This is my last post of 2010. I wanted to share with you a few of my favorites from the last year. There are so many I really wanted to share but I didn't want to overload you. So, there are exactly 12. One for each month this year...I'm sure you can already guess what January's is!
Friday, December 31, 2010
It's not much fun without her.
Today was supposed to be a "Mommy Day". A relax, take it easy, have fun and enjoy some shopping with no interruptions day. Well, it was for a while and then it wasn't.
I got up, got Teagan dressed and her stuff all packed so she could go to her Grandparents with her daddy. I lounged around the house after they left because I didn't really want to crawl back in the bed. I did a few loads of laundry, changed outfits 3 times and then headed out for my "Mommy Day" shopping adventure.
It. Was. No. Fun.
On the way I kept looking into the backseat for my little companion but alas even her car seat wasn't back there. She wasn't in the car to sing to me or even to whine at me because she dropped the book she was "reading". As frustrated as I get at her sometimes while driving, I would rather have the frustration then the silence. I could handle that today though, I made a mix especially for today and so I cranked it up and jammed on the way to Target. Target wasn't so bad. I found a few cute things that I had to allow myself to spend my gift card on. I have a love-hate relationship with spending Christmas money/gift cards. I know once they're gone that's it and I have to choose carefully what I will spend them on.
Then , I headed to the mall. I had gift cards to a few stores in there but when I got inside I found myself aimlessly walking around. I wasn't used to not having a stroller in front of me with a curious baby inside. I found myself feeling overwhelmed and ready to leave as soon as I got there.
Basically, my shopping day was a bust because shopping alone is no longer fun unless I need to do a quick run in and out. I hate going to the mall when it's crowded and I should have known better than to go today. Also, there was a Borders, which I knew and forgot, and not a Barnes and Noble which just put the icing on the cake. I love to go into Barnes and Noble, grab a cup of coffee and relax as I go on a treasure hunt among the aisles of books.
I do have a lot to look forward to the rest of the day. After I finish up the laundry and clean up a bit I am meeting Josh and Little Bear at the Heavner house for a New Years Eve sleepover!
I got up, got Teagan dressed and her stuff all packed so she could go to her Grandparents with her daddy. I lounged around the house after they left because I didn't really want to crawl back in the bed. I did a few loads of laundry, changed outfits 3 times and then headed out for my "Mommy Day" shopping adventure.
It. Was. No. Fun.
On the way I kept looking into the backseat for my little companion but alas even her car seat wasn't back there. She wasn't in the car to sing to me or even to whine at me because she dropped the book she was "reading". As frustrated as I get at her sometimes while driving, I would rather have the frustration then the silence. I could handle that today though, I made a mix especially for today and so I cranked it up and jammed on the way to Target. Target wasn't so bad. I found a few cute things that I had to allow myself to spend my gift card on. I have a love-hate relationship with spending Christmas money/gift cards. I know once they're gone that's it and I have to choose carefully what I will spend them on.
Then , I headed to the mall. I had gift cards to a few stores in there but when I got inside I found myself aimlessly walking around. I wasn't used to not having a stroller in front of me with a curious baby inside. I found myself feeling overwhelmed and ready to leave as soon as I got there.
Basically, my shopping day was a bust because shopping alone is no longer fun unless I need to do a quick run in and out. I hate going to the mall when it's crowded and I should have known better than to go today. Also, there was a Borders, which I knew and forgot, and not a Barnes and Noble which just put the icing on the cake. I love to go into Barnes and Noble, grab a cup of coffee and relax as I go on a treasure hunt among the aisles of books.
I do have a lot to look forward to the rest of the day. After I finish up the laundry and clean up a bit I am meeting Josh and Little Bear at the Heavner house for a New Years Eve sleepover!
Thursday, December 30, 2010
11 months
Dearest Teagan,
So much has gone on this last month Little Bear. So much that I am almost at a loss for words to type. I grow anxious and excited for this next month because you will soon turn 1. As I type those words a lump rises in my throat and my eyes are glassy with tears. These last 11 months have been beautiful and hard all at the same time. You've made life a healthy challenge and your daddy and I love you so much for that. You've been a fairly easy baby to be quite honest. This last month your independence is starting to really develop and flourish. More often then not I welcome your new found independence and other times I ache with a longing for the days where you needed me more. Where your daddy and I were your whole world. The growing up process is something I am going to have to get used to for the rest of your life and I promise to allow you room to do so. I might hover a little more then you'd like but I promise not to smother you.
You're crawling at Olympic speed and you've tackled the stairs on more then on occasion. You cruise at ease and stand for minutes at a time. You got a tricycle from your Grandma and Grandpa for Christmas and you like to push it around the house walking behind it. Bascially once you take those first independent steps you will be a force to be reckoned with. I can only imagine how fun you are going to be (as if it's possible to be more fun then you are now)! We introduced sign language a few months ago and you can sign "more" and "all done" but only when you want to. You have a different wave for "hi" and "bye" and you've started pointing to what you want while trying to say it at the same time. You say "Dada" and "Mama" sometimes on purpose and sometimes I think you just like to say them. Either way those words will forever be music to our ears. We are starting the official "weaning" process after the new year starts and I'm curious as to how it's going to go. We've introduced the whole milk because you've proven to have no allergies so far (thank the Lord) but you're still kind of hesitant about the taste just yet so I'm glad we've started the introduction now. You have been off of the whole one bottle you took at daycare for a little over 2mths and drink from your sippy cup like a champ, no matter what kind. You've been moved up, luckily along with your daycare bffs Matilda and Cooper, at "school" and are having kind of a hard time adjusting. I guess when your first set of teachers set the bar so high it's hard for others to get to their level. I hope that once the holidays are over and you're back to a normal schedule it will be easier for you Little Bear. I hate to leave you crying...
You've started actually wanting to feed yourself off of my plate as opposed to just being able to feed yourself off of my plate. You can also feed yourself with a spoon with a little guidance in getting enough food on the spoon to actually eat. You just continue to amaze me with the things you can do.
The next "month" post I write will be for your first birthday, Little Bear. Even though I know it's coming. Even though I tear up at the thought of my baby girl not being a baby anymore. I cannot wait to see what this next year is going to bring up.
Your daddy and I love you very much Little Bear. Don't you ever forget that.
Love Forever & Always,
Mommy
So much has gone on this last month Little Bear. So much that I am almost at a loss for words to type. I grow anxious and excited for this next month because you will soon turn 1. As I type those words a lump rises in my throat and my eyes are glassy with tears. These last 11 months have been beautiful and hard all at the same time. You've made life a healthy challenge and your daddy and I love you so much for that. You've been a fairly easy baby to be quite honest. This last month your independence is starting to really develop and flourish. More often then not I welcome your new found independence and other times I ache with a longing for the days where you needed me more. Where your daddy and I were your whole world. The growing up process is something I am going to have to get used to for the rest of your life and I promise to allow you room to do so. I might hover a little more then you'd like but I promise not to smother you.
You're crawling at Olympic speed and you've tackled the stairs on more then on occasion. You cruise at ease and stand for minutes at a time. You got a tricycle from your Grandma and Grandpa for Christmas and you like to push it around the house walking behind it. Bascially once you take those first independent steps you will be a force to be reckoned with. I can only imagine how fun you are going to be (as if it's possible to be more fun then you are now)! We introduced sign language a few months ago and you can sign "more" and "all done" but only when you want to. You have a different wave for "hi" and "bye" and you've started pointing to what you want while trying to say it at the same time. You say "Dada" and "Mama" sometimes on purpose and sometimes I think you just like to say them. Either way those words will forever be music to our ears. We are starting the official "weaning" process after the new year starts and I'm curious as to how it's going to go. We've introduced the whole milk because you've proven to have no allergies so far (thank the Lord) but you're still kind of hesitant about the taste just yet so I'm glad we've started the introduction now. You have been off of the whole one bottle you took at daycare for a little over 2mths and drink from your sippy cup like a champ, no matter what kind. You've been moved up, luckily along with your daycare bffs Matilda and Cooper, at "school" and are having kind of a hard time adjusting. I guess when your first set of teachers set the bar so high it's hard for others to get to their level. I hope that once the holidays are over and you're back to a normal schedule it will be easier for you Little Bear. I hate to leave you crying...
You've started actually wanting to feed yourself off of my plate as opposed to just being able to feed yourself off of my plate. You can also feed yourself with a spoon with a little guidance in getting enough food on the spoon to actually eat. You just continue to amaze me with the things you can do.
The next "month" post I write will be for your first birthday, Little Bear. Even though I know it's coming. Even though I tear up at the thought of my baby girl not being a baby anymore. I cannot wait to see what this next year is going to bring up.
Your daddy and I love you very much Little Bear. Don't you ever forget that.
Love Forever & Always,
Mommy
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Restless Baby Syndrome
You know when you wake up in the middle of the night and stare at the ceiling for hours because you cannot go back to sleep? You count sheep. You count them backwards. Then you make a list of everything you have to do the rest of the month and then start to freak out because you don't think you can get it all done? You know those nights when you figure out the answer to a question like how to stop world hunger but are too lazy to get out of bed to write it down even though you know you'll forget it in the morning? Well, Teagan had one of those moments around 2:30 - 3:45 this morning. Only thing is, I got to experience it with her.
It was the oddest thing. She woke up around 2:20 and after letting her whine a little bit I went in there to check on her after I heard the mattress bouncing. *sidenote- standing in the crib was cute the first few times, not so much at 2:30 in the morning* I picked her up and cuddled her for a minute then put her back down in her crib with my hand on her belly because she was wide awake. There were a few cycles of up and down and cuddle and put back down and pick up but eventually she realized she needed to lay down because it was still "night night" so she just laid there. I sat in the middle of her room in front of her crib so she could see me. I would turn and check on her every few minutes to see if she was sleeping and to make sure she was breathing because she was so very quiet. She just laid there for around an hour. Eyes wide open with a look of intense contemplation. It was as if she had every burden in the world on her shoulders and she was trying to figure out how to solve them. About 3:45am she just drifted off to sleep and then didn't wake up until around 7am.
It's moments like this when I wonder the most what must have been running through her head?
It was the oddest thing. She woke up around 2:20 and after letting her whine a little bit I went in there to check on her after I heard the mattress bouncing. *sidenote- standing in the crib was cute the first few times, not so much at 2:30 in the morning* I picked her up and cuddled her for a minute then put her back down in her crib with my hand on her belly because she was wide awake. There were a few cycles of up and down and cuddle and put back down and pick up but eventually she realized she needed to lay down because it was still "night night" so she just laid there. I sat in the middle of her room in front of her crib so she could see me. I would turn and check on her every few minutes to see if she was sleeping and to make sure she was breathing because she was so very quiet. She just laid there for around an hour. Eyes wide open with a look of intense contemplation. It was as if she had every burden in the world on her shoulders and she was trying to figure out how to solve them. About 3:45am she just drifted off to sleep and then didn't wake up until around 7am.
It's moments like this when I wonder the most what must have been running through her head?
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Christmas goodies from Eva!
Let me just tell you Teagan has the best pen pal ever, Little Eva & her mom Nessa are two super sweet girlies!
Teagan received a special package in the mail from Eva a few days before Christmas and after I told her who it was from she couldn't wait to open it!
Teagan received a special package in the mail from Eva a few days before Christmas and after I told her who it was from she couldn't wait to open it!
After opening it she found all sorts of sweet goodies!
Thanks girls!
Violet Peapod
I found these sleep-sacks a few months ago and fell in love with the sweet simplicity of the designs. Teagan has been in a sleep-sack since we stopped swaddling around 4mths and I have a feeling she will be in a sleep-sack as long as she fits (insert Twitter hash tag #paranoidmom here). I sent an inquiry and within a few weeks we received one in the mail.
Oh. My. Goodness. The softness of this sleep-sack is like nothing I've ever felt before (when it comes to sleep-sacks that is). The fabric is actually milled in the US and Lonnore hand makes the applique herself. If you are interested in purchasing this product then go to the website! You won't be sorry! Also, when you head over to the site make sure to read her story. It's precious and shows you how down to earth and motherly she is....just like the rest of us!
We received the organic knit and Teagan just loved to "pet" the adorable bird on the front.
Oh. My. Goodness. The softness of this sleep-sack is like nothing I've ever felt before (when it comes to sleep-sacks that is). The fabric is actually milled in the US and Lonnore hand makes the applique herself. If you are interested in purchasing this product then go to the website! You won't be sorry! Also, when you head over to the site make sure to read her story. It's precious and shows you how down to earth and motherly she is....just like the rest of us!
We received the organic knit and Teagan just loved to "pet" the adorable bird on the front.
Here are a few pictures of Teagan trying on the sleep-sack...
Sunday, December 26, 2010
Half Marathon.
Well, 13.105 miles later, the race was complete in 2 hours 41 minutes and 20 seconds. I had a flood of different emotions before the race, during the race and after the race. Even right now I feel a sense of pride in myself. This is something I haven’t felt in a long time and I can’t wait to try it again.
I do want to take a minute to thank those of you who donated to the cause I was running for. The research for the cure of SMA is crucial and I take it very seriously, especially after corresponding with Getty and Sophia’s mom. I feel the need to fight for it; to fight for them and to fight for future babies. Especially when researchers say the cure for this disease is so close.
I also want to write a special thanks to my husband and my sweet baby girl. They selflessly gave me time to train and were right there at the finish line cheering me on in the cold rain. My parents also came to the race and were a constant support during my training and my run. G.P.S., Inc was also a financial sponsor for this race.
The half marathon was something I don’t think you can mentally prepare for until you’ve ran your first one. I went in as prepared as I could have been in spite of the circumstances. I trained mileage, hills and speed but I was unable to prepare for the weather. Nothing prepares you for the mind game of the actual race.
Next race I will be sure to study the actual elevation of the course because to be quite honest, I don’t know that many people were prepared for the intensity of the hills we conquered. They were all very steep and there were a lot of them. The runners didn’t have a lot of flat ground to run in between the hills. During the start of the race I was dead set on not walking until at least mile 9 because I’d trained to 8 miles in under 1 hr and 15 minutes and knew I could do that without walking. That was without the hills…so, needless to say I did a little walking in the first 9 miles. Overall I think I only walk a mile or so out of 13 so I see that as a triumph. Around mile 11 my calves started to cramp. I have never felt cramping like I did that day. It felt better to run then it did to walk but my body was starting to get tired. At that point the race became a mind game and I feel proud that I was able to overcome it. The finish line was the best part of the race. Not because it was the end but because when I came around the curve of the track (the last leg was on a track) I saw Josh and Teagan standing in the infield waving and yelling to me. Then I came around the curve and saw my mom and knew she was crying and then I saw my dad with the camera. I started to cry a little at that point but sped up because I was running to them. I was running to be in the arms of four people who provide me with constant support, no questions asked. As I crossed the finish line they called my name, gave me a bottle of water and slipped a medal over my head. My first running medal. I was swollen with a sense of pride.
Next race I will be sure to study the actual elevation of the course because to be quite honest, I don’t know that many people were prepared for the intensity of the hills we conquered. They were all very steep and there were a lot of them. The runners didn’t have a lot of flat ground to run in between the hills. During the start of the race I was dead set on not walking until at least mile 9 because I’d trained to 8 miles in under 1 hr and 15 minutes and knew I could do that without walking. That was without the hills…so, needless to say I did a little walking in the first 9 miles. Overall I think I only walk a mile or so out of 13 so I see that as a triumph. Around mile 11 my calves started to cramp. I have never felt cramping like I did that day. It felt better to run then it did to walk but my body was starting to get tired. At that point the race became a mind game and I feel proud that I was able to overcome it. The finish line was the best part of the race. Not because it was the end but because when I came around the curve of the track (the last leg was on a track) I saw Josh and Teagan standing in the infield waving and yelling to me. Then I came around the curve and saw my mom and knew she was crying and then I saw my dad with the camera. I started to cry a little at that point but sped up because I was running to them. I was running to be in the arms of four people who provide me with constant support, no questions asked. As I crossed the finish line they called my name, gave me a bottle of water and slipped a medal over my head. My first running medal. I was swollen with a sense of pride.
After the race was a mix of adrenaline and exhaustion and paid and happiness. I was cold and wet but I had my family around me and that kept my mind off things. Teagan was very excited about the medal and played with it while I tried to stretch my hot/cold extremities. After I tried to stretch and we took some pictures we made our way to get me a little food and more water. I had to prepare for the 2 hour ride home. We made it just fine!
Overall, I am pretty proud of myself. Sure, there are a few things I will do differently next time like:
Make sure my Ipod is put on correctly (it was on upside down) so I can adjust it when I need to.
Make sure to study the elevation of the course.
Make sure to eat enough the night before and the morning of.
Be prepared for the weather (I didn’t have “rain” apparel).
Overall, I feel like the race was a success. I honestly can’t wait to get my running shoes back on and train for my next one!
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Monday, December 20, 2010
Not a creature was stirring...
It's 9:45 and I'm the only one up. The house is quiet minus the pitter patter of my fingers striking the keys on my laptop. I've wrapped presents. I've made presents. I've packed packages. I've written Christmas cards. I need to take a shower and try to go to bed. I keep questioning whether I'm going to get it all done in time.
Teagan has been sick. Josh has been sick. I've tried my best not to get sick. We had a snow day. Teagan's "school" didn't have heat one day. This last week a day has been a whirlwind that unfortunately is going to continue into tomorrow and I'm afraid the rest of the week. I've got about 5-6 blog drafts almost done but I've not really had the time to give them my full focus so they sit and wait labeled "draft". I at least figured I could give you the up and coming blog line up and a picture of Teagan in all her cuteness.
Blogs to look forward to:
1) Review of Violet Peapod's sleepsack (SUPER cute!!)
2) Half Marathon overview
3) Teagan's pen-pal Christmas package!
4) DIY Christmas present for Teagan
5) DIY kind of Christmas presents for Teagan's teachers
6) Dearest Teagan, 11mths.
7) From sweet Getty
I'm sure I'll throw in there what happens at the doctor tomorrow when I take Teagan. We've had a kind of sick baby the last few days and she doesn't seem to be getting any better. She had a fever one day but she's not really "sick" she's just a little stuffy and congested but she's not eating well and she's very tired and she's very clingy. Also, it seems like sometimes she just doesn't know what she wants (Nessa, this reminds me of Eva). I've got a knot in the middle of my stomach about going to the doctor tomorrow and I pray I'm just overreacting. She's also having a pretty hard time adjusting to her new class at "school". She definitely misses Ms. Haley and Ms. Alice.
Here's the cute picture I promised!
Teagan has been sick. Josh has been sick. I've tried my best not to get sick. We had a snow day. Teagan's "school" didn't have heat one day. This last week a day has been a whirlwind that unfortunately is going to continue into tomorrow and I'm afraid the rest of the week. I've got about 5-6 blog drafts almost done but I've not really had the time to give them my full focus so they sit and wait labeled "draft". I at least figured I could give you the up and coming blog line up and a picture of Teagan in all her cuteness.
Blogs to look forward to:
1) Review of Violet Peapod's sleepsack (SUPER cute!!)
2) Half Marathon overview
3) Teagan's pen-pal Christmas package!
4) DIY Christmas present for Teagan
5) DIY kind of Christmas presents for Teagan's teachers
6) Dearest Teagan, 11mths.
7) From sweet Getty
I'm sure I'll throw in there what happens at the doctor tomorrow when I take Teagan. We've had a kind of sick baby the last few days and she doesn't seem to be getting any better. She had a fever one day but she's not really "sick" she's just a little stuffy and congested but she's not eating well and she's very tired and she's very clingy. Also, it seems like sometimes she just doesn't know what she wants (Nessa, this reminds me of Eva). I've got a knot in the middle of my stomach about going to the doctor tomorrow and I pray I'm just overreacting. She's also having a pretty hard time adjusting to her new class at "school". She definitely misses Ms. Haley and Ms. Alice.
Here's the cute picture I promised!
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Teagan meets Santa.
So, we don't have a horror story. We don't have a screaming child on a very calm Santa's lap. We have a smiling baby girl who is happy on Santa's knee. We have a smiling baby girl looking up at Santa in awe. We have a baby girl sporting her neon green Chucks and pants that until a few days ago met her shoes when she was sitting down.
Here are Teagan's Santa pictures.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Mommy Guilt? Get over it.
*Caution, jealous, bitter, Mommy vent ahead. Proceed at your own risk.*
Mommy guilt. Jealousy. I'm at least trying to not let it surface too much but occasionally the little booger boils over. Yesterday and today have been awful but I'm trying to keep it under control. Teagan loves school. Absolutely adores her teachers and 90% of the time this is a good thing...until it isn't. She squirms out of my arms to get to her teacher as soon as we get through the door to school. I barely even get a chance to give her a kiss and tell her bye before she is reaching out for her sweet teacher. Here lately she hasn't even wanted to come home. I go in to get her and she doesn't wiggle her legs in excitement like she used to. She doesn't squirm to come get me if she is in somebody's arms. Instead of crawling to me she either ignores me or gives me a "hi, whatever Mom" smile and continues to play. As much as I don't like seeing her cry I selfishly could use a "don't go, Mommy" cry or whimper or SOMETHING every now and then. And I really miss the "Oooo! Ooooo! Mommy's here" excitement and squeals because honestly, it made my day. I literally rush toward the "school" door in almost a sprint in order to get to her and then when I get there she could care less that I'm there. Some days I really think she would rather go home with her teacher. I know it's normal, I know she's growing up, I know I should be glad that she likes school this much and I know I should be glad she is this comfortable with her teachers, etc. BLAH BLAH BLAH. I know all that. My head and my heart are two different organs for a reason. One is reasonable the other is emotional. Sometimes one trumps the other and these last two days my heart has been champion. My feelings have been so hurt and they have been putting yucky thoughts into my head like:
It's no wonder she wants to stay at school. They are practically raising her since you work 8 hrs. a day and don't feed her at lunch anymore. Ms. Haley, Ms. Alice and Ms. Judy don't get frustrated at her like you sometimes do. Her teachers don't have to tell her no as often so she likes them better. Her friends are at school and there is nobody at home to really play with because sometimes you're too busy doing "grown-up things" to give her all of your attention. She sees her teachers more then she sees you. You could be a stranger compared to them. She is going to learn how to do all sorts of things without you because you work full time. You're not a good mommy because you can't stay home or is it because you won't stay home? Could you really handle staying at home with her all the time? Would you give her all the attention she needs or would you ignore her and do the grown-up things? Maybe you're not cut out for this but it's a little late now. She's really better off at "school" then she is all day with you.
Now, as you can see these things will eat and eat at a person's soul. Some days I'm okay but other days those thoughts just eat at me. Little comments like "she was ready to go back to her teacher instead of you, wasn't she? I've never seen her do that" basically twist the knife that has already gone half way through my heart. (that was a reference to her "school play" last night) I know people don't mean to come off mean but stuff like that just cuts deep into my soul and stays there.
Anyway, I know it's something that will come more and more frequently as she gains her independence but I have a feeling it is always going to hurt because it means I'm not the most important thing in her life anymore when I have been for so long. I guess I am going to have to figure out a way to get over it before it starts to bubble over more. I have to learn not to take it personally. She's 10mths for Pete's sake. I just love her more then I ever thought I could and I really got used to her needing me for everything...now that she's stopped needed me so much I almost feel useless. I guess I just have to adjust to knowing she needs me in different ways now.
Mommy guilt. Jealousy. I'm at least trying to not let it surface too much but occasionally the little booger boils over. Yesterday and today have been awful but I'm trying to keep it under control. Teagan loves school. Absolutely adores her teachers and 90% of the time this is a good thing...until it isn't. She squirms out of my arms to get to her teacher as soon as we get through the door to school. I barely even get a chance to give her a kiss and tell her bye before she is reaching out for her sweet teacher. Here lately she hasn't even wanted to come home. I go in to get her and she doesn't wiggle her legs in excitement like she used to. She doesn't squirm to come get me if she is in somebody's arms. Instead of crawling to me she either ignores me or gives me a "hi, whatever Mom" smile and continues to play. As much as I don't like seeing her cry I selfishly could use a "don't go, Mommy" cry or whimper or SOMETHING every now and then. And I really miss the "Oooo! Ooooo! Mommy's here" excitement and squeals because honestly, it made my day. I literally rush toward the "school" door in almost a sprint in order to get to her and then when I get there she could care less that I'm there. Some days I really think she would rather go home with her teacher. I know it's normal, I know she's growing up, I know I should be glad that she likes school this much and I know I should be glad she is this comfortable with her teachers, etc. BLAH BLAH BLAH. I know all that. My head and my heart are two different organs for a reason. One is reasonable the other is emotional. Sometimes one trumps the other and these last two days my heart has been champion. My feelings have been so hurt and they have been putting yucky thoughts into my head like:
It's no wonder she wants to stay at school. They are practically raising her since you work 8 hrs. a day and don't feed her at lunch anymore. Ms. Haley, Ms. Alice and Ms. Judy don't get frustrated at her like you sometimes do. Her teachers don't have to tell her no as often so she likes them better. Her friends are at school and there is nobody at home to really play with because sometimes you're too busy doing "grown-up things" to give her all of your attention. She sees her teachers more then she sees you. You could be a stranger compared to them. She is going to learn how to do all sorts of things without you because you work full time. You're not a good mommy because you can't stay home or is it because you won't stay home? Could you really handle staying at home with her all the time? Would you give her all the attention she needs or would you ignore her and do the grown-up things? Maybe you're not cut out for this but it's a little late now. She's really better off at "school" then she is all day with you.
Now, as you can see these things will eat and eat at a person's soul. Some days I'm okay but other days those thoughts just eat at me. Little comments like "she was ready to go back to her teacher instead of you, wasn't she? I've never seen her do that" basically twist the knife that has already gone half way through my heart. (that was a reference to her "school play" last night) I know people don't mean to come off mean but stuff like that just cuts deep into my soul and stays there.
Anyway, I know it's something that will come more and more frequently as she gains her independence but I have a feeling it is always going to hurt because it means I'm not the most important thing in her life anymore when I have been for so long. I guess I am going to have to figure out a way to get over it before it starts to bubble over more. I have to learn not to take it personally. She's 10mths for Pete's sake. I just love her more then I ever thought I could and I really got used to her needing me for everything...now that she's stopped needed me so much I almost feel useless. I guess I just have to adjust to knowing she needs me in different ways now.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
How lovely are your branches! For now.
We've had our Christmas tree up for about a week now and it has made our house smell incredible. Let me just tell you, evergreen warmed by Christmas lights combined with the smell of a hazelnut candle that just keeps smelling long after the flame has gone, is the best smell ever! Mix in a little chocolate chip cookies baking in the oven smell and you have a scent that makes for a sweet smelling home.
Anyway, enough of making myself hungry...
Like I said, the tree has been up for a little while now and we've just been enjoying it. The night we decorated Teagan was a little fussy, a little sleepy and a little curious all at the same time. This does not make for the best decorating scenario. She was curious enough that she wanted to hold ornaments but tired enough that she refused to be put down so Josh and I kept handing her back and forth to each other when our arms got tired.
Here are a few pictures of our Christmas tree decorating party.
Anyway, enough of making myself hungry...
Like I said, the tree has been up for a little while now and we've just been enjoying it. The night we decorated Teagan was a little fussy, a little sleepy and a little curious all at the same time. This does not make for the best decorating scenario. She was curious enough that she wanted to hold ornaments but tired enough that she refused to be put down so Josh and I kept handing her back and forth to each other when our arms got tired.
Here are a few pictures of our Christmas tree decorating party.
First Book Review
When I was still nursing Teagan during my lunch break I would take her into the library and feed her (it was a church library so nobody was there during that time). After she nursed I would read her a book and cuddle with her for a few minutes before heading back to work. Shaoey and Dot was one of our favorites. Every single time I would read this to her I would cry a little and she would snuggle up even closer.
Shaoey and Dot is about a little girl and her friend the ladybug going through the process of adoption. The story is seen through the ladybug's eyes. The ladybug hears Dot's cries and her laughs and tries to comfort her tears and cheer her up as much as she can. The ladybug doesn't understand it all but does understand that Dot needs a somebody and the ladybug decides to stick around. Dot (the little girl) is raised in an orphanage and the ladybug stays with her from the time she is a baby girl until the time she becomes adopted by a wonderful set of people. The story will bring you to tears and shows you just how many kids out there really do need a good home to be raised in.
Shaoey and Dot is about a little girl and her friend the ladybug going through the process of adoption. The story is seen through the ladybug's eyes. The ladybug hears Dot's cries and her laughs and tries to comfort her tears and cheer her up as much as she can. The ladybug doesn't understand it all but does understand that Dot needs a somebody and the ladybug decides to stick around. Dot (the little girl) is raised in an orphanage and the ladybug stays with her from the time she is a baby girl until the time she becomes adopted by a wonderful set of people. The story will bring you to tears and shows you just how many kids out there really do need a good home to be raised in.
By Mary Beth and Stephen Curtis Chapman
Illustrated by Jim Chapman
Monday, December 6, 2010
Spare a vote for a cute baby?
*photo by J. O'Brien*
Think you could spare a vote for a cute baby & her blog? All it takes is 2 clicks!
Thanks,
Rici & Teagan
Bilingual Learning FULL article.
Just in case you all wanted to read the article that Emily and Kathleen wrote for yourselves. I've posted a copy of the article! Enjoy!
"Early Childhood Education – The Best Time For Bilingual Learning
It goes without saying that a good education is one of the best ways to prepare that child for the future and that begins on day one, or at least some experts believe so. From the ages 2 to 5, many believe the brain is most flexible at this stage. Particularly for those who are teaching their child a second language, they should keep this in mind.
The Bilingual Future
One of the future trends that has become certain is the existence of a diverse, global society. Nowhere is this more true than in the United States. It is a necessity almost now a days to be multilingual. Not only for them to succeed in a hard economic time, but it's important for children in this diverse society to have intercultural appreciation and sensitivity.
Getting Ready
Traditionally a second language is taught in middle school, or even high school. However research has shown that this teaching can begin at their child care facilities. Studies clearly demonstrate that the optimal period in a child's life for multilingual education is during the preschool years – at exactly the same time they are learning their first language. Yes, it is possible to learn a second and third language later in life, but it is more difficult, because that neurological "window of opportunity" – when the brain is most malleable – has passed.
Parents, don't worry either, it will not interfere with them learning or perfecting English. It's as easy for young children to learn two or three languages as it is for them to learn one.
Where To Start
The best way for a child to learn a second language is by actually speaking it in a total immersion environment. While it's not that easy to simply take your child to another country, it is easy for you to get involved with this learning process at home. Have a theme night with the food, music and traditions of the country from which the language they're learning is from.
Co-written by Emily Patterson and Kathleen Thomas
Emily and Kathleen are Communications Coordinators for the network of Austin child care facilities belonging to the AdvancED® accredited family of Primrose child care schools. Primrose Schools are located in 16 states throughout the U.S. and are dedicated to delivering progressive, early childhood, Balanced Learning® curriculum throughout their preschools."
"Early Childhood Education – The Best Time For Bilingual Learning
It goes without saying that a good education is one of the best ways to prepare that child for the future and that begins on day one, or at least some experts believe so. From the ages 2 to 5, many believe the brain is most flexible at this stage. Particularly for those who are teaching their child a second language, they should keep this in mind.
The Bilingual Future
One of the future trends that has become certain is the existence of a diverse, global society. Nowhere is this more true than in the United States. It is a necessity almost now a days to be multilingual. Not only for them to succeed in a hard economic time, but it's important for children in this diverse society to have intercultural appreciation and sensitivity.
Getting Ready
Traditionally a second language is taught in middle school, or even high school. However research has shown that this teaching can begin at their child care facilities. Studies clearly demonstrate that the optimal period in a child's life for multilingual education is during the preschool years – at exactly the same time they are learning their first language. Yes, it is possible to learn a second and third language later in life, but it is more difficult, because that neurological "window of opportunity" – when the brain is most malleable – has passed.
Parents, don't worry either, it will not interfere with them learning or perfecting English. It's as easy for young children to learn two or three languages as it is for them to learn one.
Where To Start
The best way for a child to learn a second language is by actually speaking it in a total immersion environment. While it's not that easy to simply take your child to another country, it is easy for you to get involved with this learning process at home. Have a theme night with the food, music and traditions of the country from which the language they're learning is from.
Co-written by Emily Patterson and Kathleen Thomas
Emily and Kathleen are Communications Coordinators for the network of Austin child care facilities belonging to the AdvancED® accredited family of Primrose child care schools. Primrose Schools are located in 16 states throughout the U.S. and are dedicated to delivering progressive, early childhood, Balanced Learning® curriculum throughout their preschools."
Friday, December 3, 2010
Teagan's Christmas
Well, in about 23 days Teagan will be celebrating her first Christmas. This time last year she was celebrating inside my belly. This time last year I had my hospital bag almost packed and anxiously got through Christmas wondering with each weird feeling if we were going to have a Christmas or New Years baby.
As Christmas approaches this year Josh and I have had numerous conversations on what we will get Teagan for Christmas. Josh has jokingly (well, probably not really) said he is just going to wrap a box up for her because she will get more joy out of a box then most anything else we could get her. Honestly, he is probably right. We've decided that Teagan isn't going to get a lot for Christmas because we don't want her thinking presents is what Christmas is about and to be frank she will be 11 mths and is not going to remember that we didn't get her a million things for her first Christmas or that we did. Each set of grandparents has gotten her one big thing and I'm sure a few little things. Josh and I have bought her an adorable stuffed owl from Dwell Studios that when I opened the box I actually squealed a little bit. It was also all I had not to give it to her right then. Josh will be making Teagan shelves for her room that go along with the new theme we have started in there. I've bought her a few stocking stuffers and she will get some books. That is pretty much all she will be getting from us. She has enough clothes and toys and has never gone with out. I "rotate" her toys she she never gets bored with them.
Are there things I've found that I just wanted to jump on and buy her that very second? Yes. There are so many things I would love to give to her but honestly it's pointless right now. We don't have a lot of storage space and we aren't rolling in the Benjamin's so "stuff" is something we are trying to do without. I have to admit it has been an adjustment for me because I am quite the shopaholic. I have a hard time passing up any kind of sale and feel like Teagan or I "need" everything I see and like.
I don't want this post to sound all "holier then thou" because it's not. It's a decision Josh and I made as parents. I just remember growing up having and entire playroom of toys and to this day I can only remember 10 out of probably hundreds. I don't want that to be Teagan. I want her to appreciate everything she has. Sure she will still have her favorites but I don't want her to have a bunch of unused or unwanted toys laying around the house. We will also probably do the "clean out" process after Thanksgiving every year to make room for the new stuff. If there is stuff she doesn't love anymore then why not give it to somebody who might want to love it for a while?
Anyway, this post went a little longer then I'd hoped. Here is that adorable owl she is getting for Christmas this year:
Stuffed Owl from Dwell Studios
As Christmas approaches this year Josh and I have had numerous conversations on what we will get Teagan for Christmas. Josh has jokingly (well, probably not really) said he is just going to wrap a box up for her because she will get more joy out of a box then most anything else we could get her. Honestly, he is probably right. We've decided that Teagan isn't going to get a lot for Christmas because we don't want her thinking presents is what Christmas is about and to be frank she will be 11 mths and is not going to remember that we didn't get her a million things for her first Christmas or that we did. Each set of grandparents has gotten her one big thing and I'm sure a few little things. Josh and I have bought her an adorable stuffed owl from Dwell Studios that when I opened the box I actually squealed a little bit. It was also all I had not to give it to her right then. Josh will be making Teagan shelves for her room that go along with the new theme we have started in there. I've bought her a few stocking stuffers and she will get some books. That is pretty much all she will be getting from us. She has enough clothes and toys and has never gone with out. I "rotate" her toys she she never gets bored with them.
Are there things I've found that I just wanted to jump on and buy her that very second? Yes. There are so many things I would love to give to her but honestly it's pointless right now. We don't have a lot of storage space and we aren't rolling in the Benjamin's so "stuff" is something we are trying to do without. I have to admit it has been an adjustment for me because I am quite the shopaholic. I have a hard time passing up any kind of sale and feel like Teagan or I "need" everything I see and like.
I don't want this post to sound all "holier then thou" because it's not. It's a decision Josh and I made as parents. I just remember growing up having and entire playroom of toys and to this day I can only remember 10 out of probably hundreds. I don't want that to be Teagan. I want her to appreciate everything she has. Sure she will still have her favorites but I don't want her to have a bunch of unused or unwanted toys laying around the house. We will also probably do the "clean out" process after Thanksgiving every year to make room for the new stuff. If there is stuff she doesn't love anymore then why not give it to somebody who might want to love it for a while?
Anyway, this post went a little longer then I'd hoped. Here is that adorable owl she is getting for Christmas this year:
Bilingual Learning
I have been a terrible blogger here lately. Things have been crazy in my head and in my life and I am hoping that even with Christmas literally right around the corner things will calm down at least a little bit.
Emily Patterson a Communications Coordinator for Austin Child Care facilities e-mailed me around 2 weeks ago ( I am SO sorry Emily) and asked me if I would read an article she and a co-worker, Kathleen Thomas, wrote and talk about it on my blog. I said I would look over it and if it seemed like something I felt my readers would benefit from then I would for sure talk about it on the blog. Well, I read it and I thought it was a topic you all would enjoy so I told her I would. That was 2 WEEKS AGO and I am just now having the time or mental capacity to actually write about it.
The basis of the article is when is the best time to start teaching your child a second language. Is it even something you should do?
Emily goes on to say that the idea of being bilingual or even mulitlingual is becoming a crucial part of our lives these days. Most of the time children start out learning a second lanuage in elementary school and on up. Her argument is why not teach them when they are most capable of learning a second language and having it "stick"? Emily & Kathleen have researched and studies have shown that the "optimal period in a child's life for multilingual education is during the preschool years". The article stresses that teaching children a second language the same time they are learning their primary language will not interfere with the learning of the primary language.
Emily & Kathleen have some suggestions about how to introduce different languages to your children. They suggest having a theme night with different foods and music from the country of the language you want to teach them. Sharing the different traditions from that particular country is also a way to get them excited about learning. Children always seem to like learning about how other kids do things.
Honestly, before I had Teagan I was that awful person who said if people are going to move into the United States they should learn English. While I still believe that to be so I also recognize the idea of having the option of open communication. What if Teagan meets a friend at school who speaks a different language say at home and Teagan gets curious and wants to learn more about that language? Who am I to stop her from learning?
Also, with today's economy the people who can speak more then one language efficiently are those who are getting put at the top of the interview list.
I can speak personally that with my job it would be much easier on me if I could speak another language or two. I'm anxious to learn another one but being an adult and trying to learn another language is SO VERY HARD. Which just shows you that there really is a window of oppurtunity so why not utilize it?
What do you guys think? Do you want your kids to learn another language? Are you going to be open to showing them how different cultures do things differently? I think Christmas time is a good time to do this. Showing our kids how different children have or see Christmas is a perfect time to introduce them to other cultures.
Thanks Emily & Kathleen for the great article and sorry for the delay in posting!
Emily Patterson a Communications Coordinator for Austin Child Care facilities e-mailed me around 2 weeks ago ( I am SO sorry Emily) and asked me if I would read an article she and a co-worker, Kathleen Thomas, wrote and talk about it on my blog. I said I would look over it and if it seemed like something I felt my readers would benefit from then I would for sure talk about it on the blog. Well, I read it and I thought it was a topic you all would enjoy so I told her I would. That was 2 WEEKS AGO and I am just now having the time or mental capacity to actually write about it.
The basis of the article is when is the best time to start teaching your child a second language. Is it even something you should do?
Emily goes on to say that the idea of being bilingual or even mulitlingual is becoming a crucial part of our lives these days. Most of the time children start out learning a second lanuage in elementary school and on up. Her argument is why not teach them when they are most capable of learning a second language and having it "stick"? Emily & Kathleen have researched and studies have shown that the "optimal period in a child's life for multilingual education is during the preschool years". The article stresses that teaching children a second language the same time they are learning their primary language will not interfere with the learning of the primary language.
Emily & Kathleen have some suggestions about how to introduce different languages to your children. They suggest having a theme night with different foods and music from the country of the language you want to teach them. Sharing the different traditions from that particular country is also a way to get them excited about learning. Children always seem to like learning about how other kids do things.
Honestly, before I had Teagan I was that awful person who said if people are going to move into the United States they should learn English. While I still believe that to be so I also recognize the idea of having the option of open communication. What if Teagan meets a friend at school who speaks a different language say at home and Teagan gets curious and wants to learn more about that language? Who am I to stop her from learning?
Also, with today's economy the people who can speak more then one language efficiently are those who are getting put at the top of the interview list.
I can speak personally that with my job it would be much easier on me if I could speak another language or two. I'm anxious to learn another one but being an adult and trying to learn another language is SO VERY HARD. Which just shows you that there really is a window of oppurtunity so why not utilize it?
What do you guys think? Do you want your kids to learn another language? Are you going to be open to showing them how different cultures do things differently? I think Christmas time is a good time to do this. Showing our kids how different children have or see Christmas is a perfect time to introduce them to other cultures.
Thanks Emily & Kathleen for the great article and sorry for the delay in posting!
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
This is why I run.
Will you help find a cure? Will you donate to my half marathon fundraiser? The whole point of my training and running the race on December 11th is to raise money to help find a cure for SMA. So, I am asking you to do what Josh and I have done. We took $10 that would have gone to Teagan's Christmas and put it towards this. We want to teach her that Christmas isn't about the presents. We want to teach her that Christmas is a time to help those who need us. What better way to explain giving to those in need then at Christmas time? What better way to show it then to help children who could die without a cure? A cure that could come SOON with money to research the cure. What will you do? Will you help and donate? Even if you don't donate to my run (which the money goes to Sophia's Cure, Inc) please donate to something this year.
Here is the website to donate. ( Crowdrise ) All it takes is $10. My goal is to raise $1000 by December 10th. My goal is to raise $1000 towards the research of a cure for SMA. Will you help me?
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