I think voting is a right, but I also think it is a duty. It isn't something we should take lightly. Before going to the voting location, I think people should at least see what they are going to be voting for. The big races are easy. It is almost impossible not to know who is running for congress in your area. The same goes for the governor races this year and the president other years. But there are other things on the ballot that I think people should study before voting.
Where we live, we vote on judges. It is a retain/don't retain vote for each judge. Of course the average person has no clue about any of these people. Luckily, there is a group that polls the people regularly at the court house (attorneys, court workers, etc), interviews the judges, and then makes recommendations. They then publish the results with their suggested vote. The first year we voted here we had no clue how to vote, but now we make sure to read the report and remember who to vote to not retain.
Then there are the bond measures. Normally we vote no for all of them. Although I know places like the community college I work at would use the extra money well, I don't think the increase to our taxes is necessary. The money for the bonds can only be used on capital improvements, and that is not the place where money is needed (with severe budget cuts everywhere else because our state can't balance a budget to save their lives). Also, we are for limited government, so that plays a roll in our decision to vote no on all of those. But, it normally doesn't matter. They almost always pass because people don't think about the fact that they are going to be paying for these projects via taxes... (and it is evident that this is not even publicized based on advertisements I have seen - it is shown as the groups getting money and not as a tax vote).
And lastly, there are the state amendments. These are the hardest some times because of the wording. It would be very easy to think you are voting one way and in actuality vote another way. And the wording on the ballot is only part of the amendment. So, this is another spot where at least a little research is necessary. There was one measure on our ballot this year that I wasn't 100% sure about even after a little study. It was about government appointees and who was eligible. I could see the pros and cons to both sides of the measure, and I just voted with my gut. But, it is definitely something I wish I had studied even more.
Did you read up on the ballot before voting? Do you print out a sample ballot and fill it out first? Do you vote early? Or do you not vote...
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Monday, November 1, 2010
NaBloMoPo Day 1 - Munchkin Monday
Today is the first day of November. And November is National (Na) Blog (Blo) Posting (Po) Month. The idea is to post every day for the month. I did it two years ago on both blogs. Last year I didn't even try because I know with AJU6's birth it would be almost impossible. This year, I am trying again, at least on this blog. My other blog (well, that is attached to this account) should be posted on some this month hopefully, but I don't think I can get 60 posts done this month with two kids.
As for the kids, they are a handful now. AJU6 hates sitting in the shopping carts. At places like Target, I often let him stand in the main part since we do a lot of stopping and looking. I let him down last week once, and he went all over the place. It was crazy1 He even crawled on the lowers shelf of a display. Luckily we don't do that shopping too often. At this age, AJU5 loved to push the cart (since she wasn't walking independently), so it wasn't so hard. AJU6 of course has no desire to even stay with me. At Costco, I normally leave him in his infant seat so he can't escape...
AJU5 is better, but the girl has to go potties ALL THE TIME! There are days she will go 5 times in three hours. So, of course I have had to find the potty in most stores already. Living in this town for 8 years, I think I might have visited a couple of the restrooms at stores once or twice, but that is it... Luckily she is basically completely trained now. We still put a training pant on her at night just to be careful, but she wasn't used it in a week.
Hopefully I can get a post done each day. Tomorrow is Topic Tuesday - and I think I will post about voting in general. We will see...
As for the kids, they are a handful now. AJU6 hates sitting in the shopping carts. At places like Target, I often let him stand in the main part since we do a lot of stopping and looking. I let him down last week once, and he went all over the place. It was crazy1 He even crawled on the lowers shelf of a display. Luckily we don't do that shopping too often. At this age, AJU5 loved to push the cart (since she wasn't walking independently), so it wasn't so hard. AJU6 of course has no desire to even stay with me. At Costco, I normally leave him in his infant seat so he can't escape...
AJU5 is better, but the girl has to go potties ALL THE TIME! There are days she will go 5 times in three hours. So, of course I have had to find the potty in most stores already. Living in this town for 8 years, I think I might have visited a couple of the restrooms at stores once or twice, but that is it... Luckily she is basically completely trained now. We still put a training pant on her at night just to be careful, but she wasn't used it in a week.
Hopefully I can get a post done each day. Tomorrow is Topic Tuesday - and I think I will post about voting in general. We will see...
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!
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Pumpkin Stand
We have gone to a local pumpkin stand twice now. The first time we went with friends (ended up being a group of 13 kids and 4 parents), and today we went alone. And I think the kids had a blast both times. This pumpkin stand is put on by a local youth horse ranch that runs off of donations/fundraisers. The pumpkin stand is a big deal for them because of the funds it brings in. But - it is still FREE! Now, it is about 30 minutes away from us (the only downside), but it has been worth the drive so far.
The first time we spent a lot of time at the tractors/horses. They are right next to each other, so with the large group there was enough room to play. AJU5 at first wanted to ride, but when it was her turn she got scared (which did not surprise me). But, I was happy to get the one picture of her near the horse, and she later petted another one (while I held her). Hopefully she won't be afraid of animals in the near future so I can sign her up to go out the the actual ranch.
There was also a lot of time spent both times at the duck races. They set up handpumps and ramps to send rubber ducks down slides (half pieces of pipe). Of course AJU5 loves ducks, so this was a big hit for her. AJU6 just wanted to eat a duck...
Today we also spent a good deal of time in the corn box. It is like a sandbox, but instead of sand there is dried corn (i.e. feed corn). Both kids love playing in the corn, although they were a little dusty by the end.
So far we have bought four small pumpkins - and I hope to get AJU5 to color them with permanent markers. Then I want to give them to members of our church that can't make it to services, as a way to cheer them up. We will see if that happens though...
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NaBloPoMo - Are you up for it? I think I am going to give it a try. I have the following ideas for each day fo the week:
Product Review Friday
Silly Saturday (something silly from the past)
Sweet Sunday (recipe or a sweet action)
Munchkin Monday (baby blogging or something about them at least)
Topic Tuesday (more controversial topics, etc)
Word(less) Wednesday (either just pictures or a post about a specific word)
Thankful Thursday
Thursday, October 14, 2010
A First
So, I know most of the people that still read this blog are also friends on FB, but I want to add a little to my story about AJU5 cutting her hair (and re-post the picture).
It started Monday morning when I trimmed her hair before pictures that morning. I did the long part first thing in the morning while she watched a show. Then, I trimmed the bangs just before we left - after she was dresses and had her hair in pigtails. Both times I got out the scissors, she wanted a turn, but I informed her it was a mommy-only job.
That afternoon, she wanted to use scissors to cut after I cut something. I reminded her to not cut her hair, and she was content cutting paper. About 30 minutes later, she came to me with the hair scissors that I had put in the middle of the table downstairs. She sat in my lap, and I hadn't noticed anything. Then, I noticed one of her pigtails had a funny piece sticking out of it. I pulled a little, and a chunk of hair came out - only held in my gravity and the pigtail before. Then I noticed the bangs - all trimmed. It took a long time to get her to tell me where the rest of the "trimmed" hair was, but I did find another chunk down stairs.
Luckily, there are only two small patches and then the bangs that she got. The two patches are very close to her (very thin layer) of bangs, so it will look normal very soon. Until then, there will be no pulling her hair up. When her hair is down, I don't think it is that noticeable. But, when it is up, the two patches and bangs are a lot more noticeable. Unfortunately, she isn't as cute with her hair down because it is very thin and hence flies everywhere. Oh well. Maybe in a month...
After
It started Monday morning when I trimmed her hair before pictures that morning. I did the long part first thing in the morning while she watched a show. Then, I trimmed the bangs just before we left - after she was dresses and had her hair in pigtails. Both times I got out the scissors, she wanted a turn, but I informed her it was a mommy-only job.
That afternoon, she wanted to use scissors to cut after I cut something. I reminded her to not cut her hair, and she was content cutting paper. About 30 minutes later, she came to me with the hair scissors that I had put in the middle of the table downstairs. She sat in my lap, and I hadn't noticed anything. Then, I noticed one of her pigtails had a funny piece sticking out of it. I pulled a little, and a chunk of hair came out - only held in my gravity and the pigtail before. Then I noticed the bangs - all trimmed. It took a long time to get her to tell me where the rest of the "trimmed" hair was, but I did find another chunk down stairs.
Luckily, there are only two small patches and then the bangs that she got. The two patches are very close to her (very thin layer) of bangs, so it will look normal very soon. Until then, there will be no pulling her hair up. When her hair is down, I don't think it is that noticeable. But, when it is up, the two patches and bangs are a lot more noticeable. Unfortunately, she isn't as cute with her hair down because it is very thin and hence flies everywhere. Oh well. Maybe in a month...
Before
AfterThursday, 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?
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Association
Walking home from the park:
Me: AJU5, watch where you are walking there is doggie stinky.
AJU5 looks at me and is completely confused.
Me: AJU5, you are almost stepping in doggie stinky.
AJU5 finally looks down and sees it.
Closer to home - after seeing a dog:
AJU5: Puppy went stinky. Puppy needs to go potty.
Me: Most dogs don't use potties. They just go in the grass, and normally their mommy or daddy cleans up after them.
AJU5 (after seeing another dog): Puppy needs to go stinky. Mommy and daddy clean up.
Now she thinks all dogs need to go to the bathroom... Maybe I shouldn't have even gone in that direction and just moved her...
Me: AJU5, watch where you are walking there is doggie stinky.
AJU5 looks at me and is completely confused.
Me: AJU5, you are almost stepping in doggie stinky.
AJU5 finally looks down and sees it.
Closer to home - after seeing a dog:
AJU5: Puppy went stinky. Puppy needs to go potty.
Me: Most dogs don't use potties. They just go in the grass, and normally their mommy or daddy cleans up after them.
AJU5 (after seeing another dog): Puppy needs to go stinky. Mommy and daddy clean up.
Now she thinks all dogs need to go to the bathroom... Maybe I shouldn't have even gone in that direction and just moved her...
Monday, October 4, 2010
On the Move
AJU6, at 10 months 1 day, took his first steps last Monday. Since then, he has increased to 5-6 steps in a row before falling down. The boy is definitely going to beat his sister to the independent walking stage, since she didn't get there until 13-14 months.
He has also learned to clap and has started to use it to get our attention. If he is done eating and has started to exit his chair, he claps half the time to "inform" us of his accomplishment.
It is fun to watch him grow. He is definitely doing things differently than his sister, and I bet part of it is because he has a role model. The other part is that he is boy.
AJU5 is a hoot these days too. She was "performing" for her daddy last night - singing songs for him to record. Her two favorites right now are ABCs and the Cubbies song. Now if only she would sing the Cubbies song at Cubbies class...
Sleep hasn't improved much. AJU6 can't have too much diary or his belly gets upset. And he doesn't like meat, so his diet is fruits, veggies, and starches mostly (and bm). None of these things really fill him up. So, Luckily he gets that one big stretch of sleep at night OR does 3 hours stretches. So, I am not a complete zombie.
Well, this post just went completely random... Maybe next time I can stick to my title :)
He has also learned to clap and has started to use it to get our attention. If he is done eating and has started to exit his chair, he claps half the time to "inform" us of his accomplishment.
It is fun to watch him grow. He is definitely doing things differently than his sister, and I bet part of it is because he has a role model. The other part is that he is boy.
AJU5 is a hoot these days too. She was "performing" for her daddy last night - singing songs for him to record. Her two favorites right now are ABCs and the Cubbies song. Now if only she would sing the Cubbies song at Cubbies class...
Sleep hasn't improved much. AJU6 can't have too much diary or his belly gets upset. And he doesn't like meat, so his diet is fruits, veggies, and starches mostly (and bm). None of these things really fill him up. So, Luckily he gets that one big stretch of sleep at night OR does 3 hours stretches. So, I am not a complete zombie.
Well, this post just went completely random... Maybe next time I can stick to my title :)
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Yawn!
Between my two kids - I am tired! AJU5 has become an early bird most days. I am lucky to get to stay in bed past 6:30. This morning, she arrived at our bed around 5am - before AJU1 got up for the day. And, shortly after he left for work, she demanded I get out of bed too. It wasn't even 6am... Luckily her routine is to watch a show in the morning. So, twice this week I have gotten to snooze while she watches Veggie Tales "with me."
Then, you add AJU6 and his terrible sleeping. At 10 months old, he still wakes 3 times a night to nurse. The first two are on about 2 to 2.5 hour increments. Then, he sleeps for about 4 hours and then until he is woken up (or around 7am if AJU5 is actually quiet). I so wish he would sleep better. But, crying it out doesn't seem to be an option. Sometimes I let him fuss for a few minutes while I try to convince myself it isn't him I hear. But, he just gets louder. And, he throws all of his pacifiers out of his bed. So, his main comfort items are not available if he were to give up and try to go to sleep.
So, last night I thought I would try a little formula. Since the smallest "dosage" you can do with the powder is 2 ounces, that is what I tried. And guess what - he refused it! He took a few sips at his first two feedings, but he only drank 1 ounce total. Some of it may have been that it was cold (since I used the filtered water from the fridge). So, tonight I am going to try again. I am also going to try mixing a little bm in to see if that helps. I tried giving him the bottle, then letting him nurse, then when he was ready to switch sides, I tried the bottle again. But, by the second feeding, he was having none of it. And since he is really nursing, not just seeking comfort, I think he is actually hungry. Ugh! Hopefully by 15 months he will be sleeping through the night...
At least yhey both take decent naps right now so I can get a veg period each day!
Then, you add AJU6 and his terrible sleeping. At 10 months old, he still wakes 3 times a night to nurse. The first two are on about 2 to 2.5 hour increments. Then, he sleeps for about 4 hours and then until he is woken up (or around 7am if AJU5 is actually quiet). I so wish he would sleep better. But, crying it out doesn't seem to be an option. Sometimes I let him fuss for a few minutes while I try to convince myself it isn't him I hear. But, he just gets louder. And, he throws all of his pacifiers out of his bed. So, his main comfort items are not available if he were to give up and try to go to sleep.
So, last night I thought I would try a little formula. Since the smallest "dosage" you can do with the powder is 2 ounces, that is what I tried. And guess what - he refused it! He took a few sips at his first two feedings, but he only drank 1 ounce total. Some of it may have been that it was cold (since I used the filtered water from the fridge). So, tonight I am going to try again. I am also going to try mixing a little bm in to see if that helps. I tried giving him the bottle, then letting him nurse, then when he was ready to switch sides, I tried the bottle again. But, by the second feeding, he was having none of it. And since he is really nursing, not just seeking comfort, I think he is actually hungry. Ugh! Hopefully by 15 months he will be sleeping through the night...
At least yhey both take decent naps right now so I can get a veg period each day!
Friday, September 24, 2010
Helicopter...
Last night I realized at times I am a helicopter parent. And I am not a huge fan of it.
I am totally not a helicopter parent when we are at home or with close friends. But I am when we are not in our norm. Cubbies is one of those places - and even then it is only in certain situations.
I don't helicopter during play time. I do little to no helicoptering during craft. But, other times I am right there with her making sure she "performs" as she should. Some of it is justified - she is younger than all the others by up to 2+ years (Cubbies is for Pre-K, so a few just turned 5, but most are 3 or 4). She is shy and hasn't had a lot of "social school" time. So, if I am not there, she may not do as asked. If I am not there for a few parts of the night (story, opening, etc), she will scream and cry. So, those are times I need to be there still. Luckily, she is getting used to the way things work, and she is starting to not fight me. But, if they loose her attention, she melts...
Then there is book time when they need to say their verses. I think she is warming up to the leader a little, but he was gone last night. And she is one of two kids using a different Bible version that the rest, so I don't want them to confuse her/think she isn't saying it right. So, I helicopter. My goal, now that I have realized it, is to back away a little and see what happens. I want to wait until she doesn't respond to them to step in and help. Hopefully that will work next week...
And I think some of it is that I want to show people what she can do. She is doing the "extra credit" mainly because she is good at memorizing verses. She still has the one memorized back in August at the front of her brain (and will tell it to us all the time). So, having her recite three "old" verses isn't a problem. The second half of the extra credit is sometimes a challenge because it is putting the week's lesson into action/making it tangible. Some concepts are harder for her, but I think without even trying, she would get less than she does with our sometimes-half-completed attempts.
So, there you go. That is how Cubbies is going. The end...
I am totally not a helicopter parent when we are at home or with close friends. But I am when we are not in our norm. Cubbies is one of those places - and even then it is only in certain situations.
I don't helicopter during play time. I do little to no helicoptering during craft. But, other times I am right there with her making sure she "performs" as she should. Some of it is justified - she is younger than all the others by up to 2+ years (Cubbies is for Pre-K, so a few just turned 5, but most are 3 or 4). She is shy and hasn't had a lot of "social school" time. So, if I am not there, she may not do as asked. If I am not there for a few parts of the night (story, opening, etc), she will scream and cry. So, those are times I need to be there still. Luckily, she is getting used to the way things work, and she is starting to not fight me. But, if they loose her attention, she melts...
Then there is book time when they need to say their verses. I think she is warming up to the leader a little, but he was gone last night. And she is one of two kids using a different Bible version that the rest, so I don't want them to confuse her/think she isn't saying it right. So, I helicopter. My goal, now that I have realized it, is to back away a little and see what happens. I want to wait until she doesn't respond to them to step in and help. Hopefully that will work next week...
And I think some of it is that I want to show people what she can do. She is doing the "extra credit" mainly because she is good at memorizing verses. She still has the one memorized back in August at the front of her brain (and will tell it to us all the time). So, having her recite three "old" verses isn't a problem. The second half of the extra credit is sometimes a challenge because it is putting the week's lesson into action/making it tangible. Some concepts are harder for her, but I think without even trying, she would get less than she does with our sometimes-half-completed attempts.
So, there you go. That is how Cubbies is going. The end...
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Searching for an Answer
AJU6 has had some not-so=pretty diapers lately. And now, I am searching for an answer! Is it the yogurt I started feeding him? Is it the cheese he has started eating (and loving)? Is it because he is nursing more lately?
Ugh! It isn't fun. And using cloth diapers is a mixed blessing in this case. I may have not noticed the change in the diapers as much if we were using disposables. It isn't diarrhea, but instead just more like infant poo. With the cloth diapers, I am having to rinse them off instead of just "dropping" the dirty into the toilet like I had been able to. And of course rinsing isn't that much fun.
So, now i have limited AJU6's diet a lot. He is going to eat cheerios, organic animal crackers, banana, and possibly some peas and corn until he is 'back to normal" (with the standard nursing on demand). Hopefully he will be "back to normal" soon. Hopefully it is just too much diary or teething that is causing him to be a little grumpier than normal...
Ugh! It isn't fun. And using cloth diapers is a mixed blessing in this case. I may have not noticed the change in the diapers as much if we were using disposables. It isn't diarrhea, but instead just more like infant poo. With the cloth diapers, I am having to rinse them off instead of just "dropping" the dirty into the toilet like I had been able to. And of course rinsing isn't that much fun.
So, now i have limited AJU6's diet a lot. He is going to eat cheerios, organic animal crackers, banana, and possibly some peas and corn until he is 'back to normal" (with the standard nursing on demand). Hopefully he will be "back to normal" soon. Hopefully it is just too much diary or teething that is causing him to be a little grumpier than normal...
Monday, September 20, 2010
An Update - From AJU5
You might remember that I posted my to-dos for this year way back in January. I thought I would let you know where I am on those:
- Learn my letters and numbers.
The letters are DONE! I know them all, and I can even say what sound most of them make. Mommy and Daddy also say I am starting to sound out some words. On the number side of things, I am a little slower. I can count things fairly well, but I don't know all of my numbers just yet. I do know some of them though.
- Learn to use the potty.
Done! I still wear diapers at night, but I rarely have an accident these days (except at night when I am sleeping). And, if I do have an accident, it is in the bathroom. I even made it to the state fair without an accident! - Sleep in my big girl bed all the time.
Done Again! Well, I occasionally sleep in Mommy and Daddy's bed, especially for naps, but I don't sleep in a baby bed (crib) at all. - Take swimming lessons.
Nope. Didn't happen. Mommy said I am too clingy to try this past summer. But, we did get to swim some, and I liked that. Next summer I will do swim lessons though! - Visit Grandpa's farm and Grampy's lake.
Well, I got to go to Grandpa's farm this summer, but we didn't go to Grampy's lake. Something about a feud between some of Mommy's family, so she didn't want to try to go. But, we will be there before the new year. I just won't get to actually swim in the lake until next summer. But, Grandpa's farm was fun - I got to "ride" on a bunch of tractors and play with water.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
9 Years Ago
Nine years ago, I got up just like normal. I started the day just like normal. I walked to school. I taught my first class of the day (as a graduate student). I went to my second class directly from the first class and was greeted with what I thought was a weird question:
"Are we having class today?"
I had no clue what had happened. It all started minutes before my first class. So, none of us in that room had any idea. I had to ask the students to explainw hat had happened, and even then I really didn't complete grasp what had gone on.
We went through the second class fairly quickly, and I let them go early and returned to the building where my office was. I talked to the other grad students with offices near me, and I learned a little more. Then we headed upstairs to the main office for our department and saw some of it on the TV. Then it truly hit me what had happened and what was going on.
I don't think I will ever forget that day. Just like our grandparents probably won't forget Pearl Harbor, many of us have 9/11. But, I wonder how much the events of that day have really changed our country. I wonder how much that day really changed each one of us. For some people, I don't think it changed them at all. For others, it is a huge change. And, there are those like me who were changed some but not too much because it didn't "hit" close to home.
What about you?
"Are we having class today?"
I had no clue what had happened. It all started minutes before my first class. So, none of us in that room had any idea. I had to ask the students to explainw hat had happened, and even then I really didn't complete grasp what had gone on.
We went through the second class fairly quickly, and I let them go early and returned to the building where my office was. I talked to the other grad students with offices near me, and I learned a little more. Then we headed upstairs to the main office for our department and saw some of it on the TV. Then it truly hit me what had happened and what was going on.
I don't think I will ever forget that day. Just like our grandparents probably won't forget Pearl Harbor, many of us have 9/11. But, I wonder how much the events of that day have really changed our country. I wonder how much that day really changed each one of us. For some people, I don't think it changed them at all. For others, it is a huge change. And, there are those like me who were changed some but not too much because it didn't "hit" close to home.
What about you?
Friday, September 10, 2010
Product Review Friday - PlaySet
After MONTHS of searching, and looking, and waiting, and looking, and researching and ... we finally bought a playset for the back yard. We knew we wanted wood with three swing spots, a slide, and a few climbing options. That was the easy part. The hard part was finding what we wanted in stock at a reasonable price. First we considered one brand that turned out to be EXPENSIVE - twice the price for a similar system. That brand is probably the best built, but we didn't think it was worth that price (they have some systems that cost more than an average new SUV...).
Then we found something we liked on Sam's Club's website that was out of stock. They said they would be back in at the beginning of June (or end of May - I don't remember). By the time they were back in stock, we realized it was 2x4 construction - something we didn't like. So, we started looking again. Then we found one we liked at Costco.com. But, by the time we decided to buy it, it was out of stock. We waited, contacted both the manufacturer and Costco, and finally gave up because it didn't look like it would be back in stock this year. So, the search continued. We found two that we liked - one at Home Depot and one at Costco - next. Then we spent some time laying them out in our yard, talking, and finally we were close to a final decision. AJU1 looked at them again online, and the one at Costco was no longer on sale (but still available). The one at Home Depot was now on sale, and it was the one we were leaning to anyways. So, we bought it.
It is a Gorilla playset, and we think it is just fine for our yard. The wood isn't perfect, but we knew that was likely (after reading reviews of every playset in the $1500 price range, we knew what to expect). It went together fairly easily, and the kids like it. AJU5 is happy with it, and AJU6 even likes some parts too.
The biggest hits for AJU5 are the swing, wheel, and telescope. She refuses to slide, but she will try everything else. AJU6 likes to play in the fort part and occasionally likes the slide. We got him a swing (LittleTykes), and he isn't sure about it. But, AJU5 likes it (we can swing her really high in it). Hopefully the playset will grow with them and will be something they can explore ON THEIR OWN before too long :)
Then we found something we liked on Sam's Club's website that was out of stock. They said they would be back in at the beginning of June (or end of May - I don't remember). By the time they were back in stock, we realized it was 2x4 construction - something we didn't like. So, we started looking again. Then we found one we liked at Costco.com. But, by the time we decided to buy it, it was out of stock. We waited, contacted both the manufacturer and Costco, and finally gave up because it didn't look like it would be back in stock this year. So, the search continued. We found two that we liked - one at Home Depot and one at Costco - next. Then we spent some time laying them out in our yard, talking, and finally we were close to a final decision. AJU1 looked at them again online, and the one at Costco was no longer on sale (but still available). The one at Home Depot was now on sale, and it was the one we were leaning to anyways. So, we bought it.
It is a Gorilla playset, and we think it is just fine for our yard. The wood isn't perfect, but we knew that was likely (after reading reviews of every playset in the $1500 price range, we knew what to expect). It went together fairly easily, and the kids like it. AJU5 is happy with it, and AJU6 even likes some parts too.
The biggest hits for AJU5 are the swing, wheel, and telescope. She refuses to slide, but she will try everything else. AJU6 likes to play in the fort part and occasionally likes the slide. We got him a swing (LittleTykes), and he isn't sure about it. But, AJU5 likes it (we can swing her really high in it). Hopefully the playset will grow with them and will be something they can explore ON THEIR OWN before too long :)
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
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...
Friday, September 3, 2010
Cubbie!
She still isn't used to the format of Awana though. The group she is in starts with play time while everyone arrives. Then, they do a big group time with a puppet story, Bible story, and song. After that,t hey rotate through three stations - book/snack, craft, and game. The hardest thing for AJU5 is she doesn't always want to leave one activity - especially the play time with the play kitchen. Also, it ends right beofre her bedtime, so the closing time at the very end can be a struggle too. But, I think she is getting more and more comfortable with it. And, it doesn't hurt that her best friend is also in the class with her (and we make sure they are in the same rotation group). She was a little sad when her friends little brother (a very close second on the best friend status) didn't get to go with them this week. He is a Puggle, and he had to go to his class!
This morning the first thing she asked AJU1 for was her book and vest. She asked for them before juice, milk, and morning snack even. So, hopefully next Thursday will run even smoother for her!
Verses:
1 John 4:10 - God lvoed us and sent His Son.
Romans 3:23 - All have sinned.
Romans 5;8 - While we were sinners, Christ died for us.
Cubbies Motto; Jesus loves me.
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...
Monday, August 30, 2010
I guess someone made a mistake
AJU6 is now 9 months old, and he is as active as can be. He can stand on his own, and just this weekend figured out how to push a toy around while standing. I wouldn't not be surprised if he was truly walking before a year.
At his check-up, he weighed 15 lbs 11.25 oz and was 27 inches long. I didn't look at the growth chart too quickly, but whoever plotted it must have been wrong. Our pediatrician said he was 25th percentile in weight and 10th in height. But, he weighs less than his sister did at 9 months, and she was 10th percentile in weight! I checked online, and it shows him less than 5th percentile. Part of me wonders if the number they wrote on our paper is wrong, as he doesn't look that skinny. It actually looks like he is a little chubbier than he was at 6 months. But I don't know. He is healthy and that is all that matters.
He isn't a talker just yet, but either was his sister. Neither of them waved, but I think it is more because we aren't wavers around here. I often wonder why that is always one of the milestones they ask about - I bet kids in other parts of the world don't wave either. But again I know he understands us and he is communicating in his own way. You should see how he reacts when he sees his crackers! He is definitely telling us that is what he wants.
Enough of the rambling. It is just one of those kind of days. First day of the Fall term, stayed up too late last night, and have been busy all day... But, all is good :)
At his check-up, he weighed 15 lbs 11.25 oz and was 27 inches long. I didn't look at the growth chart too quickly, but whoever plotted it must have been wrong. Our pediatrician said he was 25th percentile in weight and 10th in height. But, he weighs less than his sister did at 9 months, and she was 10th percentile in weight! I checked online, and it shows him less than 5th percentile. Part of me wonders if the number they wrote on our paper is wrong, as he doesn't look that skinny. It actually looks like he is a little chubbier than he was at 6 months. But I don't know. He is healthy and that is all that matters.
He isn't a talker just yet, but either was his sister. Neither of them waved, but I think it is more because we aren't wavers around here. I often wonder why that is always one of the milestones they ask about - I bet kids in other parts of the world don't wave either. But again I know he understands us and he is communicating in his own way. You should see how he reacts when he sees his crackers! He is definitely telling us that is what he wants.
Enough of the rambling. It is just one of those kind of days. First day of the Fall term, stayed up too late last night, and have been busy all day... But, all is good :)
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