The past few weeks have been rough. Work difficulties, health difficulties, food difficulties, but most challenging of all: PEOPLE difficulties.
Each of the past few Sunday mornings someone I love has ripped me up inside. Friends, family, colleagues. I've handled it well in some cases, and poorly in other cases. I'm actually a little terrified of next Sunday morning, and I may just turn my phone off on Saturday night, and not turn it back on until Monday morning. But I don't think that will actually work because I believe I'm in a season where God has decided not to just ask that I trust Him, but demanding that I do so.
Unfortunately, it's much easier for us to trust in our fellow humans than in the Lord. We lean on family and count on them to love us even when we mess up. We rely on friends to be there when we need them, and strive to do the same for them. We work incredibly hard and count on our colleagues and supervisors to have our backs when the job gets extra tough.
But people are fallible. Every single one of us.
People can't be our saviors, but He can.
Jeremiah 17:7 says, "Blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence."
Not those who trust in family. Not those who trust in their friends. Not those who trust their supervisors or colleagues.
Those who trust in the LORD are blessed.
Psalm 10:15 says, "Call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you and you will honor me."
Well, I'm calling on the Lord. I'd like to not cry through another sermon because of a Sunday morning conversation that slays me, but right now I need to be humbled, and this steady dose of humility is doing the trick.
Are you being tested?
"These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold" (1 Peter 1:7a, my own emphasis added).
I want to be gold. I want to be pure.
I want to become a better person and learn how to love others and God better.
I am so, so, so extremely thankful for the people that have allowed me to talk and cry on their shoulder the past few weeks during this new diet, double toddler tantrums and hurtful conversations, but more than anything I believe I'm learning to trust God to guide my tongue and actions, and He's probably thinking that it's about time, Katy.
Showing posts with label Letters. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Letters. Show all posts
Sunday, August 16, 2015
Monday, June 15, 2015
A letter to my daughter on her 3rd birthday (+ 3 days)
Dearest Clara,
This past Friday you turned three years old. You LOVE being three, and want everyone to ask how old you are so that you can hold up three fingers now instead of two. It's hard to be the caboose of your friends and watch all of their birthdays pass by before yours, but it did finally come!
It's hard for me to describe the person you are these days. On the one hand you have been a challenge the past few months, slower to obey and more determined to have everything your way, but then you switch to being so sweet I can hardly handle it, willing to help and providing light-hearted chatter and hugs. We tell you all of the time that Clara is not bad, she just makes poor choices sometimes, and I think you're starting to understand what we mean. We LOVE you ALL OF THE TIME, regardless of what you may do or say (it is easier to LIKE you, however, when you're being sweet :)
You believe that you are a super hero, a princess, a mermaid and a ballerina. Playing make believe is second nature to you, and we delight in the interesting games and scenarios we find you engaging in. (The most recent example was you threw all of of your babies on the stairs below you and one by one rescued them so they wouldn't be eaten by the ladybugs on the ground below.) You also like being the teacher while Emma and I are your students.
You are almost writing your name clearly enough to be read by others, and spell it using the song I made up for you. You not only know your colors, but also are starting to identify distinctions between colors and explore dark and light. You practice using directional language ("I sit behind Mommy, but Daddy is in front of Emma in the car"), you compare sizes ("Elephants are big, bumble bees are small"), and you do a good job with one-to-one correspondence as you count (although you still skip the number 16 almost every time). Your verbal skills are advanced for your age, and we now require you to speak to us in complete sentences when you ask for something or want to go somewhere. (Plenty of your regular chatter isn't though.)
You are a people-person. You love your friends and want them to be happy. You talk about your aunts and uncles and cousins and grandparents and want to call them or look at their pictures. You seem to have a natural grasp of empathy, and I believe you'll get even better as you age and mature. You do not have a natural grasp of mechanics, however, and puzzles and other games that involve problem solving irritate you more than entertain you. Your manners are good for your age. You use "Ms. and Mr." as well as "please" and "thank you" (usually without prompting).
You have discovered that you like TV/movies. It took a long time, and up until now you've definitely preferred reading and playing over a show, but now you like to watch Daniel Tiger or Bubble Guppies, or one of your favorite movies (Frozen, Little Mermaid, Nemo). We are okay with it as long as you get plenty of play time in too.
I could go on and on because there is so much to you. You're becoming a "real" person, not just a small dependent creature. You think and talk and act. You feel your emotions in a BIG way, and wear them on your sleeve for all to see. You're shyer than most people assume you are, but you do warm up and enjoy people with a little bit of time. You are becoming more attached to me as you get older, and I'm loving all of the snuggles and quality time.
Thank you for loving on your sister, and not driving Daddy too crazy (there's plenty of time for that as you get older.) I love you so unbelievably much, and look forward to seeing what you grow, learn and do this year too!
XOXO,
Mommy
This past Friday you turned three years old. You LOVE being three, and want everyone to ask how old you are so that you can hold up three fingers now instead of two. It's hard to be the caboose of your friends and watch all of their birthdays pass by before yours, but it did finally come!
It's hard for me to describe the person you are these days. On the one hand you have been a challenge the past few months, slower to obey and more determined to have everything your way, but then you switch to being so sweet I can hardly handle it, willing to help and providing light-hearted chatter and hugs. We tell you all of the time that Clara is not bad, she just makes poor choices sometimes, and I think you're starting to understand what we mean. We LOVE you ALL OF THE TIME, regardless of what you may do or say (it is easier to LIKE you, however, when you're being sweet :)
You believe that you are a super hero, a princess, a mermaid and a ballerina. Playing make believe is second nature to you, and we delight in the interesting games and scenarios we find you engaging in. (The most recent example was you threw all of of your babies on the stairs below you and one by one rescued them so they wouldn't be eaten by the ladybugs on the ground below.) You also like being the teacher while Emma and I are your students.
You are almost writing your name clearly enough to be read by others, and spell it using the song I made up for you. You not only know your colors, but also are starting to identify distinctions between colors and explore dark and light. You practice using directional language ("I sit behind Mommy, but Daddy is in front of Emma in the car"), you compare sizes ("Elephants are big, bumble bees are small"), and you do a good job with one-to-one correspondence as you count (although you still skip the number 16 almost every time). Your verbal skills are advanced for your age, and we now require you to speak to us in complete sentences when you ask for something or want to go somewhere. (Plenty of your regular chatter isn't though.)
You are a people-person. You love your friends and want them to be happy. You talk about your aunts and uncles and cousins and grandparents and want to call them or look at their pictures. You seem to have a natural grasp of empathy, and I believe you'll get even better as you age and mature. You do not have a natural grasp of mechanics, however, and puzzles and other games that involve problem solving irritate you more than entertain you. Your manners are good for your age. You use "Ms. and Mr." as well as "please" and "thank you" (usually without prompting).
You have discovered that you like TV/movies. It took a long time, and up until now you've definitely preferred reading and playing over a show, but now you like to watch Daniel Tiger or Bubble Guppies, or one of your favorite movies (Frozen, Little Mermaid, Nemo). We are okay with it as long as you get plenty of play time in too.
I could go on and on because there is so much to you. You're becoming a "real" person, not just a small dependent creature. You think and talk and act. You feel your emotions in a BIG way, and wear them on your sleeve for all to see. You're shyer than most people assume you are, but you do warm up and enjoy people with a little bit of time. You are becoming more attached to me as you get older, and I'm loving all of the snuggles and quality time.
Thank you for loving on your sister, and not driving Daddy too crazy (there's plenty of time for that as you get older.) I love you so unbelievably much, and look forward to seeing what you grow, learn and do this year too!
XOXO,
Mommy
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Happy 1st Birthday Emma!! A letter to you.
Oh. My. Gosh. That was insanely fast year. I don't know if it was because of our busy schedules or what, but I feel like it just zoomed right past me.
If you'd like to read in detail what happened exactly one year ago today, here's the blog post for that: Emma's Birth Story Post
Or you can just look at a few highlights below:
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| Meeting Tiny Two for the first time, still in the operating room |
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| Daddy gets a chance to meet her as well |
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| A few hours old, all swaddled up tight, saying hi to the world |
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| Itty bitty feet and 10 tiny toes |
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| Mommy's first chance to bond with baby without the rest of the world |
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| Sisters meeting!! One of my favorite moments of all time |
Fast forward (almost) an entire year:
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| Okay, this *particular* photo was a few days before |
But then TODAY, Emma's 1st birthday:
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| Morning little one! happy birthday!! |
We actually got up to a lot of fun today, but I'm going to post about those in a separate post. For now I just want to think about my baby and reflect on the past year.
Dearest Emma,
A year ago I had no idea what to expect. Would you be tiny or big? Would you be inquisitive or relaxed? Demanding or flexible? Would I be able to love two children equally and whole-heartedly? Would I know what to do with sibling rivalry? Would I have a clue at all about what to do with two children under 2 years old?
And, of course, reality was NOTHING like I expected it to be. I can truthfully say that this year has been one of the hardest years of my life, but also one of the most fun. There is NOTHING in this world that I enjoy more than seeing you and your big sister love on one another. If my faith has ever struggled, seeing the bond between you two girls has reassured me that the love God has for me is even MORE, and that's unbelievable. You two adore each other, and I pray so fervently that it always remains so.
You started out such a serious little thing. It was so hard to make you smile and laugh, even though you were happy. I have no idea what prompted the change, but you have blossomed. You love people, you love the world and you want to see it ALL, and explore it ALL. You love your family and your friends, and you even like strangers. It's a common sight to see you and Clara sitting in the double stroller both waving and saying "hi" to everyone you see.
You crawled later than average, but picked up the most adorable scoot I've ever seen. I will miss it when you begin to walk, the process of which has begun already. You're taking one and two, and occasionally even three steps these days unassisted, and walking all over the house with the assistance of furniture, two fingers of a trusted adult, or with the aid of a push walker. I even caught you using Maverick once, although he's not terribly reliable so be careful with that :) Now you're even climbing all over! And you LOVE to slide!! (Although your attention span with swinging is pretty short).
You are a chatter box, although most of the babble I can't understand. You clearly say "hi," "byebye," "mama," "dada," "cheese" (as in taking a picture), "aboo" (thank you), "wah" (water) and "t'at," (that), and there are a few other words that are emerging. You don't make any animal sounds yet, but think that mommy and Clara roaring and barking and baa'ing is pretty fabulous. Your favorite song is "The Itsy Bitsy Spider" and you do all of the motions with it. Music soothes you.
You can't stand to watch someone else eat and not have some of it, so you eat pretty much all of the time :) Your favorite foods are chicken pot pie, soups, peas, pouches of all kinds, applesauce, queso, pretzels, gold fish, oyster crackers, and cheerios. You're willing to try just about everything, although we still have to be cautious because you're allergic to sweet potatoes, carrots, and beets.
Daddy says that he loves how happy and smiley you are, and that he's really excited to see what all you do during year two. He also wants to reassure you that socks and shoes aren't really as bad as you think they are. (Momma would add that diaper and clothes changes aren't all that bad either!)
We love you so much. We are proud of you. We believe you are a beautiful person, inside and out.
Be strong. Be brave. Be loved.
Love always,
Mommy
Thursday, January 1, 2015
Emma Lou is 9 months old! (Yesterday)
Emmy Lou Moo,
First of all you turned 9 months old yesterday and I took so many pictures that I had to make a collage because you, my dear, are ADORABLE no matter what silly face you are making.
First of all you turned 9 months old yesterday and I took so many pictures that I had to make a collage because you, my dear, are ADORABLE no matter what silly face you are making.
Second of all you are growing and learning so quickly. You clap, wave, and pat your mouth to make the "Indian sound."You can say "hi" "yay" and "dada" - plus you babble to us ALL the time. You adore music and "sing" along with lots of "ahhhhh"ing.
You think Clara is amazing and want to do absolutely everything she does and play with everything she touches. She thinks you are amazing about 95% of the time :) One of my most fervent prayers is that you two will continue to enjoy this beautiful sisterly bond.
You really like watching football and Baby Einstein which cracks us up!
You loathe the carseat and being put down to sleep.
You still nurse like champ but also like pouches of baby food and eating whatever I'm eating (especially soup, chicken pot pie and enchiladas - all your favorites!)
You are allergic to sweet potatoes and penicillin.
You still like baths, although you like them even more when Clara joins you.
You DESPERATELY want to crawl and walk, but just haven't got it figured out yet. Instead you manage to do some combo of butt-scooting and lunching forward-sitting back up-and lunging forward again that gets you where you want to go. It's pretty impressive, actually.
You are starting to resist diaper and clothes changes, but unfortunately for you we persist in making them.
You have truly come out of your shell this past month. You've always been a fairly thoughtful and serious baby, but now you are flirting with everyone and giving us loads of smiles WITHOUT us having to work super hard for them! Your giggles are still these quick little bursts of laughter and not prolonged giggles, and we have to work rather hard for those still. We've discovered that you ticklish on your belly and on the backs of your thighs so that's made it a little easier :)
You rock our world, Baby Girl.
Keep growing and thriving!
Love always, forever and more,
Mommy and Daddy (and Clara too)
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
Lulu
Today's post is a tardy one. There is a woman who has, without exception, been a caring, helpful, and dedicated Lulu from the day she found out I was pregnant with Clara over two and half years ago.
Through two difficult pregnancies, a miscarriage, a broken hip, two c-sections, and their subsequent recoveries (one with an active toddler), she has been there. In times where there isn't anything dramatic like surgery happening, she has been there.
Ballet lessons, doctor's appointments, shopping, parties, etc. For all of it, she's been there.
She's washed dishes for us, done tons of laundry, wrestled Clara into the bathtub, and rocked Emma to sleep on nights when I was about to fall over from exhaustion.
While we don't see each other every day, on the days I'm desperate, she's guaranteed to be there.
I try to return the favor and help when I can, but there's no way I can reciprocate all of the help she's given me.
I hope she knows how loved she is. Clara practically worships her "Woowoo" and Emma smiles at her voice. I love spending time with her. I love that she's become a friend and not just a parental figure as I've grown older. I enjoy our conversations, our banter, and the emotional support we can provide one another.
I'm sorry I let you down today, Mom.
But I want to make sure you know (and so does everyone else!) how amazing you are.
Through two difficult pregnancies, a miscarriage, a broken hip, two c-sections, and their subsequent recoveries (one with an active toddler), she has been there. In times where there isn't anything dramatic like surgery happening, she has been there.
Ballet lessons, doctor's appointments, shopping, parties, etc. For all of it, she's been there.
She's washed dishes for us, done tons of laundry, wrestled Clara into the bathtub, and rocked Emma to sleep on nights when I was about to fall over from exhaustion.
While we don't see each other every day, on the days I'm desperate, she's guaranteed to be there.
I try to return the favor and help when I can, but there's no way I can reciprocate all of the help she's given me.
I hope she knows how loved she is. Clara practically worships her "Woowoo" and Emma smiles at her voice. I love spending time with her. I love that she's become a friend and not just a parental figure as I've grown older. I enjoy our conversations, our banter, and the emotional support we can provide one another.
I'm sorry I let you down today, Mom.
But I want to make sure you know (and so does everyone else!) how amazing you are.
Thursday, February 20, 2014
Mama Ramblings
A couple updates from the Evans' Household:
(1) I fractured my hip a week and a half ago.
I really thought it was no big deal for a week or so, but now I'm wondering what I did to the universe to bring this upon myself. (I didn't realize it would feel worse over time rather than better.) The solution is to "rest" and "ice" it. I've got 2 dogs, a house that's a mess, a toddler to keep up with, and a job.
I'm fitting in rest and ice the best I can, but there have been some days where I've left Clara at school until Bryan gets off work and can get her because I just hurt too bad to keep up with her sweet active self at home by myself. Sweet girl doesn't realize Mommy is being a lazy bum because she's hurt, she just wants Mommy to hop up and dance or take a walk or play. Can't blame her!
I know there are SO many things that could have happened when I fell that would have been so much worse - our baby could have been hurt, I could have broken more than what I did, could have hit my head, etc., and I know there are so many people out there with much more challenging obstacles, so I promise to try not to complain too much. But I would really appreciate your prayers for QUICK healing and for pain tolerance, since I'm fairly anti-Tylenol.
(2) We have a name for Tiny Two!! (Although I 100% reserve the right to change it when she's born, but I seriously doubt that happens.)
Her name will be Edith Marie Evans (happy dance). Bryan and I are so excited about meeting this new little bundle, and can't wait to see Clara learn to be a good big sister. I'm working on some fun vintage-inspired decorations for Edith's room, which I'll share with you once they're finished! Lulu has already nicknamed her "Edee" and Bryan has nicknamed her "Eme" (initials), so apparently there will be lots of choices to choose from!
(3) We have received so many awesome compliments lately about Clara.
How sweet she is, how caring, and how smart. We also hear how cute she is - but let's face it, toddlers are really stinking adorable! She loves, and I mean loves, to read. Lately she's wanted one of us to read her a book, then the other parent to read the book, and then try to read it by herself to us. The vocabulary explosion that is happening from this is unreal. Seriously.
Her teachers regularly tell us how verbal and chatty she is. They say if they want to teach her a new word, she can usually get the hang of it by the end of the day, even if the pronunciation is slightly off. One of her favorite things to do is look around wherever we are and point to things she knows the words for, at restaurants, church, stores, home, etc. It's hard for me not to savor hearing about her progress. I am her mommy after all!!
(It also makes me feel better about her picky eating and her lack of interest in new motor skills at this point like jumping or kicking. She'll pick those up when she's ready.)
She also loves to sing and show off for people, which cracks us up, and she just soaks up the attention.
Quick story from Bryan picking her up at school today: Clara was sitting next to the book shelf reading while the other 2 kiddos were playing nearby. When Bryan showed up she saw him, jumped up and ran to him still carrying the book she had been "reading." Since the other kids were still waiting to be picked up they came and joined Clara saying hello Bryan. I guess Clara was really excited about the book she was reading because she started showing Bryan, but then decided to "read" it to the other kiddos, pretending to read the page, and then pointing out each of the items on the page and showing it to the kids and naming it. (Exactly we we've done with her at home.) The kids were totally cool with Clara playing teacher, and just went along with it. Her teachers said this is not an uncommon activity in the class.
I'm so excited that at least one of my children will love to read like her mommy!! Maybe Edith will too?! Or maybe Edith will the one in the backyard pegging the dogs with golfballs. Who knows? And frankly, who cares? Healthy and happy children are what I pray for daily.
Anyway, there's a not-so-quick update from a physically uncomfortable but emotionally happy Mommy :)
Xoxo,
Katy
(1) I fractured my hip a week and a half ago.
I really thought it was no big deal for a week or so, but now I'm wondering what I did to the universe to bring this upon myself. (I didn't realize it would feel worse over time rather than better.) The solution is to "rest" and "ice" it. I've got 2 dogs, a house that's a mess, a toddler to keep up with, and a job.
I'm fitting in rest and ice the best I can, but there have been some days where I've left Clara at school until Bryan gets off work and can get her because I just hurt too bad to keep up with her sweet active self at home by myself. Sweet girl doesn't realize Mommy is being a lazy bum because she's hurt, she just wants Mommy to hop up and dance or take a walk or play. Can't blame her!
I know there are SO many things that could have happened when I fell that would have been so much worse - our baby could have been hurt, I could have broken more than what I did, could have hit my head, etc., and I know there are so many people out there with much more challenging obstacles, so I promise to try not to complain too much. But I would really appreciate your prayers for QUICK healing and for pain tolerance, since I'm fairly anti-Tylenol.
(2) We have a name for Tiny Two!! (Although I 100% reserve the right to change it when she's born, but I seriously doubt that happens.)
Her name will be Edith Marie Evans (happy dance). Bryan and I are so excited about meeting this new little bundle, and can't wait to see Clara learn to be a good big sister. I'm working on some fun vintage-inspired decorations for Edith's room, which I'll share with you once they're finished! Lulu has already nicknamed her "Edee" and Bryan has nicknamed her "Eme" (initials), so apparently there will be lots of choices to choose from!
(3) We have received so many awesome compliments lately about Clara.
How sweet she is, how caring, and how smart. We also hear how cute she is - but let's face it, toddlers are really stinking adorable! She loves, and I mean loves, to read. Lately she's wanted one of us to read her a book, then the other parent to read the book, and then try to read it by herself to us. The vocabulary explosion that is happening from this is unreal. Seriously.
Her teachers regularly tell us how verbal and chatty she is. They say if they want to teach her a new word, she can usually get the hang of it by the end of the day, even if the pronunciation is slightly off. One of her favorite things to do is look around wherever we are and point to things she knows the words for, at restaurants, church, stores, home, etc. It's hard for me not to savor hearing about her progress. I am her mommy after all!!
(It also makes me feel better about her picky eating and her lack of interest in new motor skills at this point like jumping or kicking. She'll pick those up when she's ready.)
She also loves to sing and show off for people, which cracks us up, and she just soaks up the attention.
Quick story from Bryan picking her up at school today: Clara was sitting next to the book shelf reading while the other 2 kiddos were playing nearby. When Bryan showed up she saw him, jumped up and ran to him still carrying the book she had been "reading." Since the other kids were still waiting to be picked up they came and joined Clara saying hello Bryan. I guess Clara was really excited about the book she was reading because she started showing Bryan, but then decided to "read" it to the other kiddos, pretending to read the page, and then pointing out each of the items on the page and showing it to the kids and naming it. (Exactly we we've done with her at home.) The kids were totally cool with Clara playing teacher, and just went along with it. Her teachers said this is not an uncommon activity in the class.
I'm so excited that at least one of my children will love to read like her mommy!! Maybe Edith will too?! Or maybe Edith will the one in the backyard pegging the dogs with golfballs. Who knows? And frankly, who cares? Healthy and happy children are what I pray for daily.
Anyway, there's a not-so-quick update from a physically uncomfortable but emotionally happy Mommy :)
Xoxo,
Katy
Thursday, February 13, 2014
20 Months Old (yesterday)
After wishing Ruth a happy SECOND birthday (whoa) and Molly a happy HALF birthday (again, whoa), I started feeling nostalgic and looked through lots of Clara's pictures over the past 20 months.
When did my baby become such a sweet, precocious, loving little girl!?
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| The pigtails slay me :) |
18 months was turning point for me as a mother, and I think the last month has been a turning point for Clara in terms of learning.
- She can count to 3, and select the correct number of items to reflect 1, 2, or 3.
- She can name and make the sounds over more than 25 animals. (Favorites are: cows, sheep, monkeys, ducks, birds, cats, puppies and owls, but she'll gladly settle for books or pictures of ANY animals.) The wooden animals we magnetized were a BRILLIANT idea and investment.
- She can knows the signs for many words (more than I realize actually) like star, sky, children, etc.
- She learns these more at school than home so I'm not as familiar with them.
- She can climb up and down stairs, go down slides, swing and throw a ball.
- She LOVES music: dancing & singing. Her current favorite songs are the Wheels on the Bus, Ring Around the Rosie, Yankee Doodle, Old MacDonald had a Farm, and Ole.
- Puzzles enthrall and frustrate her equally :)
- She would FAR rather be outside than inside.
- There is exactly ONE show she'll watch, and it's a Preschool Prep movie called Colors. Yellow is her favorite, followed by Purple. Thanks to this show, she has developed a huge fondness for coloring, and will ask to color, especially if she realizes suddenly she's looking at something yellow :) She is developing a full stash of fun paintings, crafts and drawings in the "Clara Tub."
- She likes to walk the dogs and boss them around, telling them to "shhh, hush hush puppies" or tell them to "ooo 'otty!" (go potty!) She has also started helping me feed them which takes FOREVER but is super cute.
- Reading is still her number 1 favorite thing, followed by eating and being tickled :)
- She will get her socks, shoes and jacket when asked, and "help" put them on.
- She is still VERY attached to her blanket and prefers a paci to help her go to sleep.
- She loves her preschool class and has developed a special way of interacting at performing at school that her teachers enjoy
- She still won't drink milk, but likes yogurt and cheese
- Picky eater!! gahhh, but loves applesauce, grilled chicken nuggets, fruit, yogurt and crackers so we manage to keep her full
- She likes to put her baby and stuffed animals to "night night" when she's tired
- She gives the very best hugs and kisses, and blows kisses
I know I'm missing SOO much, but these are big parts of her life right now. Despite some long days, I am going to miss her "rock rocking" in her little chair eating cheerios, and holding my finger to cross the street or show me something. I already miss her calling ducks "duckas" - so so sad!!
She is smart, sweet and caring. I knew I'd love my children before I had them, but I seriously had no idea just HOW much that could be. I am so thankful for this little girl and her curiosity and sense of adventure. To have that type of zest for life always!!
Happy 20 months baby girl, we'll be celebrating 2 years old before I'm ready!
Thursday, January 16, 2014
Positive Parenting
I don't know what I expected to feed my toddler before I had a child. I'm sure I had visions of rainbows and butterflies (otherwise known as perfectly balanced meals of primarily veggies with some fruit and protein, with milk and/or yogurt).
This did work out for a while. But I have a very independent child who likes to make her own choices about what to eat. She WILL.NOT. drink milk. I'm glad I breastfed her until she was 13 months or I would have really worried. Thankfully she's a big fan of cheese and yogurt!
Tonight's meal?
3/4 of a corn dog (which she's never wanted before), a cup of grapes, 2 string cheese sticks, a helping of graham crackers/cheerios/raisins (our version of toddler chex mix), some V8 juice, and a ton of water. She refused the broccoli I offered. Oh well.
Even if I didn't feed her the most nutritious meal of all time we had some awesome moments today.
As we read in the evenings I'm usually asking her to identifying things or "hunt" for a vocabulary word. She gets SO excited when she can point something out, or blow me away with a new vocabulary word.
One fun thing she did tonight was while reading a new(er) book she pointed out a "puppy" without me asking on the below page:
As we read in the evenings I'm usually asking her to identifying things or "hunt" for a vocabulary word. She gets SO excited when she can point something out, or blow me away with a new vocabulary word.
One fun thing she did tonight was while reading a new(er) book she pointed out a "puppy" without me asking on the below page:
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| Puppy! |
Would you have noticed the puppy paw right away!? Maybe so. But as adults we are fairly familiar with what a paw looks like. She usually sees puppies as an entire animal complete with the ears, tails and 4 legs. I was so excited when she noticed the paw! Too fun.
She also blew me a kiss and told me she loved me when it was time for bed.
Cue heart melting.
Even if we can't do everything right (like feed balanced meals or handle tantrums perfectly in public or whatever it is), sometimes I still finish a day feeling really positive about how we are raising Clara. Even if I let her eat her breakfast of cheerios in our bathtub after she spilled them in there :)
She tries really hard to be polite (thank you, please), picks up when she makes a mess, and is so loving. On top of that she's as smart as any toddler I've ever met. It's hard to feel too discouraged when I look at the balance of good and bad.
I have a wonderful husband who shoulders a huge responsibility taking care of our family and rocks at it. We also have grandparents and aunts and uncles and siblings that are beautiful influences on our little girl. Add in our church family, Legacy family, Primrose, and sweet friends and I just feel like this little girl is on the right track.
Thanks for tuning into this Thursday's mushy parenting edition :)
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
Great explanation of Sympathy vs. Empathy!
I plan to show this to my class on Friday. It's one of the better explanations of the differences between sympathy vs. empathy I've ever heard. Learning how to empathize with someone is such a huge and important life skill.
Toddlers and high schoolers (with whom I spend most of my time!) are not typically known for their extreme empathy abilities, so I enjoy coming along side them and trying to help them figure it out. Their husbands, wives, moms, dads, children, friends and coworkers will appreciate it one day.
Anyway, enjoy:
Monday, December 23, 2013
Tough Season
The Christmas season is supposed to be about hope, joy, love, and gratitude for the birth of Jesus.
Instead, I find myself angry, stressed and feeling rather without hope.
Clara has been turned into a crazy person by these steroids. It's truly awful. And even being with my parents and having their huge help does not seem to lesson the strain I feel as I'm helpless to combat her tears, tantrums, anger and sleeplessness. I don't know if it's because we're going on a week strong of this, or if I'm just truly unable to cope, but it's been miserable.
On top of that, I feel immense anger towards the dogs. I love them so much, but they aren't getting the attention or exercise they are used to and need, and so they are expressing their frustrations by tearing things up, barking, and being a general nuisance.
I also feel unwell during this pregnancy. I'm crampy, hormonal, and am having a very hard time sleeping even when Clara isn't crying. The sinus problems caused by unreliable Houston weather is frustrating too.
And finally, my husband (whom I adore) and I keep having spats about stupid things which is unusual for us.
Couple all of these things together with the sadness I feel about a few things going on with friends, and the stress of trying to get next semester figured out for 4 different classes and I'm just not holding up very well. I can hold it together during the day (usually), but it's amazing how one harsh word sends me into a tailspin downward.
I keep trying to cling to 1 Peter 5:7, "Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you." But I don't feel like I'm doing a very good job of that either.
Sorry for the Debbie Downer post during the Christmas holiday, but I could really use some prayers for patience and endurance. I don't know why I'm struggling so badly, but the idea of carrying on with all of these different stressors is daunting.
There are probably plenty of people today who could use a hug or smile to make things better. Brighten their day please. Reach out to them, forgive them, love them. You never know what battles someone may be fighting.
Instead, I find myself angry, stressed and feeling rather without hope.
Clara has been turned into a crazy person by these steroids. It's truly awful. And even being with my parents and having their huge help does not seem to lesson the strain I feel as I'm helpless to combat her tears, tantrums, anger and sleeplessness. I don't know if it's because we're going on a week strong of this, or if I'm just truly unable to cope, but it's been miserable.
On top of that, I feel immense anger towards the dogs. I love them so much, but they aren't getting the attention or exercise they are used to and need, and so they are expressing their frustrations by tearing things up, barking, and being a general nuisance.
I also feel unwell during this pregnancy. I'm crampy, hormonal, and am having a very hard time sleeping even when Clara isn't crying. The sinus problems caused by unreliable Houston weather is frustrating too.
And finally, my husband (whom I adore) and I keep having spats about stupid things which is unusual for us.
Couple all of these things together with the sadness I feel about a few things going on with friends, and the stress of trying to get next semester figured out for 4 different classes and I'm just not holding up very well. I can hold it together during the day (usually), but it's amazing how one harsh word sends me into a tailspin downward.
I keep trying to cling to 1 Peter 5:7, "Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you." But I don't feel like I'm doing a very good job of that either.
Sorry for the Debbie Downer post during the Christmas holiday, but I could really use some prayers for patience and endurance. I don't know why I'm struggling so badly, but the idea of carrying on with all of these different stressors is daunting.
There are probably plenty of people today who could use a hug or smile to make things better. Brighten their day please. Reach out to them, forgive them, love them. You never know what battles someone may be fighting.
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Gen Y
I may have posted this article before, I can't remember, but I love it so much and just read it again and had to share. This is my generation that the author is talking about - and I can't get over just how spot on it is.
Unicorns be gone! I have a lawn to grow.
http://www.waitbutwhy.com/2013/09/why-generation-y-yuppies-are-unhappy.html?m=1
Unicorns be gone! I have a lawn to grow.
http://www.waitbutwhy.com/2013/09/why-generation-y-yuppies-are-unhappy.html?m=1
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Wonderful, wonderful news!
Yesterday I had my follow up appointment with the maternal/fetal medicine specialist.
IT'S NOT A PLACENTA ACCRETA!! You may remember from my precious post that it was suspected from my previous appointment that the placenta was growing into my uterus which causes all sorts of major problems. Well, as of yesterday it hasn't! It's still in a low-lying position which isn't "favorable" but it's actually soooooo much better news that we were originally told.
Even better news: Tiny Two looks great- no problems with her sweet little heart at all that they can see!
I know there have been literally hundreds of people praying for these medical situations, and I'm fully convinced that while those problems probably did exist, God has intervened. I am so, so thankful.
I've still been told to take it easy, no lifting anything heavy (like a toddler .... hmmm), and to get to the hospital ASAP if there's any spotting at all, but the prognosis is far better than it was. It looks like I may be able to deliver closer to home after all, and the baby won't need to come early.
I have another follow up appointment in 6 weeks to confirm these findings and make sure the placenta is still behaving. Please keep those prayers coming!
I have a CD of images of Tiny Two so as soon as I download those onto my computer I'll share a few with you!
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
What I've Learned in 18 months
I find myself so often thinking of all of the incredible things Clara is learning and doing, that I tend to forget that as a Mom I am also on a huge learning curve. Clara will be 18 months in TWO days! That's a lot of time I've had to digest some pretty serious parenting lessons.
As I have friends that become pregnant or deliver their first child, many of them ask me "what do I really need to know!?" --- well, sadly, I have no idea!! Ha!
What I do know now is this:
- I have learned that I cannot protect my child from everything. She will have physical ouchies like scraped knees, bonked heads, and tummy and tooth aches. She will have emotional pain as she learns that there are other people in the world, all with needs and wants of their own - especially with regards to playing and sharing. She will have spiritual hurts as she learns who God is, and questions His motivation during rocky and sad points. It HURTS ME to not be able to make these all better for my daughter. I can kiss the bruise on her head all better, and I can cuddle her when she has a tummy ache, and I can talk with her through spiritual questions, but I cannot make the pain go away, only help her as she learns to deal with it. Hopefully that will help her as she becomes a grown up and deals with even bigger hurts and scary situations.
- I have learned that parenting advice is 99.9% well-intentioned. I remember those first few months after I had Clara, I was so overwhelmed and paranoid that I was doing everything wrong that I took offense to any and all advice given to me. At the time it felt like criticism instead of assistance. (I realize I'm a very sensitive person, I know, I know - I need to grow a thicker skin, it's true.) When you're sleep deprived and dealing with some post-partem depression it can be very hard to hear you're not doing things the right way. And then so many friends, family and strangers gave me conflicting advice and it ends up being even more unsettling because you don't know who to listen to! Now I listen intently when someone gives me some advice - asked for or not - because even when it's not relevant at that exact moment, I've pulled out suggestions I've heard in passing and they've worked! This is especially true as I panic about having 2 children under 2years old. All advice welcome! (What a difference from the first time around, huh?) I've learned that parenting experience is a gift that those with it just want to share. I even find myself in that boat sometimes and I've barely got any experience at all!
- I've learned that every moment IS precious. When older moms and grandmas say "make sure enjoy every moment!" it's not because they *actually* enjoyed every single moment of every single day, but it's because these stages are so incredibly fleeting, and we can only hold onto the memories and feelings by very tips of our fingers as they float away while time passes. I may have cried right along with Clara many nights when she would just cry and cry and cry during that colic stage, but now I picture those soft and angry cuddles and smile. Did I "enjoy" those moments? At the time definitely not! But I do love having had those precious moments with my daughter? Yes, very much so. Now as Clara throws tantrums and refuses to eat, I know that in a month (or six) I will look back at this time and grin and think about how awesome it was that she was becoming a free-thinking independent little girl.
- I've learned that not everyone is a "baby" persona and not everyone is a "toddler" person. This 18 month-ish stage rocks my socks off. I LOVE it. She's busy, semi-independent and yet still craves the connections she has with her parents. She's learning new words almost daily, and new skills all the time. It's incredible and I've never seen anything quite like it. But those early days? I am NOT a baby person, and I accept that now. Bryan was amazing with Clara when she was a little thing, but he struggles with this stage because it's challenging to deal with a rather stubborn and irrational miniature human being. Thank goodness we know our strengths now for when Tiny Two arrives!
- I've learned that different parenting styles are so valuable. While being a relaxed, active, and fairly hands-on Mom works for Clara and I, I love watching my friends with their children. Some hover and are always teaching their kids new things because they are right there showing them. Some Moms are 100% hands off and let their kids learn through experiences. Some Moms let their kids eat dirt, and some moms let their kids eat fast food, and some moms don't care what their child eats as long as they are actually eating something, and some moms are very particular about the foods their child consumes. Some practice ABCs with flashcards, some play trains and trucks, some Moms go for lots of nature walks with their kids, and some Moms like to stay home and make cute crafts with finger paint and stickers. Some Moms like to be social and some like to save socialization for special occasions. What's truly amazing is that they ALL work out. Our kids are all as well mannered a group of tiny barbarians can be, and they are all happy and healthy.
- I have learned that I am long winded and like to take lots of pictures. Does this need further explanation? :)
- I have learned that I've never been so grateful in my entire life to have close friends and family to laugh and cry and celebrate these sweet kiddos with. THANK YOU for loving on us, and being patient with me as I learn. I love that you follow our journey with us and that you let me brag and despair about my child regularly.
Love you all!
As I have friends that become pregnant or deliver their first child, many of them ask me "what do I really need to know!?" --- well, sadly, I have no idea!! Ha!
What I do know now is this:
- I have learned that I cannot protect my child from everything. She will have physical ouchies like scraped knees, bonked heads, and tummy and tooth aches. She will have emotional pain as she learns that there are other people in the world, all with needs and wants of their own - especially with regards to playing and sharing. She will have spiritual hurts as she learns who God is, and questions His motivation during rocky and sad points. It HURTS ME to not be able to make these all better for my daughter. I can kiss the bruise on her head all better, and I can cuddle her when she has a tummy ache, and I can talk with her through spiritual questions, but I cannot make the pain go away, only help her as she learns to deal with it. Hopefully that will help her as she becomes a grown up and deals with even bigger hurts and scary situations.
- I have learned that parenting advice is 99.9% well-intentioned. I remember those first few months after I had Clara, I was so overwhelmed and paranoid that I was doing everything wrong that I took offense to any and all advice given to me. At the time it felt like criticism instead of assistance. (I realize I'm a very sensitive person, I know, I know - I need to grow a thicker skin, it's true.) When you're sleep deprived and dealing with some post-partem depression it can be very hard to hear you're not doing things the right way. And then so many friends, family and strangers gave me conflicting advice and it ends up being even more unsettling because you don't know who to listen to! Now I listen intently when someone gives me some advice - asked for or not - because even when it's not relevant at that exact moment, I've pulled out suggestions I've heard in passing and they've worked! This is especially true as I panic about having 2 children under 2years old. All advice welcome! (What a difference from the first time around, huh?) I've learned that parenting experience is a gift that those with it just want to share. I even find myself in that boat sometimes and I've barely got any experience at all!
- I've learned that every moment IS precious. When older moms and grandmas say "make sure enjoy every moment!" it's not because they *actually* enjoyed every single moment of every single day, but it's because these stages are so incredibly fleeting, and we can only hold onto the memories and feelings by very tips of our fingers as they float away while time passes. I may have cried right along with Clara many nights when she would just cry and cry and cry during that colic stage, but now I picture those soft and angry cuddles and smile. Did I "enjoy" those moments? At the time definitely not! But I do love having had those precious moments with my daughter? Yes, very much so. Now as Clara throws tantrums and refuses to eat, I know that in a month (or six) I will look back at this time and grin and think about how awesome it was that she was becoming a free-thinking independent little girl.
- I've learned that not everyone is a "baby" persona and not everyone is a "toddler" person. This 18 month-ish stage rocks my socks off. I LOVE it. She's busy, semi-independent and yet still craves the connections she has with her parents. She's learning new words almost daily, and new skills all the time. It's incredible and I've never seen anything quite like it. But those early days? I am NOT a baby person, and I accept that now. Bryan was amazing with Clara when she was a little thing, but he struggles with this stage because it's challenging to deal with a rather stubborn and irrational miniature human being. Thank goodness we know our strengths now for when Tiny Two arrives!
- I've learned that different parenting styles are so valuable. While being a relaxed, active, and fairly hands-on Mom works for Clara and I, I love watching my friends with their children. Some hover and are always teaching their kids new things because they are right there showing them. Some Moms are 100% hands off and let their kids learn through experiences. Some Moms let their kids eat dirt, and some moms let their kids eat fast food, and some moms don't care what their child eats as long as they are actually eating something, and some moms are very particular about the foods their child consumes. Some practice ABCs with flashcards, some play trains and trucks, some Moms go for lots of nature walks with their kids, and some Moms like to stay home and make cute crafts with finger paint and stickers. Some Moms like to be social and some like to save socialization for special occasions. What's truly amazing is that they ALL work out. Our kids are all as well mannered a group of tiny barbarians can be, and they are all happy and healthy.
- I have learned that I am long winded and like to take lots of pictures. Does this need further explanation? :)
- I have learned that I've never been so grateful in my entire life to have close friends and family to laugh and cry and celebrate these sweet kiddos with. THANK YOU for loving on us, and being patient with me as I learn. I love that you follow our journey with us and that you let me brag and despair about my child regularly.
Love you all!
Friday, November 22, 2013
Pregnancy update and Validation
Dear readers,
I'm sure those of you who have been reading my blog for a while will remember my grumpy posts when I was 41 and 42 weeks pregnant with Clara. I can think of similar times when I've expressed a concern, a fear, or extreme excitement in person, texting, or via internet message.
I think our instinctive response to problematic situations is to tell people that "it will be okay" or "you'll be fine" or "here is a positive part." When someone is exceptionally excited most people tend to want to caution the person, "just be careful to not get your hopes up" or "watch out for this." Similar statements happen when people are sad, depressed, or just content. "Wait for the other shoe to fall," "you'll get things figured out eventually," etc.
My biggest gift from God is my incredible ability to empathize. I am not great with nurturing, hospitality, or sympathy (much to my chagrin), BUT I can truly empathize with other people. It's rare that you will hear a trite comment from me, or for me to brush off excitement or concerns. I love to feel with other people. I like to validate what they feel, regardless of whether or not I believe it makes sense. I, in turn, appreciate being validated.
So, as I share this information with you, please remember that these are real concerns of mine. I can think of silver lining too, I promise! But I am nervous. I have faith that God will orchestrate the rest of the pregnancy the way He believes it should, but that doesn't leave me without trepidation about what will happen.
A few weeks ago we found out we are going to be blessed with another baby girl. Shocked? Most definitely. Delighted? You bet! I left the u/s and was told they would contact me with any concerns, otherwise I should assume everything was fine and my OB would talk to me at my next scheduled appointment (which was yesterday). The next day I received a phone call. People, my heart about sunk to my toes.
The first item was that we would need a closer look at Tiny Two's heart, because the angle's of the scan were not very good and showed a possible hole in her heart. While this is not urgent, it is still something that needs to be addressed. I have another ultrasound with a specialist in 2 weeks to determine how to proceed regarding her heart.
The second item was more pressing. I had what they termed a "complete placenta previa," which means that my placenta grew on top of my cervix and would prevent the baby from exiting the usual way. Given that the plan is for a repeat c-section, this wouldn't normally be too big of a concern, except for the risk of bleeding. I was told to take things very easy and to get to the hospital ASAP at the tiniest sign of blood because it could be a ruptured placenta. This made me a little nervous, but not terribly. I was told that the greatest risk of that happening wouldn't be until the 3rd trimester anyway, so I had a little ways to go.
Yesterday was my appointment. I was grateful to see that I had only gained 1lb at 20 weeks (hooray!), blood pressure was excellent (take that, Pre-E!), and Tiny Two's heartbeat was strong, quick and steady at 145 beats a minute. Such a fun and glorious sound! Especially considering their concerns about her heart, it was good to not be able to discern anything abnormal from just listening.
Then the OB tried to figure out what has changed with the placenta, if anything. Unfortunately, I have developed what is called placenta accreta; which means that now not only is the placenta in a bad place, but it has actually grown into the wall of my uterus, specifically into the scar tissue from my previous c-section. This is actually really crummy news. My OB is transferring my care to a specialist that delivers downtown at Texas Children's Hospital because the risk of extreme blood loss during delivery is very high. There is also a 50-75% chance of an unplanned hysterectomy if the bleeding can't be controlled quickly. They are planning to deliver our little one at 36 weeks to prevent the baby from getting too large and putting more pressure on the placenta. I'm voting for March 12, but we'll see. Due to the premature birth, there is a good chance little lady may need some help developing her lungs and we may need to stay at the Children's Hospital while she's in the NICU for a little while. This scares me the most. If there wasn't such huge risks associated with waiting to deliver until 39-40 weeks, we would NOT be doing that. They are also hoping that by delivering early we will reduce the chance of me developing Pre-E symptoms again, which would further complicate the placenta accreta. It's kind of a mess.
The advantages: I won't be pregnant 42 weeks again (WHOOP!) and if there is an unplanned hysterectomy I will never have to deal with another menstrual cycle again (again, very cool); HOWEVER, I do NOT want my ability to have future children determined by this surgery, so please please pray that the doctors will be able to deliver our baby girl safety, that she will be healthy and able to breathe just fine, and that the placenta will cooperate and the bleeding will slow and stop quickly. I also ask that you pray for peace of mind. There are so many bigger problems we could be faced with, believe me, I know. But this is our current situation and I'm nervous.
I hope this didn't overwhelm anyone, but I also want prayer warriors stepping up so I want to share with you. I am also having a hard time "taking it easy" with a job and a toddler. If you are bored and have free time, PLEASE feel free to come hang out with us and keep a very very busy bee company :)
Love to you all,
Katy
I'm sure those of you who have been reading my blog for a while will remember my grumpy posts when I was 41 and 42 weeks pregnant with Clara. I can think of similar times when I've expressed a concern, a fear, or extreme excitement in person, texting, or via internet message.
I think our instinctive response to problematic situations is to tell people that "it will be okay" or "you'll be fine" or "here is a positive part." When someone is exceptionally excited most people tend to want to caution the person, "just be careful to not get your hopes up" or "watch out for this." Similar statements happen when people are sad, depressed, or just content. "Wait for the other shoe to fall," "you'll get things figured out eventually," etc.
My biggest gift from God is my incredible ability to empathize. I am not great with nurturing, hospitality, or sympathy (much to my chagrin), BUT I can truly empathize with other people. It's rare that you will hear a trite comment from me, or for me to brush off excitement or concerns. I love to feel with other people. I like to validate what they feel, regardless of whether or not I believe it makes sense. I, in turn, appreciate being validated.
So, as I share this information with you, please remember that these are real concerns of mine. I can think of silver lining too, I promise! But I am nervous. I have faith that God will orchestrate the rest of the pregnancy the way He believes it should, but that doesn't leave me without trepidation about what will happen.
A few weeks ago we found out we are going to be blessed with another baby girl. Shocked? Most definitely. Delighted? You bet! I left the u/s and was told they would contact me with any concerns, otherwise I should assume everything was fine and my OB would talk to me at my next scheduled appointment (which was yesterday). The next day I received a phone call. People, my heart about sunk to my toes.
The first item was that we would need a closer look at Tiny Two's heart, because the angle's of the scan were not very good and showed a possible hole in her heart. While this is not urgent, it is still something that needs to be addressed. I have another ultrasound with a specialist in 2 weeks to determine how to proceed regarding her heart.
The second item was more pressing. I had what they termed a "complete placenta previa," which means that my placenta grew on top of my cervix and would prevent the baby from exiting the usual way. Given that the plan is for a repeat c-section, this wouldn't normally be too big of a concern, except for the risk of bleeding. I was told to take things very easy and to get to the hospital ASAP at the tiniest sign of blood because it could be a ruptured placenta. This made me a little nervous, but not terribly. I was told that the greatest risk of that happening wouldn't be until the 3rd trimester anyway, so I had a little ways to go.
Yesterday was my appointment. I was grateful to see that I had only gained 1lb at 20 weeks (hooray!), blood pressure was excellent (take that, Pre-E!), and Tiny Two's heartbeat was strong, quick and steady at 145 beats a minute. Such a fun and glorious sound! Especially considering their concerns about her heart, it was good to not be able to discern anything abnormal from just listening.
Then the OB tried to figure out what has changed with the placenta, if anything. Unfortunately, I have developed what is called placenta accreta; which means that now not only is the placenta in a bad place, but it has actually grown into the wall of my uterus, specifically into the scar tissue from my previous c-section. This is actually really crummy news. My OB is transferring my care to a specialist that delivers downtown at Texas Children's Hospital because the risk of extreme blood loss during delivery is very high. There is also a 50-75% chance of an unplanned hysterectomy if the bleeding can't be controlled quickly. They are planning to deliver our little one at 36 weeks to prevent the baby from getting too large and putting more pressure on the placenta. I'm voting for March 12, but we'll see. Due to the premature birth, there is a good chance little lady may need some help developing her lungs and we may need to stay at the Children's Hospital while she's in the NICU for a little while. This scares me the most. If there wasn't such huge risks associated with waiting to deliver until 39-40 weeks, we would NOT be doing that. They are also hoping that by delivering early we will reduce the chance of me developing Pre-E symptoms again, which would further complicate the placenta accreta. It's kind of a mess.
The advantages: I won't be pregnant 42 weeks again (WHOOP!) and if there is an unplanned hysterectomy I will never have to deal with another menstrual cycle again (again, very cool); HOWEVER, I do NOT want my ability to have future children determined by this surgery, so please please pray that the doctors will be able to deliver our baby girl safety, that she will be healthy and able to breathe just fine, and that the placenta will cooperate and the bleeding will slow and stop quickly. I also ask that you pray for peace of mind. There are so many bigger problems we could be faced with, believe me, I know. But this is our current situation and I'm nervous.
I hope this didn't overwhelm anyone, but I also want prayer warriors stepping up so I want to share with you. I am also having a hard time "taking it easy" with a job and a toddler. If you are bored and have free time, PLEASE feel free to come hang out with us and keep a very very busy bee company :)
Love to you all,
Katy
Friday, November 1, 2013
Updates on CB (16.5mo)
It's been a while since I've made a point to really list the things Clara can do now! At 16.5 months, the list is actually quite long.
She can:
- Walk and run (she looks like a wee drunk as she runs, and ends up toppling over half of the time, but she does it all the time anyway :)
- Go up and down stairs (with some assistance going down)
- Tip toe forward and backward (she thinks its hilarious)
- Find her tongue, belly button, and piggies (toes)
- Plays hide and seek with herself in the mirror with her blanket (I need to catch this on video!)
- Put caps on and off of applesauce or other small items
- Throw a ball (with very limited aim)
- Wave in appropriate situations without prompting
- Give hugs and kisses
- Self propel on ride-on toys
Edited to include (I knew I would think of a few other things!):
- Claps for herself regularly
- Go down slides on her bottom or face first
- Can unbuckle her seatbelt (boo, working on preventing this)
- Paint with a brush (very messy) and put stickers on paper
Edited to include (I knew I would think of a few other things!):
- Claps for herself regularly
- Go down slides on her bottom or face first
- Can unbuckle her seatbelt (boo, working on preventing this)
- Paint with a brush (very messy) and put stickers on paper
She says:
- Hi, hey, bye
- Dada and Mama (We believe there have been a few Lulu and Papas that have slipped out too)
- Ma'wick (Maverick)
- No, no and Yes
- Night night
- Pitty (pretty)
- Dis and Dat (this and that)
- All done (with the sign)
- Eschew (Bless you) in the correct context :)
- Ook (Book)
Edited post to also include: "UH!" (means "up" - with wide open eyes, eyebrows raised, and on tip-toes, to ask to get on something (like the back of a truck or someone's lap), in something (like her high chair), or for someone to hold her :) It's really stinkin' cute. Used most commonly when accompanied by a book to read.
Edited post again to include: "uh oh" - it was her first "word" and it's still the most frequently used :)
"thank you"
"yay"
Edited post to also include: "UH!" (means "up" - with wide open eyes, eyebrows raised, and on tip-toes, to ask to get on something (like the back of a truck or someone's lap), in something (like her high chair), or for someone to hold her :) It's really stinkin' cute. Used most commonly when accompanied by a book to read.
Edited post again to include: "uh oh" - it was her first "word" and it's still the most frequently used :)
"thank you"
"yay"
Animal noises she can make when she chooses to:
- Wuff wuff
- Grrr
- Rawr
- Baaa
- Barooo (elephant)
Sign Language:
- All done
- More
Favorite things:
- BOOKS!
- Rocking and riding on things
- Helping with chores (sweeping, vacuuming, unloading the dishwasher, stirring food, dusting, throwing trash away, etc)
- Blankie (and paci when sleepy)
- Bubbles & stickers
Favorite foods:
- Applesauce
- Raisins (bonus for yogurt covered)
- Goldfish
- Chicken
- Crackers
I'm know I'm forgetting things!! But I wanted to try to brainstorm before I forget all of these fun learning experiences.
Friday, October 11, 2013
Friday Letters: Chaotic Life Edition
Remember these? It's been a while!
Dear Teeth,
Let my poor baby be! I miss my sweet girl!
Dear Closing, Packing, and Moving,
Have mercy on our family of 2 adults, 2 dogs, a toddler, and a pregnancy. We are trying, but there is sooooo much to do!!
Dear Legacy,
I am so, so pleased I decided to return. I love the students, co-workers, and rhythm of the classroom. Despite adding a huge amount of work to my weekly load, it has been a blessing to me!
Dear Clara,
I am SO proud of you! You've been picking up on so many new skills and abilities lately, and you just take it all in stride. You are incredible, and I love you.
Dear Ice Cream Truck Driver,
I think you may have created a monster :-/ (someone wants some more!!)
Dear Weather,
We are loving the need for sweatshirts in the morning! Please stay a while!!
Dear Bryan,
You are a rockstar. I don't know if I've told you that lately, but it's true. Thank you for taking care of so many things to make my life a little easier these days. I love you so much.
Have a lovely weekend!!!
xoxoxo
Sunday, August 18, 2013
A response to my mothering
A few days ago a fellow mom posted some really ugly things about me on her blog. At first I was upset. Being a parent is the single most challenging thing I've ever done, and the frequent uncertainty can be unnerving as it is (Do I take my child to the doctor for this? Do I enroll her in structured activities? Do I let her cry it out or rock her to sleep? Do I start to wean or keep nursing? Do I allow her to only eat crackers for 3 days straight or insist she eat veggies even if she refuses to eat? etc. etc. etc.)
And then to read paragraph after paragraph of all the things I do wrong in this mom's eyes was brutal.
She believes that I have no control over my child, and that I have little concern about her health or well-being.
I had to ask myself, "is this mom right? am I raising a hooligan with no thought to her future? will she be a criminal that refuses to wear shoes? will she go to a fancy restaurant when her future spouse proposes and decide to crawl on the floor? will she always be a mess!?"
But one thing struck me as I re-read her rather hateful post, and I thought over what she was saying.
Ultimately she believed I was giving my child a poor example to imitate.
Well, I thought, maybe so. But then again, maybe not.
1. A mom who allows blocks to hang out in the corner, books spread over the rug, a dog bone by the fireplace, and tupperware everywhere.
2. A mom who isn't the best cook and believes that frozen pizza, chicken & veggies, and grilled cheese with tomato soup are totally acceptable meals to have more than once a week.
3. A mom who likes to be on the go, running errands, volunteering, seeing friends and family, even when we are a little bit tired or feeling sad.
4. A mom who goes out into public dressed in a t-shirt and shorts, with her hair in a bun and no make-up on.
5. A mom who allows her child to walk in a public place without shoes. Who lets her child eat dog food and dirt. Who thinks it's okay to have a child not feel 100%, but still do something fun to help get her mind off of it.
6. A mom who lets her child jump off the couch, walk into a door, climb up on a chair, or crawl through the doggy door.
7. A mom who lets people see when she is sad, happy, angry or excited rather than hide it.
1. A mom who prioritizes play over being tidy. Motor skills and early childhood literacy!
2. A mom who believes that no matter what dinner is, the chance to sit down, pray and eat together every night is what is important.
3. A mom who believes that humans are built for companionship. I believe that putting friends and family (and even strangers!) as a priority above our comfort is very important.
4. A mom who believes that making it to library story time or a playdate with friends is more important than fixing my hair. Who believes that my child will love me and appreciate me regardless of hair put in a ponytail, or forgotten mascara, or chipped nail polish.
5. A mom who believes that a non-walking child does not need shoes. And shoot, sometimes even a walking child doesn't need them! (or maybe they do, and it's just a battle I'm not always willing to fight.) Who believes germs build good immune systems. Who believes that once her child tries a little dirt or kibble will decide it's pretty yucky and probably won't go back for more. At least not often :)
6. A mom who believes children are designed to explore the world and learn from doing. A mom who would rather her child fall off the couch once when Mommy is there to kiss it better, than wait until she's at pre-school and diving off the monkey bars headfirst because there isn't a mommy there to caution her. A mom who believes that if kids are given the chance, they will begin to learn to make intelligent decisions by themselves.
7. A mom who believes emotions are natural - it's how we express those emotions that says something about us. A mom who thinks it's okay to be angry that you're not allowed to put your fingers in the blender, but that you will have to get over it and find something else to play with. A mom who is allowed to be upset that a former friend said ugly things about her, and crying is ok, but replying with nasty words is not.
Is Clara a perfect child? Definitely not.
She is full of life, strong-willed, intelligent, curious, social, with an inclination to laugh and cry hard.
Is it my job to convince her and everyone else that everything she does it perfect? Definitely not.
I'm okay with less than perfect. I want her to be Godly, healthy, polite, and curious.
I also want her to be realistic. I want her to celebrate her strengths, accept her shortcomings, and work hard on both.
I want her to know that words can wound someone deeply. That they can't be unsaid.
I want her to know that there are people who will need her to reach out to them, even if she feels shy or uncomfortable.
I want her to know how to pray with people when they need it.
I want her to be comfortable accepting constructive criticism, and to know how to offer it when the time is right.
I want her to see that while the world is messy (and so is our house!) that doesn't mean we can't keep trying to make it better and better.
I do so many things wrong while I parent. But I think I do some things right. And that's what I'm going to focus on and celebrate for now.
And then to read paragraph after paragraph of all the things I do wrong in this mom's eyes was brutal.
She believes that I have no control over my child, and that I have little concern about her health or well-being.
I had to ask myself, "is this mom right? am I raising a hooligan with no thought to her future? will she be a criminal that refuses to wear shoes? will she go to a fancy restaurant when her future spouse proposes and decide to crawl on the floor? will she always be a mess!?"
But one thing struck me as I re-read her rather hateful post, and I thought over what she was saying.
Ultimately she believed I was giving my child a poor example to imitate.
Well, I thought, maybe so. But then again, maybe not.
Here is what Clara might be observing from my parenting:
1. A mom who allows blocks to hang out in the corner, books spread over the rug, a dog bone by the fireplace, and tupperware everywhere.
2. A mom who isn't the best cook and believes that frozen pizza, chicken & veggies, and grilled cheese with tomato soup are totally acceptable meals to have more than once a week.
3. A mom who likes to be on the go, running errands, volunteering, seeing friends and family, even when we are a little bit tired or feeling sad.
4. A mom who goes out into public dressed in a t-shirt and shorts, with her hair in a bun and no make-up on.
5. A mom who allows her child to walk in a public place without shoes. Who lets her child eat dog food and dirt. Who thinks it's okay to have a child not feel 100%, but still do something fun to help get her mind off of it.
6. A mom who lets her child jump off the couch, walk into a door, climb up on a chair, or crawl through the doggy door.
7. A mom who lets people see when she is sad, happy, angry or excited rather than hide it.
That is a list of bad parenting decisions, right?
BUT here is what I hope she takes away and IMITATES as she learns and grows watching me and my messy parenting:
1. A mom who prioritizes play over being tidy. Motor skills and early childhood literacy!
2. A mom who believes that no matter what dinner is, the chance to sit down, pray and eat together every night is what is important.
3. A mom who believes that humans are built for companionship. I believe that putting friends and family (and even strangers!) as a priority above our comfort is very important.
4. A mom who believes that making it to library story time or a playdate with friends is more important than fixing my hair. Who believes that my child will love me and appreciate me regardless of hair put in a ponytail, or forgotten mascara, or chipped nail polish.
5. A mom who believes that a non-walking child does not need shoes. And shoot, sometimes even a walking child doesn't need them! (or maybe they do, and it's just a battle I'm not always willing to fight.) Who believes germs build good immune systems. Who believes that once her child tries a little dirt or kibble will decide it's pretty yucky and probably won't go back for more. At least not often :)
6. A mom who believes children are designed to explore the world and learn from doing. A mom who would rather her child fall off the couch once when Mommy is there to kiss it better, than wait until she's at pre-school and diving off the monkey bars headfirst because there isn't a mommy there to caution her. A mom who believes that if kids are given the chance, they will begin to learn to make intelligent decisions by themselves.
7. A mom who believes emotions are natural - it's how we express those emotions that says something about us. A mom who thinks it's okay to be angry that you're not allowed to put your fingers in the blender, but that you will have to get over it and find something else to play with. A mom who is allowed to be upset that a former friend said ugly things about her, and crying is ok, but replying with nasty words is not.
Am I a perfect mom? I'm so far from perfect it's laughable sometimes.
I am a mom who believes that trying to convince herself, her children and the rest of the world that they are perfect is a huge disservice to everyone. A mom who believes we should embrace our strengths, try to hone our weaknesses, and celebrate that we are all unique.
Is Clara a perfect child? Definitely not.
She is full of life, strong-willed, intelligent, curious, social, with an inclination to laugh and cry hard.
Is it my job to convince her and everyone else that everything she does it perfect? Definitely not.
I'm okay with less than perfect. I want her to be Godly, healthy, polite, and curious.
I also want her to be realistic. I want her to celebrate her strengths, accept her shortcomings, and work hard on both.
I want her to know that words can wound someone deeply. That they can't be unsaid.
I want her to know that there are people who will need her to reach out to them, even if she feels shy or uncomfortable.
I want her to know how to pray with people when they need it.
I want her to be comfortable accepting constructive criticism, and to know how to offer it when the time is right.
I want her to see that while the world is messy (and so is our house!) that doesn't mean we can't keep trying to make it better and better.
I do so many things wrong while I parent. But I think I do some things right. And that's what I'm going to focus on and celebrate for now.
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Changes, they are a'comin'
Dear amazing readers,
Please don't fret - this is same blog you've been reading for the last 3? 4? years now. I just decided it was time for a make-over. Stay tuned for further posts about our family :)
Love,
Katy
Please don't fret - this is same blog you've been reading for the last 3? 4? years now. I just decided it was time for a make-over. Stay tuned for further posts about our family :)
Love,
Katy
Saturday, July 6, 2013
June 12, 2013 - Clara's 1st birthday!
I am very tardy in getting all of Clara's birthday posts out there. I actually thought I'd done them ... I don't know if that's because I ate, slept, and thought "birthday" for so many weeks beforehand, but I figured I'd made it through that milestone and was all finished!
This post is about her actually BirthDAY (not the party).
After Bible Study and a nap, Lulu came over to hang out with us!
Clara got her birthday girl shirt on :)
We ran a few errands, and C ate plenty of raisins.
Then it was time to meet up with Daddy and Papa for dinner at Guadalajara.
Clara loooooves Mexican food - fajita chicken, rice, beans, cheese - they pretty much make the world go round in C's eyes, so we figured it was an appropriate venue to celebrate :)
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| Being silly with Papa |
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| Mmmmm |
After a yummy dinner, we took a few photos (of course :)
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| Mama & Dada |
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| Papa & Lulu |
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| so much fun :) |
All in all I think she had a pretty good 1st birthday!
Sweet Baby Girl,
You are one year old now. ONE!! To be honest, I'm more impressed with your Daddy & I making it through the year and keeping you alive, healthy, happy, and thriving than anything :)
You are so amazing, Clara. You are intelligent. You know how to put toys away when you're finished. You know where the dirty clothes go. You know when the dogs need to be fed, when it's time to make lunch, and on and on. You're like this tiny sponge soaking everything we do in. On almost a daily basis I find myself thinking, "how did you know that!?" Well, smarty pants, you've set the bar - I KNOW you can do brilliant things and I can't wait to see where that takes you.
You are B-U-S-Y, my love. Nursery workers, friends, family, the pediatrician, me - we are all in awe of how much you move, do, find every day. You have exactly two settings: off and ON. You're either sleeping or on the go - crawling, cruising, investigating, exploring, climbing, climbing, CLIMBING. It's crazy and I think I've got a few gray hairs because of it :) I love how curious you are, even when it makes me nervous. You want to know how things work, how they are put together, how it moves. You watch me do something and then you want to try. You do get a little frustrated when you can't figure something out or your motor skills aren't quite refined enough to do something yet, but baby I promise you'll be able to do it soon, and you'll figure it out! I can't imagine how it feels to have the entire world open to you, ready to explore, but you can't make your fingers, legs, body do exactly what you want. It'll come though, I promise!
You love to eat, but have grown to be rather particular about what you will eat which is a little different from when you used to devour anything I offered you. Now you're about 50% applesauce, raisins and yogurt. You also really like grilled chicken, rice, beans, pouches of bananas, strawberries, peaches, sweet potatoes, squash, green beans, carrots. For some reason, you've decided food is good in a pouch, but you don't want me to feed you an AC TUAL banana or apple anymore - what gives? I have no idea, but I'm sure in a short while you'll change your mind again. Until then, thank goodness for pouches!! You also like puffs, mum mums, granola bars, goldfish, and cheerios.
We are trying to get you to drink milk from a sippy cup. We are gradually weaning now, and you're not very happy about it, and milk in a cup just isn't as much fun as nursing. We'll get there though, I know it. You do LOVE to drink water from a cup - I had no idea how much fun it was until seeing your pure excitement every.single.time!
You are 18.7lbs, 28.5in. You can take a few steps unassisted, give sugars, wave, clap, point, and say several words: baba, dada, mama, uh-oh, hi, yeah, yay, ducka, and yumm. You also have a few made-up words like yuckaday that have a clear meaning to you, but we're not positive what it is.
We love, love, love, LOVE you baby girl. Keep growing, keep learning, keep loving!
Love,
Mama and Dada
(and Maverick and Goose too)
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
1st Birthday Eve
A video/letter to celebrate the last day Clara is "zero" years old!!
Oh my gracious!
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