stitches. The midwife that delivered her was great. She was very complimentary and joked with us afterwards. The rest of the medical staff welcomed us to have 5 more babies there (something that WILL NOT HAPPEN). Oh, and the hospital now does "room service" instead of set meal times, so I got breakfast in the L&D room (cereal and yogurt)!
Now, the only things that would have made it better:
1. My OB there (but I knew it wasn't that likely since she is only at the hospital 12 hours a week normally).
2. In the L&D room a few more minutes so I would have been more aware that they baby was coming out (but I am not sure how much of a good thing that would be).
3. No blood clots after birth. Having them work to get them all out was painful.
So, it was a great labor and delivery, especially compared to the craziness of the other two. We think we are done now, but of course God could have other plans...
My MIL left on Sunday, and my parents arrived about 2 hours later. They left this morning, and now we are working on getting the bigger kids adjusted to the new normal. AJU5 is being difficult and talking back at times, but we think a lack of sleep/over stimulation might be more behind it than the new baby. AJU6 is very clingy to either my husband or I. This is going to be the biggest challenge I think, especially since he can't say what he is feeling like his big sister can. Luckily my husband has a flexible work schedule for the rest of the week...
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
The Tale of Two Sessions
We started the second session of swim lessons yesterday. And it is like a totally different world with the AJU's. Part of it I expected, part of it I didn't. But, at least I think I know the reason for the unexpected part.
AJU5 is doing great! Yesterday she cried twice - first when I left her (but she didn't stay upset) and then when she was done and I wasn't there yet. She was cold and having difficulty with her towel. Luckily another mom helped her, and I was walking over anyways so she finally saw me. Today there wasn't a tear at all! Well, after we got our swim suits on and to the pool that is. I was there when she got our, and she was happy in class again.
AJU6 isn't thrilled with his class. The first week (it turns out) is more structured than the second week. Week 1 they go over the holds and skills, and they expect the class to stay together in a circle. Of course, my 19.5 mo doesn't want me to hold him for 40 minutes, even if we are moving. He wants some control. Add a cold pool today, and we got out about 5 minutes early. He was shivering, and I had enough of him whining about getting down. I think the structure is making it even harder for him to progress. If he isn't happy, he isn't going to do what I ask, especially since his vocabulary isn't that huge. Things like blowing bubbles and kicking he can do, but normally it isn't on command. Tomorrow we bring toys, so we will see how that goes. I know next week will be like the week we did before (at least partly), so I think we will be okay in the long run.
Hopefully by next Friday AJU5 will be "graduating" from the preschool class and AJU6 will not be wanting to get out of the water like he is this week...
AJU5 is doing great! Yesterday she cried twice - first when I left her (but she didn't stay upset) and then when she was done and I wasn't there yet. She was cold and having difficulty with her towel. Luckily another mom helped her, and I was walking over anyways so she finally saw me. Today there wasn't a tear at all! Well, after we got our swim suits on and to the pool that is. I was there when she got our, and she was happy in class again.
AJU6 isn't thrilled with his class. The first week (it turns out) is more structured than the second week. Week 1 they go over the holds and skills, and they expect the class to stay together in a circle. Of course, my 19.5 mo doesn't want me to hold him for 40 minutes, even if we are moving. He wants some control. Add a cold pool today, and we got out about 5 minutes early. He was shivering, and I had enough of him whining about getting down. I think the structure is making it even harder for him to progress. If he isn't happy, he isn't going to do what I ask, especially since his vocabulary isn't that huge. Things like blowing bubbles and kicking he can do, but normally it isn't on command. Tomorrow we bring toys, so we will see how that goes. I know next week will be like the week we did before (at least partly), so I think we will be okay in the long run.
Hopefully by next Friday AJU5 will be "graduating" from the preschool class and AJU6 will not be wanting to get out of the water like he is this week...
Monday, June 27, 2011
Swim Lessons - Take 1
So, AJU5 is feeling 100% other than not having all of her energy back (i.e. she needs a nap for sure each day and often sleeps a little more at night, both of which I don't mind in the least). The fever went away Friday/Saturday, her nose isn't running any more, and she has been eating like normal (if not a little extra). So, we went to church yesterday and tried to tackle swim lessons today.
I have her signed up for the preschool class and AJU6 and I signed up for the parent/tot class. I thought they would have everyone in the big pool, but it turns out they have the preschoolers in the kiddie pool. The biggest issue with this is that she can't see us and I can't see her. Normally (when the pool is open for the public) they have the doors open so you can see the kiddie pool fromt he big pool. But, they have them closed during lessons for some unknown reason. I finally thought I had gotten her settled in her class (after they took role, went over the safety rules, got a little wet on teh side of the pool and then eventually got in the pool, but before too long one of the lifeguards brought her too me. So, I got to try to hold on to both kids int eh parent/tot class.
AJU6 is big into "Ready, Set, Go" and loved to jump into the pool (that is all he wanted to do actually). But, after one jump AJU5 was done with jumping in, probably because I let her go under some. But, she loved climbing in and out on the ladder, so it wasn't too bad. But, it is hard to work with them on floating and kicking when holding on to both at the same time...
Hopefully tomorrow will be better... I want to get AJU5 to stay with her class. We have another two week session in July, and I really want to be "normal" participants in lessons by then at least. If the rest of this week is spent getting her comfortable with her class, I am okay with that. I just have to corral AJU6, as he wants in the pool too (I had to grab him at least a handful of times as I tried to get our towels out and shoes on so we could go home as he toddled to the edge of the pool). He even tried to climb in a few times with AJU5's class in the little pool. If only he would follow instructions - I would just put them both in the preschool class! But he isn't verbally ready for that just yet (maybe next summer)...
So here is to praying tomorrow goes better. At least I now know the routine and everything so I can prepare AJU5 a little more. If only her baby doll was water safe - then maybe she would be okay (but then trying to participate with a toy might not be that easy)...
I have her signed up for the preschool class and AJU6 and I signed up for the parent/tot class. I thought they would have everyone in the big pool, but it turns out they have the preschoolers in the kiddie pool. The biggest issue with this is that she can't see us and I can't see her. Normally (when the pool is open for the public) they have the doors open so you can see the kiddie pool fromt he big pool. But, they have them closed during lessons for some unknown reason. I finally thought I had gotten her settled in her class (after they took role, went over the safety rules, got a little wet on teh side of the pool and then eventually got in the pool, but before too long one of the lifeguards brought her too me. So, I got to try to hold on to both kids int eh parent/tot class.
AJU6 is big into "Ready, Set, Go" and loved to jump into the pool (that is all he wanted to do actually). But, after one jump AJU5 was done with jumping in, probably because I let her go under some. But, she loved climbing in and out on the ladder, so it wasn't too bad. But, it is hard to work with them on floating and kicking when holding on to both at the same time...
Hopefully tomorrow will be better... I want to get AJU5 to stay with her class. We have another two week session in July, and I really want to be "normal" participants in lessons by then at least. If the rest of this week is spent getting her comfortable with her class, I am okay with that. I just have to corral AJU6, as he wants in the pool too (I had to grab him at least a handful of times as I tried to get our towels out and shoes on so we could go home as he toddled to the edge of the pool). He even tried to climb in a few times with AJU5's class in the little pool. If only he would follow instructions - I would just put them both in the preschool class! But he isn't verbally ready for that just yet (maybe next summer)...
So here is to praying tomorrow goes better. At least I now know the routine and everything so I can prepare AJU5 a little more. If only her baby doll was water safe - then maybe she would be okay (but then trying to participate with a toy might not be that easy)...
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Expectations
Last week (or possibly two weeks ago), I got into a conversation on Facebook about expectations for young children. It actually started when I friend posted an article on time-outs and how they may not be affective. From there, it went to expectations.
One of my friend's friends (let's call her A) claimed that until the child is 4-6 years old, we shouldn't have expectations for obedience. She claimed we shouldn't expect a 3 year old to obey our commands, and as such there is little to no discipline needed. I disagreed. We definitely have expectations for AJU5, and I don't think we are expecting too much out of her. We do have to remember that she is 3 and give her a little time to stop what she is doing to obey, but at the same time we do expect her to obey.
A's claim started with her saying we shouldn't expect a child younger than the 4-6 range to put on shoes when asked. I thought this was crazy. AJU5 started to bey this command about a year ago. AJU6 is already getting his shoes when he realizes we are going someplace. Now, AJU6 might be doing it because he loves going outside, but it is a step in obedience. We didn't discipline AJU5 for not getting her shoes until the last 3-6 months though. Before that, we would get "manhandle" her if she didn't obey and put her shoes on for her. Now she has to do it herself, and she can. She can ask for help, but rarely does she need it. We also expect her to clean up her toys when asked. Other than that, it is just simple commands (come, sit, wait) that we expect her to obey.
From previous comments by A, it seems like she is very much into attachment parenting, etc. She just redirects her kids to distract them. I don't think I totally agree with this approach. We are the parents. We aren't to stifle our kids and make them robots, but at the same time we are to lead them and train them. We don't expect AJU5 to keep her toys clean all day long at 3. Instead, we expect her to pick them up once or twice a day. Some times, she has to put one "big" toy away to get a second, but other than that she can have her toys where she wants them.
The only other disciplines/trainings we do with her are to share (especially with AJU6) and to control her crying. If she takes something from AJU6, she has to give it back. If she has more than two items, and he wants one, she has to give him one. If she is crying and won't calm down, she is sent to her room to regroup (and normally this occurs because she is told no about something like another show).
What about you? What do you expect from you toddler/preschooler? Do you expect some basic obedience prior to kindergarten age?
One of my friend's friends (let's call her A) claimed that until the child is 4-6 years old, we shouldn't have expectations for obedience. She claimed we shouldn't expect a 3 year old to obey our commands, and as such there is little to no discipline needed. I disagreed. We definitely have expectations for AJU5, and I don't think we are expecting too much out of her. We do have to remember that she is 3 and give her a little time to stop what she is doing to obey, but at the same time we do expect her to obey.
A's claim started with her saying we shouldn't expect a child younger than the 4-6 range to put on shoes when asked. I thought this was crazy. AJU5 started to bey this command about a year ago. AJU6 is already getting his shoes when he realizes we are going someplace. Now, AJU6 might be doing it because he loves going outside, but it is a step in obedience. We didn't discipline AJU5 for not getting her shoes until the last 3-6 months though. Before that, we would get "manhandle" her if she didn't obey and put her shoes on for her. Now she has to do it herself, and she can. She can ask for help, but rarely does she need it. We also expect her to clean up her toys when asked. Other than that, it is just simple commands (come, sit, wait) that we expect her to obey.
From previous comments by A, it seems like she is very much into attachment parenting, etc. She just redirects her kids to distract them. I don't think I totally agree with this approach. We are the parents. We aren't to stifle our kids and make them robots, but at the same time we are to lead them and train them. We don't expect AJU5 to keep her toys clean all day long at 3. Instead, we expect her to pick them up once or twice a day. Some times, she has to put one "big" toy away to get a second, but other than that she can have her toys where she wants them.
The only other disciplines/trainings we do with her are to share (especially with AJU6) and to control her crying. If she takes something from AJU6, she has to give it back. If she has more than two items, and he wants one, she has to give him one. If she is crying and won't calm down, she is sent to her room to regroup (and normally this occurs because she is told no about something like another show).
What about you? What do you expect from you toddler/preschooler? Do you expect some basic obedience prior to kindergarten age?
Friday, January 21, 2011
Failure!
So, I still haven't been commenting on blogs as much as I want. And I wasn't going to post until I got better. But, I decided to "clean the deck" again and hopefully be more successful. I think the biggest issue I am having is that I am opening the posts on my desktop, but I am only spending maybe 10 minutes on it a day. With the laptop in the family room, I am using it 99% of the time (and using my phone to check Facebook and email other times). I am actually only using the desktop to do work grading, and that is fairly minimal.
So, now I am going to open the posts on the laptop and comment on them there. I just have to get used to typing standing up... But, hey - I will burn more calories this way!
In munchkin news, AJU5 is wearing dresses almost exclusively. Other than the couple of times we have insisted on jammies for bed (and truly, it has been 1-3 times), she hasn't worn anything but a dress (with pants some times) since Christmas. some days she goes through a few of them. Other times we have to force her to change after 48 hours in the same dress. This is SO not what we expected!
AJU6 is very demanding these days. And it is all because we can understand what he wants. he can get us to follow his commands to get him food. He can beg for the TV to be turned on. I don't remember AJU5 being quite this ... what is the word... not vocal per se but communicative. He is slowly getting words, but pointing, grunting, and making other noises is working for him. And I don't know how much I like it. But, he is only waking about once a night now, and all he wants is his paci (if he lost it) and some snuggles. So, I can live with this I guess...
So, now I am going to open the posts on the laptop and comment on them there. I just have to get used to typing standing up... But, hey - I will burn more calories this way!
In munchkin news, AJU5 is wearing dresses almost exclusively. Other than the couple of times we have insisted on jammies for bed (and truly, it has been 1-3 times), she hasn't worn anything but a dress (with pants some times) since Christmas. some days she goes through a few of them. Other times we have to force her to change after 48 hours in the same dress. This is SO not what we expected!
AJU6 is very demanding these days. And it is all because we can understand what he wants. he can get us to follow his commands to get him food. He can beg for the TV to be turned on. I don't remember AJU5 being quite this ... what is the word... not vocal per se but communicative. He is slowly getting words, but pointing, grunting, and making other noises is working for him. And I don't know how much I like it. But, he is only waking about once a night now, and all he wants is his paci (if he lost it) and some snuggles. So, I can live with this I guess...
Monday, November 15, 2010
Munchkin Monday - Fuss Alert!
Today has been a day of fuss. AJU5 has fussed when she hasn't gotten her way. AJU6 has fussed because he hasn't felt great. And I wanted to fuss because I didn't get much time to breathe.
AJU5 was over-stimulated this weekend I think. We didn't give into her every whim, but she got to play so much that she didn't need to ask for much. Daddy was home to play with her when she wanted him to. I didn't have to balance two children and keep them from attacking each other. So, she did not like having to play on her own. She didn't like that AJU6 was taking my attention or attacking her. So she threw tantrums. And she doesn't get over it quickly.
AJU6 had belly issues last night. And I think he was still getting over it today. So, he was very clingy. And food - a normal love and "pacifier" - wasn't wanted. So, it meant I had to hold him or listen to him cry. And it was a long day as a result.
But, they are both in bed now. AJU6 seems to be asleep, and AJU5 probably is "reading" before she sleeps. And they are sharing a room without much fuss still. So, all is not lost.
Hopefully tomorrow will be less fussy!
AJU5 was over-stimulated this weekend I think. We didn't give into her every whim, but she got to play so much that she didn't need to ask for much. Daddy was home to play with her when she wanted him to. I didn't have to balance two children and keep them from attacking each other. So, she did not like having to play on her own. She didn't like that AJU6 was taking my attention or attacking her. So she threw tantrums. And she doesn't get over it quickly.
AJU6 had belly issues last night. And I think he was still getting over it today. So, he was very clingy. And food - a normal love and "pacifier" - wasn't wanted. So, it meant I had to hold him or listen to him cry. And it was a long day as a result.
But, they are both in bed now. AJU6 seems to be asleep, and AJU5 probably is "reading" before she sleeps. And they are sharing a room without much fuss still. So, all is not lost.
Hopefully tomorrow will be less fussy!
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Sweet Sunday
So, last week I talked about my favorite edible sweets. Today I will talk about my sweet boy.
AJU6 loves to snuggle. He will bury his head into your chest when you pick him up. He seeks out cuddles regularly. We even wants them from people other than mommy and daddy. He walks to an older lady in our church and asks to be picked up. Once she picks him up, he just cuddles right into her.
Now, of course he doesn't want to cuddle forever. He has to go, go, go a lot of the time. But, he does love to be with us in our arms.
I don't remember AJU5 being that snuggly at this age. Now she wants to sit with me and watch shows, etc. But, I don't think she was as snuggly as a 1 year old.
Oh, and on that note. I can't believe that in 12 days AJU6 will be a year old and in 1 month AJU5 will be 3 years old. How did the get that old???
AJU6 loves to snuggle. He will bury his head into your chest when you pick him up. He seeks out cuddles regularly. We even wants them from people other than mommy and daddy. He walks to an older lady in our church and asks to be picked up. Once she picks him up, he just cuddles right into her.
Now, of course he doesn't want to cuddle forever. He has to go, go, go a lot of the time. But, he does love to be with us in our arms.
I don't remember AJU5 being that snuggly at this age. Now she wants to sit with me and watch shows, etc. But, I don't think she was as snuggly as a 1 year old.
Oh, and on that note. I can't believe that in 12 days AJU6 will be a year old and in 1 month AJU5 will be 3 years old. How did the get that old???
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Growing Up
AJU6 turned 11 months old yesterday. That is right - in 30 days he will be one year old. In 29 days, he will get his first taste of cake (on Thanksgiving when family is already gathered together). And today, he got to go to the dentist for the first time - even before his big sister ever saw one!
Behind his two front teeth, it was black. Since his teeth are fairly thin, you could see the black through the teeth some times. A few weeks ago, I took him to his doctor because we were a little worried. Those same two teeth are shorter than the others, so we thought there might be a real problem. The pediatrician had no idea what it was. So, she recommended we take him to a pediatric dentist. And today was the day of the appointment.
And guess what - the blackness was almost 100% gone this morning. Maybe it was the waffles he has been engulfing the past week (he can eat a whole flax waffle plus some fruit at breakfast each day). Maybe it was the brushing I did (fairly vigorously) before we left. But it was gone. Luckily, the dentist had seen it before. It is some sort of staining, and probably caused by a bacteria. There is no known cause, although environment and genetics may play a part since siblings tend to have it. It can be scraped off, but it isn't dangerous at all. And his front two baby teeth are just short - nothing to worry about there.
The dentist office is pretty fun. They have a play area that AJU5 loves. They have a dog (the older partner's) that just roams the office freely. The cleaning stations are open, and the procedure areas are in glassed rooms so they don't look like closets or jails. So, I scheduled AJU5 for her first appointment. Hopefully seeing AJU6 "go through the motions" today will help. She wasn't too sure about having to stop playing so the dentist could see us. But, I did let her play after, so I think that helped. And she saw the dog (which really does just roam free) and got a toy, so she was content when we left.
How old were your kids when they first went to the dentist? Do you use a pediatric dentist or just a family practice?
We were going to just do the family practice, but 11 months old I think is too young to go to one of those. So, we are now on the pediatric route...
Behind his two front teeth, it was black. Since his teeth are fairly thin, you could see the black through the teeth some times. A few weeks ago, I took him to his doctor because we were a little worried. Those same two teeth are shorter than the others, so we thought there might be a real problem. The pediatrician had no idea what it was. So, she recommended we take him to a pediatric dentist. And today was the day of the appointment.
And guess what - the blackness was almost 100% gone this morning. Maybe it was the waffles he has been engulfing the past week (he can eat a whole flax waffle plus some fruit at breakfast each day). Maybe it was the brushing I did (fairly vigorously) before we left. But it was gone. Luckily, the dentist had seen it before. It is some sort of staining, and probably caused by a bacteria. There is no known cause, although environment and genetics may play a part since siblings tend to have it. It can be scraped off, but it isn't dangerous at all. And his front two baby teeth are just short - nothing to worry about there.
The dentist office is pretty fun. They have a play area that AJU5 loves. They have a dog (the older partner's) that just roams the office freely. The cleaning stations are open, and the procedure areas are in glassed rooms so they don't look like closets or jails. So, I scheduled AJU5 for her first appointment. Hopefully seeing AJU6 "go through the motions" today will help. She wasn't too sure about having to stop playing so the dentist could see us. But, I did let her play after, so I think that helped. And she saw the dog (which really does just roam free) and got a toy, so she was content when we left.
How old were your kids when they first went to the dentist? Do you use a pediatric dentist or just a family practice?
We were going to just do the family practice, but 11 months old I think is too young to go to one of those. So, we are now on the pediatric route...
Friday, October 22, 2010
Behavior and Skillz
First for some AJU5 stuff:
The last three weeks I have taken her to AWANA without AJU6 (who has stayed home with Daddy). The first week was terrible. I had to remove her and punish her at least a handful of times. Last week was great - no punishment/removal. And this week there was only one removal. Now, she is definitely not comfortable with me leaving her yet, but she at least knows what is expected of her. She cried when I didn't follow her immediately last night (as I was wrangling another Cubbie from under a chair), but she participated in everything. I think it is helping that she is getting to know the workers/leaders and the kids in her group. They now rotate with the same group of kids every night, and her group is a hoot. There are three girls and five boys (I think - if I am not missing anyone), and they are an interesting mix. You have the extreme shy, the extremely outgoing, the young and adventurous, and the well-behaved.
It took AJU5 3 weeks to say her verse. And she still didn't say it all. She was supposed to saw "And Jesus increased in wisdom" (Luke 2:52). She got "increased in wisdom - Luke 2:11" (after I said and). But, the leader gave her credit. I don't know why she refused to say Jesus. She says it in Jesus Loves Me... And in other songs... Oh well.
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Now on to AJU6:
The boy is walking. He can take over 20 steps in a row (with some squatting to play with with toys in the middle). He is "resorting" to walking more and more each day. Now I just need to find him some not-crazy-expensive shoes! He is currently about a size 3, but I am afraid he will grow right after I buy shoes. So, I don't want to spend over $15. Hopefully I can find something so he doesn't ruin socks (or have his feet turn black from store floors that need to be cleaned). He is starting to have a real personality, and I think he is about to actually say some words. He has made sounds like momma and dada ones or twice, so maybe soon he will say his first real word!
The last three weeks I have taken her to AWANA without AJU6 (who has stayed home with Daddy). The first week was terrible. I had to remove her and punish her at least a handful of times. Last week was great - no punishment/removal. And this week there was only one removal. Now, she is definitely not comfortable with me leaving her yet, but she at least knows what is expected of her. She cried when I didn't follow her immediately last night (as I was wrangling another Cubbie from under a chair), but she participated in everything. I think it is helping that she is getting to know the workers/leaders and the kids in her group. They now rotate with the same group of kids every night, and her group is a hoot. There are three girls and five boys (I think - if I am not missing anyone), and they are an interesting mix. You have the extreme shy, the extremely outgoing, the young and adventurous, and the well-behaved.
It took AJU5 3 weeks to say her verse. And she still didn't say it all. She was supposed to saw "And Jesus increased in wisdom" (Luke 2:52). She got "increased in wisdom - Luke 2:11" (after I said and). But, the leader gave her credit. I don't know why she refused to say Jesus. She says it in Jesus Loves Me... And in other songs... Oh well.
***************************
Now on to AJU6:
The boy is walking. He can take over 20 steps in a row (with some squatting to play with with toys in the middle). He is "resorting" to walking more and more each day. Now I just need to find him some not-crazy-expensive shoes! He is currently about a size 3, but I am afraid he will grow right after I buy shoes. So, I don't want to spend over $15. Hopefully I can find something so he doesn't ruin socks (or have his feet turn black from store floors that need to be cleaned). He is starting to have a real personality, and I think he is about to actually say some words. He has made sounds like momma and dada ones or twice, so maybe soon he will say his first real word!
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Oh What a Night...
I left AJU6 with AJU1 instead of taking him to Cubbies tonight with AJU5. My goal was to work on training AJU5 to sit, listen, and participate. Now that AJU6 is very mobile, it is hard to corral him and AJU5. Only having one is definitely easier, but we have a long way to go! AJU5 has a hard time going from play to listening. Add a very short nap (30 minutes vs. the normal 1.5-2.5 hours), and it was a struggle tonight. I had to remove her from teh room many times to discipline her. And she refused to say her verse. But, I think tonight was a learning experience for her - and hopefully next week will be better.
One thing I need to let go of is the external praise I want her to get. I need to become "fine" with her not getting her stickers and patches for saying her verses. It is not what matters. What matters is that she is learning the verses and learning about God. If she doesn't want to say the verse to the leaders, I need to learn to not force it too much. Hopefully seeing others with the "rewards" will motivate her if she wants them.
I hope AJU6 was good for AJU1. I know he was asleep when I left, woke up a little later, and was asleep again when I got home. AJU1 did not change his diaper - claiming he didn't know he was wet - before putting him back to sleep. I think he is just out of practice... I thought it was common sense that you changed a kid's diaper before putting them down for the night! And I even left him 3 velcro pocket diapers to use - the ones that are like disposables when it comes to putting them on. Oh well. AJU5 woke him up with her tantrum about having to put on jammies anyways, so I changed him, fed him, and got him back to sleep.
I wonder if next week will be more adventurous?
One thing I need to let go of is the external praise I want her to get. I need to become "fine" with her not getting her stickers and patches for saying her verses. It is not what matters. What matters is that she is learning the verses and learning about God. If she doesn't want to say the verse to the leaders, I need to learn to not force it too much. Hopefully seeing others with the "rewards" will motivate her if she wants them.
I hope AJU6 was good for AJU1. I know he was asleep when I left, woke up a little later, and was asleep again when I got home. AJU1 did not change his diaper - claiming he didn't know he was wet - before putting him back to sleep. I think he is just out of practice... I thought it was common sense that you changed a kid's diaper before putting them down for the night! And I even left him 3 velcro pocket diapers to use - the ones that are like disposables when it comes to putting them on. Oh well. AJU5 woke him up with her tantrum about having to put on jammies anyways, so I changed him, fed him, and got him back to sleep.
I wonder if next week will be more adventurous?
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Dinner Adventures
Part 1: "Conversation" between AJU6 and I
Me: AJU6, you need to eat your (green) beans before I give you more potato.
AJU6: Picks up beans and "eats" them.
Me; Give him more potato (and chicken).
AJU6: Eats some more, but not everything.
Later, I go to clean his chair,and I find the beans, uneaten, at the bottom. I hope this is not a sign of things to come...
Part 2: AJU5
I hear AJU5 mumble something, so I turn to look at her (she is sitting next to me), and I notice she is turning around in her chair. I think she is getting down, but then I look closer - her eyes are shut! She is asleep at the dinner table for the first time ever. And it wasn't even 6 (she normally goes to bed around 8). I was able to carry her to bed, put a diaper on her, and tuck her in without waking up. She later cried a little, but she was still asleep. Hopefully morning won't come too early...
Me: AJU6, you need to eat your (green) beans before I give you more potato.
AJU6: Picks up beans and "eats" them.
Me; Give him more potato (and chicken).
AJU6: Eats some more, but not everything.
Later, I go to clean his chair,and I find the beans, uneaten, at the bottom. I hope this is not a sign of things to come...
Part 2: AJU5
I hear AJU5 mumble something, so I turn to look at her (she is sitting next to me), and I notice she is turning around in her chair. I think she is getting down, but then I look closer - her eyes are shut! She is asleep at the dinner table for the first time ever. And it wasn't even 6 (she normally goes to bed around 8). I was able to carry her to bed, put a diaper on her, and tuck her in without waking up. She later cried a little, but she was still asleep. Hopefully morning won't come too early...
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Wow!
Let's just say AJU5 surprised me this morning - and last night.
First, she went to bed without a fight - something we had been dealing with for a week or two. Then she stayed in bed even though her door wasn't shut and just played until she fell asleep. We heard her singing the Awana Cubbie song at one point.
Then, I heard her this morning playing in her room. Then I heard AJU6 whine a little bit. The next thing I knew I heard them both laughing. She had gone to his room and was playing with him. It was a lot better way to wake than two screaming kids!
Next, once she came to get me, I noticed she had on different pants than she went to bed with. She had taken her pants off with the diaper inside (I knew she COULD do that), and then put on undies and different pants. Normally I have to ask her to change in the morning after her shows.
This little girl is growing up, and part of me is happy. But, then I miss my baby at times too...
First, she went to bed without a fight - something we had been dealing with for a week or two. Then she stayed in bed even though her door wasn't shut and just played until she fell asleep. We heard her singing the Awana Cubbie song at one point.
Then, I heard her this morning playing in her room. Then I heard AJU6 whine a little bit. The next thing I knew I heard them both laughing. She had gone to his room and was playing with him. It was a lot better way to wake than two screaming kids!
Next, once she came to get me, I noticed she had on different pants than she went to bed with. She had taken her pants off with the diaper inside (I knew she COULD do that), and then put on undies and different pants. Normally I have to ask her to change in the morning after her shows.
This little girl is growing up, and part of me is happy. But, then I miss my baby at times too...
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Let the Whining... I Mean Weaning Begin
I decided to "force" the pacifier weaning on Saturday. AJU5 has gotten WAY too whiny about her pacifiers, so I knew it was time. With VBS over, I was ready to take the "plunge." We had friends suggest (via my husband) cutting the tip off of the pacifier a little bit at a time until they didn't want it any more. So I tried it Saturday night before she went to bed. Well, I guess I cut too much off. She has not wanted that pacifier since that night...
She woke a few times Saturday night/Sunday morning, and finally around 5:30, I gave her a different pacifier so I could get a little more sleep. Sunday at church, I offered her the cut one, and she refused it. She fell asleep in the pew without it - snuggled up next to me. Sunday night, she told me it was broken, and when I gave it to her, she threw it. I had to lay down with her in the middle of the night to get her back to sleep, but she didn't want a pacifier.
Yesterday's nap was a challenge. She refused to go down at her normal time. Then, around 3pm, while I was busy folding clothes, she fell asleep in our bed. There were more cries out of her during her nap than normal, but she was completely pacifier free. Last night she didn't even ask for her "other" pacifiers like she did at the failed nap time. She wanted me to lay with her for a while, but eventually she went to sleep on her own. AND!!! she didn't wake us up last night with her crying. So, I think the weaning (for her) is over.
I also started keeping AJU6's pacifier in his bed unless we are leaving the house. He seems okay with this. We do occasionally have to get it out about an hour before bed time, but that is it. We have tried putting him down an hour earlier, and he refuses. He wants to snuggle and be held before bed, and he wants his pacifier then too. And, I am okay with that. Hopefully he will be easier to break of the bedtime habit than AJU5. But, only time will tell...
She woke a few times Saturday night/Sunday morning, and finally around 5:30, I gave her a different pacifier so I could get a little more sleep. Sunday at church, I offered her the cut one, and she refused it. She fell asleep in the pew without it - snuggled up next to me. Sunday night, she told me it was broken, and when I gave it to her, she threw it. I had to lay down with her in the middle of the night to get her back to sleep, but she didn't want a pacifier.
Yesterday's nap was a challenge. She refused to go down at her normal time. Then, around 3pm, while I was busy folding clothes, she fell asleep in our bed. There were more cries out of her during her nap than normal, but she was completely pacifier free. Last night she didn't even ask for her "other" pacifiers like she did at the failed nap time. She wanted me to lay with her for a while, but eventually she went to sleep on her own. AND!!! she didn't wake us up last night with her crying. So, I think the weaning (for her) is over.
I also started keeping AJU6's pacifier in his bed unless we are leaving the house. He seems okay with this. We do occasionally have to get it out about an hour before bed time, but that is it. We have tried putting him down an hour earlier, and he refuses. He wants to snuggle and be held before bed, and he wants his pacifier then too. And, I am okay with that. Hopefully he will be easier to break of the bedtime habit than AJU5. But, only time will tell...
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
REJECTED!
At church on Sunday, I was sitting in the pew with AJU5 and AJU6 during the first song. AJU6 was asleep in my arms, and AJU5 was looking at the hymnal. Then I hear the paper tearing. AJU1 had just come to sit with us, so I give him a look and point him towards AJU5. He takes the hymnal from her, and she goes crying and running to the back of the church. I hand AJU6 off to him and go after her. I am able to calm her down, and we return to the pew. I hold her for the songs, and before too long she is asleep in my arms. All is good! Then AJU6 wakes up. And he is hungry. And I didn't pack a bottle for him. So, I try to lay AJU5 down in the pew. No luck. Before too long AJU6 is really hungry (whining), so I have to trade kids with AJU1. I lay AJU5 down next to AJU1, take AJU6, and head to the back of the church to feed him. AJU1 tries to grab AJU5 and hold her, but she rejects him. She moves to the opposite side of the pew - as far away from him as she can while staying in the pew. I return from feeding AJU6 to this picture.
It has been like this a lot. Whomever has been playing or caring for AJU5 is the only parent she wants. There is no substitutions allowed in the game supposedly in her mind. The "funny" thing is that it isn't always mommy or always daddy. But, rarely will she allow us to tag in and out as needed.
I better go. AJU6 is making circle on the floor trying to get to toys. He is starting to learn that if he turns around, he can go backwards to the item he wants. This is not good....
It has been like this a lot. Whomever has been playing or caring for AJU5 is the only parent she wants. There is no substitutions allowed in the game supposedly in her mind. The "funny" thing is that it isn't always mommy or always daddy. But, rarely will she allow us to tag in and out as needed.
I better go. AJU6 is making circle on the floor trying to get to toys. He is starting to learn that if he turns around, he can go backwards to the item he wants. This is not good....
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Feeling Good!
First, Jersey #2 is feeling pretty good. She even startled the nurses this morning by getting out of bed all by herself (and tried to get back in alone too, but they caught her). She is really recovering well from everything, but there are still a few hurdles to cross before she can come home!
Second, a friend and I have been walking on Tuesdays and Thursdays. It has been great. The walking is making both of us feel better, and having a chance to talk to another adult is also nice. We stop at the park near the end to let the kids play, so there is an added bonus for AJU5 there.
In other news, AJU6 can now roll over. This is a mixed blessing. First, once he crawls he will be truly mobile (and he is getting close). Second, when I lay him down to sleep, he rolls over. And of course he doesn't want to sleep on his stomach, so he cries. I had to flip him three times this afternoon before he finally fell asleep. At least he isn't cranky like he was yesterday. What ended up being a 2.5 hour visit to the service shop for my car got him off schedule. He was cranky as all get out yesterday afternoon - refusing to eat because he was so tired but refusing to sleep because he was hungry.
What has been making you feel good lately?
Second, a friend and I have been walking on Tuesdays and Thursdays. It has been great. The walking is making both of us feel better, and having a chance to talk to another adult is also nice. We stop at the park near the end to let the kids play, so there is an added bonus for AJU5 there.
In other news, AJU6 can now roll over. This is a mixed blessing. First, once he crawls he will be truly mobile (and he is getting close). Second, when I lay him down to sleep, he rolls over. And of course he doesn't want to sleep on his stomach, so he cries. I had to flip him three times this afternoon before he finally fell asleep. At least he isn't cranky like he was yesterday. What ended up being a 2.5 hour visit to the service shop for my car got him off schedule. He was cranky as all get out yesterday afternoon - refusing to eat because he was so tired but refusing to sleep because he was hungry.
What has been making you feel good lately?
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Abort and Other Short Outtakes
We have aborted potty training at least for a few days. Here is what happened yesterday:
At 9, I got AJU5 dressed and we got ready to go outside. AJU6 woke up, so I ran to get him while AJU5 lingered in the bathroom. Next thing I know she comes up to me and her pants are wet. So, I change her and we go outside. After 45 minutes, we sat on the potty. Then we repeated 30 minutes later. Almost 30 minutes later, AJU5 was ready to go inside. She was clearly tired, so I told her she needed to sit on the potty and then we would go inside and she could nap. She very reluctantly agreed - crying during most of the experience. I of course put a diaper on her because I didn't want a wet bed (there had been no success with the use of the potty). She was almost completely dry when she woke up, so I tried to get her to sit on the potty. But, she wasn't having it. AJU6 was asleep in the same room, so I couldn't push too hard (for fear of waking him). She didn't want to wear a diaper, so I eventually succeeded in putting her in undies, pull-up, and then pants. She uses the pull-up and doesn't care that she has the wet undies up against her skim. I tried to get her to sit on the potty again (because I can tell she isn't done), and it was a battle with tears. So, potty training is aborted. I am not going to force her to sit on the potty if it is making her that upset. We will keep trying to get her to sit ont he potty when we go and before bath time. Maybe in a week or two she will be ready.
Last night she confirmed to me that this was a good idea. AJU1 and I asked her if she wanted a bath. She said yes, but insisted he take her to the bathroom. Reason - he doesn't make her sit on the potty before baths, and I do.
In other news - AJU5 was a dare-devil on Sunday. She tried to scale her dresser. The result was in falling down on top of her. Luckily, her TinkerToy can was there to support the dresser. The only damage to her was a few very tiny little pink/red marks. But, it sure did scare everyone!
AJU6 has been a handful. I think the boy is teething. He is demanding to be rocked to sleep AND stay in my arms for the whole nap (other than his first morning nap). Yesterday I was finally able to get him to sleep in the crib at 5pm. He took one nap in the stroller for about 30 minutes after I walked and walked and walked him to sleep. It made for a long day.
Now to write my last final. Then I just have to do some grading before the term is over. I am so ready for 2 weeks off! Well, I will have to get my classes ready for the summer, but that isn't too hard to do.
At 9, I got AJU5 dressed and we got ready to go outside. AJU6 woke up, so I ran to get him while AJU5 lingered in the bathroom. Next thing I know she comes up to me and her pants are wet. So, I change her and we go outside. After 45 minutes, we sat on the potty. Then we repeated 30 minutes later. Almost 30 minutes later, AJU5 was ready to go inside. She was clearly tired, so I told her she needed to sit on the potty and then we would go inside and she could nap. She very reluctantly agreed - crying during most of the experience. I of course put a diaper on her because I didn't want a wet bed (there had been no success with the use of the potty). She was almost completely dry when she woke up, so I tried to get her to sit on the potty. But, she wasn't having it. AJU6 was asleep in the same room, so I couldn't push too hard (for fear of waking him). She didn't want to wear a diaper, so I eventually succeeded in putting her in undies, pull-up, and then pants. She uses the pull-up and doesn't care that she has the wet undies up against her skim. I tried to get her to sit on the potty again (because I can tell she isn't done), and it was a battle with tears. So, potty training is aborted. I am not going to force her to sit on the potty if it is making her that upset. We will keep trying to get her to sit ont he potty when we go and before bath time. Maybe in a week or two she will be ready.
Last night she confirmed to me that this was a good idea. AJU1 and I asked her if she wanted a bath. She said yes, but insisted he take her to the bathroom. Reason - he doesn't make her sit on the potty before baths, and I do.
In other news - AJU5 was a dare-devil on Sunday. She tried to scale her dresser. The result was in falling down on top of her. Luckily, her TinkerToy can was there to support the dresser. The only damage to her was a few very tiny little pink/red marks. But, it sure did scare everyone!
AJU6 has been a handful. I think the boy is teething. He is demanding to be rocked to sleep AND stay in my arms for the whole nap (other than his first morning nap). Yesterday I was finally able to get him to sleep in the crib at 5pm. He took one nap in the stroller for about 30 minutes after I walked and walked and walked him to sleep. It made for a long day.
Now to write my last final. Then I just have to do some grading before the term is over. I am so ready for 2 weeks off! Well, I will have to get my classes ready for the summer, but that isn't too hard to do.
Monday, April 12, 2010
At least she loves me...
AJU5 has become a complete Mommy's girl lately. She rejects AJU1 often, which I don't think he likes. She hasn't completely rejected him luckily, but he has mentioned that he hopes AJU6 doesn't hate him when he turns 2.
She insists I put her in the car. She sits behind the driver seat, so if we are all going somewhere these means that we have to put our respective children in and then walk around the vehicle to get to our seat. Annoying...
About 75% of the time she insists on getting out on AJU6's side - i.e. where I am. I took Sarah's suggestion from way back and unbuckle AJU5 first when it is just me and the kids.. Then, I go get AJU6, the diaper bag, and finally AJU5 out on his side. Now she insists on this order even if AJU1 is the one unbuckling her. Well, unless I am fast enough and get AJU6 out and the door shut before she is out of her seat that is.
During Sunday morning service, she insists on sitting with me/on me. This is fine until AJU6 is hungry. Yesterday we tried to get her to sit with AJU1 when she was 90% asleep, and she just screamed. So, I had her snuggled up next to me while I fed AJU6. It didn't work so well as she decided to rest her head on his head. Luckily he was no longer too hungry...
There are other times she insists on me, but it isn't consistent as to what those things are. Luckily during the middle of the night she normally goes to AJU1's side of the bed! Unfortunately on days like today, AJU1 is already out of the house when she comes looking (i.e. 5:30). I thought she would sleep in since she didn't give up and sleep until almost 10 last night...
And to think just before and just after AJU6 was born she was a total Daddy's girl. Jealousy has sure set in!
She insists I put her in the car. She sits behind the driver seat, so if we are all going somewhere these means that we have to put our respective children in and then walk around the vehicle to get to our seat. Annoying...
About 75% of the time she insists on getting out on AJU6's side - i.e. where I am. I took Sarah's suggestion from way back and unbuckle AJU5 first when it is just me and the kids.. Then, I go get AJU6, the diaper bag, and finally AJU5 out on his side. Now she insists on this order even if AJU1 is the one unbuckling her. Well, unless I am fast enough and get AJU6 out and the door shut before she is out of her seat that is.
During Sunday morning service, she insists on sitting with me/on me. This is fine until AJU6 is hungry. Yesterday we tried to get her to sit with AJU1 when she was 90% asleep, and she just screamed. So, I had her snuggled up next to me while I fed AJU6. It didn't work so well as she decided to rest her head on his head. Luckily he was no longer too hungry...
There are other times she insists on me, but it isn't consistent as to what those things are. Luckily during the middle of the night she normally goes to AJU1's side of the bed! Unfortunately on days like today, AJU1 is already out of the house when she comes looking (i.e. 5:30). I thought she would sleep in since she didn't give up and sleep until almost 10 last night...
And to think just before and just after AJU6 was born she was a total Daddy's girl. Jealousy has sure set in!
Friday, March 12, 2010
Almost Lost It...
Today has been a battle. I had planned on taking the kids to story time and then running some errands. But, AJU5 didn't want to go to story time. I decided not to fight her on it because if she didn't want to be there, she wouldn't behave. But, we still had errands to run regardless. So, After her nap, I started to ask her if she wanted to go. This eventually moved to telling her we need to go. But, she was resisting. Again, I don't want to force her because shopping with a screaming toddler is not fun. I knew we had until 3pm to leave. Everything would be busier, but we would survive. But, she was testing my patience. First, she decided to try to climb on the exersaucer while AJU6 was in it. Then, she started to demand things (I forget what). Finally around 2:30 she refused to put her jacket on. I almost lost it. I put her on her bed, shut the door, and went into another room. Oh course a few minutes later AJU5 was happy to listen and get ready to go, but it wasn't fun until then.
Some times I think my issues come because I have plans and I "have" to stick to them. God has tried to teach me that He is in control numerous times in the past, but I am a slow learner. I think having a toddler is getting that point across now. If only I could keep my temper back while I learn this lesson!
Some times I think my issues come because I have plans and I "have" to stick to them. God has tried to teach me that He is in control numerous times in the past, but I am a slow learner. I think having a toddler is getting that point across now. If only I could keep my temper back while I learn this lesson!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Wait, Where Did She Go?
AJU5 has changed a lot in the past few weeks. She went from a little girl who didn't want to socialize much at all and slept like a champ to one who does great at the library and won't go to bed at night.
A few weeks ago, after she refused to sit for story time and threw a big tantrum at the library, I decided to let her have a voice in what we do. I didn't expect her to want to go to story time or do much of anything except play outside or stay in the house. The next week she chose to go to story time two days in a row. Both days she sat with me and somewhat listened to everything. Then, this week she has even been happy to stay after story time is over and the instruments are put away. Yesterday we stayed for almost an hour, and she played with three other two year-olds most of the time. Today we only stayed for a little bit, but she happily read a book or two by herself and then played in the snow. She followed some big kids in the snow. Now, she is just as content to be by herself, but she isn't nearly as shy and reserved in public as she was just 3-4 weeks ago.
As for going to bed at night - it is a nightmare! She stays up until about 9 each night, when we finally give up and just put her in the crib. She will lay down 1-3 times before than in her big girl bed, but she gets up after about 15-30 minutes. Closing her door may work, but when I tried that for naps a month or two ago, she screamed the moment the door was shut. So, we haven't done that just yet. But, we are definitely missing our quiet evenings! AJU6 has been going to sleep around 7 or 8 each night, so if she would sleep we would be able to get in a couple of TV shows before our normal 9pm bedtime. Instead, we have been staying up until almost 10, watching the shows in little bits when she is up in bed.
I feel like i talk almost exclusively about AJU5 these days. I think that is because AJU6 is so laid back and not up to too much. He sleeps fairly well, so I don't have that to complain about. He isn't hitting any major milestones, so nothing to write about there either. But, he is such a great little guy! He giggles and coos and smiles are us. He wants to be where we are, so we have put the high chair in the reclining position so he can sit at the table with us. But, I can't think of anything that is "worthy" of a blog post for him just yet. But, I know in a few months he will be the "center" of attention...
A few weeks ago, after she refused to sit for story time and threw a big tantrum at the library, I decided to let her have a voice in what we do. I didn't expect her to want to go to story time or do much of anything except play outside or stay in the house. The next week she chose to go to story time two days in a row. Both days she sat with me and somewhat listened to everything. Then, this week she has even been happy to stay after story time is over and the instruments are put away. Yesterday we stayed for almost an hour, and she played with three other two year-olds most of the time. Today we only stayed for a little bit, but she happily read a book or two by herself and then played in the snow. She followed some big kids in the snow. Now, she is just as content to be by herself, but she isn't nearly as shy and reserved in public as she was just 3-4 weeks ago.
As for going to bed at night - it is a nightmare! She stays up until about 9 each night, when we finally give up and just put her in the crib. She will lay down 1-3 times before than in her big girl bed, but she gets up after about 15-30 minutes. Closing her door may work, but when I tried that for naps a month or two ago, she screamed the moment the door was shut. So, we haven't done that just yet. But, we are definitely missing our quiet evenings! AJU6 has been going to sleep around 7 or 8 each night, so if she would sleep we would be able to get in a couple of TV shows before our normal 9pm bedtime. Instead, we have been staying up until almost 10, watching the shows in little bits when she is up in bed.
I feel like i talk almost exclusively about AJU5 these days. I think that is because AJU6 is so laid back and not up to too much. He sleeps fairly well, so I don't have that to complain about. He isn't hitting any major milestones, so nothing to write about there either. But, he is such a great little guy! He giggles and coos and smiles are us. He wants to be where we are, so we have put the high chair in the reclining position so he can sit at the table with us. But, I can't think of anything that is "worthy" of a blog post for him just yet. But, I know in a few months he will be the "center" of attention...
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