How is everyone doing? Things are going well here...moving right along as always! Let me catch you up...
~I finished my first semester of teaching classes for my license and did well with an "A" and an "A+" I'm off for the summer and will return for another two classes in August.
~I had been training for a half marathon which I completed on Sunday @ 2:40:40. While I am very glad I did it, I am also glad it is over with. The last few weeks of hard training meant more evening time away from Autumn & the hubby. I'm glad we have our evenings back.
~Autumn is now 15 months! At her checkup she was 31in (2 inches in 3 months!) so she's pretty tall. No one us surprised by this. She's also 22.4lbs, which means she gained exactly 2 pounds in 3 months. She received a few shots. We'll return at 18 months for a regular checkup and to get the MMR vaccine.
~I will officially call my daughter a walker - FINALLY! She took her first steps several months ago, although the exact date I couldn't tell you. (Does that make me a bad mom?) It just kinda happened. But she never wanted to walk. She didn't "keep it up." I called it laziness...because she knew how to, but she didn't have the "want to." And while she's continued to practice and cruise furniture, only in the past few days has she actually started walking consistently around the house, from furniture to people, standing up in the middle of the room and walking to where she wants to be, etc. This makes us very happy! And she seems to realize that she can get where she wants to a little more comfortably without skinning her knees!
~She dislikes her diaper getting changed and often fights me. Brat.
~She MUST have a person's undivided attention in the car or she proceeds to YELL. I don't mean scream, or cry, I mean just YELL...ramble on at the top of her voice for no particular need other than for you to turn around and say, "What can I do for you?" It's rather annoying sometimes and has given me a headache. While I love she's learning to use her voice, THIS is not what I expected nor hoped for.
~I will have to write a separate post about the day I wanted to start potty training her...that was awful!
~She says: Fish ("ish"), Dad ("Da"), Mom ("mamamamamamamamama" and ONLY when she wants something), Dog ("woof"), Cat ("meow"), Elise ("eese"), and SH! ("shhhhhh") and she's getting better at saying Ball, Duck, Clock (you can imagine how that one comes out! lol) and a few others
~She sign languages for "more" and "please" all the time now!
~This weekend we're headed to the beach. Although we did take her out last summer, this will be her first real weekend at the beach where she will be exploring the sand and water with knowledge of what it all is. We're very excited. Note to self: still need to buy that sunscreen!
~She has 10 teeth...4 top front, 3 bottom front, 1 top molar right side, 1 bottom molar right side, and 1 top molar left side. I think the next one is a bottom molar on the left side. Canines no where in sight.
~Our summer schedule is very open and I'm hoping to fill it with lots of fun things to do in town and awesome playdates. After August I still don't know what I'm doing for work, so it's all very open and I'm learning to accept this and just not stress about it. Grandpa may come down from NJ in July to visit and we'll be very excited to see him!
Like I said, overall, we're just moving right along. We spend time with friends as much as possible. Work is going well for Shawn and myself, so we're enjoying an extra night out or two at dinner - which she LOVES because she can socialize very loudly with random strangers who think her simply adorable. We seem to be spending time with family a lot, too, which I love. I love how she's spending time with her cousins. Our door should be a revolving one with all the ins and outs of this house. Hope everyone else is doing well! Again, as always, I apologize for not blogging enough!
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Random Tues Thoughts
Sorry this isn't a regular update but I need to write these thoughts out to process them better...
~Current job ends in August when kiddos head off to school; therefore,
~I NEED to know about a possible source of income before then
~Teaching jobs in my field are rare and despite my resume being out there
1) I'm not certified yet and I lack experience, which means I'm low on their top choice list
2) Given school budgets this coming year, there is talk of people being let go instead of being hired - and my area isn't one of those that are considered high needs like math/science teachers in this area
3) While I have been looking up to almost 2 hours outside of Raleigh, given the gas prices and how they're saying they're going to rise...I just cannot FATHOM a long commute to work. And it's stupid to move while I finish the teaching program until next spring.
So...new idea...stay in Raleigh. Still look into jobs in 30-45 min commuting area, but don't count on the availability. Be a stay-at-home mom (SAHM!) with Autumn and look to take care of other children in my own home.
Do what I do now, but do it in my own house. I already have one person interested. And with a flexible schedule I could still provide a decent income comparable to the one I bring in now.
Finish the teaching program until next spring. After the classes are done there is nothing inhibiting us from moving anywhere I need to go for a teaching job. We could finally move to the mountains or anywhere that offers a position. In the meantime, I could also be looking at volunteering with tutoring or other activities to provide experience with the ages of the kids I look to teach, putting more on my resume!
It makes sense in my head. It's possible. It's a PLAN. A plan I feel more comfortable with than "look and hope for a job come August!" which has really been ripping apart my brain these past few months.
I should do what I know best. Keep doing what I'm doing, finish one project at a time before jumping the gun into a classroom and feeling ill-prepared. Get the knowledge first and then dive in head first. Right? Right.
I think it's a good idea. We'll see...
~Current job ends in August when kiddos head off to school; therefore,
~I NEED to know about a possible source of income before then
~Teaching jobs in my field are rare and despite my resume being out there
1) I'm not certified yet and I lack experience, which means I'm low on their top choice list
2) Given school budgets this coming year, there is talk of people being let go instead of being hired - and my area isn't one of those that are considered high needs like math/science teachers in this area
3) While I have been looking up to almost 2 hours outside of Raleigh, given the gas prices and how they're saying they're going to rise...I just cannot FATHOM a long commute to work. And it's stupid to move while I finish the teaching program until next spring.
So...new idea...stay in Raleigh. Still look into jobs in 30-45 min commuting area, but don't count on the availability. Be a stay-at-home mom (SAHM!) with Autumn and look to take care of other children in my own home.
Do what I do now, but do it in my own house. I already have one person interested. And with a flexible schedule I could still provide a decent income comparable to the one I bring in now.
Finish the teaching program until next spring. After the classes are done there is nothing inhibiting us from moving anywhere I need to go for a teaching job. We could finally move to the mountains or anywhere that offers a position. In the meantime, I could also be looking at volunteering with tutoring or other activities to provide experience with the ages of the kids I look to teach, putting more on my resume!
It makes sense in my head. It's possible. It's a PLAN. A plan I feel more comfortable with than "look and hope for a job come August!" which has really been ripping apart my brain these past few months.
I should do what I know best. Keep doing what I'm doing, finish one project at a time before jumping the gun into a classroom and feeling ill-prepared. Get the knowledge first and then dive in head first. Right? Right.
I think it's a good idea. We'll see...
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Hi. I have a blogging problem.
I don't blog. Dude...it's been almost two months since I updated Autumn's blog. WTH?! I can update my 101 blog & my community service blogs in like 5 minutes, but have a hard time finding time to update this blog. And the longer I wait to write an entry? The longer the entry becomes...the more time it requires...it's a never ending circle.
My sincerest apologies:o( I suck.
Autumn is almost 14 months. She's rocking at about 22+ lbs. We went ahead and flipped her carseat around a few weeks ago and she's really enjoying it. I, however, do not like it so much. It is easier to get her in and out. And the carseat was getting heavy to put in and out of the car. BUT, when she falls asleep in the car I desperately miss just being able to pull the whole seat out. 99% of the time now she wakes up when I have to get her out of the car and that really sucks.
Autumn is not walking, still. Actually, she has taken a step or two, but she refuses to walk. She can walk with her push along walker, cruise furniture, walk along with you only holding one hand, push her body to the standing position without holding onto anything and stand alone...until she realizes she is standing and then she gently eases herself to the ground. Don't get confused - the girl has control of her legs and balance, she probably CAN walk but she doesn't have the "want to" attitude. Which is okay by me. She is rather fast as a crawler and I think that dooms me once she does start walking. Also, she walks on all fours, which is actually quite funny looking and provides some amusement.
She can roll a ball. For example: a large soccer ball, she will roll and chase and roll some more and chase, etc. A smaller ball she will actually toss! She can stack one block on top of another, but once it gets past a tower of 3 blocks she usually knocks them down. She can take a necklace and put it over her head. She tries (and is sometimes successful) at putting headband and other dress-up headgear on her head.
Let's talk about block sorting! She CAN place a block (circle, square, star, etc) in its correct hole BUT ONLY if it's the closest hole to her. If the closest shape-hole to her is the circle and she is holding the square, she will persistently try to put the square through the circle. But I am glad that she knows the blocks CAN go through the holes and she is very happy when she does successfully put one away.
She LOVES to clap. And give "five" and "ten." She will blow LOTS of kisses and wave bye-bye. She a big snuggler:) She knows that hats go on her head and she will tap her head if you point to a hat.
She says "woof" for dog (and just about every other animal). She says "Da!" for Daddy and "Mama" for Mommy, but she doesn't call my name as often as she calls for Daddy. She understands A LOT, but does not say a lot of specific words. She definitely communicates her needs and what she is thinking/feeling though and I think it shows she is developing just fine.
She HATES having her diaper changed nowadays. Also, Autumn doesn't mind the carseat, but she does hate if she's just been in the carseat, you've taken her out, and then you have to put her back in again. It's like a "not again!" attitude and really, who can blame her? Sometimes I hate getting in and out of the car, too.
We've been playing outside a lot. She knows how to climb her little play gym and go down the slide. She also has a sandbox that she likes to crawl in and out of.
She eats EVERYTHING. She's starting to learn how to use a spoon. She wants whatever we are eating - good luck trying to give her something different. SHARING is something we have had to relearn as parents. I agree with all young children - sharing sometimes SUCKS!
She loves bath time. She is sleeping rather well. She tends to wake up, look for a pacifier and then go back down. Occasionally she has nightmares or can't find a paci which means I have to get up, but most of the time she goes down between 8-9pm and doesn't get up til 8-9am. Her napping schedule is still weird, but we're pretty flexible.
Did I miss anything? Of course I did. I should keep a notebook of all the cool stuff she does. Some of it is too cute or funny to even explain in words - like her evil "I'm up to no good" laugh.
I love her. She's such a big girl already. I kind of forget what she was like as a baby, but I love her just the way she is now, too. I don't want her to change, but I cannot wait to see what she will be like as she continues to grow up.
Oh my monkey...
My sincerest apologies:o( I suck.
Autumn is almost 14 months. She's rocking at about 22+ lbs. We went ahead and flipped her carseat around a few weeks ago and she's really enjoying it. I, however, do not like it so much. It is easier to get her in and out. And the carseat was getting heavy to put in and out of the car. BUT, when she falls asleep in the car I desperately miss just being able to pull the whole seat out. 99% of the time now she wakes up when I have to get her out of the car and that really sucks.
Autumn is not walking, still. Actually, she has taken a step or two, but she refuses to walk. She can walk with her push along walker, cruise furniture, walk along with you only holding one hand, push her body to the standing position without holding onto anything and stand alone...until she realizes she is standing and then she gently eases herself to the ground. Don't get confused - the girl has control of her legs and balance, she probably CAN walk but she doesn't have the "want to" attitude. Which is okay by me. She is rather fast as a crawler and I think that dooms me once she does start walking. Also, she walks on all fours, which is actually quite funny looking and provides some amusement.
She can roll a ball. For example: a large soccer ball, she will roll and chase and roll some more and chase, etc. A smaller ball she will actually toss! She can stack one block on top of another, but once it gets past a tower of 3 blocks she usually knocks them down. She can take a necklace and put it over her head. She tries (and is sometimes successful) at putting headband and other dress-up headgear on her head.
Let's talk about block sorting! She CAN place a block (circle, square, star, etc) in its correct hole BUT ONLY if it's the closest hole to her. If the closest shape-hole to her is the circle and she is holding the square, she will persistently try to put the square through the circle. But I am glad that she knows the blocks CAN go through the holes and she is very happy when she does successfully put one away.
She LOVES to clap. And give "five" and "ten." She will blow LOTS of kisses and wave bye-bye. She a big snuggler:) She knows that hats go on her head and she will tap her head if you point to a hat.
She says "woof" for dog (and just about every other animal). She says "Da!" for Daddy and "Mama" for Mommy, but she doesn't call my name as often as she calls for Daddy. She understands A LOT, but does not say a lot of specific words. She definitely communicates her needs and what she is thinking/feeling though and I think it shows she is developing just fine.
She HATES having her diaper changed nowadays. Also, Autumn doesn't mind the carseat, but she does hate if she's just been in the carseat, you've taken her out, and then you have to put her back in again. It's like a "not again!" attitude and really, who can blame her? Sometimes I hate getting in and out of the car, too.
We've been playing outside a lot. She knows how to climb her little play gym and go down the slide. She also has a sandbox that she likes to crawl in and out of.
She eats EVERYTHING. She's starting to learn how to use a spoon. She wants whatever we are eating - good luck trying to give her something different. SHARING is something we have had to relearn as parents. I agree with all young children - sharing sometimes SUCKS!
She loves bath time. She is sleeping rather well. She tends to wake up, look for a pacifier and then go back down. Occasionally she has nightmares or can't find a paci which means I have to get up, but most of the time she goes down between 8-9pm and doesn't get up til 8-9am. Her napping schedule is still weird, but we're pretty flexible.
Did I miss anything? Of course I did. I should keep a notebook of all the cool stuff she does. Some of it is too cute or funny to even explain in words - like her evil "I'm up to no good" laugh.
I love her. She's such a big girl already. I kind of forget what she was like as a baby, but I love her just the way she is now, too. I don't want her to change, but I cannot wait to see what she will be like as she continues to grow up.
Oh my monkey...
Saturday, February 19, 2011
My daughter deserves the right to choose!
Let's get some things straight first. I don't believe in abortion. I do believe life begins at conception.
But to say I'd never get one means that I never predict that I'll ever be raped and get pregnant. Means that I never expect myself in a life or death situation in which I might have to choose between the fetus or myself. Means my doctors will never tell me that something has gone wrong in my pregnancy in which termination of the pregnancy might be the safest, only, or logical option. Means I never expect to be told that my child has abnormalities or defects that would make life horribly cruel. Means that, despite birth control methods I ended up pregnant at a very wrong time in my life and bringing a child into this world just seems impossible. And many more possibilities...
Never say NEVER. Even with my strong beliefs, I cannot say NEVER because I have not been presented with the some of the experiences mentioned. And I cannot say for sure, given any of those circumstances what I would do. I like to think I know the choices I would make, but none of us really know until the choice is presented to us.
I believe in life. I believe conception means a child, a human being. I believe abortion is killing a child. But I also believe that God and only God has the right to judge us and our decisions. I believe in forgiveness. And you can bet your ass that I believe this is a PERSONAL and PRIVATE choice.
Unfortunately, unless you have the education and the financial resources, it's still personal, but not private.
In an age of technology and information we'd like to believe that everyone has access to knowledge about birth control, sex, stds, etc. It's called SEX EDUCATION. But people think it's not proper to have in schools. Let it be taught at home. Seriously...HOW MANY OF YOU TALKED WITH YOUR PARENTS ABOUT SEX?! If you had parents like that, consider yourself lucky. I didn't. It was a taboo subject. And school was the only place I got this information. For those who don't have school or parents, there's peers. And as sex seems to become a topic for younger and younger children, one can only imagine the twisted and incorrect information that gets passed around. Luckily there are people who in the community who try to reach and educate others about these things, one of them being Planned Parenthood. Besides education, community organizations like this also provide pregnancy tests, screening, checkups, and sometimes...yes, abortions. For who? Usually people who don't have the financial resources to get information or help from private physicians.
If you're a judgmental person (and we're all guilty of it), check your bias and stereotyping at the door and step into someone else's shoes. Are there people who take advantage of the situation? Yes. They're called people who can afford certain rights in life, but call them privileges and think they ought to be taken away from those who don't have the same opportunities to education and resources. There are also people who take advantage of help provided for them and fuel the fire for bias argument. But these people are NOT a majority. And even if they were, if the help provided were to only reach ONE person, is he/she not worth it? Now, that's extreme, because programs like Planned Parenthood help so many people who REALLY need the help, and aren't they ALL worth it? Just because we don't agree with someone decision does that mean they don't deserve our help?! Do we have to judge? Haven't we all done something we're not proud of?
Now...where did this all come from? My lovely and random rant...check here (or the news). Budget cutting and such...I don't have an answer. I will admit I don't know a lot. But I know this, that at some point Planned Parenthood funding came up and some people decided to make it into an abortion discussion. First off, Planned Parenthood is NOT just about abortion. Think about it...wait for it...PLANNED PARENTHOOD. Planning + parenthood = responsible decisions about when/when not to have a family and all the education that comes along with it. Maybe? A good thing? Yes?! Anywho...certain individuals (men) thought it was best to bring out their judgmental attitudes and turn it into a pro-life outweighs all pro-choice reasons, good or bad. And then a woman steps up. And puts herself out there and tells her story and says, "I'm one of those people...I'm one of those who had to have this procedure..." and while she may have been one of the lucky ones to have it done privately, she understands what many women go through and why it's important for those who can't afford to have it done privately.
I don't give a hoot who is Republic or Democrat. I am most certainly not a man-hater. And I respect other people's opinions. But I don't respect people who think that taking money away from less fortunate just because they don't like their decisions. I don't like how budget-cutting can get turned into an abortion debate. Abortion was declared a RIGHT for women. It is NOT a privilege to be taking away from those who can't afford it. How many congressmen/women's wives have had abortions with/without public knowledge? More importantly, with or without their spouse's knowledge? Let's get that poll and see who changes their story. PRIVACY goes a long way when you have money to hide behind.
Children have always been my passion. Parenthood is now my privilege. And the rights protecting women, children and families may have just become my cause.
But to say I'd never get one means that I never predict that I'll ever be raped and get pregnant. Means that I never expect myself in a life or death situation in which I might have to choose between the fetus or myself. Means my doctors will never tell me that something has gone wrong in my pregnancy in which termination of the pregnancy might be the safest, only, or logical option. Means I never expect to be told that my child has abnormalities or defects that would make life horribly cruel. Means that, despite birth control methods I ended up pregnant at a very wrong time in my life and bringing a child into this world just seems impossible. And many more possibilities...
Never say NEVER. Even with my strong beliefs, I cannot say NEVER because I have not been presented with the some of the experiences mentioned. And I cannot say for sure, given any of those circumstances what I would do. I like to think I know the choices I would make, but none of us really know until the choice is presented to us.
I believe in life. I believe conception means a child, a human being. I believe abortion is killing a child. But I also believe that God and only God has the right to judge us and our decisions. I believe in forgiveness. And you can bet your ass that I believe this is a PERSONAL and PRIVATE choice.
Unfortunately, unless you have the education and the financial resources, it's still personal, but not private.
In an age of technology and information we'd like to believe that everyone has access to knowledge about birth control, sex, stds, etc. It's called SEX EDUCATION. But people think it's not proper to have in schools. Let it be taught at home. Seriously...HOW MANY OF YOU TALKED WITH YOUR PARENTS ABOUT SEX?! If you had parents like that, consider yourself lucky. I didn't. It was a taboo subject. And school was the only place I got this information. For those who don't have school or parents, there's peers. And as sex seems to become a topic for younger and younger children, one can only imagine the twisted and incorrect information that gets passed around. Luckily there are people who in the community who try to reach and educate others about these things, one of them being Planned Parenthood. Besides education, community organizations like this also provide pregnancy tests, screening, checkups, and sometimes...yes, abortions. For who? Usually people who don't have the financial resources to get information or help from private physicians.
If you're a judgmental person (and we're all guilty of it), check your bias and stereotyping at the door and step into someone else's shoes. Are there people who take advantage of the situation? Yes. They're called people who can afford certain rights in life, but call them privileges and think they ought to be taken away from those who don't have the same opportunities to education and resources. There are also people who take advantage of help provided for them and fuel the fire for bias argument. But these people are NOT a majority. And even if they were, if the help provided were to only reach ONE person, is he/she not worth it? Now, that's extreme, because programs like Planned Parenthood help so many people who REALLY need the help, and aren't they ALL worth it? Just because we don't agree with someone decision does that mean they don't deserve our help?! Do we have to judge? Haven't we all done something we're not proud of?
Now...where did this all come from? My lovely and random rant...check here (or the news). Budget cutting and such...I don't have an answer. I will admit I don't know a lot. But I know this, that at some point Planned Parenthood funding came up and some people decided to make it into an abortion discussion. First off, Planned Parenthood is NOT just about abortion. Think about it...wait for it...PLANNED PARENTHOOD. Planning + parenthood = responsible decisions about when/when not to have a family and all the education that comes along with it. Maybe? A good thing? Yes?! Anywho...certain individuals (men) thought it was best to bring out their judgmental attitudes and turn it into a pro-life outweighs all pro-choice reasons, good or bad. And then a woman steps up. And puts herself out there and tells her story and says, "I'm one of those people...I'm one of those who had to have this procedure..." and while she may have been one of the lucky ones to have it done privately, she understands what many women go through and why it's important for those who can't afford to have it done privately.
I don't give a hoot who is Republic or Democrat. I am most certainly not a man-hater. And I respect other people's opinions. But I don't respect people who think that taking money away from less fortunate just because they don't like their decisions. I don't like how budget-cutting can get turned into an abortion debate. Abortion was declared a RIGHT for women. It is NOT a privilege to be taking away from those who can't afford it. How many congressmen/women's wives have had abortions with/without public knowledge? More importantly, with or without their spouse's knowledge? Let's get that poll and see who changes their story. PRIVACY goes a long way when you have money to hide behind.
Children have always been my passion. Parenthood is now my privilege. And the rights protecting women, children and families may have just become my cause.
Friday, February 18, 2011
ONE YEAR UPDATE!
Monkey is ONE! YAY! And what a happy healthy one she is:o)
20.6lbs. 29 ins.
I didn't really care for the pedi that we saw. I might have to look for a new pedi office that is willing to do an alternative vaccine schedule. We'll see...I'm not stressing over it right now.
What can Autumn do? It's actually a lot easier to figure out what she's NOT doing. She's NOT walking. That's about it. She pulls up on everything, she can put big bead necaklaces on herself, she can put balls down this "slide" toy we got, she can sign "more" and "milk." She says "Du" for dog and "Da" for Daddy and "Maaaa" for me. She presses buttons to make her toys make noise. Overall, she's just doing A LOT! The pedi was impressed with her large and small motor skills.
She had a lot of fun at her birthday party. She loved playing with everyone - kids and adults alike. She also tore into her cake!!!! I can't wait to get the pics uploaded:o)
20.6lbs. 29 ins.
I didn't really care for the pedi that we saw. I might have to look for a new pedi office that is willing to do an alternative vaccine schedule. We'll see...I'm not stressing over it right now.
What can Autumn do? It's actually a lot easier to figure out what she's NOT doing. She's NOT walking. That's about it. She pulls up on everything, she can put big bead necaklaces on herself, she can put balls down this "slide" toy we got, she can sign "more" and "milk." She says "Du" for dog and "Da" for Daddy and "Maaaa" for me. She presses buttons to make her toys make noise. Overall, she's just doing A LOT! The pedi was impressed with her large and small motor skills.
She had a lot of fun at her birthday party. She loved playing with everyone - kids and adults alike. She also tore into her cake!!!! I can't wait to get the pics uploaded:o)
What an icky week!
Yep...my baby is ONE now! Holy macaroni! I apologize for the delay with birthday updates and pictures. When I last left you it was the week BEFORE her birthday and we were planning a party ofr the 5th. Didn't happen. Daddy fell ill with fever and some sort of stomach bug and we couldn't go on having a party without him (not to mention exposing people to germs). It was a yucky day out anyway. Autumn's cousin was also ill and wouldn't have been able to make it. Generally, it worked out for the best.
Come Wednesday, the 9th!, her birthday! I planned on hanging out with Aunt Becky & Caleb in the morning, but due to one of the kids falling ill I had to go into work early. (Do you notice a pattern? It gets better.) We celebrated Autumn's actual birthday by going to Ruby Tuesdays for dinner and letting her come home to smash some cake. Very laid back, but fun.
This past Saturday, the 12th, we held her birthday party. It was sunny and a much nicer day to hold a party, minus the wind. Most of the time we spent inside. We had a bunch of people over, had a great time seeing some friends we haven't seen in awhile, Autumn enjoyed food & yes...MORE CAKE...and opening gifts.
The rest of the weekend was spent cleaning up the party. Come early during the week and it turns out my brother and sister-in-law fall ill. Also, the other kiddo I nanny for falls ill. Things are not looking good, are they? Yea, you guessed it, I fell ill by Thursday night. Now, Autumn's been acting weird since Tuesday - very cuddly, sleepy, whiny. I am blaming teeth and a growth spurt. Although I'm sure her tummy is a little out of whack with all the germs flying around, she hasn't shown any signs of flu/stomach bug. I, on the other hand, woke up Thursday with a flip flopping stomach, pushed through a work day, only to come home and have it hit full force. Blah. Shawn took good care of his girls who weren't feeling 100%. I slept a few hours at a time, interrupted by trips to the bathroom. This morning the "sick" part was done, but the tummy is still not up to par. Most of the day I felt weak and crummy, but managed to pick up both kids from school and drop them off with their grandmom (I've never been so happy for an easy workday) and I spent the rest of the day relaxing. This evening I've been able to eat a good amount of food and do some housework. My energy is coming back and tomorrow I'm sure I'll be 90% back to my normal self.
So...that's what it's been like for the past week. I apologize for the delay in fun updates. Birthday pics to come soon:o)
Come Wednesday, the 9th!, her birthday! I planned on hanging out with Aunt Becky & Caleb in the morning, but due to one of the kids falling ill I had to go into work early. (Do you notice a pattern? It gets better.) We celebrated Autumn's actual birthday by going to Ruby Tuesdays for dinner and letting her come home to smash some cake. Very laid back, but fun.
This past Saturday, the 12th, we held her birthday party. It was sunny and a much nicer day to hold a party, minus the wind. Most of the time we spent inside. We had a bunch of people over, had a great time seeing some friends we haven't seen in awhile, Autumn enjoyed food & yes...MORE CAKE...and opening gifts.
The rest of the weekend was spent cleaning up the party. Come early during the week and it turns out my brother and sister-in-law fall ill. Also, the other kiddo I nanny for falls ill. Things are not looking good, are they? Yea, you guessed it, I fell ill by Thursday night. Now, Autumn's been acting weird since Tuesday - very cuddly, sleepy, whiny. I am blaming teeth and a growth spurt. Although I'm sure her tummy is a little out of whack with all the germs flying around, she hasn't shown any signs of flu/stomach bug. I, on the other hand, woke up Thursday with a flip flopping stomach, pushed through a work day, only to come home and have it hit full force. Blah. Shawn took good care of his girls who weren't feeling 100%. I slept a few hours at a time, interrupted by trips to the bathroom. This morning the "sick" part was done, but the tummy is still not up to par. Most of the day I felt weak and crummy, but managed to pick up both kids from school and drop them off with their grandmom (I've never been so happy for an easy workday) and I spent the rest of the day relaxing. This evening I've been able to eat a good amount of food and do some housework. My energy is coming back and tomorrow I'm sure I'll be 90% back to my normal self.
So...that's what it's been like for the past week. I apologize for the delay in fun updates. Birthday pics to come soon:o)
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Thankful Thursday
Real quick...taking a break from class...
I'm thankful for a few quiet hours of just easy listening while the teacher shows powerpoint slides. I'm thankful for easy tests. (Getting first test back tonight and I feel confident in my grade).
I'm thankful for a baby girl who is currently sleeping 12+ hours a night (growth spurt!).
I'm thankful for a husband who is becoming more and more flexible to accomodate the crazy schedule that classes and work bring...and the rest of our future, I'm sure!
I'm thankful that it's only Thursday and I still have an entire tomorrow morning and evening to clean before the party on Sat....because I've done NOTHING thus far except buy a few things from the dollar store.
Oh, and I'm super thankful I got to spend some time with my bff & Caleb at Tot Time this morning. I love watch Autumn crawl around a gym floor looking at all the big kids;o)
I'm thankful for a few quiet hours of just easy listening while the teacher shows powerpoint slides. I'm thankful for easy tests. (Getting first test back tonight and I feel confident in my grade).
I'm thankful for a baby girl who is currently sleeping 12+ hours a night (growth spurt!).
I'm thankful for a husband who is becoming more and more flexible to accomodate the crazy schedule that classes and work bring...and the rest of our future, I'm sure!
I'm thankful that it's only Thursday and I still have an entire tomorrow morning and evening to clean before the party on Sat....because I've done NOTHING thus far except buy a few things from the dollar store.
Oh, and I'm super thankful I got to spend some time with my bff & Caleb at Tot Time this morning. I love watch Autumn crawl around a gym floor looking at all the big kids;o)
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Blogger FAIL!
I apologize. I have not blogged in over a month. I never provided an 11 month update and now we're about 8 days away from the big 1...YEAR that is!!! I've had no Wordless Wednesdays. No Thankful Thursdays. Nada.
EPIC FAIL:o(
And there really is no good reason. There are two really bad reasons. 1) I'm lazy. I've updated my 101 blog several times since then because it's so much easier to just jump on, make a few notes and move on. I also like crossing things off of my [internet] list, so blogging over there makes me feel more accomplished. 2) I have been in absolute denial that my child is about to turn 1 years old:o/
I'm not talking "Oh, my baby has gotten so big, she CANT be one yet!" I mean...I literally put off planning a birthday party for her until Sunday night when I FINALLY hashed things out with the hubby and then [insert tackiness here!] sent a text to our family and few friends who we want to come hang out. Flame away! A text invite...as my bff said "klassy!" But even with that, a part of me is saying "It's not really a party. Autumn won't even understand what's going on. It's more like a get together, a hang out, which we usually do with the family and we're just adding a few others for the day." But the realiziation is that this is a party - it's to celebrate my baby being a whole year and the fact that Shawn and I survived this whole year! She will have a cake. And, though I've told people that she really needs NOTHING, there will be gifts. We will sing "Happy Birthday" and the monkey will smash her cake.
I'm.throwing.my.child's.first.birthday.party.
I must come to accept this and yet I hate it. I HATE IT.
We all wonder Where does the time go? And I wonder How did people ever remember a thing before photography and videography? I cannot for the life of me remember pregnancy or my big belly. However, I remember EACH and EVERY detail of her birth. It's disturbing. But after that...I'm clueless. Thank God for pictures and videos because I look and say Oh yea! This year did have a lot happen - our first trip to the beach as a family, ditto with the mountains of NC and TN, all the fun swimming she did in the summer, her first Halloween, meeting Grandpa, our first Christmas, our first visit to NJ to see all our family and celebrate New Year's, etc etc. But I can't remember her being my baby. And then I see videos or pictures and I miss my baby. And then I look at this little ball of energy who likes to crawl and pull up and snuggle and play chase and I ADORE her.
I.am.torn. I want my baby to stay a baby, but I can't wait for her to grow up and see all the wonderful things she's going to figure out and do. Oh the dilemmas of parenthood. Mom...Dad...I get it. I absolutely 100000% get it now. And it's the coolest, yet most heart breaking thing to deal with.
And so that's the truth people. I've been in absolute denial and have refused to come to this blog because I have not wanted to even think about my little girl turning a year so soon.
And now that my sad and pathetic story is done....I'll put up some WW pictures tomorrow so you can see how she's grown. And then this Saturday is her party so I'm sure there will be some fun pictures from that, too.
EPIC FAIL:o(
And there really is no good reason. There are two really bad reasons. 1) I'm lazy. I've updated my 101 blog several times since then because it's so much easier to just jump on, make a few notes and move on. I also like crossing things off of my [internet] list, so blogging over there makes me feel more accomplished. 2) I have been in absolute denial that my child is about to turn 1 years old:o/
I'm not talking "Oh, my baby has gotten so big, she CANT be one yet!" I mean...I literally put off planning a birthday party for her until Sunday night when I FINALLY hashed things out with the hubby and then [insert tackiness here!] sent a text to our family and few friends who we want to come hang out. Flame away! A text invite...as my bff said "klassy!" But even with that, a part of me is saying "It's not really a party. Autumn won't even understand what's going on. It's more like a get together, a hang out, which we usually do with the family and we're just adding a few others for the day." But the realiziation is that this is a party - it's to celebrate my baby being a whole year and the fact that Shawn and I survived this whole year! She will have a cake. And, though I've told people that she really needs NOTHING, there will be gifts. We will sing "Happy Birthday" and the monkey will smash her cake.
I'm.throwing.my.child's.first.birthday.party.
I must come to accept this and yet I hate it. I HATE IT.
We all wonder Where does the time go? And I wonder How did people ever remember a thing before photography and videography? I cannot for the life of me remember pregnancy or my big belly. However, I remember EACH and EVERY detail of her birth. It's disturbing. But after that...I'm clueless. Thank God for pictures and videos because I look and say Oh yea! This year did have a lot happen - our first trip to the beach as a family, ditto with the mountains of NC and TN, all the fun swimming she did in the summer, her first Halloween, meeting Grandpa, our first Christmas, our first visit to NJ to see all our family and celebrate New Year's, etc etc. But I can't remember her being my baby. And then I see videos or pictures and I miss my baby. And then I look at this little ball of energy who likes to crawl and pull up and snuggle and play chase and I ADORE her.
I.am.torn. I want my baby to stay a baby, but I can't wait for her to grow up and see all the wonderful things she's going to figure out and do. Oh the dilemmas of parenthood. Mom...Dad...I get it. I absolutely 100000% get it now. And it's the coolest, yet most heart breaking thing to deal with.
And so that's the truth people. I've been in absolute denial and have refused to come to this blog because I have not wanted to even think about my little girl turning a year so soon.
And now that my sad and pathetic story is done....I'll put up some WW pictures tomorrow so you can see how she's grown. And then this Saturday is her party so I'm sure there will be some fun pictures from that, too.
Saturday, December 25, 2010
SO I better finish...
12 Days of Christmas...and Christmas is here....feh!
I actually haven't posted because I just cannot come up with a #9. Maybe the bff will come up with something creative.
Day 10...The TEN cutest little baby toes on my daughter. I love baby feet. It's just an obsession (ok, maybe not that bad).
Day 11...The "Hickey" Family has grown to ELEVEN this year with two births and a wedding. Here's the rundown: Daddy, Diana & Adriana, Billy & Debbie & MADISON, Nancy & Shawn & AUTUMN, Tommy & KATIE. It's been a big year! Can 20ELEVEN top it? We'll see...
Day 12...TWELVE+ years of friendship with my bff, Becky. It's actually more like almost 15 years, but once you get past a dozen, I think you're in it for the long haul! No matter what, we always seem to just "get" each other. We're always there for one another and we both know that will NEVER change. Our friendship is part of the foundation of my life right something that keeps me grounded, keeps me hanging on, and keeps me standing tall during the rough times. Our friendship defines a very big and very important part of my life - just thinking about life without her, I don't know where I'd be. I've got the most awesome friend in the world (be jealous!) and on this Christmas Day when I count my blessings, she's up near the top of that list! LOVE YOU BOO!
I actually haven't posted because I just cannot come up with a #9. Maybe the bff will come up with something creative.
Day 10...The TEN cutest little baby toes on my daughter. I love baby feet. It's just an obsession (ok, maybe not that bad).
Day 11...The "Hickey" Family has grown to ELEVEN this year with two births and a wedding. Here's the rundown: Daddy, Diana & Adriana, Billy & Debbie & MADISON, Nancy & Shawn & AUTUMN, Tommy & KATIE. It's been a big year! Can 20ELEVEN top it? We'll see...
Day 12...TWELVE+ years of friendship with my bff, Becky. It's actually more like almost 15 years, but once you get past a dozen, I think you're in it for the long haul! No matter what, we always seem to just "get" each other. We're always there for one another and we both know that will NEVER change. Our friendship is part of the foundation of my life right something that keeps me grounded, keeps me hanging on, and keeps me standing tall during the rough times. Our friendship defines a very big and very important part of my life - just thinking about life without her, I don't know where I'd be. I've got the most awesome friend in the world (be jealous!) and on this Christmas Day when I count my blessings, she's up near the top of that list! LOVE YOU BOO!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Christmas is almost here!
So I should catch up!
Re-do of Day 5...as my bff pointed out I have FIVE am an aunt or "aunt" to five kiddos! Adriana is the oldest, the daughter of my big sister. Turning 16 on Wednesday!!!! She's a bright and fun young lady with an exotic sense of style (like all kids these days it seems). Taylor and Dalia are Shawn's nieces, which makes them mine as well. Taylor is 12, soon to be in her teens, and Dalia is 7. They're both happy, smart and two ofthe most well-behaved and caring young ladies I know. I absolutely adore them! Next oldest is Caleb! They only boy in the group and not really "mine." As my bff's son I am his honorary "aunt" and boy, do I love this fella! I love his rouch and tumble, all-boy attitude. I love playing with him and tickling him. I LOVE that Autumn has spent a good amount of time with him and he's so good with her...most of the time;o) As much as a boy toddler can be good around a baby! I just wuv wuv wuv him! And the youngest of my little gang is Miss Madison! My big brother had his little girl in September and she is such a good baby! She has these chubby cheek you just want to pinch every time you see her! And she's such a good sleeper...but that will change....sooner or later (or at least I keep hoping b/c I really think it's unfair that Madison sleeps through the night and Autumn does not). I love the fact that Autumn and Miss Madison are close in age and I hope they will grow up together and be great friends!
Day 8 - EIGHT years since I met my "girlfriend" Jessi! Are you reading this lady?! Here's a brief history of our time together:
~I had a donut, she bit my finger...fast friends
~Karaoke & frat parties...and some more karaoke
~We went driving around looking for Mahwah
~She dated & married little brother...then got divorced from little brother....odd? just a lil bit!
~we had our gall bladders taken out within a year of each other
~both our mommies passed away too soon
~she chillaxed in NC for awhile & nannied
~now she's my faraway "girlfriend" in NJ, but I miss her & love her & when I come to NJ after Christmas I better see her!!!!
There's a lot missing. A lot happens in 8 years, especially when it includes college years and a brief stint as a legal part of the family....life is definitely not short of interesting when you put the two of us together. We can hang in a diner all day and night, drinking coffee and being absolutely ridiculous. And we can be on the dance floor til our legs give out. She's my "crazy" half...the side that reminds me to have a good time and relax. Sometimes I'd go back and relive some of our college days (but definitely not all of them! ). Eight years down....and MANY more to go!
Re-do of Day 5...as my bff pointed out I have FIVE am an aunt or "aunt" to five kiddos! Adriana is the oldest, the daughter of my big sister. Turning 16 on Wednesday!!!! She's a bright and fun young lady with an exotic sense of style (like all kids these days it seems). Taylor and Dalia are Shawn's nieces, which makes them mine as well. Taylor is 12, soon to be in her teens, and Dalia is 7. They're both happy, smart and two ofthe most well-behaved and caring young ladies I know. I absolutely adore them! Next oldest is Caleb! They only boy in the group and not really "mine." As my bff's son I am his honorary "aunt" and boy, do I love this fella! I love his rouch and tumble, all-boy attitude. I love playing with him and tickling him. I LOVE that Autumn has spent a good amount of time with him and he's so good with her...most of the time;o) As much as a boy toddler can be good around a baby! I just wuv wuv wuv him! And the youngest of my little gang is Miss Madison! My big brother had his little girl in September and she is such a good baby! She has these chubby cheek you just want to pinch every time you see her! And she's such a good sleeper...but that will change....sooner or later (or at least I keep hoping b/c I really think it's unfair that Madison sleeps through the night and Autumn does not). I love the fact that Autumn and Miss Madison are close in age and I hope they will grow up together and be great friends!
Day 8 - EIGHT years since I met my "girlfriend" Jessi! Are you reading this lady?! Here's a brief history of our time together:
~I had a donut, she bit my finger...fast friends
~Karaoke & frat parties...and some more karaoke
~We went driving around looking for Mahwah
~She dated & married little brother...then got divorced from little brother....odd? just a lil bit!
~we had our gall bladders taken out within a year of each other
~both our mommies passed away too soon
~she chillaxed in NC for awhile & nannied
~now she's my faraway "girlfriend" in NJ, but I miss her & love her & when I come to NJ after Christmas I better see her!!!!
There's a lot missing. A lot happens in 8 years, especially when it includes college years and a brief stint as a legal part of the family....life is definitely not short of interesting when you put the two of us together. We can hang in a diner all day and night, drinking coffee and being absolutely ridiculous. And we can be on the dance floor til our legs give out. She's my "crazy" half...the side that reminds me to have a good time and relax. Sometimes I'd go back and relive some of our college days (but definitely not all of them! ). Eight years down....and MANY more to go!
Friday, December 17, 2010
12 Days of Christmas...catching up with me!
Day 5 (12/13)...I've been trying to come up with a "five" thing in my life and I'm stuck. Except for these 5 wonderful fingers allowing me to type write now. So...what's your five?! The "FIIIIIIVE GOLDEN RINGS" part of the song was always the most annoying. Don't you think? And who wears give golden rings at once?!
Day 6 (12/14) - (almost) SIX years with Shawn! I can't believe we haven't killed each other! Each year has gotten better, but each year has also had it's trials and obstacles to overcome. Life gets harder as time goes on, but we find ways to keep each other laughing and happy. I love him. Lord knows there are days....(for each of us I'm sure!) but he's the greatest father and a wonderful, supportive husband and I look forward to many many more years together:o*
Day 7 (12/15) - SEVEN years of college education and I'm finally graduating! I started in 2002 and I'm graduating in 2010. Yes, that's eight years, but I took one entire year off when I moved to NC to get in-state tuition. Going back to school was never an issue, I always knew I was going to do it. The difficulty in going back part-time since 2005 has been great. It's hard to juggle life around school or school around life...depending on which is carrying a greater burden during the week. Add planning a wedding, enduring pregnancy, and then parenting an infant into the mix and you have my last few years at NC State. I can never do anything the easy way. But I chose my path and I'm all the hard roads made me a better person for it. Do I wish I would have stayed at Ramapo in NJ? It's impossible to answer. I would have had my degree sooner, but I may not have the life I'm living now. Only God knows where I'd be. It very well could have been a different life and a happy one, but from where I'm standing now...I LOVE what I have and wouldn't go back and trade it for anything. THANK YOU to everyone who has helped me achieve this goal. Without the support of family and friends I would not have been able to graduate this year. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Day 8+ coming soon...
Day 6 (12/14) - (almost) SIX years with Shawn! I can't believe we haven't killed each other! Each year has gotten better, but each year has also had it's trials and obstacles to overcome. Life gets harder as time goes on, but we find ways to keep each other laughing and happy. I love him. Lord knows there are days....(for each of us I'm sure!) but he's the greatest father and a wonderful, supportive husband and I look forward to many many more years together:o*
Day 7 (12/15) - SEVEN years of college education and I'm finally graduating! I started in 2002 and I'm graduating in 2010. Yes, that's eight years, but I took one entire year off when I moved to NC to get in-state tuition. Going back to school was never an issue, I always knew I was going to do it. The difficulty in going back part-time since 2005 has been great. It's hard to juggle life around school or school around life...depending on which is carrying a greater burden during the week. Add planning a wedding, enduring pregnancy, and then parenting an infant into the mix and you have my last few years at NC State. I can never do anything the easy way. But I chose my path and I'm all the hard roads made me a better person for it. Do I wish I would have stayed at Ramapo in NJ? It's impossible to answer. I would have had my degree sooner, but I may not have the life I'm living now. Only God knows where I'd be. It very well could have been a different life and a happy one, but from where I'm standing now...I LOVE what I have and wouldn't go back and trade it for anything. THANK YOU to everyone who has helped me achieve this goal. Without the support of family and friends I would not have been able to graduate this year. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Day 8+ coming soon...
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Monday, December 13, 2010
12 Days of Christmas....dragging....
First off - I wrote a Day 3 and it didn't post. RE-DO!
Day 3 (12/9) - THREE siblings. One sister and two brothers. And at no one point in life did we all like each other at the same time;o) It's a very happy dysfunctional family! BUT, in all fairness, my siblings help define who I am. My older brother and I are the closest, despite 10 years between us in age. From the outside I think people would think we're very opposite, but at our closest times and when we're out together we're two peas in a pod. Throughout my late teens he was there for me when I needed him and I really would not be where I am today without his gentle (or not so) nudges along the way. My younger brother shares most of my younger memories since we were the youngest two and only two years apart. He is a charmer and an absolutely hysterical person to be around. I love his sense of humor and his big heart. At the same time, we're very different and when we were more often cat and dog instead of peas and carrots. My sister is the oldest and she lives her own life very separate from us, but I've learned a great deal from her. We've had our deep intellectual talks and she's always got a way of making me think about things from a different perspective. Regardless of the paths each of us leads, somewhere along the way all my siblings have influenced me and the decisions I've made (good or bad) and when push comes to shove....we're family and we all know it, believe it, and you can bet your ass we'll prove it.
Day 4 (11/10) - FOUR beautiful, extraordinary children to nanny for! Not all at the same time though (that would just be nuts!). Since 2005 I've nannied (nannyed? no..."ied" has got to be right) for four kids (05-07, 2 boys; 07-present 1 boy, 1 girl) and each of these children has stolen a piece of my heart! The days are always a mix...good and bad! But I feel fortunate that even at their worst, I've seen MUCH WORSE children in the grocery store and thank the Lord I know such well-behaved, well-mannered kiddos. With these children, I too have grown. Our explorations and our daily interactions have taught me a lot about child care, about what it means to love and live for little ones, and how much my influence has in their life. It's a responsibility I take very seriously and a privelage I don't take for granted. I've been very fortunate to be employed by two wonderful families who have each become my family since the beginning of my employment. I'm treated more than fairly and without both families' help, I would not have been able to finish school, which is a VERY big part of my life. But these kids....these three boys and little girl....they're all like my own. No matter how big they get, no matter how long I may go without seeing them...they'll always be "my kids."
~Weekend Break~
Day 5+ coming...maybe tomorrow...after I take my LAST final exam!
Day 3 (12/9) - THREE siblings. One sister and two brothers. And at no one point in life did we all like each other at the same time;o) It's a very happy dysfunctional family! BUT, in all fairness, my siblings help define who I am. My older brother and I are the closest, despite 10 years between us in age. From the outside I think people would think we're very opposite, but at our closest times and when we're out together we're two peas in a pod. Throughout my late teens he was there for me when I needed him and I really would not be where I am today without his gentle (or not so) nudges along the way. My younger brother shares most of my younger memories since we were the youngest two and only two years apart. He is a charmer and an absolutely hysterical person to be around. I love his sense of humor and his big heart. At the same time, we're very different and when we were more often cat and dog instead of peas and carrots. My sister is the oldest and she lives her own life very separate from us, but I've learned a great deal from her. We've had our deep intellectual talks and she's always got a way of making me think about things from a different perspective. Regardless of the paths each of us leads, somewhere along the way all my siblings have influenced me and the decisions I've made (good or bad) and when push comes to shove....we're family and we all know it, believe it, and you can bet your ass we'll prove it.
Day 4 (11/10) - FOUR beautiful, extraordinary children to nanny for! Not all at the same time though (that would just be nuts!). Since 2005 I've nannied (nannyed? no..."ied" has got to be right) for four kids (05-07, 2 boys; 07-present 1 boy, 1 girl) and each of these children has stolen a piece of my heart! The days are always a mix...good and bad! But I feel fortunate that even at their worst, I've seen MUCH WORSE children in the grocery store and thank the Lord I know such well-behaved, well-mannered kiddos. With these children, I too have grown. Our explorations and our daily interactions have taught me a lot about child care, about what it means to love and live for little ones, and how much my influence has in their life. It's a responsibility I take very seriously and a privelage I don't take for granted. I've been very fortunate to be employed by two wonderful families who have each become my family since the beginning of my employment. I'm treated more than fairly and without both families' help, I would not have been able to finish school, which is a VERY big part of my life. But these kids....these three boys and little girl....they're all like my own. No matter how big they get, no matter how long I may go without seeing them...they'll always be "my kids."
~Weekend Break~
Day 5+ coming...maybe tomorrow...after I take my LAST final exam!
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
12 Days of Christmas - Day 2!
And on the second day of Christmas, my true love gave to me...TWO FURRY CHILDREN! Let's face it, we try very hard not to let a new baby affect our relationship with our pets. But it happens! And they're not stupid - they know that the extra treats they get are to replace the snuggles in bed and playtime in the backyard because you have to stay inside the warm house with the baby (or you want to take a nap with the baby...and not the dog).
But I love my pups! Jazz & Jynz have been absolutely wonderful this year with all the changes a baby brings. Jazz, the older one, went through all this when she was a pup and Shawn helped watch his niece Taylor for four years. The babe and the pup grew up together, so she knows all about ear pulling and crawling all over and poking the eyes....yea. She knows it all. And while she still doesn't give a whole lot of kisses to Autumn, she likes to plop herself nearby wherever the baby plays. She lays down in her room when I nurse her. And she will, without argument, let Autumn crawl all over her on the floor, like a speedbump. And Autumn LOVES HER!
Jynx...she was the pup we really worried about. At only 3 years old she is an attention-whore. She MUST be snuggled and pet and loved on constantly. And she MUST love you back - to the point where you are covered with Jynx licks a thousand times over. We really worried that our attention on the baby would affect her a lot.... It hasn't. Not one bit. In fact, she LOVES the baby! She happily snuggles behind the rocking chair in Autumn's room for naps. She licks the baby as much as she licks us (yea...we're the kind of parents that don't really worry about it). She stillt tries to get our attention when we're on the floor with the baby. But she's learning to co-exist very well.
Neither of the dogs have chewed toys, stuffed animals, clothes, diapers, etc.
I love our dogs so much. They complete our family. If you believe dogs have human characteristics/personalities - I feel that at times they do take on the "older sister" roles with Autumn - they're protective, they love - even if with caution, and at times they want nothing to do with her, lol. My favorite thing to do with them is still snuggle! When I get into bed at night, often before Shawn, I call them up onto the bed and lay my head in their fur and snuggle up with my "first" babies.
But I love my pups! Jazz & Jynz have been absolutely wonderful this year with all the changes a baby brings. Jazz, the older one, went through all this when she was a pup and Shawn helped watch his niece Taylor for four years. The babe and the pup grew up together, so she knows all about ear pulling and crawling all over and poking the eyes....yea. She knows it all. And while she still doesn't give a whole lot of kisses to Autumn, she likes to plop herself nearby wherever the baby plays. She lays down in her room when I nurse her. And she will, without argument, let Autumn crawl all over her on the floor, like a speedbump. And Autumn LOVES HER!
Jynx...she was the pup we really worried about. At only 3 years old she is an attention-whore. She MUST be snuggled and pet and loved on constantly. And she MUST love you back - to the point where you are covered with Jynx licks a thousand times over. We really worried that our attention on the baby would affect her a lot.... It hasn't. Not one bit. In fact, she LOVES the baby! She happily snuggles behind the rocking chair in Autumn's room for naps. She licks the baby as much as she licks us (yea...we're the kind of parents that don't really worry about it). She stillt tries to get our attention when we're on the floor with the baby. But she's learning to co-exist very well.
Neither of the dogs have chewed toys, stuffed animals, clothes, diapers, etc.
I love our dogs so much. They complete our family. If you believe dogs have human characteristics/personalities - I feel that at times they do take on the "older sister" roles with Autumn - they're protective, they love - even if with caution, and at times they want nothing to do with her, lol. My favorite thing to do with them is still snuggle! When I get into bed at night, often before Shawn, I call them up onto the bed and lay my head in their fur and snuggle up with my "first" babies.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
12 Days of Christmas - Day 1
So in order to get in the holiday mood, I'm doing my own "12 days of Christmas." Instead of gifts, I'm going to come up with something/someone that represents that number in my life. Obviously this is bound to get more difficult as the numbers get higher, so it will be interesting to see what I come up with.
Today is DAY 1. ONE....baby girl!!! This year is Autumn's first Christmas. This holiday & season introduces a child to so many new things - Christmas trees all lit up, Santa, houses decorated in pretty lights, snow, wrapping paper (bound to be her favorite thing!), yummy food (a second favorite to the paper), carols and songs about the seasons, etc. No one can deny there are certain things the winter and holidays bring that you can't get the rest of the year and I'm thrilled to see all the wonder and joy in her face when she gets to experience them all this year. Autumn, like most babies, loves new things and when her eyes capture something new and interesting it makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside (you can laugh, it's corny, I know).
On the FIRST Day of Christmas, I was given a beautiful baby girl, my Autumn!
Today is DAY 1. ONE....baby girl!!! This year is Autumn's first Christmas. This holiday & season introduces a child to so many new things - Christmas trees all lit up, Santa, houses decorated in pretty lights, snow, wrapping paper (bound to be her favorite thing!), yummy food (a second favorite to the paper), carols and songs about the seasons, etc. No one can deny there are certain things the winter and holidays bring that you can't get the rest of the year and I'm thrilled to see all the wonder and joy in her face when she gets to experience them all this year. Autumn, like most babies, loves new things and when her eyes capture something new and interesting it makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside (you can laugh, it's corny, I know).
On the FIRST Day of Christmas, I was given a beautiful baby girl, my Autumn!
Getting in the Spirit
"Getting" being the key word. I'm not in the spirit yet. Financial struggles are the usual around here, so that's not really my issue. Actually, we seem to be doing better this year in regards to presents and such compared to other years. I think I planned things out much better.
The tree is up, but not decorated (note to self: water tree before leaving for work today). This morning I put up my two Christmas dolls, a tradition from my Mom, and I put up a few random holiday items around the house. But really, I'm just not getting into it. I'm not a hundred percent why. I'm excited for Autumn's first Christmas, I'm really trying to get Shawn and I to go out and do holiday events on the weekends, like the Winterfest downtown and the Wake Forest Christmas Parade this coming weekend. I should be scheduling Autumn's pictures with Santa and planning Christmas cards, but that's taken a back burner and I'm being super lazy about it. I dunno.
A part of me really misses home. I plan on going home shortly after Christmas, maybe New Year's weekend, but no plans are solid because I have no idea about Shawn's work schedule - of course I'm also contemplating going up without him if he has to work, but that would mean either NOT visiting his family or visiting his family without him, which I don't want to do either. It's just a big pile of unknowns right now.
I think the little bit of decorating I did today helped push me towards "holiday joy," but I've got a long ways to go. I actually came up with a blog idea to help me get in the mood. Since the baby is down for her morning nap, I guess I'll start it off....next post coming in 5...4...3...2...1...
The tree is up, but not decorated (note to self: water tree before leaving for work today). This morning I put up my two Christmas dolls, a tradition from my Mom, and I put up a few random holiday items around the house. But really, I'm just not getting into it. I'm not a hundred percent why. I'm excited for Autumn's first Christmas, I'm really trying to get Shawn and I to go out and do holiday events on the weekends, like the Winterfest downtown and the Wake Forest Christmas Parade this coming weekend. I should be scheduling Autumn's pictures with Santa and planning Christmas cards, but that's taken a back burner and I'm being super lazy about it. I dunno.
A part of me really misses home. I plan on going home shortly after Christmas, maybe New Year's weekend, but no plans are solid because I have no idea about Shawn's work schedule - of course I'm also contemplating going up without him if he has to work, but that would mean either NOT visiting his family or visiting his family without him, which I don't want to do either. It's just a big pile of unknowns right now.
I think the little bit of decorating I did today helped push me towards "holiday joy," but I've got a long ways to go. I actually came up with a blog idea to help me get in the mood. Since the baby is down for her morning nap, I guess I'll start it off....next post coming in 5...4...3...2...1...
Monday, December 6, 2010
I'm alive!
I haven't posted in awhile. I suck. Actually, the past few weeks have flown by in a frenzy of school work and Thanksgiving holiday craziness. Classes are now over. I still have the final draft of a paper due Friday at noon. I also have a final exam on the 16th. Then I graduate on the 18th. And now it seems like time is going by so slowly....can I just walk across a stage and get my degree already?!
Note: I'll probably have a long and sappy graduation post in the coming days.
Autumn is doing fantastic. I've learned that her personality "tell" is her feet. Yea, you read that right. Her feet. Some people it's their eyes or smile or eyebrows, but my baby has these adorable baby feet that have a mind of their own. The way she curls her toes and snuggles them close together when she's content or when she kicks them because she's so excited it's dinnertime or when her toes ever so slightly wiggle when she's sitting on the floor playing with a toy. I'm telling you...her feet have personality and I love them!
Autumn is eating lots of new foods - mini pancakes, BREAD - any kind of bread, french fries, green beans, mashed potatoes, etc etc etc. Daddy and I are thinking of becoming closet eaters. The child can eat all her dinner, be in the middle of playtime, but wait...oh...WHAT?! You have FOOD! I WANT SOME! And she will bitch you out if you don't share. Mommy usually shares. Daddy does not. He's mean:oP
She's still not sleeping through the night. I'm not really tackling this right now. It's not really interfering with my schedule, so whatever.
She's really close to standing up by herself. She pulls up very well and has started to take steps with her push-walker (as long as we hold it to prevent it from flying across the room and causing a face-plant). She has started waving BYE-BYE! This really excites me! And she's starting to understand "blow a kiss" but hasn't got the motions down.
Babbling occurs constantly. She is a talker. Especially when she's tired or wants something.
The baby is wonderful. Just wonderful. It's hard to believe that in 2 months I'll have to arrange her first birthday party - where did the time go? This week she'll be 10 months. I guess this turned into an early 10 month update. I meant to go somewhere else with this post, but it feels wrong to include it now with such a happy post about my little girl! I love her. My sqirmy, wormy, giggly happy monkey!
Note: I'll probably have a long and sappy graduation post in the coming days.
Autumn is doing fantastic. I've learned that her personality "tell" is her feet. Yea, you read that right. Her feet. Some people it's their eyes or smile or eyebrows, but my baby has these adorable baby feet that have a mind of their own. The way she curls her toes and snuggles them close together when she's content or when she kicks them because she's so excited it's dinnertime or when her toes ever so slightly wiggle when she's sitting on the floor playing with a toy. I'm telling you...her feet have personality and I love them!
Autumn is eating lots of new foods - mini pancakes, BREAD - any kind of bread, french fries, green beans, mashed potatoes, etc etc etc. Daddy and I are thinking of becoming closet eaters. The child can eat all her dinner, be in the middle of playtime, but wait...oh...WHAT?! You have FOOD! I WANT SOME! And she will bitch you out if you don't share. Mommy usually shares. Daddy does not. He's mean:oP
She's still not sleeping through the night. I'm not really tackling this right now. It's not really interfering with my schedule, so whatever.
She's really close to standing up by herself. She pulls up very well and has started to take steps with her push-walker (as long as we hold it to prevent it from flying across the room and causing a face-plant). She has started waving BYE-BYE! This really excites me! And she's starting to understand "blow a kiss" but hasn't got the motions down.
Babbling occurs constantly. She is a talker. Especially when she's tired or wants something.
The baby is wonderful. Just wonderful. It's hard to believe that in 2 months I'll have to arrange her first birthday party - where did the time go? This week she'll be 10 months. I guess this turned into an early 10 month update. I meant to go somewhere else with this post, but it feels wrong to include it now with such a happy post about my little girl! I love her. My sqirmy, wormy, giggly happy monkey!
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Thankful Thursday!
Two days in a row! WOOT! Real quick though b/c I'm supposed to be getting ready for class!
1 - that between the hours of 12-2am I am so dead to the world that I didn't hear my husband come home last night - giving me almost 7 hours of sweet slumber before Autumn woke up to nurse!
2 - that there are only 4 days left of actual classes to attend!!!!
3 - for all the struggles. Lord knows it's made me a much more powerful, outspoken woman because I know what I have overcome and I know when I can face a challenge, but I also know I can speak out and say THAT ISNT RIGHT!
4 - coffee. i need it this morning.
5 - the hubby. he has been doing a lot around the house to help me. including putting up Autumn's bookshelf (provided by the bff!) I am very excited about this, it looks cute!
Ok...now I should probably go get dressed;o)
1 - that between the hours of 12-2am I am so dead to the world that I didn't hear my husband come home last night - giving me almost 7 hours of sweet slumber before Autumn woke up to nurse!
2 - that there are only 4 days left of actual classes to attend!!!!
3 - for all the struggles. Lord knows it's made me a much more powerful, outspoken woman because I know what I have overcome and I know when I can face a challenge, but I also know I can speak out and say THAT ISNT RIGHT!
4 - coffee. i need it this morning.
5 - the hubby. he has been doing a lot around the house to help me. including putting up Autumn's bookshelf (provided by the bff!) I am very excited about this, it looks cute!
Ok...now I should probably go get dressed;o)
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
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