I'm a mom of one 19 month old boy. I'm no expert on motherhood but these are a few lessons I've learned. Maybe they'll be helpful to someone else but mostly I hope I can refer back to them in the future for Baby K #2 or #3 or #4 or #10 (kidding).
1) Distraction can work like a charm. It can stop tantrums and get a toddler to do what you want. For example--major melt down because he wants the scissors or some other dangerous object. After freaking out (which you try your hardest not to do because the object then becomes more enticing to the toddler) you distract by attracting his attention to something more appealing (like daddy, the dog, a toy).
2) Singing is good for the soul and good for getting a toddler's attention. It's also great for getting toddler to sit still for diaper changes and getting dressed. Since I've had our little guy I've been doing a lot of singing--singing in the mornings when I go in his room, singing at bedtime, singing his favorite toddler tunes. I've also been singing songs to help me get him dressed...you put left arm in, you put left arm out....you do the hokey pokey and you turn yourself around, and that's what it's all about...He loves it and now he's at the point where he also tries to sing the songs with me.
3) It's ok to drop everything and enjoy the moment with your kiddo. Don't be afraid to stop everything, get down on the kitchen floor at his eye level and be silly with him. My little boy loves when I get to his eye level and make silly faces. His favorite is my fish face. It's even better when he tries to make the face. The work or whatever it is will almost always be there. It's ok to take a break and enjoy the moment. Good for the kiddo and good for you too.
4) On the same note, it's not only ok for kiddos to get the silly's out. Mommies can do it and it's even more fun when you do it with the kiddos. Dancing, singing, being silly is great. Do whatever works for you.
5) Getting frustrated is normal. I love my little guy to death but he frustrates me sometimes. I no longer feel bad about this. I mean, we are human, right. Some things that usually help to reduce my frustration is to give him a hug and kiss. This works when he gets angry and it works for me too. Taking a break and walking away helps too. The most effective intervention for me is to send him to daddy so that he can frustrate him a little :).
6) Toddlers appreciate it when you talk to them. They may not understand everything or respond but they like it. Whenever I ask our little guy about his day, he rambles on about something. He also repeats what I say to him. I think he feels validated when we converse.
7) Embarrassment is a part of raising children. I just figure he'll be paid back one day when I'm "old." LOL. And thankfully I'm dark-skinned so people can't see when I turn red. Ha! My toddler's new thing is yelling bug. I taught him how to say the word a few weeks ago and he yells it out even at a piece of lint. He yells it out everywhere...church, library, at the dinner table. For example we'll be in church and he'll see a piece of lint (NOT a bug) and start yelling loudly...bug, bug, bug, bug. He continues to yell this until I distract him. There's no warning so he has scared me before with his loud "bug" yell.
8) Toddler tunes on Pandora radio is awesome. It makes car rides more enjoyable. He sings-a-long instead of whining to get out of his car seat. It's also great at home.
9) Carry extra clothes for all. And just in case you forget, being a mess for a few hours is ok. There are worse things in life. Actually helping to create some of the mess can be fun at times, although it's not fun cleaning it up.
10) The house does not have to be spic and span. Coming to this realization was awesome. I still like things organized but I'm less obsessive about it. And you know what, I'm fussing at my husband less for his mess too.
11) Kids change everything--mostly for the better! We had our son when we were ready. He was planned. Hubby and I had been married for a few years. We did some traveling. We even had the dogs to practice. We were very ready but still nothing could have prepared us for the change of life. But you know what we love every moment of being parents and would not change it for the world. Although I always knew I wanted children it was something I feared for so many reason. I'm a "want everything to be almost perfect kind of gal" and I don't like rocking the boat too much especially when I'm comfortable. But looking back my fears were kind of ridiculous and I'm glad that I didn't let them make me delay expanding our family.
12) I am more unselfish than I thought I was. It's amazing how easy it is for me to sacrifice sleep, time, energy for my little guy. It doesn't even feel like a sacrifice because it comes so natural to me. I used to be someone who hated getting up early, now I wake up earlier than my son and wait eagerly for him to wake up so I can run in his room.
13) Kids make you a better person. Honestly! My son brings me so much joy. He makes me want to be a better person. I behave better because I want to be a good example for him. I am more "mindful" about what I say and do because I know there are little ears and little eyes around. I'm so used to cheerfully giving to him that giving to others also come easier.
14) Being consistent is important. AND I still need to work on this. That's all I'm going to say about that ;).
15) Discipline with love. Discipline and manners are important. My Jamaican grandpa always says "bend di tree when it young." You get the point. This is tough but I think it's best to start early and to lead by example.
15) Think of most things as a phase (both the bad and sometimes the good). I remember when I thought my son would never stop spitting up...then lo and behold he stopped. I remember when I thought he would never sleep more than 2 hours then more than 6 hours then sleep through the night. I was proven wrong. I remember when I thought he would never crawl, or walk, or run or talk or....you name it. I was proven wrong so many times. I remember when I thought he would never gain weight because he's such a picky eater...er...well, this is still ongoing and I haven't been proven wrong yet but I know I will be. It's helpful for me to think of things in phases to especially help me get through the challenging moments. Thinking this way also helps me to savor the sweet moments too.
16) There's no such thing as a perfect parent. We have all these goals about the type of parent we should be or want to be. Try your best but know that things will go wrong. Flexibility is important. For example if your kiddo is 18 months and is just finally off the pacifier--IT's OK! You should laugh at yourself for thinking that the paci will be gone by 9 months.
17) Let the past have a positive influence on how you parent. Some people have had horrible pasts and others have had rosy pasts--wherever you lie on the spectrum, make the conscious choice to try to do a good job. Although challenging, even people with difficult pasts can be great parents!
What other parenting lessons have you learned (even if you are not a parent)? I'll include them in my Part 2 of this topic.
And don't forget to laugh out loud once in a while :)
Mrs. K
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Accidentally ran 9 miles today...who does that?
My running buddy and I accidentally ran 9 miles today. I know it sounds silly but we ran the Tobacco Trail which is a common running area in NC (no tobacco is on the trail, btw). It's an amazingly beautiful trail and the other runners/ walkers/bikers are so nice. We were planning to do 6 miles today but my running buddy who usually keeps track of the distance messed up. (I'm "directionally-challenged" so it's not my job). I was wondering why my feet were hurting towards the end. LOL. So, we ran 9 miles and it felt great! The majority of my life I've been a sprinter but I was never a good distance runner. But "practice makes perfect," I guess :) I just feel good and I just wanted to encourage you all that you can achieve your goals and more too.
Good luck!
Mrs. K
Good luck!
Mrs. K
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
What's on my mind?
Lots, but to name a few:
--I'm excited about running a 5K in two weeks with my running bud. We've ran a few times over the past weeks in preparation for it and I think we'll do fine. It's on September 14 but what I'm looking forward to most is running the 10K in the future. It'll be fun to have hubby and my little boy waiting at the finish line for us.
--I love my husband and our son so much. My husband is hilarious and he keeps it light and airy in our household. He's the comical one and I'm definitely the more "serious one." Although I'm not THAT serious. But our son even realizes that he's the cool one. He still prefers me but he goes to his dad when he wants to have fun. Ha! Our son is such a great mixture of my husband and I (personality wise). He is so much fun! I could just eat him up. That little booger told me a few days ago "no no go away" while I was kissing his face and fixing his hair. He's only 18 months! I could not believe it.
--Studying for my Boards right now sucks. It's a necessary evil. I just got done with my training and I have an 8 hour computerized test to take (about all the knowledge I've accumulated in training for the past 5 years). The test is in less than a month. Yikes! I'd much rather be doing something else but since I paid $3000 to take the test, I figure I'd better study so I don't fail. It would really suck to have to pay another $3000. Actually, what really sucks is that I have to take a second part of this test next year for a similar cost. Yeah!
--So yeah, I'm done with training. I've been in school my whole life and now I'm finally done for good. It's an awesome feeling.
--I'm not working right now (for the first time in a long time). For close to a month I've been somewhat like a stay at home mom. Well actually not really. But I haven't been working. I drop my son off at his home daycare in the mornings around 9am then run and/or exercise at the gym, go home, shower, pack lunch then go study, come home, make dinner, then pick up my son around 330pm after he wakes up from his nap. It's been pretty nice because for the first time I feel very balanced.
--My goal is to get a part time job by January 2014 but for now I'll be enjoying some of the free time I have. After Boards, I'll start picking up my son earlier so that we can go the library, park or just hang out. I'm looking forward to this
--Before 18 months ago I always thought I'd be working full time in my career but now I'm so content and excited about working part time. I hate doing a crappy job at...anything. Whenever I do something I like to do a good job or at least feel good about giving it my all. I want to be a good wife, a good mom, and a good career woman. I think that working part time will allow me the opportunity to do that. I also love that I'll still have some time for myself too.
--We will likely be moving some time in the next few months. It's a little frustrating not knowing when or where. No we're not a military family--we're just at a crossroads in our lives and we want to do something different. I know I need to be patient as we wait to hear back from possible job opportunities but it's hard. I keep reminding myself that God has immensely blessed hubby and I individually and as a couple so I should just wait on him and be PATIENT! :)
--I check my weight in a few weeks (since I only do it once per month). I think I'm looking fitter but who knows. The scale may say something different but we'll see. I do feel good though and I think that means a lot. I've been eating better and exercising.
--Although I complained some I'm more than thankful to God.
Mrs. K
--I'm excited about running a 5K in two weeks with my running bud. We've ran a few times over the past weeks in preparation for it and I think we'll do fine. It's on September 14 but what I'm looking forward to most is running the 10K in the future. It'll be fun to have hubby and my little boy waiting at the finish line for us.
--I love my husband and our son so much. My husband is hilarious and he keeps it light and airy in our household. He's the comical one and I'm definitely the more "serious one." Although I'm not THAT serious. But our son even realizes that he's the cool one. He still prefers me but he goes to his dad when he wants to have fun. Ha! Our son is such a great mixture of my husband and I (personality wise). He is so much fun! I could just eat him up. That little booger told me a few days ago "no no go away" while I was kissing his face and fixing his hair. He's only 18 months! I could not believe it.
--Studying for my Boards right now sucks. It's a necessary evil. I just got done with my training and I have an 8 hour computerized test to take (about all the knowledge I've accumulated in training for the past 5 years). The test is in less than a month. Yikes! I'd much rather be doing something else but since I paid $3000 to take the test, I figure I'd better study so I don't fail. It would really suck to have to pay another $3000. Actually, what really sucks is that I have to take a second part of this test next year for a similar cost. Yeah!
--So yeah, I'm done with training. I've been in school my whole life and now I'm finally done for good. It's an awesome feeling.
--I'm not working right now (for the first time in a long time). For close to a month I've been somewhat like a stay at home mom. Well actually not really. But I haven't been working. I drop my son off at his home daycare in the mornings around 9am then run and/or exercise at the gym, go home, shower, pack lunch then go study, come home, make dinner, then pick up my son around 330pm after he wakes up from his nap. It's been pretty nice because for the first time I feel very balanced.
--My goal is to get a part time job by January 2014 but for now I'll be enjoying some of the free time I have. After Boards, I'll start picking up my son earlier so that we can go the library, park or just hang out. I'm looking forward to this
--Before 18 months ago I always thought I'd be working full time in my career but now I'm so content and excited about working part time. I hate doing a crappy job at...anything. Whenever I do something I like to do a good job or at least feel good about giving it my all. I want to be a good wife, a good mom, and a good career woman. I think that working part time will allow me the opportunity to do that. I also love that I'll still have some time for myself too.
--We will likely be moving some time in the next few months. It's a little frustrating not knowing when or where. No we're not a military family--we're just at a crossroads in our lives and we want to do something different. I know I need to be patient as we wait to hear back from possible job opportunities but it's hard. I keep reminding myself that God has immensely blessed hubby and I individually and as a couple so I should just wait on him and be PATIENT! :)
--I check my weight in a few weeks (since I only do it once per month). I think I'm looking fitter but who knows. The scale may say something different but we'll see. I do feel good though and I think that means a lot. I've been eating better and exercising.
--Although I complained some I'm more than thankful to God.
Mrs. K
Thursday, August 15, 2013
Post pregnancy body
So my baby is no longer a baby. He's my baby but he's a toddler. He's 18 months old. I have no excuse. I breastfed for 9 months and pumped for another 2 months. While breastfeeding I lost a lot weight pretty quickly. At 8 weeks I was feeling pretty good about my postpartum body. It wasn't perfect but it was heading in the right direction. I started walking pretty quickly after I delivered but that ended as soon as I went back to work. I went back to work after 12 weeks and since then I've been inconsistent with my nutrition and exercise. For exercise I've done some Insanity here and there but nothing consistent (which is very much unlike me). I've gone to the gym and running a few times but nothing consistent. Our gym is actually great. There are personal trainers, free classes, a pool, hot tub, sauna, and CHILD CARE. I've never used the child care because I feel terrible dropping him off so I can workout, especially when I work full time and he's in the care of someone else.
For nutrition, there was a time period where I ate whatever the heck I wanted. About 1 month ago I weighed myself at the gym (and was not happy) and needless to say I've been working out consistently since then. For the past 2 weeks my nutrition has been so much better. I've been using MyFitness Pal app to track my calories. It helps me to think twice before stuffing my face. I've been eating so much better. Well, I weighed myself today and was disappointed. My weight is the exact same. I'm one of those people who doesn't usually gain or lose weight quickly. This infuriates me because I've been working hard (exercising) for the past month. I'm also one of those people who start feeling better about my body when I eat healthy and exercise. I thought I looked better (even if it's in my mind) and I still think I do although the scale isn't reflecting that. I guess I have to just keep trying.
I'm surprised that I've lost my tummy, although it's not toned. I thought it would be hardest to lose but it's actually my back and thigh fat. LOL. I'm still going to keep trying. I still plan to work out most days of the week (at least 4 days) at the gym. This includes elliptical machine, light weight lifting, abs. I also plan to sprinkle some occasional Insanity workouts in there. I plan to be more consistent with my running. I have a running buddy and we plan to run on one weekend day and one weekday at least. We have a 5K that we will be running on 9/14/13. I can run it without problems but I want to make a good time.
Anyway, my overall goal is to obtain a "good" healthy body before my next pregnancy. I'll keep you updated. I may never look like this again:
but I'll try to come close. I think I can do it. I'll post pictures some time. What did you do to get fit?
Mrs. K
For nutrition, there was a time period where I ate whatever the heck I wanted. About 1 month ago I weighed myself at the gym (and was not happy) and needless to say I've been working out consistently since then. For the past 2 weeks my nutrition has been so much better. I've been using MyFitness Pal app to track my calories. It helps me to think twice before stuffing my face. I've been eating so much better. Well, I weighed myself today and was disappointed. My weight is the exact same. I'm one of those people who doesn't usually gain or lose weight quickly. This infuriates me because I've been working hard (exercising) for the past month. I'm also one of those people who start feeling better about my body when I eat healthy and exercise. I thought I looked better (even if it's in my mind) and I still think I do although the scale isn't reflecting that. I guess I have to just keep trying.
I'm surprised that I've lost my tummy, although it's not toned. I thought it would be hardest to lose but it's actually my back and thigh fat. LOL. I'm still going to keep trying. I still plan to work out most days of the week (at least 4 days) at the gym. This includes elliptical machine, light weight lifting, abs. I also plan to sprinkle some occasional Insanity workouts in there. I plan to be more consistent with my running. I have a running buddy and we plan to run on one weekend day and one weekday at least. We have a 5K that we will be running on 9/14/13. I can run it without problems but I want to make a good time.
Anyway, my overall goal is to obtain a "good" healthy body before my next pregnancy. I'll keep you updated. I may never look like this again:
but I'll try to come close. I think I can do it. I'll post pictures some time. What did you do to get fit?
Mrs. K
Sunday, August 11, 2013
IEK is a year and a half (18 months OMG)
Oh my goodness! I cannot believe my little man is 18 months old. I feel like I was pregnant not too long ago. Time truly flies when you're having fun. Life has been even more exciting over the past few months. My husband and I enjoy him so much and we feel blessed to be his parents.
He loves to walk, run, climb, sky dive off the couch without a parachute. LOL. He loves to throw a ball and attempt to play basketball. He loves splashing around in the pool and bath tub and any body of water, really. We use the Puddle Jumpers as a life vest and he seems to like it. Sometimes he just wants to walk around the house with it on. He likes to climb up and down the stairs independently. In fact, he pushes me away when I try to help. It initially hurt my feelings but now I'm excited about his bravery. He is strong as an ox and when he wants me to go somewhere, he gets behind me, pushes my legs and says "go, go, go." So...we have a tent in our living room. Yeah, I know it's silly but I bought it for my husband a few years ago and we never used it. I thought it would be fun to put it up temporarily so that our little booger could crawl around in it. Well it's been a few months and it's still up. And he loves to play in it. He loves rolling around with his dad in it and dragging his toys in it. Gone are my interior decorating days. It's all about fun and convenience. Well, my house is still organized and clean but just more appealing to kiddos. He can jump (although not very high, hehe). He likes piggy back rides. He prefers playing outside over playing with electronics. He almost never watches TV and he's not that interested into the i-pad.
He's still going to a small licensed home daycare. His caretaker is lovely. She looooves him and he looooves her. He still whines a bit when I drop him off in the mornings but whenever I pick him up in the evenings he doesn't want to leave. He gives her like a million hugs before we go. It's so sweet. He also gets along so well with the two little girls that are also there. I think this was the best environment for him. However, now that he's getting older, we're thinking about putting him into a more formal preschool. We read to him at home and of course we talk to him a lot. She also teaches him a lot too but we feel he needs a little more structure. Whenever we move, which will likely be around when he turns 2, we'll make the transition.
He's a social butterfly when he wants to be. When he's well rested and mommy or daddy are close by he's very social. Always waving hi and bye, flashing a smile and twisting his head to get someone's attention, flashing his 8 pearly whites. These are some of the ways he flirts (lol) or just try to connect. So, he does this thing that we find soooo hilarious. Whenever I take him out and he sees a white guy he points and says "daddy." If we are in the supermarket he'll point to a dozen guys before we check out and say the same thing. It's hilarious but it's kinda embarrassing because he says it really loud and they look at us like we are crazy or they just laugh. My husband says he does the same thing whenever he sees a young black woman. Too funny.
And yes, he's talking a lot. He says at least 20 words. Some of his favorites are dada, daddy, mommy, mama, nonna (grandma), book, baby, cup, dog, doggie, up, keys, kiss, cow, nana (banana), goat, clock, shoes, socks, Eliza, juice, cheese, ice, swing, night-night, bye, hi, hello, more, wa-wa (water), glasses, nose, eyes, mouth, ears, moo, ruff ruff, baa (sheep sound). He can say a few phrases too like night-night dada, love you, bye bye ma. He can point out many body parts including eyes, nose, hair, mouth, head, belly, arms, hands, fingers, legs, feet, toes, teeth, booty (yes, we taught him booty). He understands way more than what he can say.
He's a big help. He loves to help sweep. Whenever I grab a broom, he has to get one too to help. He doesn't go anywhere near the vacuum though. He's a bit of a neat, organized freak. If there's a crumb on something on the floor he picks it up and gives it to me. He closes drawers that I leave open. He'll make a mess with food while feeding himself but when he's done he'll out to me to clean it. Whenever I give him tissue he tries to blow his nose and wipe it. He also tries to clean the table although he makes more of a mess. He helps me with laundry too. Whenever I takes clothes out of the washer I give them to him and he puts them in the dryer. If I'm busy and he's not helping sometimes he'll tantrum but if I engage him in helping he loves it. I know this will not last. One day when he's a teenager I'll be begging him to clean his room. Ha! Oh, he also likes to help me get him dressed and undressed. I still have to chase him down to change his diaper most of the time.
He's still a great sleeper. Bath time routine starts at 645pm or 7pm and he's in bed by 730pm. He wakes up at 630am. We rock him while singing to him before bed but he's usually completely awake when we put him in his crib. He just lays down then goes to bed. Whenever we travel (which has been very often over the last 6 months) it usually takes a day or so to get him back into his routine. He's flown on an airplane 6 times round trip so far. One of those trips was from North Carolina to California and he did fairly well.
He's a momma's boy but he loves his papa too. He's such a sweet boy. He loves to cuddle before bed. He loves to hug and gives kisses. He's always smiling and laughing. He loves being goofy and goofiness (just like his momma and papa, but more like his papa). He loves to read books while sitting in his mama's lap.
He still has long brown hair. He hasn't gotten his first haircut yet. I've been convincing his dad to delay it. The front of his hair is pretty straight although it's been curling a little in the summer (more like big waves). The back has verrrry soft, loose spiral curls. I wash his hair about twice per week (one wash is only with conditioner and the other wash is with shampoo and conditioner). We use the California Baby conditioner. I don't put any other product in his hair. I think he's looking more like me the older he gets. He has big brown eyes and the longest eyelashes known to mankind. He's such a cute little stinker. I just love him! I am so thankful for the life I'm blessed with.
Mrs. K
He loves to walk, run, climb, sky dive off the couch without a parachute. LOL. He loves to throw a ball and attempt to play basketball. He loves splashing around in the pool and bath tub and any body of water, really. We use the Puddle Jumpers as a life vest and he seems to like it. Sometimes he just wants to walk around the house with it on. He likes to climb up and down the stairs independently. In fact, he pushes me away when I try to help. It initially hurt my feelings but now I'm excited about his bravery. He is strong as an ox and when he wants me to go somewhere, he gets behind me, pushes my legs and says "go, go, go." So...we have a tent in our living room. Yeah, I know it's silly but I bought it for my husband a few years ago and we never used it. I thought it would be fun to put it up temporarily so that our little booger could crawl around in it. Well it's been a few months and it's still up. And he loves to play in it. He loves rolling around with his dad in it and dragging his toys in it. Gone are my interior decorating days. It's all about fun and convenience. Well, my house is still organized and clean but just more appealing to kiddos. He can jump (although not very high, hehe). He likes piggy back rides. He prefers playing outside over playing with electronics. He almost never watches TV and he's not that interested into the i-pad.
He's still going to a small licensed home daycare. His caretaker is lovely. She looooves him and he looooves her. He still whines a bit when I drop him off in the mornings but whenever I pick him up in the evenings he doesn't want to leave. He gives her like a million hugs before we go. It's so sweet. He also gets along so well with the two little girls that are also there. I think this was the best environment for him. However, now that he's getting older, we're thinking about putting him into a more formal preschool. We read to him at home and of course we talk to him a lot. She also teaches him a lot too but we feel he needs a little more structure. Whenever we move, which will likely be around when he turns 2, we'll make the transition.
He's a social butterfly when he wants to be. When he's well rested and mommy or daddy are close by he's very social. Always waving hi and bye, flashing a smile and twisting his head to get someone's attention, flashing his 8 pearly whites. These are some of the ways he flirts (lol) or just try to connect. So, he does this thing that we find soooo hilarious. Whenever I take him out and he sees a white guy he points and says "daddy." If we are in the supermarket he'll point to a dozen guys before we check out and say the same thing. It's hilarious but it's kinda embarrassing because he says it really loud and they look at us like we are crazy or they just laugh. My husband says he does the same thing whenever he sees a young black woman. Too funny.
And yes, he's talking a lot. He says at least 20 words. Some of his favorites are dada, daddy, mommy, mama, nonna (grandma), book, baby, cup, dog, doggie, up, keys, kiss, cow, nana (banana), goat, clock, shoes, socks, Eliza, juice, cheese, ice, swing, night-night, bye, hi, hello, more, wa-wa (water), glasses, nose, eyes, mouth, ears, moo, ruff ruff, baa (sheep sound). He can say a few phrases too like night-night dada, love you, bye bye ma. He can point out many body parts including eyes, nose, hair, mouth, head, belly, arms, hands, fingers, legs, feet, toes, teeth, booty (yes, we taught him booty). He understands way more than what he can say.
He's a big help. He loves to help sweep. Whenever I grab a broom, he has to get one too to help. He doesn't go anywhere near the vacuum though. He's a bit of a neat, organized freak. If there's a crumb on something on the floor he picks it up and gives it to me. He closes drawers that I leave open. He'll make a mess with food while feeding himself but when he's done he'll out to me to clean it. Whenever I give him tissue he tries to blow his nose and wipe it. He also tries to clean the table although he makes more of a mess. He helps me with laundry too. Whenever I takes clothes out of the washer I give them to him and he puts them in the dryer. If I'm busy and he's not helping sometimes he'll tantrum but if I engage him in helping he loves it. I know this will not last. One day when he's a teenager I'll be begging him to clean his room. Ha! Oh, he also likes to help me get him dressed and undressed. I still have to chase him down to change his diaper most of the time.
He's still a great sleeper. Bath time routine starts at 645pm or 7pm and he's in bed by 730pm. He wakes up at 630am. We rock him while singing to him before bed but he's usually completely awake when we put him in his crib. He just lays down then goes to bed. Whenever we travel (which has been very often over the last 6 months) it usually takes a day or so to get him back into his routine. He's flown on an airplane 6 times round trip so far. One of those trips was from North Carolina to California and he did fairly well.
He's a momma's boy but he loves his papa too. He's such a sweet boy. He loves to cuddle before bed. He loves to hug and gives kisses. He's always smiling and laughing. He loves being goofy and goofiness (just like his momma and papa, but more like his papa). He loves to read books while sitting in his mama's lap.
He still has long brown hair. He hasn't gotten his first haircut yet. I've been convincing his dad to delay it. The front of his hair is pretty straight although it's been curling a little in the summer (more like big waves). The back has verrrry soft, loose spiral curls. I wash his hair about twice per week (one wash is only with conditioner and the other wash is with shampoo and conditioner). We use the California Baby conditioner. I don't put any other product in his hair. I think he's looking more like me the older he gets. He has big brown eyes and the longest eyelashes known to mankind. He's such a cute little stinker. I just love him! I am so thankful for the life I'm blessed with.
Mrs. K
Sunday, June 16, 2013
IEK: 16 months old
My baby turned 16 months old on Jun 4. I can't believe it. My little boy is getting so big. He'll be a year and a half soon, then 2, then 3...I can't believe I'm his momma. I feel so blessed to be his mom. What a special gift I've received from God and I'm sooo thankful.
My little stinker is a hoot. He is such a happy boy. He always walks around with the sweetest smile (most of time). He's very goofy and tries to get others to smile with him. He's definitely a people person (as long as his momma and daddy are around). He's still doesn't like to be around others without us around. Trying to get him to stay in the church nursery on Sundays is a challenge. It takes him some time to warm up to even his Nonna before we could leave him. He is VERY attached to his parents. Despite us encouraging some "independence" it hasn't worked. But that's ok. We were told that the day will come when he wants nothing to do with us and we'll be begging for a "hello". LOL.
Let's see, he's a pretty good traveler. We've taken 4 or 5 airplane trips so far and he's done awesome. Well in retrospect he's done awesome but at the time, I guess he was aight. There were a few times the air hostesses and a few passengers told us he was a good traveler. The few times he was noisy it worked out because there were other noisy patrons. For example on our way to Jackson Hole in February there were a few drunk snowboarders who congregated in the back (like they were in a club). They were so loud that no one noticed the few times my little man was fussing. Our trips to Miami, Orlando and Panama City Beach went well too. We have wedding coming up in September that we have to go to also. I think he's a traveling pro now. LOL. We are trying to take advantage of the infant in arms as much as we can.
As far as what else he's up to: he's a great walker, runner and climber. He'll open drawers and step into them so that he can climb up high. He loves trying to climb up and down the stairs. He surprisingly can safely climb off the bed. He's a sneaky little man who tries to test limits. It's so hard to not laugh when he does that. It's terrible. I'll tell him "no" and he'll stop then slowly go back to what he was doing while staring at me. I'm cracking up just thinking about it. He likes to color and scribble. Likes to walk backwards, can walk on tippy toes. He's definitely a talker. He loves to repeat words and does a pretty good job. He says: doggie/dog, clock, book, bird, momma, dada, daddy, baby, car, ball, moo, ba (sheep noise), ruff ruff, nay (horse sound), cockadoodledoo (his version), no, shoes, keys, cheese. Understands a lot and signs "more" and sometimes "milk". He's very social with other kiddos. He likes to observe first then join in play once he's felt comfortable.
He's my sweet little cuddly man who loves to give hugs. When I ask him to squeeze tighter he does. He gives the tightest and sweetest hugs. He also likes to give high fives and blow kisses. I love the kissie sounds he makes. His dad and I can't get enough of him. Oh we love when he dances. I know that he knows that he fascinates us because he'll repeat cute little gestures when we squeal in excitement :). We're trying to teach him to say some Jamaican patois phrases without much success. I guess he'll have time to learn.
Anyway, we just feel very blessed to be his parents. He's so awesome and we look forward to many more memories with our little man.
Mrs. K
My little stinker is a hoot. He is such a happy boy. He always walks around with the sweetest smile (most of time). He's very goofy and tries to get others to smile with him. He's definitely a people person (as long as his momma and daddy are around). He's still doesn't like to be around others without us around. Trying to get him to stay in the church nursery on Sundays is a challenge. It takes him some time to warm up to even his Nonna before we could leave him. He is VERY attached to his parents. Despite us encouraging some "independence" it hasn't worked. But that's ok. We were told that the day will come when he wants nothing to do with us and we'll be begging for a "hello". LOL.
Let's see, he's a pretty good traveler. We've taken 4 or 5 airplane trips so far and he's done awesome. Well in retrospect he's done awesome but at the time, I guess he was aight. There were a few times the air hostesses and a few passengers told us he was a good traveler. The few times he was noisy it worked out because there were other noisy patrons. For example on our way to Jackson Hole in February there were a few drunk snowboarders who congregated in the back (like they were in a club). They were so loud that no one noticed the few times my little man was fussing. Our trips to Miami, Orlando and Panama City Beach went well too. We have wedding coming up in September that we have to go to also. I think he's a traveling pro now. LOL. We are trying to take advantage of the infant in arms as much as we can.
As far as what else he's up to: he's a great walker, runner and climber. He'll open drawers and step into them so that he can climb up high. He loves trying to climb up and down the stairs. He surprisingly can safely climb off the bed. He's a sneaky little man who tries to test limits. It's so hard to not laugh when he does that. It's terrible. I'll tell him "no" and he'll stop then slowly go back to what he was doing while staring at me. I'm cracking up just thinking about it. He likes to color and scribble. Likes to walk backwards, can walk on tippy toes. He's definitely a talker. He loves to repeat words and does a pretty good job. He says: doggie/dog, clock, book, bird, momma, dada, daddy, baby, car, ball, moo, ba (sheep noise), ruff ruff, nay (horse sound), cockadoodledoo (his version), no, shoes, keys, cheese. Understands a lot and signs "more" and sometimes "milk". He's very social with other kiddos. He likes to observe first then join in play once he's felt comfortable.
He's my sweet little cuddly man who loves to give hugs. When I ask him to squeeze tighter he does. He gives the tightest and sweetest hugs. He also likes to give high fives and blow kisses. I love the kissie sounds he makes. His dad and I can't get enough of him. Oh we love when he dances. I know that he knows that he fascinates us because he'll repeat cute little gestures when we squeal in excitement :). We're trying to teach him to say some Jamaican patois phrases without much success. I guess he'll have time to learn.
Anyway, we just feel very blessed to be his parents. He's so awesome and we look forward to many more memories with our little man.
Mrs. K
Monday, May 20, 2013
Update on life
Wow, it's been a long time since I last posted and even longer since I posted about something besides my little man. I've decided to stop doing monthly updates and just do random updates on his milestones. I think I've been avoiding this blog partly because I felt obligated to blog about his milestones but I don't have the time to do it. So just to provide a few updates:
Starting with our little guy. He's doing well. He is a lovely little fella with lots of energy. He loves to laugh and play and hit and pull and squeal and talk. Oh, did I mention climb. He's saying a few words now, although in his own way. He says doggie (dog-mm), baby, uh-oh, Eliza, of course mama and dada or daddy. He also says clock (cock, yeah I know). He knows a lot of words and commands although he doesn't know how to say them. It's amazing how much he soaks up. He is sooo loving. I just love that little booger. He loves to walk and run and climb on everything. I have to watch him at all times because he'll get into everything. He likes being outside and playing with our dog-mm, Eliza. He loves picking up sticks and playing at the park. He's more social and will allow others to hold him (most of the time). He still loves his mommy to death but has been gravitating more towards daddy lately. He loves to read, which is new. He's just an all round sweet kiddo and we love him so much. We feel so blessed.
Hubby and I just celebrated our 5 year anniversary. He surprised me with a sitter and we did dinner and a movie. It was nice to hang out with him at night for a change. We live in NC with no family around so we usually don't get much alone time away from home. Anyway, I can't believe we've been married 5 years already. I feel very blessed to be with my husband as well.
I'm doing well. I'm enjoying life and I feel very blessed. I graduate in a few weeks and I'm really excited about this. I've been in school all my life without a break so it's nice to be almost done. I'll be taking the summer off to study for my board exams and to just chill before I start working a real job. I'm looking forward to the summer off. Planning to also use the time to get more fit. Speaking of getting fit, I'm nowhere close to my goal. I've lost most of the baby weight except for about 5-10 pounds but I look unhealthy, no longer fit. I'm not content about this but I'm not terribly distressed either. My diet is somewhat crappy and I haven't consistently worked out. I know that if I shape up a bit I'd be healthier and that's what I plan to do. I've been doing Insanity off an on but I plan to be more committed to it. My out-of-shape-ness wont stop me from flaunting a bathing suit in about one week. We are heading to Panama City Beach for my husband's annual family vacation. So looking forward to it.
We will most likely be moving to another state in late summer/early fall. Hubby and I are both looking for jobs closer to his family. His parents and siblings live in north Florida. Having our son has made us realize the value of having family close by. I am getting sooo excited about the idea of moving although we'll miss all our peeps in NC. Also hubby and I have decided that I'll work part time after we move. I always thought I was a "career woman" who would always work full time but now I'm excited about part time work. I initially thought about working 3/4 time but after talking more with hubby we thought half time would be best. I can still do what I love outside the home but have time for my family. I'm looking into working M-F 8-12. I'm really excited about the possibility of working these hours. I can take little man to preschool in the morning, then go to work. When I get off I'll have time to exercise and still make dinner. I'm hoping I will be able to accomplish more and feel more balanced with that work schedule. We'll see. In theory it sounds great!
Anyway, I'm just really happy and thankful to God for all that he's blessed me with.
Mrs. K
Starting with our little guy. He's doing well. He is a lovely little fella with lots of energy. He loves to laugh and play and hit and pull and squeal and talk. Oh, did I mention climb. He's saying a few words now, although in his own way. He says doggie (dog-mm), baby, uh-oh, Eliza, of course mama and dada or daddy. He also says clock (cock, yeah I know). He knows a lot of words and commands although he doesn't know how to say them. It's amazing how much he soaks up. He is sooo loving. I just love that little booger. He loves to walk and run and climb on everything. I have to watch him at all times because he'll get into everything. He likes being outside and playing with our dog-mm, Eliza. He loves picking up sticks and playing at the park. He's more social and will allow others to hold him (most of the time). He still loves his mommy to death but has been gravitating more towards daddy lately. He loves to read, which is new. He's just an all round sweet kiddo and we love him so much. We feel so blessed.
Hubby and I just celebrated our 5 year anniversary. He surprised me with a sitter and we did dinner and a movie. It was nice to hang out with him at night for a change. We live in NC with no family around so we usually don't get much alone time away from home. Anyway, I can't believe we've been married 5 years already. I feel very blessed to be with my husband as well.
I'm doing well. I'm enjoying life and I feel very blessed. I graduate in a few weeks and I'm really excited about this. I've been in school all my life without a break so it's nice to be almost done. I'll be taking the summer off to study for my board exams and to just chill before I start working a real job. I'm looking forward to the summer off. Planning to also use the time to get more fit. Speaking of getting fit, I'm nowhere close to my goal. I've lost most of the baby weight except for about 5-10 pounds but I look unhealthy, no longer fit. I'm not content about this but I'm not terribly distressed either. My diet is somewhat crappy and I haven't consistently worked out. I know that if I shape up a bit I'd be healthier and that's what I plan to do. I've been doing Insanity off an on but I plan to be more committed to it. My out-of-shape-ness wont stop me from flaunting a bathing suit in about one week. We are heading to Panama City Beach for my husband's annual family vacation. So looking forward to it.
We will most likely be moving to another state in late summer/early fall. Hubby and I are both looking for jobs closer to his family. His parents and siblings live in north Florida. Having our son has made us realize the value of having family close by. I am getting sooo excited about the idea of moving although we'll miss all our peeps in NC. Also hubby and I have decided that I'll work part time after we move. I always thought I was a "career woman" who would always work full time but now I'm excited about part time work. I initially thought about working 3/4 time but after talking more with hubby we thought half time would be best. I can still do what I love outside the home but have time for my family. I'm looking into working M-F 8-12. I'm really excited about the possibility of working these hours. I can take little man to preschool in the morning, then go to work. When I get off I'll have time to exercise and still make dinner. I'm hoping I will be able to accomplish more and feel more balanced with that work schedule. We'll see. In theory it sounds great!
Anyway, I'm just really happy and thankful to God for all that he's blessed me with.
Mrs. K
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