Don’t Lick the Trash Can
I believe Carter has finally hit the terrible twos. He is only 3 years and 6 months old. But I guess it’s better late then never. My sweet, precious, adorable, always wanting to make mama happy boy has decided that that life is completely overrated.
In the last two weeks, he has decided that he will no longer obey ANYTHING I tell him.
“Carter, no running”
{Carter running through the parking lot}
“Carter, stay in your bed”
{Carter out of his bed at least 10 times.}
“Carter, don’t shut the door”
{Carter slams the door}
Okay, so you get my drift. I don’t know how this happened. Ha! Who am I kidding, I know this is normal, but just didn’t think that Carter had it in him! Ha! That’s just funny even to admit! I know how silly I am sounding right now!
But it is seriously wearing me out! Each night, I am emotionally drained. All day long, it is a constant battle with him. It doesn’t matter what I tell him to do, from the littlest things to important things, it doesn’t matter. At least he is staying consistent!
So I have been very, VERY tempted to play his little game with him.
“Carter, don’t lick the trash can”
“Carter, don’t shut your bedroom door and lock it” (then leave the house)
“Carter, don’t touch the stove while I’m cooking” (okay that might just be down right evil, I know!)
But then he says things like this, that can’t keep me mad at him for very long.
Jeremy sat him down earlier this week and told him that he was going out of town for a few days. Now this throws Evan into a massive meltdown! But Carter, “is mommy going with you? Oh that’s okay then Daddy, as long as I have my mommy!”
He totally knows how to work me! And I totally let him!
I have tried everything! I’ve even tried letting him learn how is actions have consequences. Like the time he shut himself outside the house, after I told him not to go outside. I sat there for a moment and didn’t let him back in, since he can’t get the front door opened by himself. He panicked for a moment while I “pretended” to leave the front room and ignore him, then he started running freely down through the front yard of my neighbor. That is as far as I let him go before panicking myself! I did that with Evan, ONLY 1 TIME. It freaked him out, not being able to get back in the house. And he never tried that again!
Or the time that I told him that the cat does not like her tail pulled. The cat turned around and nipped him on his finger. He whaled and tears were flowing. I showed no sympathy and explained that is why I told him not to pull her tail. He then went and pulled her tail again. There is a reason why he is her favorite human, but he is quickly loosening his ground with her.
HELP!!! Where did my little perfect boy go? Oh yeah, he has learned of his free will and independence.
Surreal Reality
Have you ever had one of those moments (of course you have) when you are watching one of your kids, my moments are usually when I’m not the one in charge of them 
, that time stands still and your ask yourself (just go ahead and fill in the personal parts with your own inside the parentheses),
“how did this happen?”
“how do I have a kid that is nearly (5) years old?”
“how did (Jeremy) and I create such amazingly beautiful children?”
“how did the time pass so quickly?”
“how did I get to this point in my life?”
These are the moments that creep in unexpectedly and suddenly, amongst the hustle and bustle of daily craziness. The moments that knock you down with humbleness that God would bless you so deeply. The moments that are so needed when you are tired beyond tired.
I had one of these moments yesterday. We were at the Y for our normal routine of classes. I was finishing up my workout, having to get Evan into the pool for his swim lesson and head back to Carter’s class to get a little bit of time to watch him exercise. You know, the normal crazy! We are on a slightly different schedule which began last week, so I am still trying to work out all the bugs. As I am entering the gym, horrendously sweaty and still a little frazzled, the moment hit!
I sat down and bam!
I watched Carter, who didn’t know I was there, head fluidly down the balance beam with his arms stretched out for balance and his head held high with confidence. One foot easily guiding in front of the other as he moved with ease and agility. His hands oh-so-slightly playful waving back and forth as he moved.
At that moment, my time stood still. And I watched in slow motion the boy Carter is becoming. How in the world did I get here? How did I become a mother of two preschoolers? How the heck are my boys growing up big and strong and smart and funny and talented and sweet and… Because I sure don’t know what the heck I’m doing in this parenting gig!
The moment was short, yet amazingly sweet!
After pondering on this moment all day yesterday, I was reminded of the verse that always gets me now that I am a mom, when reading the Christmas story. Luke 2:19, “But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” I love the feeling of this verse, even though I may not know the true meaning of it. Each time I read the Christmas story, the journey, the birth, the visitors, etc, I love getting to this verse! I always think that this is how Mary felt in that moment, maybe on a grander scale of course, but still she realized during that moment the surreality of her new reality.
Because Mary was now a mom, yes she was the mom of our Saviour, and kind of an important mom, yet still human and still a mom. I think in these small moments when I witness the beauty of raising my own children, her and I are much alike. I want to be able to slow down these moments, hit the pause button, and treasure up all these things and ponder them in my heart!
What Goes Around, Comes Around
On New Year’s Eve, we took the boys to our local Rec Center. They were having a family night with ice skating and swimming. We were a little skeptical and was worried that it would be packed out! But fortunately the crowds were manageable and the mass of teenagers behaved themselves – ha! The boys had a blast!
But of course, this isn’t just a recap of what we did on New Year’s. It is a story of a valuable lesson that Evan taught me. But before we get to that, I must rewind and give you some background info.
Up until last weekend, I had an irrational fear of ice skating. The thought of getting out on the ice made me break out in a cold sweat. How did this fear happen? It’s not a horror story per say, but it did leave an impact. The last time I got out on the ice, I was a teenager. At least 18 years ago! I remember it being awkward and hard. I also remember not having much fun at it, once I did get the hang of it. I probably went ice skating no more than five times in my childhood. So each time I went, it took me some time to get comfortable on the ice.
I remember it was a youth group outing. After some time and some confidence boosting, I started racing around the rink with my friends. Not being the most graceful person, I lost my balance and went crashing into the wall. Going knee first into the wall, then falling on the same knee. The pain was pretty intense. I didn’t need first aid, because let’s face it, I was an athlete and was too proud to admit I was injured. I have had knee problems forever. It didn’t help that I played basketball for 10 years nor did slamming my knee into an ice rink wall.
Fast forward to 2 years ago. Remember Evan started ice skating lessons? Fortunately an Ice Skating Angel came to the rescue. And also Jeremy came and got out on the ice with him after that lesson to get him more comfortable. Because there was NO way I was going to do it! And fortunately Evan never asked me to get out on the ice, nor did he question why I didn’t. Besides I usually had Carter with me, so I had a great excuse with having to take care of him.
Fast forward to this last week. We took the boys ice skating over their break. Right before we left the house, something was said and I re-informed Jeremy that I wasn’t getting out on the ice. What was he thinking? He was dumbfounded and thought I was joking. Because really, how was he going to get both boys on the rink at the same time. I didn’t know and I didn’t care, because this mama wasn’t getting on the ice. They managed as they usually do. All three of them had a great time ice skating. I watched from the side lines. Neither boy asked me to get out on the ice!
That was until New Year’s Eve. We get into the Rec center and I was in line to get all the boys’ skates. Evan came over and told me I was skating too. I waved him off and reminded him that I wasn’t.
Then it happened.
Side story: I’m the “bad” parent in this family. I am the one that throws Evan on a “roller coaster” aka the slow moving cars at the carnival, when he was adamently saying “no” and screaming his head off that he didn’t want to go. As soon as the ride started, Evan started laughing hysterically. Afterward, grinning ear to ear, he informed me that he loved the ride. Or the time that I threw him in the water when he was too afraid to get in. Again, with the outcome of him enjoying himself. I know my child. He is his mother’s child. I regret not taking more chances growing up and I am trying to encourage him not to go down that path. He is a typical first born. He is very hestitant to try anything new and usually needs to be forced into it before realizing that it’s okay. He has learned to trust me. He has learned that I won’t let him wuss out!
Then there was this post…back in February 2010. Evan was afraid of taking ice skating lessons, but after encouraging him to continue and not taking “no” for an answer. He continued and faced his fears.
I never thought that my little Evan would ever use my technique against me… oh I thought wrong. What was I thinking? But I guess what goes around comes around. And it came around on New Year’s Eve.
After reminding him that I was not getting out on the ice. He pulled me close to him, looked me straight in the eye and said firmly, “No mom, you ARE getting some skates and ARE putting them on and GETTING out on that ice and skating with me!”
Whoa there boy! How dare you use my tactics against me! Who do you think you are? And how does a mom say no to that?
Then he went a little further and said, “mom if you fall, I will be there to pick you up! HA HA HA HA!”
Now before you think that was a sappy, sweet moment between a mother and son. Not so fast! He started giggling uncontrollably and under his breath informed me that he was hoping I would fall! What a little stinker. And I wouldn’t have him any other way.
So what is a mom to do?
Yep! I had to overcome a fear! At first, I got out on the ice and remembered what Evan’s teacher taught him. “Step, step, step” After several minutes and 30 or so feet, Jeremy jokingly told me to pick up the pace and start skating. I made it around the first time without holding on to the wall or falling! So thankful I paid attention to the teacher’s in Evan class! Who knew they would be so knowledgeable? AFter the first time around, my fear lifted and Evan and I enjoyed skating with each other!
We laughed, we raced, we held hands.
I earned some respect on New Year’s Eve. For once, I was the “fun” parent! And it felt good!
2012 – The Year of the Five Year Old
Happy New Year! With a new year starting, I am looking forward to a fresh start and like many of you, I have some goals I would like to work towards. But that’s for another post this week. Because there is one thing that has had my attention since the strike of midnight New Years Day! In less than 22 days now, I will be a mom of a 5 year old! For some reason, that hits me hard. And Evan is reminding me of often, now that Christmas is over, his birthday is coming up! Several things are running through my mind:
a.) How did this happen? (Because I know I am NOT that old!)
b.) Five, to me, seems like a huge deal. No more “preschool”, no more baby time left. My little man, the one that made me a mom, is a big boy. An all out boy! There really is no more “baby” about him. He is growing by leaps and bounds which is so exciting to watch but yet saddening at the same time, because these 5 years FLEW by!
c.) Once again, even though he complained during Carter gets all the cool birthday parties, he doesn’t want a big party. He just wants a sleepover with his 2 best friends and the Wii. Last year was hard enough, controlling my inner party planner. But this year, I have to admit I am super disappointed that he doesn’t want a party because this is a momentous birthday (in my opinion). He is going to be the BIG 5! But I must hold back and respect his wishes. Even though I have asked multiple times if he is sure he doesn’t want a bigger party.
d.) This is the year of Kindergarten. SCHOOL! No more crazy busy days of entertaining him from 8 to 3. This year he learns to read, learn math, do homework. EEK! I become a mom of a school-aged kid. Again, how did I get so old?
There you have it! My preoccupation these first couple days of the new year! I’m just curious, did you guys make a bigger deal about the “5″ birthday, or was it just another birthday? Trying to keep some perspective…you know.
Christmas Tradition-Disco Pants!
This story begins with Pinterest. Oh Pinterest – how I love all your inspirational ideas (and the time sucking you cause too). After all, because of Pinterest I decided I could attempt making my own curtains – which I conquered after years of a sewing machine phobia caused by my freshman year of Home Ec class which was my only C ever in High School.
One day while on Pinterest, I saw a tutorial for Christmas Pajama Pants. I had seen several Tweets and Facebook statuses about yearly traditions of making pajama bottoms for the fam and so I decided that this would be fun to attempt. I usually do get the boys matching Christmas jammies anyway. So I headed to the fabric store with the boys in tow to pick out their own fabric.
They both decided to get the same print – Christmas candy! What kid doesn’t enjoy candy?
We headed home and I got started right away. Everything was going so smoothly until I started sewing the waist together, I realized that I had made a mistake. I cut the waists to small – forgetting that the template pair of bottoms I was using were elastic. I didn’t take that into consideration so when it was time to sew in the elastic, there was no extra fabric to gather, the waists were the exact size of Evan’s waist. As you can see I don’t know the technical terms of sewing, hopefully you are following along! If not, see pics below and you will get it. But I decided to go ahead and finish since there was nothing I could do, the fabric was already cut.
So hoping my mistake wouldn’t be that big of a deal, I enthusiastically asked Evan to try on his new pajama pants. He was sooooo excited.
“Thank you, Mom! I love them.” Evan exclaimed as I showed him the final product.
He went to put them on, and just as I suspected, the waist was too small. He grunted and groaned as he struggled to get them past his hips. He managed to get them on and declared, “These ARE AWESOME!”
Gotta love the innocence of a child.
My son, besides him being white and 40 years too late, looked like he should be part of the Jackson Five:
Needless to say, the boys wore them and loved them, but i just couldn’t handle having them wear pajama bottoms that they had to grunt and groan to get themselves in them and then head out to the Disco after Jeremy and I went to bed!
So off to the fabric store I went, and of course they were sold out of the candy print. So I opted for a Rudolph print that I thought was cute. They did not agree, after I got home and showed them.
But I went ahead and made them their “new” and “improved” Christmas pajama pants. I waited several days to show them their new pajama pants in hopes that they forgot about not liking the new print. Thankfully they fit perfectly – with some extra wiggle room – and not perfect for going to the disco. And they did forgot that the print was not approved orginally.
I think I should go back to my high school Home Ec Teacher and try to get that grade reversed! And I do think, I have started a new tradition! These were fun and super easy to make (the second time around )! And my kids kinda think I’m cool for making them their very own pants! Now off to make their cousins matching ones for Christmas Eve. Nothing like 4 super cute cousins all wearing matching Christmas Disco pants pajamas.
*This post is linked up to Momminitup’s Pin for the Wednesdays*
The Bible says what?
Yesterday while we were learning the boys’ memory verse for Awana – yep I am raising two procrastinators – nothing like learning the memory verse hours before church – Evan’s speech issues really took over.
You see, I haven’t mentioned it for awhile, even though I did promise to keep you posted on the speech decisions for Evan, Evan has been going to an amazing speech therapist for several months. He has made great strides in his speech. They have a game plan to fix his “L” first, then “th”, and finally the “R” sound. He is pretty much finished with the “L” and “th”. Even though he has made amazing progress, we still are working on those sounds in every day conversation, because of the habit it has created. He is able to correct himself on the “L” and “TH” if we inform him that he just said an “L” or “TH” word. The other thing that has come from it is that when in doubt (when a word doesn’t sound correct to Evan) he self corrects by adding an “L” to the beginning of it. Most of the time putting the “L” in front makes the word not a word, you know like “rooster” would be “looster”, which immediately he hears it not correct.
But yesterday was the most challenging speech lesson as of yet.
We were learning Psalm 33:4 – For the word of the Lord is right.
Now say that to yourselves as if you are a child who, up until a month ago, had all “Ls” and “Rs” make the “w” sound. Go ahead, I’ll give you a minute…
The first attempt:
“The word of the word is white”
As you can hear and see, in this instance, his speech problems did not make nonsense words. All words are correct making the verse sound silly.
Evan does an amazing job with synonyms and definitions when someone can’t understand what he is saying. So immediately I changed the verse to make more sense to him to see if he could correct the verse on his own. “The Bible is from God and it’s correct/true.”
Okay let’s try it again:
“The Lord of the Lord is light”
So this time he used that ol’ standby of putting “Ls” in front of all the words he couldn’t say correctly. And again, all the words were words although the sentence made no sense.
Then it progressed to:
“The word of the Lord is light”
Okay, getting better! At least the sentence makes sense although incorrect.
We practiced for 10 minutes at least, and if you have a child with speech problems, you know 10 minutes is eternity for them. By the end, he was frustrated and tired. I was able to squeak out one correct verse, not all the words together but each individual word on it’s own.
“Mom, I know the verse, will you leave me alone now.”
“Okay Evan, you have done an awesome job trying to say it correctly! And you did! Just to make sure, can you say it for me one last time.”
“Fine mom, For the word of the word is white.”
Perfect!
A Family Who Runs Together…
After agonizing whether or not to sign the boys up for their first race (and of course throwing the idea up on Twitter), I decided it “could” be fun to just dive right in and sign them up for one of the biggest races in the area! The Turkey Trot! Why not? My theory was that the boys would see a boat load of people running (8,000 to be exact) and love running amongst the chaos!
Two things I learned from this event:
1. Carter DOES NOT like running first thing in the morning. He was looking forward to running but once we got there, after waking him up about an hour and a half earlier than his normal wake up time, he decided he was too tired to participate in the actual “running” of the event! HA! But he did enjoy sitting on daddy’s shoulders for most of the 1 mile fun run. And at one point to catch up to us, Jeremy ran with Carter on his shoulders! After the finish line, several older women came up to Jeremy and praised his ability to run with a 35 pound boy on his shoulders! Show Off – Whatever – I could have done that too – sheesh!
2. It doesn’t matter how much Evan hates running, you throw a friend in the mix, even better a friend who is a girl, and all of a sudden running (AND WINNING) is his passion. The boy ran probably 8 or 9 tenths of the total mile. The only time he stopped was when his friend Abigail and he agreed to take a breather! He is so flipping competitive -because he could NOT have a girl beat him at anything! *will need to keep that in mind for future use*
So we did it! And had a great time! I asked the boys if they wanted to race again and Carter immediately said, “YES” – ha! – and Evan said, “yes but when I get bigger!”
So I think running the Turkey Trot with the fam may be a new tradition!
Games for the Holidays – Gift Ideas
Last Christmas I fell in love with Wonder Forge. I had found some games to buy the boys and as luck would have it, over the last year I have had the opportunity to work with the crew at Wonder Forge, letting the boys test many of the new games that came out over the last 12 months.
Let me just say this – I still LOVE WONDER FORGE. If you have preschoolers – you NEED to get your hands on some of the games they produce. And NO I AM not being paid to say that! Every game we have tried the boys have LOVED! And as a parent, I have loved them because they are easy to play, easy to explain and they are developed for short attention spans with game times being around 10 minutes each! Gotta love that. Another feature I have found in many of the Wonder Forge preschool games is that many have movement incorporated in them, to help with “the squirmies factor” (yeah, I totally made that up but if you have a kid with the squirmies you totally understandd what I am saying!)
Wonder Forge just doesn’t do preschool games, they also make games for the adults in your preschooler’s life! HA! When I was asked to review some more preschool games for the holiday season, I admit, I asked to try Konexi (click for product info) too! Yeah, I know, it’s not for preschoolers but I begged asked to give it a try.
You NEED to buy this game! It was so much fun. Over the Thanksgiving break, we had friends from out of town staying with us. Along with our friends, our 13 year old neighbor spends a lot of time over at out house. So one evening we brought out Konexi to try and we had so much fun!
It is such a unique game because you want to win (of course) but you also find yourself encouraging and helping your opponents because you want to see how tall you can get the tower of letters before it topples. I can say that 4 adults and a 13 year old all loved playing together. My friends and my neighbor want this game for their house. {But then they won’t want to come over and play with us – ha!}
Okay back to the preschoolers in your life:
Richard Scarry’s Busytown Busy, Busy Airport (click for product info):
This game gets your kids up and flying their planes around the room (or if you feel a little lazy, cough cough, you can place all the destinations near by. Not that I tried this, this week ) getting passengers to their destinations. This is a great game to teach your kids some basic math skills and an opportunity to look at 4 different environments (beach, city, forest and mountain). It is a great way to talk about the differences between these four destinations with your preschooler. And what little boys doesn’t like making airplane sounds while flying through the living room?
Chuggington Traintastic Cargo Game (click for product info):
Although I didn’t get a picture with Carter, Carter LOVED this game! But by the time I thought about getting a photo, Carter was asleep and Evan was enjoying some one – on- one time with mom. Both boys loved this game also. I loved this game because it taught some very important math fundamentals: Pattern matching, Shape, number and color recognition and deductive reasoning (each player must remember the location of corresponding images to fill up their boxcars). Each player gets a pattern card they need to complete to win the game. This game was fun and easy for Evan. He got the concept right away and knew that it was a pattern game. But with Carter, this game was a great teaching tool for pattern matching and deductive reasoning. Although Carter knows his shapes and colors he had a challenging time determining where to place the pieces according to his pattern card! But both boys were able to play at the same time, and I was able to help Carter and Evan stayed perfectly content to be independent!
These are the latest games we have had the opportunity to test out, but I believe you can’t go wrong with any game with the Wonder Forge logo on it! As I said earlier, if you have preschoolers in your life, get them some Wonder Forge games. You can thank me later !
Disclaimer: As I said early, I fell in LOVE with the Wonder Forge. I was given each game to review. But all opinions are my own (and the kiddos)!
The Perfect Gift: Salvation (Carter’s Story)
Today was an amazing day. It was a rainy, dreary, cold day with me and Carter battling some serious head colds. But today was perfect?
You wanna know why?
My little baby boy, Carter, asked Jesus into his heart today!
With the beginning of the Christmas season upon us, this season reminds us what the most perfect gift is. The gift of Jesus, brought to us as a baby, our Saviour!
Jesus: our perfect gift.
This morning started like any other morning, but for some reason, Carter kept having this conservation with me mulitple times:
Carter: I love you mommy!
Me: I love you too, Carter!
Carter: And you know who else loves me?
Me: Who?
Carter: Jesus loves me!
Me: You’re right Carter. Jesus loves you so much!
This conversation happened at least 3 times before we headed out for a quick run to JoAnn Fabrics after lunch. After the second conversation, I thought it was odd that he kept bringing it up. By the third, I was kinda intrigued what was going on in his little mind. After all he is my little rebel.
A couple of months ago, my MIL and Evan had a chance to talk to Carter about salvation, which you can read the AWESOME story over on her blog, but at the time he wasn’t ready to ask Jesus into his heart. And quite frankly, the whole idea freaked him out, A LOT!
So Jeremy and I haven’t pushed the topic with him. And quite frankly, didn’t expect it to be any time soon.
But today, something must have clicked. Upon arriving at JoAnn’s, we paused for a moment to look at ribbon. Carter, out of the blue, asked if Jesus was there with us.
I said He was and He is always with us. He is everywhere. He pondered for a moment and pointed to his heart and asked me if He was in his heart.
That is when my evangelical Evan stepped in and reminded him that “No, Jesus isn’t in your heart unless you ask Him in your heart. And you haven’t asked him yet.” (In true blunt Evan form. Thanks Evan for stepping up – ha!)
Carter looked at me and said, “I want Jesus in my heart!”
Evan’s reply, “Well Carter, you have to ask Him in your heart.”
Oh my word! Right there in JoAnn Fabrics! Wow!
So I pulled him aside, down one of the isles, bent down on my knees, looked him straight in the eyes and asked him if he wanted to ask Jesus into his heart.
He said, “yes I want Jesus in my heart.”
So right there in JoAnn Fabrics I prayed with Carter! It was short, yet sweet (and yes slightly awkward considering during our prayer someone came up behind us and was looking at the stickers above our heads – HA).
“I got Jesus in my heart now!”
Thank you God for our most perfect gift. The gift of Jesus! And thank you God for moving in Carter’s heart and soul and that Carter listened. Thank you for allowing me to witness the moving of your spirit in such a beautiful and humbling way.
Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Matthew 19:14
Of Dress Up and Soldiers
Last week, I had a “Black Friday” in my own way. The day after Halloween couldn’t come soon enough. You see Evan has never been into dress up or pretend play so I have never bought any dress up clothes for the boys. But he is now getting into super heros and over the last couple of months he has gotten more into pretend play. Especially since our weekend in VA, where his friend Anden had many super hero costumes.
I have been waiting for the After – Halloween Sales since August. So the morning after halloween, I got up and got out of the house early to scoop up some deals. I was a mom on a mission!
While I was at Target, I was frantically scooping up all costumes that were size 4-6 when a conversation started up amongst some of us moms. We were chit-chatting about the ages of our kids, the costumes we were looking for and sizes. When one of the moms found a soldier costume. She asked if anyone wanted it.
Another mom spoke up very quickly and said, “Oh no, I don’t want my boys dressing up like soldiers.”
I wanted to spout off something sarcastic considering she didn’t want her boys to dress up like soldiers, but apparantly by what she was holding, it was perfectly acceptable to dress up like a demonic figure.
So instead of saying something that I might regret, I told the first mom that I would take the costume. (Even though I already had one in my pile).
That exchange really bothered me! But after I thought about it some more, I had a second idea of what she meant. I am hoping that this is what she meant. Being a mom of boys, it isn’t ever far from my mind that one day, my babies, the babies that God entrusted me with, will sign those draft cards and be called into War. Or that one day, one of my precious little baby boys will choose to make it a career. Although I would be one proud mama, the thought of my sweet baby boys, old enough to defend our country. makes my heart ache and tears form in my eyes!
So dear Marine, Airman, Soldier, Seaman thank you for being the ultimate superhero in my book.
And although I think my Lil’ C looks perfect in his Soldier Costume now:
Serious Soldier
If that day will come and Carter follows that path, I believe he will always look like this in my eyes:
My Sweet Soldier Boy
Happy Veterans Day to all who have served, is serving and will serve! Thank you all for being superheros!
The Angry Bird Obsession
Have you seen the new Angry Birds commercial – I think it’s for Google – don’t remember don’t care. But they mention in it that 1 BILLION apps have been sold! Who knew that a silly game would be so popular.
I have a confession to make. I have NEVER played it. It is on my phone but it’s not for me.
My wonderful Jeremy broke open the flood gates of Angry Birds with Evan shortly after the game was released. And the obsession has exponentially grown since!
I made the mistake of throwing out the idea of the boys being Angry Birds for Halloween way back in August. And at the time, I had NO idea that costumes existed. I really didn’t think that many kids knew what Angry Birds was. Boy was I wrong! All of a sudden, Angry Birds are everywhere: t-shirts, stuffed animals, posters (I should know we now have 6 stuffed birds and a poster so far).
In August, I googled “how to make an Angry Birds costume” and was elated to find out that I didn’t have to make one! But instead of purchasing them right away, I thought I would procrastinate like I usually do and let the kids think about it. By October 1st, I frantically got online to purchase the Red Angry Bird and the Green Pig – per the boys request.
To my dismay – every online store was SOLD OUT! I panicked! The boys were banking on these costumes! And let’s face it, I don’t even know how to turn on a sewing machine – do you turn it on? Anyway. After several days of searching, I had an idea- to check out the actual Angry Birds site and sure enough they had them. AND THEY HAD THEM FOR $15 MORE then anywhere else! I was completely screwed and had to fork over A LOT of money for opening my stupid mouth in August. But it serves me right, I do like my kids to coordinate and I know this is probably the last year I will actually get to “encourage” them too. So I bit the bullet. I had some money saved in my personal account and purchased them.
And this year, last minute, a few of our friends asked to trick-or-treat in our neighborhood. They boys were super excited! Jeremy and I were too !
Here is the motley crew:
And Green pig with his arch nemesis Red Bird:
Green Pig
Red Bird
Are your kids Angry Bird obsessed? I know many of you probably are. Best quote of the night from a neighbor, “hey Angry Birds (talking to the boys), that’s how I spend most my time at work.”
I’m Doing It Again
I’ve mentioned before the budding romance between Carter and running. And if you have been checking out this ol’ blog for awhile you know that I had a personal goal to run a race a couple of years back.
What I haven’t talked about (at least I don’t think I have yet) is the fact that I totally gave up on all things fitness and taking care of myself back in April when my doctor revealed that he couldn’t find anything AT ALL that was causing my ongoing joint and muscle pain. So I gave up! After 4 years of trying to find out what is wrong with me, I gave up. I mean come on, if I’m in pain all the time and nothing seems to help, why not just do nothing and eat whatever I want and be lazy!
Okay, so probably right about now, many of you are shaking your heads and asking what the heck I was thinking with that logic. I know, I know! But at the time, I was done trying!
So fast forward 4 months, 10 extra pounds and ongoing pain, I came to a sad and embarrassing conclusion of my actions.
Jeremy and I enjoy taking the boys on walks whenever the weather permits. But our walks soon became “runs” with Carter. He wanted to run the whole time. After 4 months of taking crappy care of myself, walks with the boys were getting more and more difficult. Then you add in that running that Carter wanted to do and I could barely keep up! I mean, I was completely winded after “running” with Carter around our block.
The embarrassment and the shame kicked in real quickly.
How could I NOT keep up with a 3 year old! Seriously?
Now if you recall, I HATE RUNNING! I don’t look good running! But I came to a conclusion. I HAVE to do it for Carter! Jeremy is naturally athletic and will run around with the boys, but he HATES running for exercise! Carter needs someone that runs. I would hate to think that he would stop running if he didn’t have anyone to look up to. Am I making sense? Probably not! But I’ll continue…
I realized in August that my health choices I was making were extremely selfish on my part! I NEED to be healthy for my family. I couldn’t continue allowing myself to dig deeper and deeper into that unhealthy lifestyle. My kids need me to be healthy, whether I’m in pain or not!
I mean come on, I’m in pain whether I work out and I ‘m in pain if I don’t. So why not at least be healthier and in pain!
So I have rededicated myself into running. I am currently in the seventh week of the Couch-to-5k program. I was hoping to get myself and Carter into a 5k before the winter (Carter in a “fun run” associated with a 5k, not an actual 5k yet), but that doesn’t look like it’s going to happen. But by next spring I should be fully ready to jump into the 5k circuit so that Carter can see his mama running and he can join in on the kid runs too!
Am I crazy? Yes! I am crazy for Carter! And if he wants to run, this mama will run with him until his heart’s content! Then come home and take a large dose of ibuprofen!
Backyard Discovery Fun Holiday Sweepstakes on Facebook
Who wouldn’t want to win a Backyard Discovery Oxford Swingset or Chateau playhouse just in time for Christmas? Right now Backyard Discovery is running a Sweepstakes on their Facebook page and ALL you have to do is go “like” them for a chance to win one! Good Luck! And if you get a chance let them know I sent ya over !
* Disclosure: This post was written as part of the Backyard Discovery Ambassador campaign, which I am proud to be a part of! I was provided with a Backyard Discovery Playset and other tools from Backyard Discovery to help facilitate my reviews and posts during the campaign, but all posts and opinions in them are purely my own and my kiddo’s.
A Super Big Chuggington Announcement and GIVEAWAY!!
Did you know that October is International Walk to School Month? Now is the time for you and your trainee to brush up on important pedestrian safety tips. Does you trainee know to always look ‘left-right-left’ for cars while crossing the street? Do you always remember to hold your trainee’s hand when crossing the road?
Chuggington recently partnered with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for a public service program appropriately titled “Think Safe, Ride Safe, Be Safe!”, which aims to educate parents and children about all forms of transportation safety, including bicycle, pedestrian, school bus and car seat safety. In support of the Think Safe, Ride Safe, Be Safe! Campaign, Disney Junior is airing PSAs throughout the month of October.
All right, so that was the BIG Announcement, now on to the giveaway!
One luck Evan Has Landed reader will win a prize pack which will include:
Chuggers from the New Wooden Railway line: Speedy McAllister, Harrison, Action Chugger, Hoot and Toot, Frostini, and Chatsworth.
The new DVD Chugger Championship
Chugger Championship DVD
And a Traffic Safety Kit plus a Chuggington Traffic Safety Vest!
This giveaway is probably the easiest one to enter that I’ve had so far! What do you need to do? All you need to do is visit the Think Safe, Ride Safe, Be Safe (click HERE) and take the Safety Pledge with your little chugger. Then come back here and leave me a comment letting me know that you did!!
This giveaway is open to all U.S. residents age 18 or older and will end Friday, November11, 2011 at 9:00 p.m. EST. The winner will be selected by random.org.
* Disclosure: This post was written as part of the Chuggington Conductor campaign, which I am proud to be a part of! I was provided with some tools from Chuggington to help facilitate my review, but the post and all opinions in them are purely my own and my kiddo’s.
Chuggington News: Halloween!
Just in time for Halloween, Rubies Costume Co. recently released new Chuggington Halloween costumes for children nationwide! Now your little chuggers can dress up like their favorite Chuggington characters Koko, Wilson and Brewster. These costumes are available at Party City and PartyCity.com!
Brewster
Wilson
Koko
* Disclosure: This post was written as part of the Chuggington Conductor campaign, which I am proud to be a part of! I was provided with some tools from Chuggington to help facilitate my review, but the post and all opinions in them are purely my own and my kiddo’s.
Story Snipets from the Week
You know, the boys will do things or say things during our daily lives that I want to remember but aren’t quite long enough for a full post. So I decided to write a few of the funnies from this week all in one post.
- After school on Tuesday, Evan informed me that we was invited to a birthday party of one of his classmates on…May 19th. How’s that for being scheduled? But I think the funnier thing is, when I asked him who’s party it was he told me it is his new friend Logan. You see, this is the FIRST time since he started going to preschool (or anywhere that has other children in fact) that he has remembered a kid’s name! Over a year and a half, he has never remembered anyone’s name in his class – well except for Eva.
- I came out of the shower this morning to find Carter all snuggled up in my bed. I thought for a moment what a perfect adorable child he is, until I heard Evan yelling from downstairs that he was locked out of my room. Hmmm – not sure if I should be proud of Carter or explain to him that it’s not nice to lock your older brother who picks on you constantly out of mom’s bedroom?
- Evan started a club this week. Here are the rules: 1. No pushing. 2. No cheating and 3. No lollygagging. So if you want to wear a fake tattoo and can following those three important rules – you’re in!
- “Hey mom, do you know what’s funny?”, asked Carter. “What Carter, what’s funny?”, I replied. “POOP!” Man those potty words are sooooooo funny! I mean, I don’t know what I am not constantly laughing, since lately, I am constantly hearing those words!
- Carter and Evan play this game where they pretend to either be each other, or pretend to be Jeremy and I. This week, they took it to a new level. Carter was me and Evan was Jeremy. Evan, “Cortney, come here.” Evan had his arms stretched out to have Carter come over to give him a hug. Evan (Jeremy) hugged Carter (Cortney) and kissed him on his forward. “Oh Jeremy”, Carter said. Then Evan (Jeremy) proceeded to kiss Carter (Cortney) on his lips. Somewhat disturbing but I guess it beats having us arguing?
Been a busy, crazy week! I am looking forward to a relaxing weekend! I can say “relaxing” because the boys are spending the night with Babci and Poppi! Woot, Woot!
Enjoy your weekend!
Murphy’s Law – A Creek With Two Boys
Our local park system has a “passport” program for kids. We stumbled upon it when I took the boys to one of our local parks that we don’t visit very often. We ran into the park office to use the restroom when the receptionist asked if we were aware of this program. I wasn’t, but when she mentioned getting a prize, Evan was totally all over it! If we get 8 stamps from different parks, the boys get a prize. The prize right now is a backpack.
We visit many of our local parks anyway, so I decided to try to visit 8 of them before the weather turns cold, so that Evan gets a new backpack before the prize changes to something else.
All of that info to lead to the following story.
We headed to a nearby park this weekend to go hiking. This particular park has a creek and rock bridge that Evan remembered from last summer and wanted to visit again. And here is the sequence of events:
Getting a picture taken to prove we were there – since you know – the office to get the stamp was CLOSED!!!
Carter and Evan begging to walk out onto the sand:
Carter and Evan asking to take their shoes off so they could wade in the creek:
Evan slipping on the rocks and falling fully in the creek. And Carter not wanting to be outdone does the same.
Both boys completely drenched and clothes dripping wet!
And yes people it is OCTOBER in Ohio. Thank you Jesus for an unseasonable warm week!
The best part…Do you remember my post on how I never leave the house without some “emergency” items. Yeah, well the previous day I took out my emergency clothes pack to update it and get the outfits changed to fall outfits and left it by the front door when we headed out to the park.
So my boys, completely drenched had to walk the mile or so back to the truck in wet shorts and no shirts, because it was actually warmer for them to walk shirtless since their shirts were also wet! And then had to sit in their wet clothes until we got home!
That my friends is life with 2 boys – and why my friends make fun of me for always being prepared with extra clothes!
A Twicky Situation
Today is the day! I am taking Evan to get his speech evaluated! (Last year I wrote about some of the cute things that the boys say to each other just to give you an idea.) You know, sometimes us moms just need the reassurance that everything is all right – especially since I STILL have to translate for him when he is speaking to others. After speaking with Jenny’s speech therapist, she has agreed to evaluate Evan. But based on what I have told her about talking with Evan’s teacher’s and doctor, she agrees with them that he may not need therapy but I asked her to evaluate anyway. I just want to get a final opinion by an expert, just to cover all my bases!
Who knows. He may need it for a little while. Or maybe the therapist will just give me some activities to work with him on. But either way, I will feel much better after today in regards to his speech.
I have to admit, I adored his cute speech habits. Jeremy and I still sometimes bust out little sayings he used to say that he has outgrown like, “that’s a tough coice” instead of “choice”. And now when we say it, he gets upset and corrects us!
So anyhoo, today we find out if he will follow in my footsteps and need some speech help or if I am a paranoid, overprotective mama! Either way, I just want to know!
Happy Friday!
A Sleepy Situation
You remember way back in July, I grumbled about my sweet little boy NOT SLEEPING! Well, after several months I can say…THAT WE ARE STILL NOT SLEEPING!
Except…
Well before I tell you, let me give you the whole story. Six weeks ago when Jeremy went on a week long business trip, I let the boys “camp” in our bedroom for the couple of nights that we were home. It was comforting to all us since none of us like it when Daddy is away. We have a fairly large master bedroom with 2 papasan chairs. So it works out beautifully to throw the two cushions on the floor to make instant beds. Each boy fits perfectly on one cushion. And I still get my bed to myself (and Jeremy)!
That first night of allowing the boys to sleep in our room was heavenly. Both boys slept 12 hours. 12 hours people!! That hasn’t happened since NEVER!
So the second night, I was hoping the same would happen. And sure enough, it did.
Once Jeremy got back into town, I brought up the idea that maybe each Friday night, we could let the boys “camp out” in our room. That way, at least Jeremy, could get a full night’s sleep once a week. Since you know, I don’t sleep. Ever!
So the first Friday came and we let them camp out. The next morning, Jeremy informed me that that was the best idea I have ever come up with – although I think I have come up with better ideas in the 16 years we have been together. But whatever, I think that the fact that he slept for 8 hours uninterrupted had something to do with that assessment.
The following week things went right back to normal. Carter getting up multiple times a night, turning on his music full blast each time. Evan sleeping through it, us not so much.
After the second sleep filled Friday night, Carter realized something.
Instead of getting up and turning on his music, he could “sneak” up into our room and sleep. And Evan would never know!
Which let’s face it, he’s not in our bed disturbing us and he is actually sleeping without stirring while NOT disturbing us. It was a win-win situation. Okay fine, I know that we are starting a very bad habit, but come on WE NEED sleep too, people.
So each week, I’ll admit, he ends up sleeping on our floor at least 4 nights out of 7.
And the “Friday Night Camp Outs” for both boys has sorta become the multiple night camp outs. Because Evan has a sneaky suspicion that something fishy is going on after he falls asleep. Although, once the kid falls asleep, he doesn’t stir for 10 hours. But he is on to us! So out of guilt, when they ask to sleep in our room, we let them both.
What can we do? We have tried every approach with Carter and he just doesn’t like sleeping in a bed right now. So I am banking on him maturing and eventually sleeping in his room all night without waking multiple times. And that this won’t be such a bad habit that eventually we are going to have a very hard time making him stay out of our room.
So right now, we are rolling with it? What do you think? What things have you allowed to go on in your home that you know may not be the best idea, but something good is coming out of it right now so you roll with it? Please tell me that we aren’t ruining our kids by doing this – ha!
Bring on The Crazy!
Last week, while I visiting my childhood best friend, she said a few things that got me thinking. She admitted that she was a little nervous with us coming to visit because she reads my blog (occasionally *cough cough* hello she needs to read it every time I post April!) and everything I write about shows a perfect life. Needless to say, I began laughing hysterically! Because really, my life and my parenting is far from being perfect!
“It may seem perfect, April, because I don’t write about the crazy!” I believe is exactly what I told her.
She questioned why I don’t write about the crazy. She had two valid points. Number one, if I would write about the crazy, other moms, including her (when she actually reads my blog *cough*) would feel comforted by the fact that “crazy” is somewhat normal and that they are not alone in this mothering thing.
Her second point came after I explained that many of my posts are strictly written for Evan and Carter, as part of their “baby books”. She asked,” Don’t you want Evan and Carter to know the bad as well as the good, so they can understand the depth of their childhoods. And don’t you think you are setting their future wives up for failure? If all they remember and read from their childhood are the good things, their expectations are going to be unreasonably high.”
She is one smart cookie! That is why I love her so. We can kinda tell each other some hard truths sometimes! And the beauty of our 34 year friendship is that, most of the time we can speak truth and instead of being offended we find comfort and encouragement.
So I promised her that I would start writing more about the crazy. But maybe I should have made her promise that she would actually read my blog…no I’m not bitter whatsoever !
To kick start more “real life crazy” posts, here are a few short glimpses into my world of crazy:
- I lose my cool when the boys mix the colors of play-doh! To the point that I often make them put it away! Because in my mind, how can you create, if the only color you have is one huge clump of pukey brown? So yes, I squelch their creativity so that I don’t have to purchase new play-doh every week!
- Sometimes I am waiting, with keys in hand, for Jeremy to get home. And as he is pulling up to the house, I am running to my truck to get away. Because if I have to stay for one more minute, I would lose my mind!
- I use waaaayyyy too much sarcasm when trying to prove a point with Evan. And thus, he is starting to mimic me when dealing with Carter. And yes, the guilt of that is overwhelming. But unfortunately hasn’t stopped me from doing it!
- I don’t believe I picked up one book and read it to either boy – for the whole month of August! And if you have followed me for any amount of time, you know how I preach about the importance of reading to your children EVERY DAY!
- I kick Evan out of the kitchen when he wants to “help” me cook. Because the stress of the mess that will happen is greater than the importance of teaching him all the wonderful things that cooking can for a preschooler.
Okay, that’s enough for right now! I think I have given you enough of a glimpse of my “less-than-perfect” parenting. And please, don’t try to be nice and say none of us are perfect. Because I know that! I just don’t like letting anyone know that I am not perfect!
To continue the emphasis on crazy- I would love for you to share some of your crazy! Wontcha join in on the crazy with me?
And April – dude subscribe to my blog! Sheesh!
Because I’m the Cool Parent…
…okay who am I kidding. I’m REALLY not! And I’m okay with that.
You know the Modern Family episode where Claire and Phil switch their roles (Claire is usually the “bad cop” and Phil is the “good cop”), it was disastrous after they switched roles and at the end they decide it just works better with the original way. Well, Jeremy and I totally related to that episode.
But this month, I was the cool parent!
Jeremy had two trips he was taking and since I can’t stand to be with my kids for more than a day by myself – yeah I admit it – I decided to invite myself and my kiddos to friends houses that have moved out of town. It worked out beautifully because both of my girlfriends recently had babies and I had an excuse to go see them !
First trip was to Knoxville to see our dear friends Bob and Crystal. Tricia and her kids decided to come along since our husbands were on a business trip together (and we were all close friends). Wow six kids 4 and under in one house. It was crazy but so much fun! We had a great time!
Our second “Field Trip” (I can call it that since we did go to a museum while we were there ) was to Virginia Beach. My childhood best friend, April, is there and it was a perfect time to throw the kids in the truck, drive 12 hours and have a mini-vacation with her and her family! It was awesome. Her 4 year old and Evan were INSTANT best friends. They played so well together which meant April and I actually got to catch up and talk.
So I think I’ve started something. The boys are already asking when we are going away again – ha! The boys did amazing in the truck! Which surprises me because they need to keep busy at home, but yet are somewhat content to sit in the car for hours upon hours! Who knew?
So for this month, I think I won the “coolest parent” award!
Happy National Play-Doh Day (and Giveaway)
Who doesn’t love Play-Doh?? Most of us probably remember playing with it when we were children. We love it so much in our house that it takes up two shelves in our Education Closet! We have so many gadgets and accessories!
I have encouraged the boys to play with it to help strengthen their hand muscles and fine motor skills. Jeremy has encouraged the boys to play with it to aid in their creativity side . It is just been in the last few months that Evan has gotten into really playing with play-doh, pretending to bake cakes, build cars, animals and grilling out hotdogs! I love to finally see his imagination blossom. Carter, on the other hand, is Carter. He loves for us to make things then he takes them and pretends with them !
So when I was asked to have the boys try out the new Twirl ‘n Top Pizza Shop, it was a no-brainer!
Evan loved making all kinds of pizzas. He sat and played quietly while I was making a batch of muffins that he requested.
Carter on the other hand…
…well was just being Carter . I would love to say that he was rolling out some dough or getting the cheese ready for Evan in this picture, but really he just enjoyed smashing the play-doh – as you can tell from his face. But he has been sick, so really anything that keeps him from whining is better then anything, right? He will enjoy it much better when he is feeling better!
During the cold winter months, the boys and Jeremy will break out the Play-Doh on the weekends and play for hours on end. Some of the best memories I have are watching them create Play-Doh masterpieces with their daddy while the snow falls outside!
Need some ideas – well head on over to Play-Doh’s Facebook page. They have great seasonal ideas on what to make and on Play-Doh Playdates.
In honor of celebrating National Play-Doh Day, I get to give away one Twirl ‘n Top Pizza Shop:
Giveaway:
One Evan Has Landed Reader will win a Twirl ‘n Top Pizza Shop. Here’s how:
To enter:
- Leave me a comment telling me of a favorite Play-Doh memory.
- If you are on Facebook, go “Like” Play-Doh. Leave them a comment letting them know I sent you . Then come back here and leave a separate comment that you did. If you already follow Play-Doh on FB let me know that too.
- Make a Play-Doh creation with your kiddos and post a picture on the Play-Doh Facebook page. Then come back here and let me know that you did.
- Post this giveaway on your Facebook page. Then come back here and let me know in a separate comment.
- Subscribe to my blog feed via RSS or email and leave a comment letting me know you did or already do.
Please remember to leave a separate comment for each entry (You can enter up to 5 times from the above list). This giveaway is open to all U.S. residents age 18 or older and will end Friday, September 23, 2011 at 9:00 p.m. EST. The winner will be selected by random.org.
*Disclosure: I was given the Twirl ‘n Top Pizza Shop for the boys to review, but the post and all opinions in them are purely my own and my kiddo’s.
Scheduled and Relieved
I have realized in the last few years (since having kids and not out of the home working) that I DEFINITELY need to be on a schedule. If you have young children – you definitely know how hard it is to be on a schedule around your kids’ schedules. But finally, my boys are old enough that I don’t have to be home enforcing naps which has freed up my schedule to make a schedule for all of us…;-) Are you following me?
I have DREADED the winter months since having children. The “being stuck in the house” routine has just about put me over the edge on several occasions. I hate being stuck in the house with two boys who definitely need activities to keep them busy! But finding activities for both kids has been tough. Most activities are for older children (3+) or cost money which isn’t always the best option financially.
So, a few months ago I started planning and making a schedule for me and the boys so that I wouldn’t go crazy this winter but also would allow the boys to have learning opportunities. I even made my own calendar for the refrigerator – crafty huh?
Carter was old enough to start preschool along with Evan. I had to first decide whether to send both of them Monday, Wednesday and Friday, or Tuesday, Thursday. I wanted to send them on the same days so that I could get a break for myself – selfish? Sorta! I knew Evan would thrive with either schedule and I didn’t want to put Carter in for too many days. They have 12 years to go to school every day – in my opinion. So I decided to keep the Tuesday/Thursday for both kids after discussing it with friends, family and Evan’s school teachers. Evan’s school teachers actually followed him up to Pre-K and assured me that he wouldn’t miss out on anything important if he didn’t go 4 to 5 days a week. Besides he has a mom for a teacher, so I am not too concerned about him being behind ! Many of my friends urged me to do 3 days a week, for my sanity. But I just didn’t feel comfortable having them away from me that much.
Because I chose the preschool option of 2 days a week, I had to find some “extracurriculars” for the other days. I still want the boys being exposed to other learning experiences different from their classrooms. After researching and researching and agonizing, I found that the YMCA had the best options for the price! So I have enrolled both boys into an exercise class and swimming class on Mondays and Wednesdays. This is awesome for me too, since now I have NO excuse not to exercise while we are there – I do get 2 hours of free child care a day! A big thanks to my parents and Jeremy’s parents for helping out financially to allow the boys to take extra classes!
And I will be planning on “field trips” with the boys also throughout the cold months. This week, we went to the zoo. Jeremy took the day off for a family field trip! The boys had a blast and since we pretty much had the zoo to ourselves, we were able to do a little bit more educating while we were there. I love having a Museum pass – it makes for great, cheap educational trips to local museums and zoos!
There you have it! I am SUPER excited to be on a schedule! I feel like a heavy weight has been lifted and my life is getting a little bit more controllable. I am fully aware that come May, I will be yearning for a schedule free summer of playgrounds, play dates and swimming. But right now, bring on the consistency, schedule and a little “me” time as an extra bonus.
What do you do to stay sane with your kids during the cold, snowy months of winter? I would love to know so that I can add them to my arsenal 
?
