This little munchkin decided to stay awake for 8 hours straight today. 8 loooong hours. They were not all happy hours either. I would say about half of them were full of fussiness and at times, ear piercing shrieks. He was so tired but yet refused to close his eyes. I took turns with his Daddy to try to get some breaks but Aiden had other plans and made that known. He wanted his Mommy!
I finally got him to sleep around 8:30pm, laid him softy in his crib, and tip-toed out of the room, all while holding my breath to see if the crying would start up again. Thankfully, he was knocked out. Finally! I felt like I could fall asleep standing up and my brain was mush. I sat there just staring into space for a while and eventually decided to get online to check email and upload some pics. I had fun going through the girls b-day photos and then I got to these. I saw this little face looking back at me and almost forgot about those long hours. Almost!
PS - He has rolled over a few times before from his belly to his back but today he managed one roll from his back to his belly. We will see if he remembers this new trick tomorrow!
August 23, 2009
Bed Hopping
The girls have started sleeping together all the time now for both naps and bedtime. They usually choose Kaylee's bed but they will switch back and forth. I will check on them at night to find them all cuddled up together. I guess they don't like to be too far apart even while sleeping....
They also seem to be under the impression that we can't hear them running around up there and playing toys when they are supposed to be sleeping. They get surprised every time we tell them to lay down. :-)
They also seem to be under the impression that we can't hear them running around up there and playing toys when they are supposed to be sleeping. They get surprised every time we tell them to lay down. :-)
A Princess Party
Yesterday, we were blessed to celebrate K&A's 3rd birthday. They were excited to wake up to see the princess banner, centerpiece and cups/plates that they had chosen for their special day. We actually would have had many many more princess themed decorations had they gotten their way. I lost control very quickly when we walked into the princess and mermaid aisle at the party store. I had things flying into my basket left and right and we had to make a few compromises along the way or else we would have bought the whole store!
Note to self: Never ever take 3 year old's into a party store and let them loose!
K&A were so excited to wake up to see it all put together and to hear all about what was to come during the day. They kept looking out the window to see if Grandma was there yet and kept asking who was coming to their party. I loved seeing them so excited and eager to celebrate. I had this vision in my mind of them all dressed up in their princess and mermaid costumes, with their hair done up prettily, opening presents and blowing out candles.
Unfortunately, the day didn't quite match up to my vision. For some reason, their moods went downhill after only a few short hours. They began fighting, whining, crying, not listening, and anything and everything else they could do to drive us crazy. I found myself so frazzled hours before the party even began. When it came time to get ready, they didn't want to wear their costumes and they really did not want their hair done. It was one battle after another. I kept asking what happened to my children. Do they magically turn evil when they turn 3? Does that happen overnight? HaHa.
The day wore on and I have to admit that there were moments of sheer frustration and impatience on my part. I tried to remind myself that it was their birthday so I should just relax and go with the flow but we were not feeling each other the majority of that morning. The guests began showing up and thankfully their moods began to improve. They enjoyed playing with their cousins and things turned out fairly well with the party. There was plenty of food and dessert . The girls went wild opening their gifts and it was total chaos in our living room. It seemed like they had tore through everything in just about 5 minutes flat and they received so many great gifts. Our living room was still full of newly opened toys this evening. They loved their cake (although that hardly turned out as planned) and ate it up when everyone sang happy birthday to them.
They ended the day by spending their first night away from Mommy and Daddy. Their Titi Elsie asked to keep them overnight and surprisingly my girls jumped at the opportunity. They grabbed their blankies and were ready to go. I couldn't even believe it and didn't want them to go. I kept asking them to please stay but they were not having it. As Kaylee said "I will be back tomorrow Mommy." They went and ended up having a blast. They built pretend castles, ate lots of snacks, and all slept together. There was no crying and asking to come home as we had expected. That made us half happy and half depressed. They sure are growing up fast!
They came home this morning and I couldn't wait to play. We sat on the floor playing stickers, my little pony, barbie, and play dough. Our moods were all improved and we enjoyed hearing their stories about their party and night. They had lots of funny things to say. I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to celebrate their 3rd birthday. It seems like such a simple thing but really it is one of the greatest gifts we could have. The day wasn't perfect... but how often are things actually perfect? It was full of highs and lows but it was "real" and it was ours.
Love you girls!
PS - My thoughts also drifted to Sheye Rosemeyer and her family while we celebrated. Their daughter Ava shared the girl's birthday and would have turned 6 years old this year. I don't personally know their family but reading about Ava through Sheye's stories has been a real eye opener for me. Thank you for sharing Ava, inspiring me through your words and pictures, and for reminding mothers all around the world to truly appreciate each moment we have with our children. It is a greater blessing than you realize. I know Ava wasn't physically here to celebrate her special day but I am sure she had plenty of princess parties to drop in on all over the place!
Note to self: Never ever take 3 year old's into a party store and let them loose!
K&A were so excited to wake up to see it all put together and to hear all about what was to come during the day. They kept looking out the window to see if Grandma was there yet and kept asking who was coming to their party. I loved seeing them so excited and eager to celebrate. I had this vision in my mind of them all dressed up in their princess and mermaid costumes, with their hair done up prettily, opening presents and blowing out candles.
Unfortunately, the day didn't quite match up to my vision. For some reason, their moods went downhill after only a few short hours. They began fighting, whining, crying, not listening, and anything and everything else they could do to drive us crazy. I found myself so frazzled hours before the party even began. When it came time to get ready, they didn't want to wear their costumes and they really did not want their hair done. It was one battle after another. I kept asking what happened to my children. Do they magically turn evil when they turn 3? Does that happen overnight? HaHa.
The day wore on and I have to admit that there were moments of sheer frustration and impatience on my part. I tried to remind myself that it was their birthday so I should just relax and go with the flow but we were not feeling each other the majority of that morning. The guests began showing up and thankfully their moods began to improve. They enjoyed playing with their cousins and things turned out fairly well with the party. There was plenty of food and dessert . The girls went wild opening their gifts and it was total chaos in our living room. It seemed like they had tore through everything in just about 5 minutes flat and they received so many great gifts. Our living room was still full of newly opened toys this evening. They loved their cake (although that hardly turned out as planned) and ate it up when everyone sang happy birthday to them.
They ended the day by spending their first night away from Mommy and Daddy. Their Titi Elsie asked to keep them overnight and surprisingly my girls jumped at the opportunity. They grabbed their blankies and were ready to go. I couldn't even believe it and didn't want them to go. I kept asking them to please stay but they were not having it. As Kaylee said "I will be back tomorrow Mommy." They went and ended up having a blast. They built pretend castles, ate lots of snacks, and all slept together. There was no crying and asking to come home as we had expected. That made us half happy and half depressed. They sure are growing up fast!
They came home this morning and I couldn't wait to play. We sat on the floor playing stickers, my little pony, barbie, and play dough. Our moods were all improved and we enjoyed hearing their stories about their party and night. They had lots of funny things to say. I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to celebrate their 3rd birthday. It seems like such a simple thing but really it is one of the greatest gifts we could have. The day wasn't perfect... but how often are things actually perfect? It was full of highs and lows but it was "real" and it was ours.
Love you girls!
PS - My thoughts also drifted to Sheye Rosemeyer and her family while we celebrated. Their daughter Ava shared the girl's birthday and would have turned 6 years old this year. I don't personally know their family but reading about Ava through Sheye's stories has been a real eye opener for me. Thank you for sharing Ava, inspiring me through your words and pictures, and for reminding mothers all around the world to truly appreciate each moment we have with our children. It is a greater blessing than you realize. I know Ava wasn't physically here to celebrate her special day but I am sure she had plenty of princess parties to drop in on all over the place!
August 22, 2009
3 Years Old!
Dear Kaylee and Alyssa,
Today you turn 3 years old. This number astounds Daddy and me and we really cannot make sense of the fact that we have 3 year olds. 3-year olds!! Seriously? How did this happen? We have watched you grow and change every single day right before our eyes yet it feels as time has passed with the blink of an eye.
You two, on the other hand, are quite proud that you are turning 3 years old and you have been talking about this birthday for months! We have talked endlessly about what kind of party, cakes and presents, you want. You are so in love with everything Disney Princess and simply nothing else will do. Everyone in the family now knows that Kaylee is a Princess and Alyssa is a Mermaid and it is in your best interest not to get it confused! Today we will have a small party for you with just family but I hope it will be everything you imagined a princess party should be. There will be princesses everywhere, costumes for you to wear and of course a princess and a mermaid cake. Couldn't choose just one!
The funniest thing to me is that I have always referred to you as my two little princesses. I remember dressing you up in endless pink and purple baby clothes and sleepers and I loved every second of it. What could be better than two little baby girls? I was in love with all the pretty dresses and ruffles and bows. It was like having real life dolls to play with. Everyone knows how much I loved my Barbies!
Flash forward three years later and here we are. You two are still into everything girly and pretty. Except now, you are dressing yourselves up in costumes, tiaras, and high heels and running around the house. You will stop now and then but just for a moment…so Daddy and I can tell you the things you want to hear. “Oh, you are so pretty. What a beautiful Princess.” Then you go running along again, making up games, and dancing around.
I love the little quirks and unique traits that you are showing us more of all the time. I also love that just when we think we have you figured out you throw us a curve ball and have us guessing all over again. You are full of life, energy, joy, excitement, wonder, and amazement. You learn something new every five seconds and I enjoy watching you approach life like it is your own personal playground.
Life isn't always easy with the two of you..... you can be quite the little drama queens and are experts on whining and temper tantrums galore. And, I know that I am far from a perfect mommy when I get impatient or raise my voice here and there. I am definitely a work in progress but I want you to know that you make me a better person every single day that I share with you. You are always teaching me a little bit more about myself and helping me to work on patience and to savor the simple moments. You have given me the single greatest gift I could imagine... you made me a mommy!
Love you little princesses!
Mama
Today you turn 3 years old. This number astounds Daddy and me and we really cannot make sense of the fact that we have 3 year olds. 3-year olds!! Seriously? How did this happen? We have watched you grow and change every single day right before our eyes yet it feels as time has passed with the blink of an eye.
You two, on the other hand, are quite proud that you are turning 3 years old and you have been talking about this birthday for months! We have talked endlessly about what kind of party, cakes and presents, you want. You are so in love with everything Disney Princess and simply nothing else will do. Everyone in the family now knows that Kaylee is a Princess and Alyssa is a Mermaid and it is in your best interest not to get it confused! Today we will have a small party for you with just family but I hope it will be everything you imagined a princess party should be. There will be princesses everywhere, costumes for you to wear and of course a princess and a mermaid cake. Couldn't choose just one!
The funniest thing to me is that I have always referred to you as my two little princesses. I remember dressing you up in endless pink and purple baby clothes and sleepers and I loved every second of it. What could be better than two little baby girls? I was in love with all the pretty dresses and ruffles and bows. It was like having real life dolls to play with. Everyone knows how much I loved my Barbies!
Flash forward three years later and here we are. You two are still into everything girly and pretty. Except now, you are dressing yourselves up in costumes, tiaras, and high heels and running around the house. You will stop now and then but just for a moment…so Daddy and I can tell you the things you want to hear. “Oh, you are so pretty. What a beautiful Princess.” Then you go running along again, making up games, and dancing around.
I love the little quirks and unique traits that you are showing us more of all the time. I also love that just when we think we have you figured out you throw us a curve ball and have us guessing all over again. You are full of life, energy, joy, excitement, wonder, and amazement. You learn something new every five seconds and I enjoy watching you approach life like it is your own personal playground.
Life isn't always easy with the two of you..... you can be quite the little drama queens and are experts on whining and temper tantrums galore. And, I know that I am far from a perfect mommy when I get impatient or raise my voice here and there. I am definitely a work in progress but I want you to know that you make me a better person every single day that I share with you. You are always teaching me a little bit more about myself and helping me to work on patience and to savor the simple moments. You have given me the single greatest gift I could imagine... you made me a mommy!
Love you little princesses!
Mama
August 21, 2009
4 Month Check Up
Aiden has his 4 month check up today. He weighed in at 16 pounds (75th percentile) and 26 1/2 inches long (90th percentile). The doctor said he is growing really well and looked great.
He mentioned that I may want to start him on a little cereal since he is drinking quite a bit of milk. He ad lso sharethat I may want to stop feeding on demand since Aiden seems to be a "snacker." We will see how that goes. Aiden likes to drink a little and talk and then drink a little more and smile. Can't really say no to all that cuteness.
They gave him a oral vaccination and 2 shots. He seemed to be more upset about drinking the medicine. Go figure!
The girls are heading in for their 3 year check up on Monday. I am curious to see how that will go. Hopefully no shots are required!
He mentioned that I may want to start him on a little cereal since he is drinking quite a bit of milk. He ad lso sharethat I may want to stop feeding on demand since Aiden seems to be a "snacker." We will see how that goes. Aiden likes to drink a little and talk and then drink a little more and smile. Can't really say no to all that cuteness.
They gave him a oral vaccination and 2 shots. He seemed to be more upset about drinking the medicine. Go figure!
The girls are heading in for their 3 year check up on Monday. I am curious to see how that will go. Hopefully no shots are required!
August 20, 2009
18 Weeks Old!
Babies are a handful sometimes, A heartfull all the time...
Only 18 weeks old and this little man already has me wrapped around his little finger. I would say my heart is more than a little full.
Only 18 weeks old and this little man already has me wrapped around his little finger. I would say my heart is more than a little full.
August 19, 2009
Humane Society Walk for the Animals 2009
On October 10th, I will be joining a few friends for the Humane Society Walk for the Animals 2009. It benefits the Washington Humane Society and the Humane Society for the United States. The money raised will help to provide care for animals that do not have homes as well as to end pet homelessness by providing adoption, spray/neuter, and humane education efforts.
Our team name will be "Paws for a Cause." If you are interested in donating to our team or in making a general donation for the event, visit their site and click on sponsor a team or donate to event. It is for a really great cause!
Our team name will be "Paws for a Cause." If you are interested in donating to our team or in making a general donation for the event, visit their site and click on sponsor a team or donate to event. It is for a really great cause!
August 17, 2009
Bye Bye Cribs
It may seem crazy to some people but the girls slept in their cribs until they were almost 3. Actually, until they were just 6 days away from turning 3 to be exact!
Up until the last month, they never complained or tried to climb out of them and they would always scream "No" when we asked if they wanted to move to big girl beds. We figured we had it made. They were somewhat confined in there so they were not up playing or running into our room all the time and they seemed content. Plus, that meant that we were still holding on to some small part of their babyhood... even if was just by a thread.
Then, it slowly began to change. The girls learned how to easily climb in and out of their cribs and they would always sneak out. They were probably up playing while we were sleeping for all we know. I knew that it would be better to just take off the crib railing but a part of me didn't really feel ready for that to happen. I know it may sound silly since they were almost 3 and according to them they are very big girls. But... it just meant we were one more step away from having babies.
Saturday night Tony finally went in and took their cribs apart to make day beds. We will eventually get them twin mattresses but this will do for now. I took pictures of them in their cribs for the last time and they said bye to their baby beds. They jumped up and down, laughed, and played.
Then the drill came out and their baby cribs turned into big girl beds in a matter of seconds. Kind of funny how that reflects what the last 3 years felt like to us. It feels like we were just putting those cribs together in our town house. We were so excited to decorate their nursery in all the colors I loved... pink, purple, yellow, green. Tony put the cribs together and I dressed them with their brand new bedding and we hung their pretty name plates over their cribs. I remember being so huge that I could barely bend and the Braxton Hicks that would start up from me overdoing it. We were so excited to meet our baby girls that would soon sleep in those cribs.
Flash forward 3 years later... but what felt like only minutes... and we are making the switch into big girl beds. The girls were soo excited. They couldn't stop smiling and climbing in and out. They said they wanted to read books in their new beds. We watched their excitement with mixed feelings. There was sadness and a few tears (leave it to me!) but also anticipation for all the changes and milestones that we are sure to face on this crazy parenthood journey!
Up until the last month, they never complained or tried to climb out of them and they would always scream "No" when we asked if they wanted to move to big girl beds. We figured we had it made. They were somewhat confined in there so they were not up playing or running into our room all the time and they seemed content. Plus, that meant that we were still holding on to some small part of their babyhood... even if was just by a thread.
Then, it slowly began to change. The girls learned how to easily climb in and out of their cribs and they would always sneak out. They were probably up playing while we were sleeping for all we know. I knew that it would be better to just take off the crib railing but a part of me didn't really feel ready for that to happen. I know it may sound silly since they were almost 3 and according to them they are very big girls. But... it just meant we were one more step away from having babies.
Saturday night Tony finally went in and took their cribs apart to make day beds. We will eventually get them twin mattresses but this will do for now. I took pictures of them in their cribs for the last time and they said bye to their baby beds. They jumped up and down, laughed, and played.
Then the drill came out and their baby cribs turned into big girl beds in a matter of seconds. Kind of funny how that reflects what the last 3 years felt like to us. It feels like we were just putting those cribs together in our town house. We were so excited to decorate their nursery in all the colors I loved... pink, purple, yellow, green. Tony put the cribs together and I dressed them with their brand new bedding and we hung their pretty name plates over their cribs. I remember being so huge that I could barely bend and the Braxton Hicks that would start up from me overdoing it. We were so excited to meet our baby girls that would soon sleep in those cribs.
Flash forward 3 years later... but what felt like only minutes... and we are making the switch into big girl beds. The girls were soo excited. They couldn't stop smiling and climbing in and out. They said they wanted to read books in their new beds. We watched their excitement with mixed feelings. There was sadness and a few tears (leave it to me!) but also anticipation for all the changes and milestones that we are sure to face on this crazy parenthood journey!
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