The Last 24 Hours

Yesterday, AJU5 got to go to Sunday School at our church for the first time. Supposedly she did fairly well. She wanted Mommy a few times, but her teacher was able to redirect her and get her to color like her friend fairly easily. Having her in Sunday School seems to be a HUGE blessing. Not only did I get to listen to AJU1 teach Sunday School without an almost constant interruption, I also got to listen to more of the sermon! AJU5 and her friend played in the nursery most of service happily because they had not played themselves out during Sunday School. I did have to sit int he ahll near the door to the nursery (so she could see me), but I could listen!

After church was family nap time. We each found our own place and CRASHED. It took a little bit to convince AJU5 she needed to crash, but once she was in her bed, she was out. I think it is because we had to keep her awake the last mile or so on the way home and it wound her up!. Of course AJU5 naps longer than we do, so we also got some quiet time to read, etc until she was done with her nap.

The rest of the afternoon was spent just hanging out and eating. Then, we headed to church. AJU5's friends weren't there, so she was a little silly. She carried out a few toys to the main room where we are until her daddy stopped her. We aren't talking little toys here. We are talking the Little Tikes play area toys that are almost as big as her! After church, we headed home and tried to get her to sleep. We put her down around 7:30, but at 8:15 she was still awake and calling for us. So, we let her out and watched an episode of Mythbusters as a family. Then it was definitely bedtime for all!

At 2:15 she cried, but she went back to sleep on her own. At 3:15, she cried again and didn't give up. So, I slept ont he futon with her. Around 5 AJU1 got up. By 5:30, AJU5 had heard her daddy and was up for the morning. So, we went downstairs (just after AJU1 left for work) and watched an episode of Curious George and an episode of Word World. I dozed during these because we had seen each one at least two times in the last two days! Then I turned off the TV and gave AJU5 the choices of eating, playing, or sleeping. Since she refused the eating and playing, it was to bed! She did nap though (just woke up - so she napped for about 1.5 hours). And she needed it. I did the math, and she probably slept for about 8.5 hours. Where did her 12 hour nights go? It is just now fair! Luckily, during her nap I was able to get my work done! Now I just have my homework to do today (read 6 chapters of Exodus). So, we might make it out of the house :)

How was your last 24 hours?

Watch Out!

AJU5 is a climber. And boy is she a climber! Her waist is only to office chair height, but she still manages to climb up. And today - she climbed up on the shelf around our stairs... Problem with said shelf - non-stair side is about 5 feet off the ground! And the very edge of the ground below is tile - and a step at that! Luckily, I think she was only trying to copy me. I had stepped up there to dust the railing while she made her way down. She had picked up the clothe and just made it up when I turned around...

Her other adventure - the car! She now likes to play in the car. I let her stay in if I have to get things out of the trunk. Today, I brought the bags in and put the few things in the fridge. By the time I got back to the garage (about two minutes later), she was in the driver seat and pushing the button to open the garage! I had also gathered a bag of garbage, so I had to take that out of the garage to the trash can. But, i was afraid she would "lock" me out! Luckily, I realized I still had my keys to the house, etc in my back pocket! She luckily did not press it once I was at the garbage can and was willing to give it over to me when I got back. But, the adventures are beginning for sure!

Why - Oh Why?

AJU5 isn't sleeping great at night AGAIN. The worst part - she only wants mommy! Two nights this week AJU1 has gotten up to see if he can calm her down. Both times she has come running to our bed to find me. She wants to snuggle - and that is really all she wants/needs. So, I have been sleeping with her a lot. Putting her back in bed isn't an option - she wakes within 30 minutes and cries again. So, it has been futon for us... Wednesday night she did stay in bed the whole night, so I thought we might be over it. But, no... last night I had to sleep with her again. At least is was over 2 hours later than Monday and Tuesday night... She has been napping just fine on her own. She goes down just fine on her own. So, I don't know what we can do to get her through this other than just to let time tell. We have let her cry for about 15 minutes, but it just gets louder (it starts as periodic cries and goes to a constant cry that we can only take about 2-3 minutes of). We may see if she will sleep with Daddy some tonight, but I don't know.

Saving grace - she takes good naps! I have been napping each afternoon as well, so I am not dead! But, mornings can be a little slow around her. She is getting a little more TV time than normal as a result too. I just don't have the energy to distract her before about 8:30 :)

So, here is praying that she will start sleeping through the nights again ASAP!

Survived!

We survived the trip fairly easily. Yes, take off and landing were a pain, but the rest went fairly smoothly. AJU5 was really well behaved this weekend. She had her moments where she didn't want to be where we were (like dinner), but that is to be expected!

So, here are a few highlights:

• AJU5 got to play with my cousin's daughter Z Saturday night. We were at my aunt and uncle's for dinner (mom's side), and they had a lot of fun. There were the normal toddler issues of sharing the sand toys and trikes, but they got along well.
• Sunday at 5:15 local time, AJU5 crawled off the bed. I heard her sit up, and I said "Hi AJU5." Then I heard her crawl to the other side of the bed and I told her to be careful. Then I heard a thunk followed by cries. Luckily, it was just a little bump on the head and she was perfectly fine! I think she was still mostly asleep. She may have been trying to find Daddy, as she crawled to his side of the bed...
• Sunday morning was the service. There were laughs and tears, but I think it was just perfect. AJU5 did well during it - playing with the other kids or just hanging out in her stroller. After the service we went to brunch at an extend family member's house. It was a great time together as family! AJU5 had fun playing with more cousins as well as exploring the yard with any adult!
• Sunday evening we went to dinner with my aunt and uncle and their family (dad's side). We were all staying at the same hotel, so it was natural :) AJU5 of course hated all of the waiting! And there was a lot of it when you have a table for 15! Luckily the restaurant was in a mall, and we were able to go walk around while we waited. At the end, she had had enough though - which isn't surprising because it was past her bed time...
• Monday most of the family left. One sister, her son, one cousin, and her family were all that remained. The cousin and her family flew out at about the same time as AJU5 and I (5:00ish), and my sister didn't leave until early this morning. So, we all headed back to the mall. It is a big mall! We spent about 3 hours there just walking around and checking out a few stores. We could have spent all day there if we wanted to (although none of us a huge shoppers, so we didn't). There are rides in this mall, but 95% of them have height requirements that AJU5 doesn't meet. She was not happy about this at all! But, she survived :)
• AJU1 met us at the airport. AJU5 kind of shunned him... I think she was mad that he left us at the airport on Saturday! But, this morning she didn't shun him. She got in the habit of waking at 5am our time for some reason. So, she was up for about 45 minutes while Daddy got ready for work. Then she slept for another 1.5-2 hours. And she is already down for a nap. This is good because she is behind on sleep a little bit! And I have time to get things done!

Okay, that is a long enough post :) I hope everyone had a great Labor Day weekend!

Ready or Not...

AJU5 and I will be leaving on a jet plane early tomorrow morning to attend my grandmother's memorial service. If you remember, she died back in February, but the family decided to wait until now to do the service because there was no rush (cremated) and more of us could attend this way. We will be gone for just over 48 hours, so it shouldn't kill me too much :) The only time I am really "worried" about is the plane ride. Our flight time is just under 3 hours, and I don't have anyone to tag team with this time... Luckily, it is a non-stop flight so half of our battles will be gone! There won't be so many times she can't play with the tray table. There won't be so much time she had to sit on my lap (vs. stand up). But, it will probably still be a challenge! Luckily, our flight tomorrow is during her "calm" time of day. Mornings are normally when we run errands and she watches tv (about 30-45 minutes most mornings). So, I should be able to contain her hopefully...

Monday we will be flying back in the afternoon. I hope to wear her out so she isn't so active on that flight. But, evenings are her bad-attitude times of day. It is when she is most likely to get mad and cry. It is when she really wants her way. Hopefully, with all the attention she will get over the two days she will be too tired to fight me though...

I will give you a report when we get back!

Wordless Wednesday: Pictures from Latest Trip

Hair Cut

So, I cut AJU5's hair tonight. There are no pictures of the cut in progress. unfortunately. First, the camera was upstairs (and the hair cut took place outside/downstairs). Second, it took lots of work on the part of my husband and I to get her to stay still long enough to make a snip!

As for the results, I need to fix the bangs a little still. The rest doesn't look any worse than it did before for sure! It might even look better. All in all, it was a pretty good first hair cut.

Now, do I like the cut? Well, I am not a fan of bangs, but her hair was BAD in the front. The back grew out a lot earlier and faster (she was born with male pattern baldness we say). The front section was just at the annoying length - in her eyes all the time, etc. It was getting to be a pain to keep clips in (she pulls them out), so I went with a really thin layer of bangs that one day I will just let grow out. They did end up slightly shorter than I wanted, but they aren't bad at all. As for the rest, I was dealing with about 4-5 different lengths (visible). So, I got it down to 2-3. That means that even if it all isn't the same length, it looks more kept!

Pictures to come at some point of the post-cut look...

Numbers Game

Here are a few numbers for you:
3: Number of months before /junior arrives (at the latest).
7: Years I have been married
46: Years my parents have been married
56: Number of students enrolled in my classes this term (which starts today)
89: Days until my due date...

Pregnancy Update (and Possibly Other Things)

Yesterday I had another regular OB appointment. It was just one of the short, basic ones (pee in cup, weight, blood pressure, baby heart rate, fundal measurement, and questions). I also got my paperwork for my gestational diabetes test (1 hour) that I need to do next week (planning on Friday when AJU1 can watch AJU5). We also talked about when to schedule the c-section. My doctor doesn't want to go past 41 weeks because they are less than 2 years apart. So, we will most likely go with November 30th. If I go into labor before then, we will try a VBAC unless the baby isn't positioned right (breech, etc). Also, I get to start the 2 week visits now. I was guessing I would have another 4 week period first, but I was wrong!

Oh, as for weight, I am up to 173 pounds. I was about 150 pounds when I got pregnant, so, I want to not gain more than 12 more (35 pounds total). With AJU5, I was about 160 when I got pregnant and weighed 193 the day before she was born. But, I only weighed 172 pounds at 25 weeks with her... And I am at 27 weeks almost now...

I was just reading over the emails I sent to my family during the pregnancy and after. Boy was that hard... The pregnancy ones weren't of course, but the first few after she was born were. Having to leave her at the hospital for 4 nights was miserable. I hope I never have to go through that again! Then there was the whole oxygen and RSV scare. It was just a very trying week for sure. But, looking at her now you would never guess she spent a week in the NICU and another almost 2 weeks on oxygen! Actually, at a month old she was perfectly normal and "disgustingly healthy" as the home health care nurse told me. So, I am just praying we can avoid all of that this time around...

Now to go read or nap... last night was not a good night for sleep (due to AJU5 mostly and then Junior not letting me fall back asleep)... and AJU5 is napping now...

Product Review Friday - Airlines

AJU5 has been on four trips involving planes and has one more next weekend before a (probable) long break because, well, she will be 2 and no longer flying free!

I didn't fly much growing up. I think there was one or two trips before high school and then one then. My senior year of college I flew a lot because of varsity sports (we didn't fly any my junior year though). Then I flew a bunch visiting AJU1 while we lived in different states. Since we have been married, we have flown some too, but driving is more common for us.

Through all of this, I have flown a large number of airlines - Southwest, American, Continental, United, Delta, Northwest, Frontier, and British Airways (at least those are the ones I remember). With AJU5 we have flown Southwest only, but next weekend we are flying Delta/Northwest because AJU1 had enough points for a free ticket with them (due to his work travel).

So, which do I prefer? Well, I don't think it matters too much. Each airline has its quirks. And each airport throws in another set of quirks totally independent of the airline. I like that Southwest doesn't charge for bags - that is a HUGE plus in my book! But, if it wasn't for my husband flying Southwest for work so much, we might not fly them. They aren't always the cheapest without free tickets even if you add the bag charge in...

I don't mind Southwest's seating policy either. We almost always get A boarding because we check in 24 hours in advance. And, when traveling with an infant in arms, it is easier to get a seat for them this way (although not always available). The time I didn't get A boarding when I traveled with AJU5 alone, I was still able to get a good seat (rows still empty) during family boarding.

So, what don't I like about some airlines?

• When they overbook a flight. This happened once when I flew Northwest for work two years ago. I checked in about two hours early at the airport (nothing better to do - was already out of my hotel room, etc). But, I didn't have a seat assignment because they were over-full and waiting to see who showed up. It was very annoying especially since I was 19 weeks pregnant and less than one week post kidney infection (and still not feeling 100%).
• When they are notoriously late. Luckily we don't live or fly to busy places like the northeast. But, I am impatient! All of the airlines we have flown from here have been close to on time unless weather caused the delay. But, I have flown Continental through Houston before - and I am never doing that again! There are regular delays out of there for sure!
• Uncomfortable planes. United tends to have very little leg room, so my husband avoids them at all cost. Some of the "puddle" jumpers are also bad. But, the others are all about the same...

SO, which airline do you fly most? Which do you like the best?

Back Again Part 2

Last night, I started the recap of our recent trip to the in-laws. Hopefully I can finish it now without writing a book :)

I forgot to mention that AJU5 refused to nap Wednesday morning/midday. So, she was exhausted by the time we got to the airport. She fell asleep in her stroller while we walked from security to the gate but woke up when we had to get her out to get on the plane. She didn't nap on the plane at all! So, we thought she would be out in seconds on the drive home - Nope! It took lots of work to get her to sleep in the car, and then she woke when we got to the house. We got the car unpacked and said hi to everyone. It was about midnight out time at this point, and everyone was dead tired! Only problem - AJU5 refused to go to bed. It took to tries of just letting her cry (with a stroller ride in between) to get her to sleep for 3 hours. Then we wailed again and got to sleep in bed with us for the rest of the night (you know, about 4 more hours). Needless to say we were a little tired on Thursday...

Luckily, we had nothing planned for Thursday. The parents-in-law had work, so it was just us and AJU4 at home. AJU2 came over in the morning (he lives in the same town), and the guys spent time fixing a loader (for hay). AJU5 and I went out to watch and sit in the "chairs" - tractor seats! She loved to sit there and play with all of the controls. And, since they have 3 tractors, she had lots of play with. Eventually it looked like she was ready to crash, so I brought her in and tried to get her to nap - FAIL! She did sit in her crib and drink her beverages for a while though so I could make sandwiches for everyone's lunch. She did eventually nap, but it wasn't her normal 2 hours. And, she wasn't willing to go down at her normal 7pm either. Luckily, she did eventually go down on her own without too much crying and slept the whole night - but only 9-10 hours instead of her normal 12...

Friday we went to a touristy lake about 2 hours away. We left around her normal nap time, so she did get about 45 minutes of nap in the car. Once we got there, we had our picnic lunch and hung out on the "beach" for a while. AJU5 loved it! She got to play int he water, throw rocks and small pieces of wood, and work as an earth mover (moving dirt/sand back and forth between the beach and water). Once the adults had had enough sun (about an hour) we went to see what else we wanted to do (and get cleaned up). We ended up going for a little hike and then getting ice cream before heading home. AJU5 was in no mood to walk though. So, I carried her first. Then, she sat on Daddy's shoulders. Then, she got a ride on AJU4's shoulders. During this last part, she actually fell asleep! Unfortunately, she woke before we got in the car... And of course, she stayed up late but slept through the night.

Saturday the guys had to deliver two loads of hay. Both times I took AJU5 out to watch them load the trailer some and just walk around outside. Luckily during the first set of deliveries, she took a 2 hour nap! It was great! And needed! She woke shortly before the guys got back and we had a mid-afternoon meal (the big meal of the day due to the delivery schedule). During the afternoon loading, AJU5 got to ride the loader with Grandpa. She wasn't 100% sure about going with him, but I think she liked the ride! I tired to get her down at the normal hour that night, but the dogs kept barking. Then it got close to when the guys should be back. So, it was another late night for her, but again she slept well!

Sunday was Grandpa's 60th birthday! So, we did the normal morning routine of breakfast, Sunday School, and church. Then we headed to a park for lunch. Grandpa thought it was just going to be the family (meeting AJU2 and his wife there since they go to a different church in the area). But, we surprised him with a big party! We were all shocked that it actually worked. AJU5 had napped for about 30 minutes in my arms at church, but was strong until the end of the party when she crashed in Daddy's arms. She did wake while we were loading the vehicles, but it was still at least 30 minutes of nap. And again, she went down late... although I napped that evening while Grandma played with her :)

Monday was another day of just relaxing at the house. Again the parents-in-law had work, but Grandma came home early to play. AJU3 was also around some, but AJU2 didn't stop by (he had work to do). AJU5 did take a good nap while everyone was gone, and we just enjoyed playing inside and outside for the rest of the day. Sleep wasn't great though. She went down a little earlier than she had been, but she woke around 2:15 and slept with us for about an hour. Then I moved her back to bed. But she woke quickly. Luckily, all she needed was her juice! And Grandma got her up in the morning so we got a little extra sleep.

Yesterday, we had to leave by 8am local time. So, the morning was busy! AJU5 was definitely not sure about us packing everything up again. But, because Grandma and Grandpa were taking us to the airport, she wasn't too worried. We stopped and saw Great-Grandma (who is one month shy of 98). Then we hit the road and headed to lunch and the airport. AJU5 was not a fan of saying bye to her car seat. She was a little sad on the way out, but coming back was even worse! Then we had to go through security. Both ways this was a challenge. AJU5 did not like having her duck, juice cups, and stroller out of reach. Luckily, it doesn't take too long to get through the lines :) She had napped for about 45 minutes on the way to the airport and then napped at the end of the first flight. I sort of wished she hadn't fallen asleep then so I could have passed her to Daddy... There was lots of turbulence on the way down and I almost lost everything in my stomach. But, we survived. The second flight was uneventful other than her behavior issues (throwing things, etc). Our pastor picked us up from the airport, and we got home close to AJU5's normal bedtime. There was lots of crying when we got her. She wanted to go bye. I think she wanted her grandparents and uncle (AJU4) back. It was hard to get her to realize that was not an option... But, eventually she did calm down. And, she actually went down by 8pm and didn't need me at all until 7am! There was only one problem though - I forgot to change her diaper before bed... So she was soaked this morning- ewe! But, I will take a good nights sleep for sure over a wet toddler in the morning!

So, that was the trip. Pictures will come at some point... First I have to find the camera. Then I have to get AJU1 to take them off the camera. This may take a few days...

Back Again

We spent the last few days at the in-laws. We flew out on Wednesday afternoon and returned home this evening. AJU5 did okay flying, but it was a lot of work! She is very strong willed and demanding for sure! Unfortunately, the plane isn't an easy place to just say no because you don't want to have a screaming kid on your hands! But, we are about to embark on some training and discipline for sure!

We were met at the airport (2.5 hours from the in-laws) by my mother-in-law and her parents. They had driven up just to meet us (and then spend the night at their son's on the way back). So, we stopped at a restaurant and ate a little and chatted before heading home. AJU5 had a lot of fun playing with water - aka making a mess! Luckily it was just water...

(I will write more tomorrow - bed time)

Wordless Wednesday - VBS Pictures!

Craft Time!

Corn Dog Lunch!

Asleep in the Pew After Music

Closing - In Her "Chair"

More Randomness...

So, I am back to the random posts...

• AJU5's body didn't seem to like lunch last week at VBS. I guess this is a good thing - I mean it keeps her eating healthier things and all instead of chicken nuggets, corn dogs, etc. But, those are great quick/easy meals! Luckily I am 9.9% sure it was just the food because the icky diapers started on Tuesday and ended Saturday morning. There were some okay ones in there too, after the pizza, etc. Luckily for her, she didn't seem to mind really. She was still happy and all!
• This whole nausea thing is getting old. Last week I was fine. But, this morning at the park I started to feel bad. I felt okay by the time we got home, but when I bent down a little bit ago to get something for AJU5, stuff came up... This just isn't fair! Luckily, Zofran works when I need it. But, I wish I didn't need it!
• Night time sleeping is back to normal for AJU5. She did wake at 9pm last night, but she went down quickly (on our bed). We think it was just a nightmare. She actually fell asleep without her pacifier in our bed too!Now, as soon as I put her back in her crib she found her pacifier, but I don't think she is as addicted to them as I thought...
• Man vs. Food - have you seen it? I guess it is a Travel Channel show, but we are watching it on NetFlicks streaming. It has made me crave barbecue... so maybe AJU5 and I will get some of that tomorrow for lunch...

I think that is it... Who knows... Pregnancy brain is at an all time high today I think...

Week Wrap-Up

VBS was a blast this year, which is good because the theme was Beach Blast! Now, juggling a toddler and games wasn't always fun, but I managed with the help of the teens. Well, the last rotation I was normally dead by, but that was the oldest group and they had all been to our VBS for the past two years! So, they were old hats at this.

AJU5 did well too. She didn't participate in games, but she did participate in lesson and craft when she wasn't napping mostly. And, when she didn't want to participate in lesson, she was content doing the craft she missed! So, I think she will do well in Sunday School in the fall. Her and her buddy are moving from the nursery to class together, joining the buddy's brother in the preschool class (yeah, our church is that small). I am looking forward to being able to pay attention during class until Junior makes his/her arrival!

We also went swimming yesterday. This was the first time I had taken AJU5 to a city pool. She had swam 4 times in a hotel pool, but that is it. I grew up with a pool in the back yard, so city pools are somewhat foreign to me. Well, that is a lie - I lifeguarded at a few for three years. But, I learned they can be crowded and not too much fun. Luckily, the pool we went to wasn't crowded at all. We went with the other moms that helped with VBS as well as some of the teens, so I thought even if it was crowded we would have fun with friends. We spent an hour and a half in the baby pool - longer than I expected she would last with only a 30 minute nap! Only problem - I didn't put sunscreen on myself of AJU5's back. I am in pain now... It is mostly my back/neck/shoulders that don't get sun. AJU5's back is a little red still, but it isn't as bad as mine... Lesson Learned!

Oh, and a follow-up on the last post. AJU5 and I leave teh house daily. At the very minimum we go outside n the backyard and play. We often walk around the neighborhood as well. Other days we go shopping or head to the park. I was just referring to scheduled things that I might want to avoid. As Sarah said, it will be harder with two, so I don't want to get her too used to having something every day :)

Busy, Busy, Busy

Last week as busy. This week is busy. Luckily, they are good busies!

This week is our church's VBS. I am in charge of games, although I have some young teen helpers for when AJU5 leads me away or I get tired. AJU5 has actually stayed with her group at least 1/2 of the time. Her group is actually all older than her (mainly 4-6 year olds), but her buddy E is in there with her. She doesn't like the games so much (because they are geared to older kids) and she normally gets tired of the lesson near the end, but other than that she has stayed with them for the 3 hours!

Last week we did a few fun things because most of the summer activities close around here at the end of this week (and we are busy this week). So, we made two trips to the spray park! We also did some shopping and got her pictures taken at JcPenney. She even had a play date one day while I went to an appointment. All of this was on top of my last week of class (teaching)!

There are times I want to keep up the somewhat busy schedule and other times I just want to have nothing to do. I think she does best when we get out at least some. Luckily, story time starts again at the beginning of September. I am thinking of taking her to two different ones (two libraries) now that she is older and can really participate in the second one. So, that takes care of two days. But, I don't know if I want to add anything more to our plate. I don't want to be running everywhere and be all crazy. Plus, we still have the zoo and aquarium to go to. Once it cools down, I would like to go to one at least every other week... So, maybe I will leave it at that... we will see...

How busy are your weeks? Do you run lots of places with your kids or just hang out around the house?

Not So Lucky

So, the last three nights, sleep hasn't come so easily in the U household. Wednesday AJU5 and Daddy stayed home from church because it was obvious AJU5 was not going to make it to 7. She went down without a fuss at 6:30, but was awake at 11:15. She was loud enough to wake Daddy quickly, so he brought her to bed (I normally wait a little longer to see if she goes back down). After 30 minutes, I bring her back to her room and we lay on the futon. After about 10 minutes it was obvious she was tired but not going to fall asleep with me there, so I put her in bed and she slept for about 30 minutes. Then the crying began again. This time I realized her juice cup was empty. So, I went and refilled it. During this, AJU5 walked to our room and staked her claim on my side of the bed. So I curled up on the floor with the body pillow and a blanket. Before too long, she got down off the bed and led me back to her crib, where she stayed for the rest of the night.

Thursday night she again went down fine - only an hour early! Then she woke up two hours later. It was still light out, so she probably thought she had just taken a nap. She was up until 9 (our bed time), and then she went down without much fuss. But, there was fussing between 3 and 4am. It would be a little cry and then silence for about 10 minutes. A few times I got up, but she was completely quiet before I even got out of bed! Finally at almost 4 she was crying for real. So, I went and got her. Her juice was empty, her diaper had leaked, her nose was running, and she was a little warm. So, diaper and clothes change, new glass of juice, and a little hugging and she was good for a few more hours.

Friday night she agreed to go down at around 6:30. But, she didn't go to sleep. She did dirty her diaper though, so that is probably why. So, we let her watch an episode of the A-Team with us, and then she was good to go! No night crying at all luckily!

Hopefully tonight will be better. At least there was a reason for some of her issues, but the waking up at night is no fun when you do it already a few times because the baby is moving!

Lucky

So, I think we are very lucky when ti comes to bed time with AJU5. She doesn't complain about it one bit! We have gotten her on a 7-7:30pm bedtime schedule lately, and everything is working well. Starting around 6:30 we will ask if she is ready for night-night. She can say no until 7:30 - some times she says yes before then though. All she needs is her pacifiers, blanket, juice, and normally a stuffed animal (although not always). Then she says night-night to us and leaves. She will even play night-night with us. Last night I was laying on the floor watching her play in our bedroom. She told me night-night and gave me a kiss (like we give her). Then I asked for my blanket and she brought the one we use for naps. Then I asked for a teddy. She wasn't successful with that though... she went to Daddy because they were in her crib so he could help her get them. Well, he thought she wanted night-night! So, he put her in bed (everything was already there) and she went down! I just hope we are as lucky with the next one!

Waffles

AJU5 is a huge fan of Eggo waffles these days - it is her breakfast of choice at least half of the time. And when it isn't breakfast, she normally requests it for lunch...

So here is the process of "making" waffles this morning. After she had her requested cookie (two itty-bitty pieces of peanut butter cookie that she requested from the moment I got her out of bed) and some of my juice (I was thirsty when I got up), she asked for "waf-wo" and went to the freezer. I opened it for her and she got them out. Normally she hands the bag to me, but today she determined that she could take the wafffle out of the bag herself. Then she gave the the bag and asked to be "up." So I picked her up and brought her over to the toaster. She put her waffle in and went to pusht he lever down. I rushed to get mine out of the bag and in before she got impatient. Then, I helped her push the lever down - she was happy! Then I went and got our plates. I handed hers to her and she put it on the counter next to the toaster. Then she asked for "poon" - so I got the forks out (spoon = any piece of silverware). I handed her her fork and she attempted to put it with her plate (but isn't tall enough just yet). Then she asked to be "up" again. So I lifted her up and let her watch the toaster. When it "popped" she jumped a little and said "waf-wo" again, very happy that it was done. Then she made sure I got both out and on our plates. She proceeded to eat all but two small bites of hers, dipping it in a little syrup along the way.

She definitely has breakfast figured out! She also knows where cheese and chips are in the house (although we are alomost out of chips and I don't plan on buying more). It makes it hard to give her "good" food sometimes when she can request the okay things! Luckily, unless she didn't have a waffle for lunch, she is up for almost anything then. Last week is was veggies and mac-n-cheese for a few days. I am thinking veggies and lunch meat today for her...

Product Review Friday - Huggies Overnights

AJU5 was having a problem with her diapers leaking at night. She ended up with a wet pajama pants every morning for a week. So, I bought some Huggies Overnights to try last week. After 8 days of use, we have yet to have a wet pair of pajama pants in the morning! The diapers are just as heavy as they were before, but these ones seem to hold the moisture a lot better! So, we are sticking with them.

Now, the only downside of these is that they are more expensive than standard diapers. At diapers.com, they cost $0.39 each versus $0.27 for the Huggies Snug n' Dry (note: I don't buy from diapers.com, but it was an easy place to look up the price!). But, being able to wear a pair of pajamas two nights in a row and not having to decide if the bed needs to be changed makes it worth it! If we ever go on long car rides again, I will be using these as well. AJU5 did leak some on our trip to the in-laws last time... But, we don't plan on driving anywhere for a while!

Have you used these diapers or similar ones? What do you think about them?

Another Random Post

So, yeah, I don't think I can write one post about one thing - just not happening these days. Well, I might be able to get the Product Review post done, but that is about it :) So, now for the "laundry list" of topics:

1. I had my regular OB appointment today. I have gained 17 pounds so far - about 10 in the last four weeks! I definitely need to lay off the sweets and snacks. But, it is something I can do. Plus, AJU5 is letting me take her for walks again (even asking to go), so that should help me keep my weight in check!
2. Also on the OB front, I have decided to try the VBAC. My doctor told me that they will watch me like a hawk during labor and push the epidural. I am okay with that (although I have no problem trying to go natural either). They just want to be able to rush me to the OR if necessary. The main reason for my decision - stairs! You aren't supposed to do up and down stairs much at all for at least two weeks after a c-section. With the bedrooms upstairs and the living areas downstairs, I see that as being a big challenge for me! Yes, I can sleep in the recliners, on the couch, or even pull out the hide-a-bed if necessary. But, I will want a shower pretty much every day, and all of my clothes are upstairs... Yeah, not having to avoid stairs would be nice!
3. AJU5 is eating a little better. We have moved her chair to the table and stopped using the tray. We had offered this to her before, but she wanted her tray back. Now she is happy to eat at the table with us. So, hopefully that was a lot of her issue! We are also working on getting to one noon or later nap. Yesterday was a success - today is a little more challenging because I think she is about ready to go down, and it is an hour too early...

I think that is it... But it probably isn't... I will probably remember something when I am busy and then forget it by the time I am at the computer... Silly pregnancy brain!

Pregnancy Brain

I can't remember what all has happened in the last few days! I know we did things and I have thought of blog topics, but I can't remember them. So here are a few things I do remember!

1. AJU5 is on an eating strike I think. She will eat a good breakfast (half a waffle or more), but then she won't eat anything but snacks for the rest of the day. Today we tried to not let her have snacks, and it didn't help! She did eventually eat some peas at dinner and then some cheese later luckily. I guess she just isn't hungry - but it is a big change from how she used to eat!

2. I am definitely going to look into swimming lessons for AJU5 next year. Today in the bath tub she floated on her back while holding my hands. And she did it over and over and over again (much to my dislike because it isn't that comfortable). She will also float with a hand under her head or on my shoulder. I think I will take her to the pool later this week so she can play! I don't like Mommy-and-Me swim lessons because they don't learn much. I used to teach them, and I thought the parents were wasting their money because they could do those things on their own! So, hopefully we will be able to convince them to let AJU5 in the a preschool class next summer even though she will only be 2.5! I learned to swin the summer I turned three, so I guess it is in her blood :)

3. AJU5 can be a lot of fun if she is in a good mood. Tonight, we played hide and seek (Daddy hid and AJU5 found him while I just laid on the bed laughing). Then I found them laying on the bean bags with blankets acting like they were going night-night. We have also been working on pentomino puzzles as a family - although she isn't much help! It is just fun to watch her learn to use her imagination and grow!

Now I think it is bed time... I am tired and I even got an afternoon nap. Junior is just sucking the life out of me!

Home Improvement Saturday - Exterior Doors

So, a few weeks ago I posted about replacing interior doors. Exterior doors aren't too much different. The big difference is that exterior doors have a threshold. This is usual a piece of metal at the bottom of the door used to keep the weather out of the house. If you look at the exterior doors in your house, you should see it when you open the door! It is what you step over/on to get in. If you purchase a pre-hung exterior door (i.e. with frame), the threshold will be there already.

So, how does this make installation different? It just adds a few steps so you can make the door weather-tight. Once you remove the old door and frame (same process as interior doors - you may need a prybar to get the old threshold up though), then you need to clean the bottom area well. You want it to be smooth as well, so scrape off any old caulk, etc with a metal scraper. Then, if the base is wood, apply some weather sealing tape. It is a rubber material that keeps the water out of the wood. It comes in rolls and is easy to apply. Just follow the directions on the package! Then, you will be ready to caulk the bottom to create a seal between the base and the threshold. Follow the directions on the door as to how much and where to apply it. From there, it is very similar to installing an interior door. Normally you use screws instead of nails (so it is more secure), but that is the big difference. Once the door is installed, make sure to insulate any gaps or cracks. We like the spray foam in a can. It works really well and gets in and around the screws, etc. Just spray the stuff in and let it expand and dry. Once it is dry, you can cut the excess away with any knife.

That is it! So, if you have a tired, worn out front or back door - replace it! You can even change a sliding glass door into a french door fairly simply (hardest part - removing the glass doors without breaking them!).

(I couldn't find a picture of the front and garage doors. The three posted were all sliding doors originally. Only the office still has a sliding door.)

Product Review Friday - Riding Toys

Okay, so I mentioned a while ago I bought AJU5 the Leap Frog Firetruck ride-on toy. Overall, it is a great toy. But, what makes it great isn't the Leap Frog part - it is the ride on part. I think any similar style ride-on would be just as much a hit!

When AJU5's cousins were here a few weeks ago, the two boys (2.5 and 4.5) played with it a lot! So, it is a toy that fits large age groups. We actually have friends with similar ones that their almost 6 year old can still play with (she is almost too big though). For $20-$40, I think it is worth it for sure!

Now, what I don't like - the lack of volume control on these things! AJU5 likes pushing the buttons and all. I don't mind that she likes that part - they are almost all educational (shapes, numbers, colors, etc). But, it is very loud! It is louder than our TV most of the time (i.e. when we aren't watching action-packed shows/movies). Why can't they put a volume control on them? The "standard" volume could be the loudest, but then parents could turn it down some to. Another thing I would have liked is an on/off switch. Yes, you can take the batteries out, but that involves a screwdriver. So, it isn't practical for turning it off for a short period of time.

If I had it to do again, I would try to find a basic one without sounds, etc and save that for another (separate) toy. But, they are harder to find it seems (all of the ones I have seen in stores lately have had sound). So, I will deal with what we have and enjoy the fact that it can keep her entertained for a while. She even likes to give her stuffed animals and baby doll rides!

Do you have a ride on toy for your kids? Do you like it?

Birthday in Review

Well, today is my birthday. It didn't start of great, but at least it was DEFINITELY better than the last time I was pregnant and had a birthday! AJU5 cried at 2ish this morning. She put herself back down, but I woke up anyways. I didn't sleep great from then on. She did "agree" to stay in bed until after 7 though, so that was nice (i.e. she didn't cry or yell before then although I did hear her a few times talking). Shortly after getting her up, I felt nauseous. Yeah, morning sickness is still there! Luckily Zofran did the trick again. After it kicked in, it was like a normal day. I did take a bath while AJU5 napped this morning instead of my normal shower. Then we went to Target. We didn't get much, but we did look around for quite a while. I treated us to a pretzel and soda when we were done. I was going to go to the grocery store and get a cheese cake or other dessert, but I heard her making a mess in the back seat. I made the mistake of allowing her to have the soda on the way. She had opened it and was playing with the fruit punch. Obviously I didn't want to take her into a store covered in fruit punch (mainly because I didn't want to get covered as well). So, we just went home.

I had AJU1 grill some meat tonight - chicken sausage. So, all I had to prepare was the starch (heated up tortillas) and vegetable (microwaved some peas). AJU1 tried to keep AJU5 entertained for me as well, but that didn't always work. At least she normally just wanted me in the same room as her - laying on the couch was fine with her while she danced around! After a little pestering, AJU1 showed me what he has ordered for me - a sewing machine. It hasn't shipped yet (to our knowledge), but I think we might go look at stores to get ideas of what to make first :) I am not a great sewer, but I can do some of the basics and like to play around.

Now that AJU5 is in bed, AJU1 has been instructed to get me a bowl of ice cream (in 25 minutes - time determined before putting AJU5 down) and then I am going to relax. We might watch a movie or just TV - we will see.

So, another year older. I definitely don't feel older. It doesn't seem like high school and college were that long ago until I see how young of them look now! Hopefully I won't feel a lot older next year with two little ones adding grey hairs to my head!

Daddy

AJU5 hasn't had too much daddy time lately. He has had to travel the past two weeks for work and has had to work a little later than normal too (preparing for the trips). So, she wasn't sure about him being home on Saturday after his trip. She clung to me for a little bit. But, eventually he won her over again. We joked that she was mad at him for leaving her with her grandparents while he enjoyed the quiet!

The two of them had to cracking up twice this weekend. First, AJU5 insisted that Daddy dance with her to the music on the exersaucer. It was hilarious watching him mimic her moves! I told him I should get some video fo them dancing, and he threatened to kill me. Hmph!

The second time was when she wanted to pull him around. We have a plastic wash container thing that Daddy pulls AJU5 around in sometimes (ribbon attached through the hole in the handle). AJU5 has pulled her teddies and dolls around in it too (and requested we do the same). Well, Sunday she got the idea that she should pull Daddy! Obviously she is not strong enough, so Daddy had to help. He put one knee in the container and then scooted along behind her. She was so happy! Again, I wanted video but AJU1 threatened to hurt me.

It is so fun to watch the two of them play! AJU1 grew up with only brothers. On his mom's side of the family, there is only one girl cousin and she lives far away (he has never been close to the cousins on his dad's side because they are all older). So, he obviously wanted boys only - no girls. But, he is great with girls! He is great with our niece. I don't know what he would do if AJU5 turned all girlie, but as long as she is middle of the road or a tomboy, he will be great!

What is your favorite thing to watch daddy and toddler do?

Parents

My parents were in town the past few days. They got here Wednesday afternoon and left early this morning. Having them around is a mixed blessing. My dad is great. My mom can get annoying...

Wednesday night they watched AJU5 while AJU1 and I went to church. Mom forgot that I told her AJU5 gets a cup in bed, but other than that, there were no issues. I ended up having to snuggle with AJU5 in the middle of the night, but eventually she went back down and they got her up in the morning so I got another hour of sleep. Thursday we went to the splash park for about 45 minutes. AJU5 had a blast other than freezing. She definitely is starting to get the hang of going through the water now! Thursday afternoon I had my ultrasound (I just told my parents it was a doctor's appointment - easier!) and then Dad made steak for dinner.

Thursday night went by with no issues. Friday morning again Dad got AJU5 up when she whimpered about an hour earlier than normal (I thought she had gone back to bed). After a morning nap for AJU5, we went to the mall on the other side of town that had Build-a-Bear. AJU5 got a kitty, although she was not sure of the whole ordeal! She did fall in love with a lunch box thing and carried it for most of our remaining time at the mall. After Build-a-Bear, we had lunch and then explored the mall. It had a playground area, so we let her play for a good amount of time (holding on to her lunch box of course). Then we checked out Children's Place for clothes - but found nothing! Then we went to JcPenney. I had to get AJU1 some shirts and we looked again for something for AJU5 (with no luck). By this point, AJU5 was done. Bad news - I forgot her pacifier and it was a long ride home witha screaming little girl. She crashed about 2 miles from our house and went down for a nap as soon as I got her out of the car. I got a nap too, so I was happy!

For dinner, we went to a Teppan Yaki place. It has become and annual tradition. My parents come up in July near my birthday because they have a time share in a neighboring state (we are about 2/3 of the way there from their home). So, the last three years we have gone to this restaurant for my birthday dinner. The first time I threw up at the restaurant (in the bathroom luckily) because of the kidney infection AJU5 "caused" in utero (I didn't know it was a kidney infection for another 4 days though). So, last year I wanted to go again to "redeem" what I missed the first time. This year it was just the best option. There is only one restaurant I like more in town, but it isn't pregnancy friendly. It is an all-you-can-eat Brazilian grill! I love the food, but I knew if I had that I would feel bad for a while! AJU5 loved the fire and liked eating with sticks (I skewered her food for her with chopsticks).

So, all in all it was a busy few days. AJU5 warmed up to my parents, but she still preferred me. She always wanted to know where I was. Luckily she napped during my ultrasound and didn't notice I was gone! I did get frustrated with my mom, but I held it in. She is quick to respond to things like other kids interferring with AJU5's play on the playground. Personally, as long as the kid isn't doing anything that could hurt AJU5, I don't care, AJU5 needs to learn to deal with the kids on her own, especially if they are just trying to play too. She also has a volume problem which can give me a headache and thinks she is right/knows a lot that she really doesn't. That is why there is a 2-3 day maximum around her. My siblings have the same rule. My dad understands our rule. It works great :)

Oh yeah, AJU1 planned things great this time (not on purpose though). He left EARLY Thursday morning for a work trip and doesn't get back until early this afternoon. So, he basically missed their whole visit. My brother-in-law was jealous when he heard about it last weekend!

Oh, and as for why I didn't tell my parents about the ultrasound - mom likes to know the gender. We like to be surprised. So, if I had told mom before the appointment she would have bugged me. Then it was just easier to say everything is fine than to explain.

Okay, that was a lot of rambling. But, two full days will do that!

Now to pick up around the house and get things back to normal!

MIxed Feelings

One of our friends from church gave birth to her son this week. She was due a week before with (with Junior #2). It is hard to believe that if I hadn't miscarried, I would have a baby in my arms within the next few weeks. I think being pregnant again is helping me not be sad over this. I can feel Junior #3 move around. I got to see him/her yesterday at my 20 week ultrasound (we are waiting until birth to find out the gender). I know this is the baby God wants me to raise, not the one we lost 7 months ago. But, I still feel weird about it - not sad per se, but, yeah, I don't know...

Then I found out last night someone I knew from grad school (he was an undergrad) died. From Facebook, I figured out he was sick, but that is all I know. The messages about him being sick are less than a week old, so I know it wasn't a long fight. He was a Christian. We were friends at a campus ministry. He was about four years younger than me an recently married. I guess it was a wake up call to me. Life as I know it can change in a second. We don't know when our life here on earth will end. So, we have to make the most of every minute we have.

Happier post to come next!
I will get back to the product review/home improvement things next week I bet.

Wordless Wednesday - MIssion Trip VBS

Hanging out in one of the hotel rooms

Playing in the dirt

Eating Ice Cream - No Hands!

Working on a Craft

20 Weeks (and a few days)...

So, 20 weeks has brought on new fun - morning sickness is now morning sickness and not afternoon sickness! Yeah, I almost threw up this morning. I have dry-heaved the past few days. So, I am back to taking a Zofran in the morning. Luckily, I got a new prescription from my doctor two weeks ago - 3 rounds of 20 pills. That should last me at least two months :) I definitely think it is worse this time around than with AJU5. By this point with her, I was feeling well most days. Around week 22, I had some bad days, but we were traveling and eating differently, which may have caused part of the problem. All I can say is ugh!

Thursday I have the "big" ultrasound. AJU1 won't be able to come because he leaves on a work trip that day. My parents will be here, but I think I will just tell them I have a doctor's appointment until I get back. We like to wait until delivery to find out the gender, but my mom likes to know! This way I won't have her pestering me :) They can watch AJU5 while I am gone anyways!

Oh, and I do have a little baby belly these days. It is a little flabbier than I would like, but if I wear certain shirts it does look like I am pregnant (vs. just being chubby). Unfortunately those tops are three-quarter sleeves and it is almost 100 here today. So, I am stuck with the t-shirts that just leave me looking a little chubby...

AJU5's Room

This is what her room looks like when it is clean. The futon will go when we get the bunk beds. We haven't decided for sure what wall gets the bunk beds and which wall gets the crib though (and eventually where the two beds go when they are taken apart). As you can see, it is a boring room right now - no real decoartions. I want to put at least two sets of pictures up (of hot air balloons) once we decide where the "empty" walls will be. I haven't decided if I am going to hang the "Jesus Loves Me" needle work (in the book shelf now) or not. It was my husband's when he was a little kid, and it is very nice. But, I just don't know where I would put it! Same thing goes for the Pooh rug thing on top of the dresser now - was my husband's and looks nice. But, I don't know where I would put it...

Returning to Normal

Ah,, life is back to normal for a few days. The last week was a blast, but boy was I behind on sleep this morning before a four hour nap!

Last Saturday we had friends over for the Fourth. They arrived around 5:30, we had dinner at 6, let the kids play until 7:30, put them down for the night, and played games until midnight. AJU5 woke up around 100:15 because there were constant fireworks going off in our neighborhood. Luckily, we were able to get her back down after the friends left (with only a few whimpers between then and 2 when the fireworks stopped). Sleep lost: 2-3 hours

Sunday we got up and went to church. Immediately following church, we left for the VBS trip. So, there was no sleeping in! We got to our destination around 4, hung out at the hotel, and then went to church there (6-7). After church there was a meeting with all the groups doing VBS that week and then headed to Carl's Jrs for dinner. After dinner, I planned on putting AJU5 down for the night (it was around 8:30), but she had other plans. She wanted to play with her friends! SO, we went to the late=night meeting and returned to the room around 9:30. She refused to sleep in her bed (pack-n-play), so it was a fitful night with her in bed with me! Sleep lost: about an hour

Monday AJU5 didn't nap well. We had the morning off and then went door-knocking to invite kids to VBS. I tired to get her to nap before lunch, but she refused. She did nap some in the van along the way though. That night we went to dinner around 6 and she fell asleep on the way back to the hotel and stayed down all night. Sleep lost: None (minus a possible afternoon nap)

Tuesday was the first day of VBS. We left around 8:45 in the morning and returned to the hotel around 1:30 each day. AJU5 always napped on the way back to the hotel, but she never slept more than an hour or so. As for bed, I was hoping to repeat Monday. We went to dinner earlier because the teens were going hiking that night, so I guess 6 was too early for bedtime. It wasn't until about 8:30/9:00 I got her to sleep in my bed (again, pack-n-play refused). So, another fitbul night of sleep for me sharing a bed with her! Sleep lost: About an hour

Naps for Wednesday were the same. But, we had church at night! We didn't get back to the hotel until 8ish. And again, she "required" my bed and body to sleep. She didn't drop off until after 9, and like almost every other day was up by 6:30. Sleep lost: About an hour

Thursday morning we packed up 90% of our things before VBS. We didn't leave VBS until later because we had to clean and take everything down. So, we didn't get back to the hotel until about 2:30. I finished loading our car and we hit the road. Luckily for me, she fell asleep about 30 minutes into the trip home. That was 30 minutes of crying, but she did crash. We got home around 5, and had 3 hours before my sister and her family arrived. AJU5 got a bath and then we hung out and watched TV for a little bit. I tired to get her to bed around 7:30, but she had none of it. Finally, around 9, she went down (after eating some more and playing with her cousins). The rest of us went to bed around 10:30. Sleep lost: about 1.5 hours

Friday we went ot he park and played and then hung out inside for the afternoon because it was quite warm outside. AJU5 napped some after breakfast, but then refused an afternoon nap, probably because her cousing was napping the in the same room and he had two of her stuffed animals! After dinner, she was more than willing to go down for bed. But, her cousins woke her up when they went to bed because they were not happy about it (crying). We tried to get her back down, btu she treated it like she had had a nap! Finally around 11, we sent the pack-n-play up in our closet and she crashed. We didn't go to bed until almost 1 because we were up playing Eurorails - a very long game which we just stopped because we were all exhausted! She woke up 3 hours later and came into bed with us. Sleep lost: about 4 hours

So, this morning I was dead tired! I laid ont he couch until my sister and her family left around 8. Then I went back to bed until almost noon! It wasn't 4 hours of constant sleep, but it was still 4hours of resting. I feel so much more awake (although I could still take a nap if I wanted to). Life will be fairly normal around her now. My prents come in this next week for a few days, but it shouldn't affect AJU5's sleep and hence mine much at all. We don't have any other trips planned until August. So, hopefully we can get back on schedule!

Okay, that was a very long post! Pictures to come sometime :)

Busy and Fun!

So, I am on a mini-mission trip right now. We are working a VBS for an unrepresented area (Native American chapter). We left Sunday after church, and AJU5 and I will return on Thursday (the rest of the grou is coming back on Friday).

Yesterday we went door knocking yesterday and did VBS today (three days this time because we thought we were going to be outside but ended up not). It is going fairly well. AJU5's friends from church are with us, so she is having a lot of fun playing with them. She actually spends about 2/3 of her hotel waking hours in their room playing!

THe only downside of this trip is that it has gotten her off schedule totally. Sunday night she didn't go to bed until 9:30 because we didn't get back to the hotel after church until 8:30 and then had a meeting (that she wanted to go to because her friends were going). Needless to say it wasn't a great night sleep (in bed with me). Then she didn't want to nap before the door-knocking. She did nap in the van (with her friends), but it wasn't the normal length! She crashed on the way home from dinner last night and slept the whole night in her bed! She did sleep after VBS this morning in the van again, and she is going strong so far. I bet she will crash in the van after dinner again!

So, off to dinner! I will blog about the fourth later :)

Hope everyone is having fun!

Product Review Friday - Delivery Service

Okay, UPS and FedEx have made changes to the way they deliver things that makes there service terrible! They no long walk to your door, ring the bell, wait for you, hand you the box, and then leave. Now, they walk to the door, put the package down, ring the door bell, and "run" back to their truck as fast as possible. They are no longer allowed to enter homes (safety issue supposedly). That means even if you are getting a big item they need a dolly for, they will just leave it on your doorstep! This isn't terrible if your husband is home or will be home later. But, if your husband is out of town (or you are elderly, etc), yeah- big problem!

Recently we purchased an entertainment center online. It came in two boxes - both of which were very heavy. Then, we had to request two pieces be replaced (no issues there) and got two more boxes, slightly less heavy but still big (side panels). All three times they just rang the door and left. Luckily, AJU1 was only out of town when the side panels arrived, and I was able to carry those into the house. I called and complained since one of the times they didn't even ring the bell, and I was told about not entering the house. And they would remind the guys to ring the bell...

It used to be just UPS that was terrible about leaving quickly with small items. But now it is both and even with large items. It is very frustrating!

Have you experienced this?

Another Good Appointment

I had my check-up today. Junior #3 is doing just fine. Heart rate was in the low 150s (I forget the actual number though). I have the anatomical ultrasound in 2 weeks and my next doctor's appointment in 4.

I gained 3 pounds in 4 week s- better than the 6 pounds in 5 weeks I did in May! Hopefully I am just gaining it all early :)

I did ask about when I have to decide about the VBAC/c-section thing. She said I have a long time (I am guessing September). The one thing she did say is that we would schedule a c-section either way - but if I decide I want to try a VBAC it will be after the due date (since they won't induce you if you have had a c-section). I am totally cool with that.

Oh, and I am glad I showed up early for the appointment - they got be back VERY quickly because the patient before me was late! I was out of there pretty close to my appointment time.

Schedule

So, it is harder than I thought to keep AJU5 on a schedule! I know that if she naps too much the evenings are a bust. But, having a little girl who is crying at everything is no fun either. Two night ago we tried to put her down at 7 - her normal bed time (actually between 6:30-7:30). She stayed in bed for an hour - playing! At the end of the hour she got kind of cranky and we let her out. We finally got her back into bed at 9 - our bedtime! The cause for refusing to sleep - afternoon nap. She was cranky and asked to take a nap. Her morning nap had been cut short by the doctor's appointment, so I let her have another one - bad idea! Yesterday she had an hour morning nap and then a 15-20 minute nap in the car between my work and the grocery store. So, she was still below her two hour nap norm and went to bed around 6:30 without a fuss. Today she napped early - 8:30-10:30ish. Since we won't be home until 8:30ish tonight, I am actually hoping she naps this afternoon! I wish I could keep her on one schedule, but I also feel compelled to let her nap when she is obviously tired. It is a hard line to walk!

How are your kids at keeping to a schedule? Do you even try?

Well Toddler!

AJU5 had her 18 month check-up today. She is perfectly healthy. The only thing we have to watch for is her eyes - there is a small possibility of lazy eye, but the doctor didn't see it when she checked with the eye paddle.

Here are the stats:
32 inches tall (60th percentile)
22 lbs 5.75 oz (about 25th percentile)
48cm head circumference (75th-90th percentile)

She also behaved perfectly (other than shy and wanting to sit in the "chair" again). I was afraid she would be cranky because I had to wake her from her nap!

In other news, AJU5 has mastered putting on shoes. This is not good as we do not wear shoes in the house. Saturday she put on a mis-matched pair - one black and one white. The first time they were on the wrong feet. The second time they were on the right feet. Sunday she picked out her own shoes for church (luckily they did match) and put them on (twice ebcause AJU1 removed them when she put them on the wrong feet). Today she has put on two different shoes at different times, including one that is a snug fit (the others are all a size too big, but she doesn't mind). It will be a battle!

Home Improvement Saturday - Replacing Interior Doors

So, in this house we replaced all of the interior doors minus the furnace closet with solid wood (pine) doors. It really isn't that hard to do - although it isn't cheap to use solid wood doors as we found out (and to stain them)!

Here is how you do it:

1. Remove the trim around the existing door. Try to not damage the drywall when you pry the molding off unless you plan on replacing it (or retexturing like we did). To prevent denting the wall, first score the edge with a knife (to cut the paint). Then slide a putty knife behind your pry-bar to get the molding off. It takes time, but it isn't hard.
2. To save yourself some back-breaking work, remove the door from the hinges. You can either pull the hinge pins or unscrew one side of the hinges - it doesn't matter.
3. Now you need to remove the frame. The easiest thing to do is cut the screws/nails with a reciprocating saw. If you don't have one, you can try to just pull the frame in pieces (we did both actually - neither is too hard).
4. Now you need to clean the area up and get ready for the new door. I would recommend replacing the doors when you are going to replace the floors as well, so you don't have to worry about damaging the floors. The doors should go in first if this is the case. Make sure to vacuum the area and hammer in any nails, etc that are sticking out.
5. Now you can slide the door into place. You want to keep the actual door in the frame - do not remove it until the frame is installed! Get the door centered right to left (or where you want it). Then check for plumb (is the door leaning in any direction?).
6. Once you get one side plumb (both directions), nail or screw it into place. Nails are easier to cover (finish nails), but screws hold better. We used nails via a nail gun. Place nails or screws in two places - between the hinges. You will need to place shims between the opening and frame to keep it in the right place BEFORE you nail/screw!
   
7. Next, you need to make sure the door is square and the other side is plumb (use a level and a tape measure). Once you have this done, you can nail the other side.
8. Now you can open the door and see if it swings well. If it catches anywhere, try to figure out why and fix the problem. The easiest thing to do is cut/break the shims out and then adjust the door. Removing the shims should give you some play in the frame.
9. Once the door opens and closes smoothly, you can finish the door and frame. We removed the door at the hinges so we could stain on a horizontal surface. We have also seen people stain/finish before installing, but you runt he risk of damaging the frame this way.
10. Once the door is ready for use, you can reinstall the trim as well. Agian, if you are replacing the floor, I would wait until the floor is in before replacing the trim so it doesn't get damaged.

That's it. AJU1 actually installed some of the doors without my help, so it is a one person job if you are strong enough! But, two people are handy because it makes the leveling/plumbing easier!

(Picture is of master bath door and entry to master closet. We place on installing bi-fold doors for the closet, but we haven't yet.)

Product Review Friday - Diapers

I have only bought two brands of diapers for AJU5 - Kirkland (Costco) and Huggies - because I like to buy the huge boxes at Costco. The price for the two brands is almost identical, so I have gone back and forth as to which ones to buy. One thing I have learned is that the fitted diapers are better! The Kirkland ones now are slimmer in the leg region than the basic Huggies (Huggies Supreme are even narrower but a lot more expensive). So, we are on Kirkland diapers these days. AJU5 was having diaper leaks during nap time with the Huggies. There has only been one possible leak with the Kirklands - and that was last night. She wore the same diaper for about *18 hours, so I am not surprised! I actually excepted more of a leak than I felt (one small spot on her shorts - not completely soaked) when I got her up this morning.

So, conclusion- look for fitted diapers. You want ones than curve in around the legs to fit better and not leak. I bet they are also more comfortable because the little oens don't have to walk so bow-legged.

What is your experience with disposible diapers?

*AJU5 was so off schedule yesterday. She refused her nap, although she did rest in bed for about an hour (just didn't sleep). Then she fell asleep in the car on the way to Target (around 1:30) and spent 30 minutes sleeping in her car seat there (in the parking lot, sweating like crazy - but we needed a few things so I wasn't going home). Then she wanted night-night at 4:30. I thought she was just going to nap for an hour or two. Instead, she slept until 7:15 this morning! That is why she didn't get a diaper change and didn't sleep in pajamas.

2 in 1: Baby and Tired

So, I have two things I want to talk about. Since I have ideas for tomorrow (Product Review Friday) and Saturday (Home Improvement Saturday), I am just oging to put them in one post today :)

First, AJU5 is in love with her Baby. It is the baby doll she got for Christmas from her Grandma. She came with a bassinet, blanket, change of clothes, pillow, pacifier, and bottle. She had been feeding Baby periodically and carrying her around, but it wasn't a consistent behavior. This past week she started carrying her stuffed animals around. She insisted on carrying a bear almost her size to church with us last Wednesday. One of them must sleep with her at night (she picks which one each night - there are about 10 of them total throughout the house). The last couple of days Baby has gotten even more attention. She has gotten to ride in the tub like AJU5 does (sting attached to Rubbermaid tub that we pull up and down the hall). She got to sit in her musical chair. She got kisses! Last night, they slept together until 1am (when AJU5 awoke, snuggled with me, and then went back to bed - with a teddy bear instead). This morning, Baby got to have breakfast with us. It was not okay for Baby to sit in a chair by herself and just watch. No, she had to have a taste of waffle too! After breakfast, Baby got to swing in the infant swing and then they both went down for a rest in bed together with their "bottles." It is so cute!

In a lot of ways, I am really happy she is caring for Baby and learning what she needs. But, she still throws her and carries her by the feet, etc. So, I hope we can work on being gentle before Junior comes! I also hope she won't be too jealous - she already gets jealous of our friend's 9 month old when I help with him occasionally!

***********

Now for the tired part. The last two afternoons I have been exhausted! I wanted a nap so bad, but AJU5 is not an afternoon napper. She is a morning napper (normally 10-12). I did get her to lay down for about 30 minutes yesterday, but just as I was falling asleep she started to cry :( AJU1 has been working late all week because he has a project he must complete by tomorrow. That means he comes home, maybe eats, and then goes to bed. He is up and gone before 6am, so AJU5 is all mine all day. I think that is why I am so tired! Normally he would be heading home when I am about spent (4pm). Hopefully next week will be better. Also, I hope to move AJU5's nap to the afternoon after the 4th. We have two VBS's coming up that are in the morning. She will stay up if she is entertained (and won't complain if she has friends around). So, I think it will work. That way I can take a nap if I want each day! Unfortunately, that would mean not having as much time to get things done though... But it is a trade-off I may have to make...

Training Your Child

Yesterday's Lesson - If Mommy lets you do something enough, you think it is okay.

I am starting to win the battle on getting AJU5 to remain in the cart while shopping. When she was little and learning to walk, I had no problem letting her out and help push the cart. I knew she wasn't going anywhere. Plus, most of our shopping was at Costco where the items are too big for her to remove from shelves. Lately we have taken more trips to Albertsons, Target, and Hobby Lobby. When she gets out, it is a struggle to keep her away from the shelves! She has also "demanded" to be carried at the stores as well. We have been workingo n the carrying desire at home, but I was afraid to deal with the scream at a store. But yesterday, I got her to stay in the cart with very little crying! She still made exit manuvers, but when she did this, I would back up a little and tell her to sit down. I was far enough away that she could grab me and climb up, but I was still close enough to catch her if she did decide to jump. A few times I had to go and physically sit her back down, but she started to figure it out! Now I just hope she will continue to be well-behaved in stores!

As a treat, we got a pretzel and icee. She got to sit in my lap as we ate the pretzel and drank some of the icee (we finished the icee at home). She didn't even want to get out of the cart when we got to the car! It was such a relief (she got out when we returned the cart with no fight).

What boundaries are you working on? Anything you let you kids do when they were little that you are now trying to break?

Cleaning and Organizing

Yup, that has been the job around here lately. This past weekend I got AJU5's toys and room all done. Her room is now very orderly and easy to maintain. Her toys are mainly downstairs in the family room, and the goal is to keep them neat as well. We did sort them and put them in bins so she only has access to a few toys at a time. She is such a big fan of pulling out all of the toys and then not even playing with them! So, the bins are helping. We make sure one bin is put back (minus a toy occasionally) before she gets another bin. It seems to be working!

Now, to my desk! We have plans to replace it with a new one, but it isn't in the budget just yet (~$550 for the desk and hutch). So, organizing my desk has not been a priority. But, it is really bad! So, I have to start working on it. The biggest challenge is keeping all non-AJU5 approved items out of her reach. The hutch on my current desk is not the best for this actually. But, with bins, it should. So, that is my goal for this week. *I spent about 30 minutes and organized the small items I had thrown into bins before (to get them away from AJU5). The desk looks almost identical now, but I know it is more organized - I can find pens, pencils, and markers now! The rest will have to wait for later - AJU5 is awake :)

Oh, and I promise to post some pictures of AJU5's room this week. First, I need to take them. Then AJU1 needs to get them off the camera and return my access to our server (it is "busy" right now for some reason). But, you can see how it looks and then give me ideas as to where to put balloon things when we get those done!

Finally, AJU1 is feeling better today. There is a high likelihood it is just allergies. I am used to them, but he definitely is not. That is our thought as he woke up fine and I have been sniffling slightly more the past few days.

"Fun" Father's Day

Here is a recap of our day so far:
AJU5 wakes at 11:30pm - I go and lay down with her on the futon in her room for about 30 minutes and then put her back to bed.
AJU5 screams at 1:00am. AJU1 retrieves her and bring her to our bed.
By 1:30, AJU5 leads me to her room and we again lay on the futon. She had led both AJU1 and I to the bedroom and office during this 30 minutes.
5:30am - AJU5 is awake for the day. She wants to see Daddy, and then she leads both of us downstairs for TV watching (one of us is not good enough - that was met with lots of cries).
6:00-7:00 - I dose on the couch while AJU1 studies for Sunday School (he is the teacher) and AJU5 plays.
6:45ish - AJU1 starts breakfast while getting AJU5 a snack. I help finish breakfast when I wake up.
During breakfast, AJU1 opens his Father's Day present - bubbles and water guns. He "covers" AJU5 in bubbles after she is done eating (and still in her chair).
Then, I take a shower. When I get out of the shower, AJU5 is ready for hers (AJU1 had already started it). So, AJU1 and AJU5 both take baths (in separate tubs). After bath, AJU5 is ready for a nap.
8:30-10:15am - AJU5 and I rest. Around 9:30 AJU1 leaves for church (Sunday School is at 9:45).
We make it to church in time - nothing abnormal there (other than missing Sunday School which we did on Mother's Day for the same reason - hmmm...).
After church, AJU1 isn't feeling good. So, he heads home and AJU5 and I stop and get a take-and-bake pizza for lunch.
AJU5 snacks and goes down for another nap before the pizza is ready.
AJU1 and AJU5 both asleep...

It is 2:30 here. All quiet at least! Hopefully AJU1 will feel better when he wakes up. Hopefully AJU5 will be cheer when she gets up. Hopefully I will keep my energy/feeling fairly good up (just allergies and normal nausea).

Oh, and I hate Murphy's Law! Yesterday I returned AJU5's futon to the couch mode because we hadn't had to lay with her in over a month. It made for a long night of snuggling because she liked to lay sideways!
On top of all of this - AJU5 broke out in a rash. At first I thought it might be an allergic reaction. But, the spots I saw got better and new ones appeared. So, I think it is just heat rash!

Product Review Friday - Swim Tops

I wanted to buy AJU5 a swimsuit like this for the summer, but they do not fit her! The problem is the top. I managed to get a 3T top over her head, but it was still quite snug going on and coming off (to the point I am sure it didn't feel good). So, we are stuck with the standard one piece for away from home "swimming." I like the idea of two-piece suits, but I don't think toddlers should be showing off their bellies in public (I put her in two-piece hand-me-downs for backyard swimming). Why don't they make any with zippers or something so that kids with big heads can wear sun-protecting tops? One would think they would want as many kids as possible to be protected from the sun. But, as usual, they don't make clothes for children with large heads. Last year, the 12m one fit her (it was a little big, but not too bad - see picture at top). This year we would have to go to at least 4T for the head, and I think it would be way to big everywhere else when we actually swim.

Have you had problems with clothes in the "proper" size not fitting because one part/whole was too small?

MIssed Appointment

Okay, why can't doctor's offices call you to remind you of appointments? We missed AJU5's 18 month check-up yesterday because I had no idea what day it was this week. We scheduled it 3 months ago, and she stole the reminder card out of my wallet at some point. In the back of my mind, I thought it was Thursday, as many of her appointments have been on Thursdays. But, it was Wednesday... and I didn't call until today to find out (thinking they would call and remind us like they did last time).

I guess what I dislike the most is the inconsistency with the reminders. Some times they call, some times they don't. It is really funny when they call to remind you of your appointment when you made it less than 48 hours before! Hello - I can remember that! It is when I make the appointment weeks or months in advance that I forget. So, I have put the dates on the calendar this time! Back in March our calendars weren't up in good spots, so I didn't think about it. Plus, I hadn't played with Google's calendar yet, so I didn't think about it. I had used Outlook in the past, but I no longer use it day to day because I use gmail instead. So, today I "loaded" the lab to make the calendar appear on the main page and added all known appointments to the calendar. Hopefully we won't miss anything else this summer!

(I was able to reschedule for the 29th. She isn't due for any shots this time, so the date doesn't really matter at all!)

Room Ideas

So, earlier this week I asked Christina from Rockin' the Suburbs for advice on decorating the kids' bedroom. The plan is for them to share until AJU5 is at least 5, even if Junior #3 is a boy (Junior #3 may sleep in other rooms of the house for the first few months though). Here is her reply:
With a blank slate you're set for as much or little style as you'd like. I would keep the crib bumper you already have and get a new sheet to work with the big girl bedding you pick. I think stripes, dots and gingham would be perfect for mixing genders and you can keep it soft and neutral but still fun. If you'd like you can certainly pop a little pink or purple pillow or toss blanket on aju5's bed to give a little girl flair- pink will look wonderful with yellow, blue and green. I would add some softness to the window if you haven't already, a black out shade and fabric panels (which you can use to soften the light if you don't care to black it out all the time) I wouldn't worry a bit about miss matched pieces of furniture since the new baby will only use the baby set for so long. Save for the long term stuff and live with what you have. In terms of the walls my favorite place to start is by looking at Calendars- you get 12-16 pictures for $15 or less- a few I think would be great. Dick and Jane (soft colors) Dr. Seuss- or even what I used the little golden books. Most malls I've been in have a calendar store or a kiosk. Or, choose a favorite book and tear the pages out and frame the best ones. My favorite place for affordable frames and matting is Michael's craft store- they have 40% off sales in that dept all the time. These combined (bedding and art) should last a long time- I don't think either kid will be begging for a change even at the age of 5.

So, I started looking online at calendars because I didn't know the direction I wanted to go. I thought about going geometric "art" with a lot of color. But, the only calendar I found that fit was over $30! So, then I just went to Amazon and browsed through the wall calendars (sorted by price). After about 5 pages, I saw something that gave me an idea - hot air balloons! It fits my liking of geometrics and color. Plus, we actually have MANY digital pictures of hot air balloons. Our pictures range from single, simple balloons to some of the special shapes (there is a balloon festival in our town each year). So, I think that is where I will head. I need to pick out some pictures and then set the color theme. Basically, I could go with any color of the rainbow. I think for decor we will stick with muted primary colors (not quite pastel but not totally bright either). I have always been a fan of the primary colors - my college comforter was color block on one side with primary colors and denim on the other side.

What do you think of the idea? Christina has lots of good design ideas, so check out her blog!