I am not an animal person. Never have been. I always say that's one of the reasons I'm a vegetarian...I don't like animals to eat or pet. That being said, we have a dog. A high maintenance, slobbering, mess of a boxer that the kids and Dan love. Well, Juliet loves him. Abby does 90% of the time and Austin likes him okay. Since I would do anything for my family, I take care of the dog. This paragraph isn't to make you hate me (though I'm guessing some people may?) but to give you some backstory for yesterday.
We were at Target trying to find basketball shorts for Abby and the kids saw a bunch of balloons outside Petsmart. Abby asked to go check it out and I said no. She even tried to entice me by saying, "But Mom, what if they are having a really big sale?" As we walked to Target we saw a big sign saying "Pet Adoptions." Then it started...
Abby: Can we get another dog?
Me: No
Abby: Please?
Me: No. We have a dog. One is enough.
Austin: But, what if we get rid of Duke and get a new dog?*
Me: We can get rid of Duke, but we're not getting another dog.**
Abby: NO!
Me: shoulder shrug Let's go to Target.
Abby: When I'm an adult, I'm going to have 6 dogs!
Me: No, you won't.
Abby: Fine! 5.
Me: Go ahead, but I'm not going to visit you if you do.
Abby: But....I'm going to be a mom and that means you'll be a grandma, so you'll have to come visit or you won't see your grandkids.
...
Sigh. Score one for Abby. Again.
*Austin falls closer to the take him or leave him category on the dog.
** Do not get upset with me! I joke, but we will never get rid of this dog. He's part of the family now and he's here to stay. If we were going to throw in the towel we would have done it when he was a puppy and we were going through hundreds of dollars at the vet office trying to figure out his inflammatory bowel disease and laundry list of allergies that result in doggie pica among other things.
Saturday, December 12, 2015
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
40 by 40
So, you may have noticed I just flew past my birthday without a post this year. I turned 35 this year. Thirty FIVE. This is the first year I've really struggled with the number. I've always welcomed "growing up" but this one was a bit tough to swallow. Thankfully, my husband is always two years older to make me feel not quite as old!
Anyway. My birthday happened, moving on!
A few years ago a friend of mine turned 40 and Dan and I started talking about putting together a list of things 40 things to do before we turned 40. Dan initially wrote one too, but a lot of his were running or physical and his knee has made that impossible for the time being. However, I stuck to mine and came up with the following list. (I've been working on it for two years now?) I still have a few more slots to fill and I'm open to suggestions.* Dan is supposed to be coming up with a few he wants to add, but I've been asking for a while now and note really gotten any. So, here is the list! Explanations and stories of those I've completed included!
1) Take a spin class- Done! Not only that, I now go regularly! I was always afraid of a spin class
because it seemed hard and I have a bike thing, but I loved it. Not only that, but I've become friends with two of the women in the class. Our kids play sports together and one is a neighbor, but spin definitely made it easier to cross the line from side-line acquaintances to friends.**
2) Cut my hair really short- I've always had short hair, but I went sort of pixi short before Juliet was born. I loved it, but I do not have the time to keep up with super short hair. I probably only get my hair done 2-3 times a year.
3) Take the kids to pet sting rays- I did this on a field trip growing up and it was one of my favorite childhood memories. I have no idea why, as it is so unlike me! When we moved to Greensboro we discovered the Science Center. It is 5 minutes from the house and is a zoo, aquarium and science center all in one. And it has a sting ray petting tank! Abby thought it was cool and Austin refused to touch them. Not sure it will stick with them like it did me, but it is checked off my list.
4) Run a half marathon
5) Do a color or mud run- I don't like to get dirty. At all. This sounded like something that would push me out of my comfort zone, so I added it. Not ready to try it yet!
6) Take a barre class- My sweet sister actually gave me a class as a birthday present this year. I haven't used it yet, but am excited!
7) Get under 150lbs and stay there- I actually got there after doing the 21 day fix this summer, but I haven't stuck with it. I'm determined to jump back on the wagon soon and make this stick though!
8) Run a 5k in under 30 minutes- Best I've done so far is 44 minutes, but I was with Abby. I probably still have a ways to go on this one.
9) Go all the way under the water in the ocean- I have a fear of water where I can't see the bottom. I went up to my waist this year with the kids, but couldn't pull the trigger and do it all. I think I need to wait until Dan can go in and hold my hand!
10) Ride a bike- I don't know how to ride a bike. I feel like this is something I should learn? Though of everything on my list, this is the one I'm least enthusiastic about...
11) Own a pair of designer jeans (not from TJ Maxx or Marshalls)
12) Go apple picking- Done! It wasn't what I thought, but will definitely take the kids again.
13) Own a Michael Kors Hamilton handbag - I've always wanted one, but have never bought one for countless reasons. One of these days I'm just going to do it. (But only once we get past the whole diapers stage. Maybe this will be my 40th birthday gift to myself?)
14) Take a day trip with Abby
15) Take a day trip with Austin
16) Take a trip with Juliet
17) Go wine tasting in Napa (or other wise tasting region that is not Virginia or North Carolina)
18) Go to Vegas with Dan
19) Have deep dish pizza in Chicago
20) Attend a taping of a game/talk show
21) Get a pedicure with both my girls
21) Do a ropes/zipline course- Post on this coming soon! Abby and I did one this past weekend.
22) Finish a race as a family
23) Climb a rock wall
24) Go to Hawaii
25) Take a bread baking class- I'm a pretty good baker, but I have failed at bread many times.
26) Take a photography class
27) Attend a professional tennis match- Dan and I went to one this summer. With that match, I have now attended every major sport live. (NFL, college football, NBA, college basketball, golf, NHL, NASCAR, soccer and tennis!)
28) Have a fully decorated house- considering we've been in our house over a year and I've only hung 2 pictures so far I better get moving on this one.
29) Swim with dolphins
30) Take a hot air balloon ride- I was actually booked on a ride when Dan and I were on a work trip to San Diego. However, I was in my first trimester with Abby and my ob wouldn't clear me to go.
31) Complete a large DIY project- Tiling, flooring, molding, etc. I'm pretty handy and just think this would be fun.
32) Do a spa day with at least 3 treatments
33) Get a couples massage
34) Go to Puerto Rico- This is the one thing Dan has added so far. He has family there and went several times growing up. He's been promising he'll take me for years now.
That's all I have so far! I figure I still have 5 years to add a few more. What about you? Do you have a bucket list or milestone list? What do you want to do/see/go/eat?
* I won't travel where I cannot speak the language and I will not jump out of an airplane or bungee jump. (I'd love to do either, but I am a mom of 3 and feel that is irresponsible.) Other than that, I'm pretty open?
** Does that make me sounds like as big of a loser as I think it does?? Reminder- I may come across as easy to get along with, but I am horribly socially awkward!
Anyway. My birthday happened, moving on!
A few years ago a friend of mine turned 40 and Dan and I started talking about putting together a list of things 40 things to do before we turned 40. Dan initially wrote one too, but a lot of his were running or physical and his knee has made that impossible for the time being. However, I stuck to mine and came up with the following list. (I've been working on it for two years now?) I still have a few more slots to fill and I'm open to suggestions.* Dan is supposed to be coming up with a few he wants to add, but I've been asking for a while now and note really gotten any. So, here is the list! Explanations and stories of those I've completed included!
1) Take a spin class- Done! Not only that, I now go regularly! I was always afraid of a spin class
because it seemed hard and I have a bike thing, but I loved it. Not only that, but I've become friends with two of the women in the class. Our kids play sports together and one is a neighbor, but spin definitely made it easier to cross the line from side-line acquaintances to friends.**
2) Cut my hair really short- I've always had short hair, but I went sort of pixi short before Juliet was born. I loved it, but I do not have the time to keep up with super short hair. I probably only get my hair done 2-3 times a year.
3) Take the kids to pet sting rays- I did this on a field trip growing up and it was one of my favorite childhood memories. I have no idea why, as it is so unlike me! When we moved to Greensboro we discovered the Science Center. It is 5 minutes from the house and is a zoo, aquarium and science center all in one. And it has a sting ray petting tank! Abby thought it was cool and Austin refused to touch them. Not sure it will stick with them like it did me, but it is checked off my list.
4) Run a half marathon
5) Do a color or mud run- I don't like to get dirty. At all. This sounded like something that would push me out of my comfort zone, so I added it. Not ready to try it yet!
6) Take a barre class- My sweet sister actually gave me a class as a birthday present this year. I haven't used it yet, but am excited!
7) Get under 150lbs and stay there- I actually got there after doing the 21 day fix this summer, but I haven't stuck with it. I'm determined to jump back on the wagon soon and make this stick though!
8) Run a 5k in under 30 minutes- Best I've done so far is 44 minutes, but I was with Abby. I probably still have a ways to go on this one.
9) Go all the way under the water in the ocean- I have a fear of water where I can't see the bottom. I went up to my waist this year with the kids, but couldn't pull the trigger and do it all. I think I need to wait until Dan can go in and hold my hand!
10) Ride a bike- I don't know how to ride a bike. I feel like this is something I should learn? Though of everything on my list, this is the one I'm least enthusiastic about...
11) Own a pair of designer jeans (not from TJ Maxx or Marshalls)
12) Go apple picking- Done! It wasn't what I thought, but will definitely take the kids again.
13) Own a Michael Kors Hamilton handbag - I've always wanted one, but have never bought one for countless reasons. One of these days I'm just going to do it. (But only once we get past the whole diapers stage. Maybe this will be my 40th birthday gift to myself?)
14) Take a day trip with Abby
15) Take a day trip with Austin
16) Take a trip with Juliet
17) Go wine tasting in Napa (or other wise tasting region that is not Virginia or North Carolina)
18) Go to Vegas with Dan
19) Have deep dish pizza in Chicago
20) Attend a taping of a game/talk show
21) Get a pedicure with both my girls
21) Do a ropes/zipline course- Post on this coming soon! Abby and I did one this past weekend.
22) Finish a race as a family
23) Climb a rock wall
24) Go to Hawaii
25) Take a bread baking class- I'm a pretty good baker, but I have failed at bread many times.
26) Take a photography class
27) Attend a professional tennis match- Dan and I went to one this summer. With that match, I have now attended every major sport live. (NFL, college football, NBA, college basketball, golf, NHL, NASCAR, soccer and tennis!)
28) Have a fully decorated house- considering we've been in our house over a year and I've only hung 2 pictures so far I better get moving on this one.
29) Swim with dolphins
30) Take a hot air balloon ride- I was actually booked on a ride when Dan and I were on a work trip to San Diego. However, I was in my first trimester with Abby and my ob wouldn't clear me to go.
31) Complete a large DIY project- Tiling, flooring, molding, etc. I'm pretty handy and just think this would be fun.
32) Do a spa day with at least 3 treatments
33) Get a couples massage
34) Go to Puerto Rico- This is the one thing Dan has added so far. He has family there and went several times growing up. He's been promising he'll take me for years now.
That's all I have so far! I figure I still have 5 years to add a few more. What about you? Do you have a bucket list or milestone list? What do you want to do/see/go/eat?
* I won't travel where I cannot speak the language and I will not jump out of an airplane or bungee jump. (I'd love to do either, but I am a mom of 3 and feel that is irresponsible.) Other than that, I'm pretty open?
** Does that make me sounds like as big of a loser as I think it does?? Reminder- I may come across as easy to get along with, but I am horribly socially awkward!
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Happy Birthday, Abby!
Happy Birthday, Ladybug!
Eight is the first year that begins the transition from kid to teenager....a be"tween," if you will. Looking at you now, I see more and more who you are becoming and less and less the baby you once were. You are smart, kind, full of sass, and you wear your heart on your sleeve.
Last year at this time, you were learning the ropes in a new city. You missed your old friends, but were quickly finding your groove and making new ones. You LOVED school. Back in Raleigh you liked your school, but it was far from home so it was hard to make too many friends outside of the school walls. For some reason, you never seemed to find your social groove. Here, you have settled right in and found a fantastic little circle of friends.* You have found your confidence again when it comes to your social life. You've always done well in the academic side of school, and this year is no exception. It hasn't been the easiest year so far, but you are doing really well in second grade!
When the whole Frozen debacle occurred**, it was kind of the beginning of the end of your princess phase. This year your dad introduced you to the wonderful world of Harry Potter. You were sucked in from page one and have become fully obsessed with all things HP. Along with the new found love of Potter, your dad introduced you to Star Wars this year. Again, you were immediately sucked in. These days your favorite princess is "Princess Leia." A fact that hurts your momma's heart, but you are nothing if not your own person!***
You've always been an athlete, but this year your sports are really coming together. You've gotten more confident on the soccer field and though you may not be the leading goal scorer, no one hustles more than you. You run hard, fast, and don't give up! Your dad and I love watching you play. Last winter you tried basketball for the first time and did pretty well. This year's team is a little more competitive skill wise, but you appear to hold your own. You like basketball, soccer is your first love, but you are also a fantastic little runner. I've become your running partner out of need (thanks to Daddy's knee trouble) but, even though I would have never picked it for us, I love that time together. We're very different people and I love that we have running to share. You've pushed me further than I thought I could go, and can't wait to see where our running goes!
You've always been a sassy little one, but this year has really brought the 'tude. Sometimes I think those eyes will roll right out of your head, that foot may be stomped right through the floor, and you'll pull a neck muscle with how hard you flip your hair and turn your head at me. I guess it's only a sign of what is to come. I certainly don't expect it to go away anytime soon, so we're just trying to let it slide. (So long as it's not mean. You cross the line occasionally, but not all that often. It always really upsets you when I point out the line as been crossed, so I know it's not intentional. I think it's just a part of growing up. Mostly, you're sweet and kind.)
I had lunch with you today at school and your assistant teacher from last year stopped by to give you a hug and wish you a happy birthday. As she was hugging you, she said "you are best, kindest, smartest 8 year old I've ever met." Then she looked at me and said, "I'm serious about that. I've know a lot of 8 year olds, and she really is. And best of all, she's humble." It melted my heart to hear those words. She was telling the truth. You are all of those things.
I'm sure this year will be a roller coaster as you navigate this new stage in life, but knowing you I know there will be a lot of highs among the bumps. Eight years ago you came into this world and completely changed it forever. I can't imagine where I would be without you as my daughter, I love you so much, Ladybug!
Love,
Mom
*I say this before these 4 girls come over for your sleepover on Friday. I may change my tune on Saturday ;)
** 3/4 of the way through your 2nd (3rd?) theater viewing you became violently ill. In the theater. All over everything and everyone. From that point on, you had some post traumatic stress and Anna and Elsa became enemies rather than your latest obsession.
*** That being said, you are your father's daughter. You two are peas in a pod and your mind works just like his. I am in trouble with you two. You can already argue circles around me, but despite what you may think you are not smarter than i am! (yet! lol.)
Eight is the first year that begins the transition from kid to teenager....a be"tween," if you will. Looking at you now, I see more and more who you are becoming and less and less the baby you once were. You are smart, kind, full of sass, and you wear your heart on your sleeve.
Last year at this time, you were learning the ropes in a new city. You missed your old friends, but were quickly finding your groove and making new ones. You LOVED school. Back in Raleigh you liked your school, but it was far from home so it was hard to make too many friends outside of the school walls. For some reason, you never seemed to find your social groove. Here, you have settled right in and found a fantastic little circle of friends.* You have found your confidence again when it comes to your social life. You've always done well in the academic side of school, and this year is no exception. It hasn't been the easiest year so far, but you are doing really well in second grade!
When the whole Frozen debacle occurred**, it was kind of the beginning of the end of your princess phase. This year your dad introduced you to the wonderful world of Harry Potter. You were sucked in from page one and have become fully obsessed with all things HP. Along with the new found love of Potter, your dad introduced you to Star Wars this year. Again, you were immediately sucked in. These days your favorite princess is "Princess Leia." A fact that hurts your momma's heart, but you are nothing if not your own person!***
You've always been an athlete, but this year your sports are really coming together. You've gotten more confident on the soccer field and though you may not be the leading goal scorer, no one hustles more than you. You run hard, fast, and don't give up! Your dad and I love watching you play. Last winter you tried basketball for the first time and did pretty well. This year's team is a little more competitive skill wise, but you appear to hold your own. You like basketball, soccer is your first love, but you are also a fantastic little runner. I've become your running partner out of need (thanks to Daddy's knee trouble) but, even though I would have never picked it for us, I love that time together. We're very different people and I love that we have running to share. You've pushed me further than I thought I could go, and can't wait to see where our running goes!
You've always been a sassy little one, but this year has really brought the 'tude. Sometimes I think those eyes will roll right out of your head, that foot may be stomped right through the floor, and you'll pull a neck muscle with how hard you flip your hair and turn your head at me. I guess it's only a sign of what is to come. I certainly don't expect it to go away anytime soon, so we're just trying to let it slide. (So long as it's not mean. You cross the line occasionally, but not all that often. It always really upsets you when I point out the line as been crossed, so I know it's not intentional. I think it's just a part of growing up. Mostly, you're sweet and kind.)
I had lunch with you today at school and your assistant teacher from last year stopped by to give you a hug and wish you a happy birthday. As she was hugging you, she said "you are best, kindest, smartest 8 year old I've ever met." Then she looked at me and said, "I'm serious about that. I've know a lot of 8 year olds, and she really is. And best of all, she's humble." It melted my heart to hear those words. She was telling the truth. You are all of those things.
I'm sure this year will be a roller coaster as you navigate this new stage in life, but knowing you I know there will be a lot of highs among the bumps. Eight years ago you came into this world and completely changed it forever. I can't imagine where I would be without you as my daughter, I love you so much, Ladybug!
Love,
Mom
*I say this before these 4 girls come over for your sleepover on Friday. I may change my tune on Saturday ;)
** 3/4 of the way through your 2nd (3rd?) theater viewing you became violently ill. In the theater. All over everything and everyone. From that point on, you had some post traumatic stress and Anna and Elsa became enemies rather than your latest obsession.
*** That being said, you are your father's daughter. You two are peas in a pod and your mind works just like his. I am in trouble with you two. You can already argue circles around me, but despite what you may think you are not smarter than i am! (yet! lol.)
Saturday, November 7, 2015
Abby and the Attitude
Did you know that 8 is officially a "tween?" Not that this should be a huge surprise since Abby has had an attitude since she could speak, but as this milestone approaches she has been on fire lately. I'm the one who has to deal with it every day, and it's not usually funny in the moment, but I always get a good laugh relaying the story to Dan later. So, for your reading pleasure, here are just a few of the gems that have come out of her mouth the last week or two.
During dinner...
Abby: "I wonder what Lola is having for dinner...sigh. Did you know that Lola's mom cooks dinner EVERY NIGHT? Like, she ACTUALLY cooks, not just heats stuff up."
She said this on a night I made spaghetti. Which means in our house Abby had elbow noodles with butter and peas, Austin had thin spaghetti with sauce that I took all the "chunks" out of, Juliet had elbows with sauce, Dan had thin spaghetti with sauce and spicy sausage, and I had whatever noodle shape was left at 8pm and they had all gone to bed.*
I read Abby the school lunch menu word for word at breakfast and she chose to buy. That afternoon when she got home from school...
Abby: "Today for lunch they had STRAWBERRY yogurt parfaits."
Me: "I know."
Abby: "You didn't SAY strawberry."
Me: "yes, I did."
Abby: "No you didn't!! Did you know that younger people have better memories than old people? So, I am right!"
Every time we go to a store these days they want to look at the toys "to make our christmas lists!"
Me: "We are not talking about Christmas lists anymore! I do not want to hear anything about a christmas list until after my birthday!"
Abby: "You mean MY birthday."
Me: "No. MINE. I have a birthday too!"
Abby: "sigh." eye roll
It's raining today so when I put Juliet in the car I sang, "Rain, Rain, Go Away."
Abby: "Ugh. You know that song doesn't work, right?"
That folks, is just a glimpse of Abby on any given day. Every once in a while I get a glimpse of the sweet girl buried way deep below the attitude and she does things like this...
Austin was fidgety during his haircut and I was wrangling Juliet, so Abby went up to calm him down and keep him still.
But the moments are fleeting, because not 10 minutes later she was in tears in the grocery store. A man with a 10 year old boy stopped me and said, "I remember those days. He's the youngest of my 3, it gets easier! They look happy at least! Well, except for that one. She looks angry."
*Dinner in our house is craziness.
During dinner...
Abby: "I wonder what Lola is having for dinner...sigh. Did you know that Lola's mom cooks dinner EVERY NIGHT? Like, she ACTUALLY cooks, not just heats stuff up."
She said this on a night I made spaghetti. Which means in our house Abby had elbow noodles with butter and peas, Austin had thin spaghetti with sauce that I took all the "chunks" out of, Juliet had elbows with sauce, Dan had thin spaghetti with sauce and spicy sausage, and I had whatever noodle shape was left at 8pm and they had all gone to bed.*
I read Abby the school lunch menu word for word at breakfast and she chose to buy. That afternoon when she got home from school...
Abby: "Today for lunch they had STRAWBERRY yogurt parfaits."
Me: "I know."
Abby: "You didn't SAY strawberry."
Me: "yes, I did."
Abby: "No you didn't!! Did you know that younger people have better memories than old people? So, I am right!"
Every time we go to a store these days they want to look at the toys "to make our christmas lists!"
Me: "We are not talking about Christmas lists anymore! I do not want to hear anything about a christmas list until after my birthday!"
Abby: "You mean MY birthday."
Me: "No. MINE. I have a birthday too!"
Abby: "sigh." eye roll
It's raining today so when I put Juliet in the car I sang, "Rain, Rain, Go Away."
Abby: "Ugh. You know that song doesn't work, right?"
That folks, is just a glimpse of Abby on any given day. Every once in a while I get a glimpse of the sweet girl buried way deep below the attitude and she does things like this...
Austin was fidgety during his haircut and I was wrangling Juliet, so Abby went up to calm him down and keep him still.
But the moments are fleeting, because not 10 minutes later she was in tears in the grocery store. A man with a 10 year old boy stopped me and said, "I remember those days. He's the youngest of my 3, it gets easier! They look happy at least! Well, except for that one. She looks angry."
*Dinner in our house is craziness.
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Three Days of Sibling Bliss
You guys. I have made an amazing parenting discovery!
My kids, like all siblings, fight. They yell at each other, they boss each other around (one much more so than the other: cough, cough, Abby), they argue and sometimes it's physical. Don't get me wrong, they love each other and most of the time they are pretty good together. In fact, I'd say most of the time, provided Abby's attitude is at a level 7 or lower,* they get along pretty well.
However, the last few weeks have been epic. I don't know if they are still getting used to the busy school and extracurricular activities schedules, or the fact that my daughter is a budding tween and way too cool for the rest of us, or even if Austin has gained some confidence and is starting to push back more, but whatever it is, it has been bad. They could not get through a meal without screaming at each other (breakfast is the worst). Forget trying to have them play together on anything other than the computer.** I'd tried lots of different tactics, but nothing was really working. Then, I discovered the secret...
Separation.
Last Saturday, Dan took Abby to Harrisonburg for the day to see JMU on Game Day and then watch the game. They left before Austin woke up and came home late at night, so they went a full 24h without seeing each other. On Sunday, I was expecting Abby to grumble downstairs her usual non-morning person self. She'd had a long day, and she's usually worse when she's tired so I was expecting: grumpy, angry, and yelling at people. Instead, she came downstairs quietly, went into the kitchen (rather than flopping on the couch yelling about where the remote is) and said, "hi, Austin!" Then she said the same to me and Juliet. And she was SWEET! Austin, smiled and said, "hi, Abby!" Next, the most amazing thing happened....they started talking about their Saturday. Like normal people! There was listening and asking questions, and dare I say interest and respect??
All Sunday, there was no fighting. They laughed, they played, it was amazing. On Monday they had the day off from school for a teacher workday, and it was the same thing! When it was quiet time Monday, Abby asked if she could read to Austin in her room. I, of course, said yes and they were in her room playing and talking for an hour and a half. AN HOUR AND A HALF!!! Surely, this couldn't continue once school was back, right? But, no! Tuesday was the same as well!
Three days. I got three whole days of sibling bliss. I didn't comment on it, I didn't say a word to anyone because I was afraid to jinx it, but it was wonderful.
I'm afraid all good things must come to an end, and this morning was a giant reality check. Austin took a rare nap yesterday so he was up late. Abby stayed up too late reading, woke up tired and took extra time getting ready so we were cramped for time. Juliet had been up last night (teething?), so I was tired. There was lots of yelling. I may have screamed at everyone once or twice as well. It was...like a normal Wednesday.***
Sigh. Oh, well. It was fun while it lasted.
I wonder when I can persuade Dan to take one of them away for a day again?!?
* These days she hoovers around an 8. Eye rolls, hair flips, tone dripping with sarcasm, the works. Typical tween, I suppose, but man is it fun! (No. No it is not fun at all.)
** I'll probably go into this deeper in another post, but my kids don't really play or go on computers/ipads. Abby has an iPad and uses it on occasion when we're at doctor's appointments and such, but that's it. Austin isn't allowed on it. So, once a week when I let them go on the computer for a little bit, they are angels.
***Are Wednesdays bad for everyone? I always attributed cranky Wednesdays to being up late for soccer on Tuesday, but there was no soccer yesterday. Is it just the struggle of being mid-week?
My kids, like all siblings, fight. They yell at each other, they boss each other around (one much more so than the other: cough, cough, Abby), they argue and sometimes it's physical. Don't get me wrong, they love each other and most of the time they are pretty good together. In fact, I'd say most of the time, provided Abby's attitude is at a level 7 or lower,* they get along pretty well.
However, the last few weeks have been epic. I don't know if they are still getting used to the busy school and extracurricular activities schedules, or the fact that my daughter is a budding tween and way too cool for the rest of us, or even if Austin has gained some confidence and is starting to push back more, but whatever it is, it has been bad. They could not get through a meal without screaming at each other (breakfast is the worst). Forget trying to have them play together on anything other than the computer.** I'd tried lots of different tactics, but nothing was really working. Then, I discovered the secret...
Separation.
Last Saturday, Dan took Abby to Harrisonburg for the day to see JMU on Game Day and then watch the game. They left before Austin woke up and came home late at night, so they went a full 24h without seeing each other. On Sunday, I was expecting Abby to grumble downstairs her usual non-morning person self. She'd had a long day, and she's usually worse when she's tired so I was expecting: grumpy, angry, and yelling at people. Instead, she came downstairs quietly, went into the kitchen (rather than flopping on the couch yelling about where the remote is) and said, "hi, Austin!" Then she said the same to me and Juliet. And she was SWEET! Austin, smiled and said, "hi, Abby!" Next, the most amazing thing happened....they started talking about their Saturday. Like normal people! There was listening and asking questions, and dare I say interest and respect??
All Sunday, there was no fighting. They laughed, they played, it was amazing. On Monday they had the day off from school for a teacher workday, and it was the same thing! When it was quiet time Monday, Abby asked if she could read to Austin in her room. I, of course, said yes and they were in her room playing and talking for an hour and a half. AN HOUR AND A HALF!!! Surely, this couldn't continue once school was back, right? But, no! Tuesday was the same as well!
Three days. I got three whole days of sibling bliss. I didn't comment on it, I didn't say a word to anyone because I was afraid to jinx it, but it was wonderful.
I'm afraid all good things must come to an end, and this morning was a giant reality check. Austin took a rare nap yesterday so he was up late. Abby stayed up too late reading, woke up tired and took extra time getting ready so we were cramped for time. Juliet had been up last night (teething?), so I was tired. There was lots of yelling. I may have screamed at everyone once or twice as well. It was...like a normal Wednesday.***
Sigh. Oh, well. It was fun while it lasted.
I wonder when I can persuade Dan to take one of them away for a day again?!?
* These days she hoovers around an 8. Eye rolls, hair flips, tone dripping with sarcasm, the works. Typical tween, I suppose, but man is it fun! (No. No it is not fun at all.)
** I'll probably go into this deeper in another post, but my kids don't really play or go on computers/ipads. Abby has an iPad and uses it on occasion when we're at doctor's appointments and such, but that's it. Austin isn't allowed on it. So, once a week when I let them go on the computer for a little bit, they are angels.
***Are Wednesdays bad for everyone? I always attributed cranky Wednesdays to being up late for soccer on Tuesday, but there was no soccer yesterday. Is it just the struggle of being mid-week?
Sunday, October 25, 2015
Happy 5th Birthday, Austin!!
Happy Birthday, Buddy!!
So, first off, I apologize that this is a week late. Life is crazy right now, but I'm starting to embrace the idea that life will continue to be crazy for the next few years. Instead of waiting for life to slow down, I'm just going to have to learn to roll with it! You, of all my kids, should get that most as you are the most laid back of the bunch. Now that this part is over, let's move on...
Five. A whole hand. That phrase is used so often to describe a kid your age, but it fits you. You have been a handful since shortly after I found out I was having you. A non-stop, trouble-making, full of life and laugher, sweet, sweet handful.
When you turned 4 you were a new big brother, in a new city, and starting at a brand new school. As you turn 5, you have totally embraced your role as big brother, adjusted well to life in Greensboro, and (after 3 tries) have found a school that you love and are doing great at. When we started this year, you didn't want anything to do with anything related to schoolwork. You loved counting and numbers, but if anyone asked you to pick up a pencil or crayon you went stomping off. Fast forward through your short time at the first school, the rough start at the second, and the turbulent (but mostly positive) months following. You really started to find your groove toward the end of this past school year, and thanks in part to my brilliant decision to buy star wars workbooks over the summer, you continued right through summer. When you started this year of school, it was on a high note, and you've mostly maintained that. From a boy who refused to sit still long enough to color; to one who spent over an hour last night coloring, drawing, stamping and even writing your name. While we will have a ways to go towards reading, you've started to take an interest and a lot of pride in reading the few sight words you have learned. You've come a long way, Buddy!
This year also began the transition from all things Superhero to all Star Wars ALL THE TIME. You are completely obsessed, which brings your father great joy. Not only because he loves sharing an interest with you, but because it makes your Momma fumble and very uncomfortable. Star Wars is not my thing, and though I may never be able to tell the difference between the two droid things, I have embraced your (and your sister's) excitement, and supported by buying mountains of toys/games/clothing/lunchboxes/yogurt/whatever. You loved superheroes, but this Star Wars thing is so much bigger for you. You take in every detail from the movies, stories and comic books your Daddy reads to you and can talk about it endlessly to whoever will listen.
You've always been a funny kid, but this year you've really started to figure it out. You know you are funny and love to make people around you laugh. At times it gets you in trouble, because you haven't quite figured out when and where jokes are appropriate, but you'll get there. No one finds your funnier than your sisters. They laugh with you constantly...at least when the older one is annoyed at you. Juliet loves you to pieces and you are so good with her. A little rough at times, but so very sweet.
While you are a 5 year old boy and very much the wild and crazy kid you always have been, you are still one of the sweetest people I know. You may run, tackle, push, yell, and stomp, but you also love to hug and snuggle and have such sweet gentle moments sometimes. You really care about your friends, sisters, Daddy and me. This has been such a giant year of growth for you, and I cannot wait to see what 5 has in store!
Love you lots, Buddy!
Mom
So, first off, I apologize that this is a week late. Life is crazy right now, but I'm starting to embrace the idea that life will continue to be crazy for the next few years. Instead of waiting for life to slow down, I'm just going to have to learn to roll with it! You, of all my kids, should get that most as you are the most laid back of the bunch. Now that this part is over, let's move on...
Five. A whole hand. That phrase is used so often to describe a kid your age, but it fits you. You have been a handful since shortly after I found out I was having you. A non-stop, trouble-making, full of life and laugher, sweet, sweet handful.
When you turned 4 you were a new big brother, in a new city, and starting at a brand new school. As you turn 5, you have totally embraced your role as big brother, adjusted well to life in Greensboro, and (after 3 tries) have found a school that you love and are doing great at. When we started this year, you didn't want anything to do with anything related to schoolwork. You loved counting and numbers, but if anyone asked you to pick up a pencil or crayon you went stomping off. Fast forward through your short time at the first school, the rough start at the second, and the turbulent (but mostly positive) months following. You really started to find your groove toward the end of this past school year, and thanks in part to my brilliant decision to buy star wars workbooks over the summer, you continued right through summer. When you started this year of school, it was on a high note, and you've mostly maintained that. From a boy who refused to sit still long enough to color; to one who spent over an hour last night coloring, drawing, stamping and even writing your name. While we will have a ways to go towards reading, you've started to take an interest and a lot of pride in reading the few sight words you have learned. You've come a long way, Buddy!
This year also began the transition from all things Superhero to all Star Wars ALL THE TIME. You are completely obsessed, which brings your father great joy. Not only because he loves sharing an interest with you, but because it makes your Momma fumble and very uncomfortable. Star Wars is not my thing, and though I may never be able to tell the difference between the two droid things, I have embraced your (and your sister's) excitement, and supported by buying mountains of toys/games/clothing/lunchboxes/yogurt/whatever. You loved superheroes, but this Star Wars thing is so much bigger for you. You take in every detail from the movies, stories and comic books your Daddy reads to you and can talk about it endlessly to whoever will listen.
You've always been a funny kid, but this year you've really started to figure it out. You know you are funny and love to make people around you laugh. At times it gets you in trouble, because you haven't quite figured out when and where jokes are appropriate, but you'll get there. No one finds your funnier than your sisters. They laugh with you constantly...at least when the older one is annoyed at you. Juliet loves you to pieces and you are so good with her. A little rough at times, but so very sweet.
While you are a 5 year old boy and very much the wild and crazy kid you always have been, you are still one of the sweetest people I know. You may run, tackle, push, yell, and stomp, but you also love to hug and snuggle and have such sweet gentle moments sometimes. You really care about your friends, sisters, Daddy and me. This has been such a giant year of growth for you, and I cannot wait to see what 5 has in store!
Love you lots, Buddy!
Mom
Sunday, October 4, 2015
I'm back!
Dan has been on me for a few months now to get this thing up and running again but I ignored him, because I have three kids and a husband and a dog and who has time for this?!? I'd gotten a few comments recently from people asking about when I used to write, but the final push was last Friday. We were getting family pictures done by an amazing photographer who has become a friend and as we were wandering around Duke's campus she said "you should write a blog!" Dan just looked at me with a face that clearly said, "I told you so."
It occurred to me that I've made a lot of new friends over the last 3 years, most of which had no idea I ever even started this thing. Not to mention there's the whole guilt behind Juliet not having what her siblings have...Abby has countless pictures and a partially filled out baby book, Austin has a years worth of monthly letters and pictures on here and Juliet has nothing but saved pictures on my phone and computer. So here we are!
This blog started when I moved to Raleigh to keep friends and family updated on our new lives in NC. It turned into my outlet and sounding board as I learned life as a SAHM. It followed me through my pregnancy with Austin and was such a help as life turned dark and I worked my way through my post-partum and faced my depression head on. But then I stopped writing. I don't really have a reason, probably just life getting in the way. (Have you met Austin? The boy is crazy. And not just a handful, he is two or three handfuls. Good thing he is such a sweet boy, because he is exhausting!)
Anyway. Here we are again, almost three years later and so much has changed! I'm not sure what this will turn into, so bear with me as I play around for a while. In an attempt to convince me to start again, Dan even offered to do a guest post every so often, so I shall hold him to it!! Please note the name change! I took the giant step of purchasing my own domain name, since I am no longer in the "triangle" but have moved west to the "triad." That was a lesson, once again, in how much I suck at using the internet and all things related. (it took 4 phone calls to godaddy and 3 emails to blogger to figure it all out!)
In the meantime, please enjoy some pictures taken by Heather, that amazing photographer I mentioned, last weekend!
Dan has been on me for a few months now to get this thing up and running again but I ignored him, because I have three kids and a husband and a dog and who has time for this?!? I'd gotten a few comments recently from people asking about when I used to write, but the final push was last Friday. We were getting family pictures done by an amazing photographer who has become a friend and as we were wandering around Duke's campus she said "you should write a blog!" Dan just looked at me with a face that clearly said, "I told you so."
It occurred to me that I've made a lot of new friends over the last 3 years, most of which had no idea I ever even started this thing. Not to mention there's the whole guilt behind Juliet not having what her siblings have...Abby has countless pictures and a partially filled out baby book, Austin has a years worth of monthly letters and pictures on here and Juliet has nothing but saved pictures on my phone and computer. So here we are!
This blog started when I moved to Raleigh to keep friends and family updated on our new lives in NC. It turned into my outlet and sounding board as I learned life as a SAHM. It followed me through my pregnancy with Austin and was such a help as life turned dark and I worked my way through my post-partum and faced my depression head on. But then I stopped writing. I don't really have a reason, probably just life getting in the way. (Have you met Austin? The boy is crazy. And not just a handful, he is two or three handfuls. Good thing he is such a sweet boy, because he is exhausting!)
Anyway. Here we are again, almost three years later and so much has changed! I'm not sure what this will turn into, so bear with me as I play around for a while. In an attempt to convince me to start again, Dan even offered to do a guest post every so often, so I shall hold him to it!! Please note the name change! I took the giant step of purchasing my own domain name, since I am no longer in the "triangle" but have moved west to the "triad." That was a lesson, once again, in how much I suck at using the internet and all things related. (it took 4 phone calls to godaddy and 3 emails to blogger to figure it all out!)
In the meantime, please enjoy some pictures taken by Heather, that amazing photographer I mentioned, last weekend!
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