Another Day In Paradise

Ben's Big TV Debut

2011-04-20T15:22:00.000-04:00

This has to be a super-fast blog entry because as we speak Grandma is bringing Kid 1 & Kid 2 back from an overnight adventure!! A short break for this tired Momma...

This morning Todd, Ben & I had the pleasure of appearing, on behalf of Kennedy Krieger, on Good Morning Maryland on ABC2 news here in Baltimore. Check us out!! http://www.abc2news.com/dpp/news/health/childrens_health/early-intervention-is-vital-for-a-child

Anchors Charlie Crowson and Megan Pringle were warm and gracious and it was very exciting to sit in those new gold chairs on set!! I was very nervous, but once Todd and I started talking we really couldn't stop! We spoke not only of the kids and Kennedy Krieger in general, but of ROAR--KKI's big fundraiser coming up on May 1st. Sponsor us, join our team, or learn more at: http://supportus.kennedykrieger.org/site/TR/Events/ROAR?px=1050425&pg=personal&fr_id=1040

Ben had a hard time sitting still--and quietly--but all of the studio staff and news anchors took it all in stride and made us feel very comfortable and welcomed. We were even invited back by Meteorologist Justin Berk so that Addie & Cassie can tour the weather center! Another exciting thing I learned is that Justin's wife Debbie is launching a store for both parents and educators very soon!! The Just Learning Store will be a great resource for parents, educators, special educators, and anyone who works with kids of all ages and abilities. Please take a moment and check out their site www.justlearningstore.com. After you do that make note of their GRAND OPENING in York, PA on June 25th and plan on attending for fun, family friendly activities, including an interactive weather lesson! (Addie is gonna LOVE that!!) After you do that--look them up on Facebook and "like" their page for a shot at getting a 10% shopping discount once the store opens!

And after the taping Ben and I went for his 2 year old portrait--it was adorable!! What a fun day for us!! Stay tuned for our next adventure~
tlc

I am Guilty

2011-04-08T09:41:00.000-04:00

Does the Mommy guilt EVER end?? No--please don't tell me. I suspect the answer is a big fat no.

Here is what I feel guilty about now. (which is to say at this moment--not in general) Ben is playing with an electric baby monitor. I am sitting on the sofa, comfy in my jammies on a wet and rainy Friday. Shouldn't I be doing something with him? (to further add to the delinquency of my child the TV, of course, is on) Shouldn't I be implementing one of the many, many play therapies and strategies I've been trained to do? Maybe I should start by unplugging the baby monitor to cut down on electric shock risk?

In general my guilt lies all over the place.

Financially based guilt: We aren't putting nearly enough away for college--what will happen?? We owe a bloody ton of money to the IRS this year--what if we can't do fun things for a few months because of that? OMG what if we can't buy stuff for our kids??? When we go to McDonald's or ChickFilA instead of fixing food that we already have (and paid for) at home--are we teaching them bad financial AND unhealthful habits?

Laziness guilt: If you know me well you know that one of my favorite things to do is nothing. Or napping. I love naps. Our weekends here in Paradise revolve around nap time. Ben naps, Hubby & I each get a sofa to nap on, and Addie & Cassie are banished to the basement playroom to watch a DVD and play quietly. Between my love of doing nothing and my love of napping it's a fair assessment that my children (often) witness me sitting on my arse. Am I teaching them to be lazy? Am I teaching them that just hanging around the house is the only thing to do? Wait, I'm getting sleepy.

Activities guilt: I don't push my kids to do activities, and frankly I get cranky with the ones we have in place. Whether it's hubby's schedule, my own laziness (see above) or just what--I get cranky trying to get my kids ready for their activities--and that is the most unpleasant thing. Addie's only been in art one week so far and I'm already dreading tomorrow (Saturday) morning. Having to get up and get two kids ready (Cassie goes to ballet--which requires a particular set of tights/leotard and a hard-to-do bun in her hair) on a Saturday makes me absolutely lose my mind. Where is the "Saturday" in this??? I digress. But--I feel guilty about it. All of it.

Oh--and speaking of guilt--here is a big one. I am really guilty because I can't wait for Cassie to go to FULL DAY KINDERGARTEN. I cannot wait to see her cute little pig tales get on that bus with Addie and drive away to school. Oh wait...I feel guilty now because I just wished her last months of "little kid-dom" away. ACK!!! Seriously I know in my heart that she is 100% ready for kindergarten--but I compare myself to my good friends who are mourning the entry into big kid-dom...and BAM!! The guilt is back.

So, what's a mom to do??

I do know that I have happy kids--I don't feel guilty about that, I am proud of that!! I also know that my kids feel loved and protected...definitely not guilty about that! I do know that my kids have good hearts and they are learning to be empathetic, caring people. Wait--that's a good one...no guilt there! My kids get to see their parents hug and kiss each day--this is one I am really big on--and I am proud of it--so again--no guilt!!

Well, maybe a little guilt ain't so bad.

I am cautiously optimistic...

2011-03-22T21:41:00.000-04:00

...and I am afraid to actually say the words "out loud" (or in digital ink...) but I think Addie may have turned a corner with her phobia of dogs!!!

Many of you know what a struggle this has been for us--for Addie in particular. Walks to the bus stop have been horrendous, going to Kennedy Krieger's annual ROAR event (Ride On for Autism Research) last year nearly sent Addie running for the woods, literally. (We neglected to plan for the fact that, as an outdoor event, people would inevitably bring their favorite four-footed companions) We have avoided friends' homes because a visit caused too much stress, fatigue, and hurt feelings. Our normal way of life became always being on guard for Fido.

Then, a few weeks ago, came an invitation from one of Addie's best friends. It was for a sleepover. Not only was this to be the first sleepover at a non-family member's house--it was to be at a house with not one, but two dogs!! The stress kicked in immediately...on my end...before I even mentioned it to Addie. Before Addie even knew about the sleepover I enlisted the help of her guidance counselor at school (yay for Mrs. B!!) and of course Todd and I talked about it extensively. We also talked to the friend's mom and it was agreed that Cassie could come along for the sleepover. (Not only would this help Addie in the moral support department--but Cassie would be over the moon to be included with the big girls!!) When we told Addie about the sleepover she was very, very excited--but understandably nervous. We told her that Cassie would go along to help her out, and we told her Mrs. B was going to help her talk about her feelings a bit too. We (and our "team") laid a huge amount of groundwork--but only time would tell.

The big day arrived--we went to buy a special, brand new sleeping bag for good measure--and Hubby and I took the girls to the sleepover. After some initial nerves, and a final hug, Hubby and I left. I was a nervous wreck as we drove downtown to meet some friends for dinner. A few minutes after we were seated I received a text messaged picture of Addie playing happily at the party. Whew....this evening just may work out after all!! Hubby has pointed out repeatedly that he knew all along that things would go well--but even at that first bit of good news I was still a little skeptical. A few more texts later and it pretty clear that things were going well!! (a huge shout-out to my friend, Laurie, for being a great sleepover Mom--and for going above and beyond the call of duty for helping Addie through the rough spots!)

I kept my phone and my iPod touch next to my head as I went to bed that night--and woke to check to make sure both were working every few hours--but as I woke up the next morning it was with a HUGE sense of relief--I missed no phonecalls, texts, emails, NOTHING!!! The girls, in particular Addie, had made it through the night. When I picked up the girls Laurie showed me a picture on her cellphone of Addie, Cassie and the dogs. Apparently Addie was learning to "train" the dogs--it helped that the pooches are both very good with people, especially kids!

To go back to why I'm cautiously optimistic....we have had progress before--back in December Addie slept at my sister-in-law's house (which is shared by a german shepherd mix!). But we have always had backslides. This time--my fingers are crossed.

Today as we were walking home from the bus stop (yes--walking, not riding in the car!) Cassie and Ben ran up to the house before Addie and me. Addie noticed that a few neighbors' dogs were out and she got scared and grabbed my arm. I held her hand tightly and she calmed down. As we made it to our front yard Addie looked at me and said, "I did it Mommy--I did it!" Yeah, kiddo--you did.

My Little Guy is Rockin' It!

2011-03-10T22:37:00.000-05:00

I have neglected to update the blog on Ben's progress at Early Achievements. We are well into the third month and we have a solid routine. I'm thrilled to tell the world that my son is totally rockin' it!!! Hubby and I, particularly over the last few weeks, have simply been amazed at the explosion of language we are hearing. Ben's teachers commented about it too--also telling me that his articulation has gone from somewhat unclear (I can usually understand him) to crystal clear. One of my favorite things from today? One of Ben's amazing teachers told me that he said a perfectly clear, "Buh-Bye Daniel." (Daniel is one of Ben's little buddies :-) )

Our morning routine has taken this Momma by surprise--both that we CAN do it...and that we're doing it rather well. We've managed to only have one major "oops" day where Ben was late to school and I had to miss an appointment--but otherwise things are running smoothly. Addie is LOVING going to before-care at school. It's all I can do to sneak a kiss goodbye when I drop her off! *sniff,sniff* Hubby normally takes Cassie to school and once I get Addie to school it's off to Early Achievements for Ben. I am finding a lot of comfort in the new friendships that are forming--it's a great group of parents we have!! I am also enjoying the time to myself...I have had some Panera mornings, some Target mornings, some Trader Joe's mornings, some gym mornings. Ahhh, bliss!! It's funny how an hour or two by myself can recharge me for the rest of the day.

Tomorrow is Friday--and despite how wonderful Early Achievements is--and I am happy to say the only thing on the calendar is a playdate with my friend Amy and her darling little guy, Evan. Fridays are happy days.

Coulda Woulda Shoulda

2011-01-16T11:52:00.000-05:00

Ben is all set to start Early Achievements on Wednesday of this week.

Ben and I went to the orientation last week. I was unprepared for the flood of emotion as I stepped back into that classroom. It was there that we watched Addie come to life, and there that I made many good friends, and there that I saw my daughter's true personality emerge.

In addition to the flood of emotions from five years ago I am battling my brain with the "should we's"?? At this point in time, after Ben's intense, but very fun, time in Little Learners, he is doing so well. He has many words, he is starting to combine words, he can label all the things we do and see, and he can fully get his needs met. While we have committed to the Early Achievements program, and I know how beneficial it is, I'm wondering if it really is the best thing for Ben. When I have these thoughts I usually feel selfish because Ben is going to have a wonderful time no matter what...it's me that I worry about. (see--SELFISH!!) Addie will have to go to before-care, Cassie will have to go to before care and after care, and I'll be doing a LOT of driving back and forth to all things.

On the other hand, this is a huge opportunity for Ben--and for me. Ben will continue to great early intervention and learn new and exciting things everyday. I will be able to continue to shout from the rooftop just how wonderful we think Kennedy Krieger is, and I'll be meeting new and wonderful people whom I hope to call friends.

In the meantime we'll be updating Ben's IFSP (the document that lays out the services that Ben receives through our local Infants and Toddlers organization) to get a speech consult, continue physical therapy, OT consult, and anything else that we may have questions about. I would much rather have it all checked out now than find out we have missed a crucial "window" opening somewhere along the way.

In a related note--if you as a reader have a child (or know someone who does) who is not meeting developmental milestones--please do not hesitate in contacting your local Birth to Three/Infant & Toddler program. I am happy to answer questions as well, though I am by no means an expert! You'll find my contact info on my profile here. Here are a few other helpful links.
www.kennedykrieger.org (key in Early Achievements at the search input)
http://www.vineseis.com The Vines Early Intervention Services in Towson, MD

Thanks for reading, folks!!

B Meets Dr. Anna

2011-01-03T22:00:00.000-05:00

I have been both dreading and looking forward to this day for the last month or so. In November, while doing a walk-a-thon with A at school, I got a phone call that B could be seen at CARD, the Center for Autism and Related Disorders, and the Kennedy Krieger Institute. We made the request for the appointment at the urging of Dr. Rebecca Landa, head of the Center, and whom we are quite certain walks on water. Despite many very positive things and tremendous progress throughout the Little Learners Program, the post-testing was still pointing to B having several 'autism red flags and/or behaviors, so--while we totally know what to expect...we found we sort of didn't know what to expect! Hubby hasn't been nearly so worked up over this as I have been. Whether it's because he's clear headed and optimistic in nearly all circumstances or whether we truly have nothing to worry about, who's to know?? (I prefer to think it's the latter, by the way) Regardless, today was the day and I was really dreading it.

The very rational, intelligent (yes, there is one) part of me knows that a diagnosis of an Autism disorder is nothing more than an artificial label. I know that the best thing we, as parents and advocates, can do is to treat symptoms and behaviors as they arise and not focus on a label, a diagnosis, a stigma. I had totally gotten myself wrapped up in the labeling. I was preparing myself for hearing that B has autism.

The very good news--and to cut to the chase--is that after a very lengthy visit Dr. Anna, as she likes to be called, it was observed that Ben is doing quite well in all aspects of development: socially, physically, behaviorally. Dr. Anna said that had she not heard our history or known anything about us (she heard both Hubby and I speak a few months back at the KKI Autism Conference) ASD wouldn't have come into light at all. (I'm paraphrasing a bit). I had so engulfed myself in the thoughts that we were going to walk out with a labeled child that the idea of walking out with a happy carefree B never did cross my mind.

Now I'm not so naive as to think that things can't or won't change...and I realize that the exhaustive testing that the wonderful clinicians at REACH/KKI certainly points to some red flags for B, but I truly never thought we'd walk out of there with really amazing news. I, while happy, still spent the rest of the day in a complete fog!

Even with a very positive prognosis Dr. Anna (and we) still feels that Early Achievements is the best avenue to follow for B right now. Before I was on the fence (should we/shouldn't we?) but now I'm sure. We're going to do it--we're going to work past the struggles (signing A up for morning before school care so I can transport B to Early Achievements) and we're going to have a fantastic six months. I know I'll have a tired little guy in the afternoons, and I'll miss spending my mornings with him, but I know he'll be in very good, very capable hands. And I will get what I've been yearning for....a few hours to myself nearly every day. Even more importantly, though, we'll have the satisfaction of knowing that we are doing everything possible to get B a good outcome. Maybe we're lucky...maybe we're just in the right place at the right time, but I prefer to think that by being proactive, assertive parents we're doing our kid a huge favor.

That's it for now, friends...Happy New Year--may it be good for us all~

Almost the big 3-5

2011-01-03T21:37:00.000-05:00

Here we are, at the beginning of a new year....and sometimes I still manage to forget that I'm not 28 anymore. Somehow time keeps passing and I'm actually going to be the big 3-5. For those of you keeping track--that's 5 years from 40. 5 years from 30 too....if you're a 'glass half full' kind of thinker. In my head I am thinking of this as a 'big' birthday--but in reality it's just another number. My inlaws will be out of town, my parents busy, we'll celebrate by Hubby ordering in Sushi and watching the Ravens, I'll play with my late Christmas/Early B-day gift the iPod Touch.... But why does 35 seem so, well, monumental?? It just seems so adult--so grown up. Let me set the record straight...I do NOT feel like a grown up. I know that I won't get carded at a liquor store...I know that no one is going to take me for a 25 year old...but 35?? There are 35 year old grandmothers out there, folks!! Ack...does this mean that, had things happened way out of order way back when, that I could be a (gulp) grandmother?? Wow. How did this HAPPEN? When did I get this old??

At 28 I was on top of the world. I was the young, cute SAHM & wife...I had a toddler, I kept a nice house, I went on playdates, I was happy. Not that I am not happy now...I would dare to argue that I am in a near blissful state...at least whilst my children are safely tucked into their beds asleep, mind you. But sometimes if someone has the audacity to ask my age--my gut reaction is to blurt out "28." Why IS this?? Because once I realize the stupidity of my own thinking I think not only am I NOT 28 anymore...I've lived a lifetime since then! In the last 7 years my life has changed more drastically than at any other time in my memory. I've watched a beautiful baby girl get diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder, I've seen her blossom and flourish beyond my wildest dreams and hopes, I've given birth to two more absolutely amazing creatures, and, despite being together for more than half of my life, I feel like Hubby and I have totally synched up and hit a really good stride. Why is it, then, that I keep reverting to this silly number....shouldn't my number be "almost 35?" **Technically I am not 35 until 6:38pm on January 11th...so until that moment I will continue to be almost 35. Just to be clear.

I guess I still feel young. 28 was a darn good year for me--but I know that 35 has the potential to knock my socks off. Check in with me in a few weeks....

What's Next??

2010-12-13T22:46:00.000-05:00

Hello Friends~
In the last few weeks since Little Learners has ended life has been a bit calmer. It's still hectic of course, but not having to rush about 2 mornings a week certainly has agreed with this Mommy. We are still in the middle of B's post-testing for the class...mainly because on the 2nd day we were there he was really tired and not really himself. We'll finish up this week with the Vineland parent interview and one final session of testing.

I was taken by surprise today by a phone call from the coordinator for Early Achievements, the "next step" class at KKI. B qualifies and is accepted into the program. I was surprised to find out so early for one--we thought we wouldn't know 'til later in the winter. I was also surprised because the post-testing isn't even complete....but I am thrilled (and anxious) about what lies ahead.

Early Achievements is what made a WORLD of difference for A five years ago so we know how just how valuable this is. But that was five years ago--I only had one kid then!! Logistically this would be a nightmare. Ok...I'm exaggerating a bit but it will be difficult to figure it all out. Class starts at 9:00am which happens to be 4 minutes after A gets on the bus. C's school starts at 8:30am...Hubby usually leaves at 7:45am and can sometimes take C to school...argh, my head hurts just thinking about this!!

I guess this is one of those times when I just have to take a deep breath and know things will work out. Starting now. Breathe...

Nighty night!

Ponderings on Early Intervention--a constant theme of mine.

2010-11-10T22:00:00.001-05:00

B's class at Kennedy Krieger is almost done--and while I'm sad about it I am ready for it to be done. I know I've mentioned that in my earlier posting this week. Today was one of those days, though, when he did so many cute things, said a lot of words, and really made me feel like "he gets it." Yesterday at his home visit and today in class he was using a new word, "under", in the correct context and it sounds so benign, but it just makes my heart jump out of my chest to hear him talk. I cannot even think or imagine where he would be (or wouldn't be) had it not been for the wonderful people at REACH at Kennedy Krieger.

I continue to be amazed that there are parents out there who know or feel that their children aren't meeting milestones but yet are not seeking out Early Intervention services--whether private or through a local public school program. I was talking about this on Monday at one of our final parent trainings and I think I get why parents aren't pursuing help. I guess it's obvious but they are in denial--they hear a professional, say someone from the local Infants and Toddlers/Birth-to-three program say "Susie is just speech delayed, she'll catch up" or "Joey is fine, he'll be talking soon enough..." and they WANT to believe it. Am I really so unique that when those things are presented (my child isn't/wasn't meeting milestones and I pushed to get answers) that I go for the gusto, go in fighting for my kid? I can't possibly be the only parent who would do that!! Sometimes I feel that way though...

When I see where A. is--at 7 1/2 years old she is in a typical educational setting in our local school--I know that it is the result of hard work. On her part, my part, Hubby's part, and countless other professionalls and not-professionals helping us along the way. We got through things pretty easily with C. and perhaps we even thought we were getting there with B. too...but when Dr. Landa noticed B's head lag early last August we sprang into action. While I have certainly had days when I was worried--what parent wouldn't??--I have been pretty certain, based on what progress I have seen, that Ben is well on his way to a pretty typical childhood. So far his "development arc" seems to be following Cassie's and not Addie's. Still though--I am continuing to search out strategies and programs that are going to keep us on the right page, the right trajectory. It's my job!! In this season of thankfulness I would be remiss not to mention just how grateful I am for my Hubby. His hard work and dedication to the field of Energy & Environmental Law are the main reason I get to be B's number one therapist, advocate, and giant playmate. Things are always a little crazy--and the afternoons/evenings can sometimes make me feel like I'm drowning....but it's a good life. Really.

In other news--I am now seriously considering going back to school to pursue a dream I've had for years now. I would like to become a Speech-Language Pathologist and focus on working with little ones--I've been doing it as a parent for a while now and I feel that I could let that talent be nurtured into something more. It's scary, and still a few years away, but I'm excited. Really excited.

In still other news--stay tuned--Ben and I may be on TV in the coming weeks!!! (Thanks to our friends at Kennedy Krieger, of course!)

Sleep Well, my friends!

Ramblings of a Crazy Woman

2010-11-05T14:18:00.002-04:00

*I have noticed that boys are different than girls. I am forever worried that I will be hauled away because of the constant bruising on B.

*I love having dinner with Hubby after the kids are in bed. On the menu tonight? Omaha Steak, creamed spinach, mashed sweet potatoes.

*I feel like I should come into the 21st century and have a SmartPhone with a calendar on it. I can't get past needing a huge fold out big-block book calendar. I can't be the only one.

*I would love to go on the Ellen show. I think it would a ton of fun to be in the audience. Still trying to think of how to be a guest though.

*C is having her tonsils out in January. I'm worried...but know it'll be best in the long run. I do not want her to have to go through the "adult" version of this! Sure dropping 20lbs in 2 weeks is great--but when something makes me not want to drink water, when something makes ice cream look bad...well, enough said.

*I am watching "The Talk" on CBS. It's sort of a new guilty pleasure. I want to see them do more on Autism awareness and Early Intervention Awareness. Maybe I need to write Holly Robinson Peete a little letter...

*I try to understand what makes C. prefer jumping through the house, rather than walking. Her preference is always more intense during B's naps. This fills me with rage.

*There is nothing in the world as good to me as brie. If I could have a love affair with food, it would absolutely be with brie. Brie, how I love you.

*I can't figure out formatting this blog. I just bought a book about blogging. Will try to learn!!

*I think I have a Facebook problem.

Little Learners Is Coming to an End....Say it Ain't So!!

2010-11-01T14:35:00.002-04:00

I have had this feeling before.

It was five years ago and we were finish up Early Achievements with A. It was a six month program during which I felt safe and secure in my parenting/therapist duties for A. Toward the end I was pregnant with C (hormonal? perhaps!) and feeling like my world was coming to an end. That's not to say that I didn't learn a LOT by the end of the program--we had once weekly parent training sessions that (to me, at least) were both informative and therapeutic. I just felt like my safety net was being pulled out from under me.

Fast forward!

Little Learners for B is ending in just three short weeks. I am very happy to report that I do not feel the dread I felt five years ago. I have rationalized it by reminding myself that I am busier now (I have 2 more children than I did back then!) and less time to worry about things--but the truth is that I am confident that I can and will do what needs to be done to keep B on track. I know that I can make appointments, I can drive to appointments, I can follow the strategies that Jenny and Emily have taught me, and that I can play a central role in B's development. I am glad to have this under my belt--I've been through it all before--but this time I feel empowered.

Selfishly, I have to admit that I am glad to have our schedule ease up, especially as we enter the busy Thanksgiving & Christmas season. I'll miss our Monday morning gab sessions (eh, parent training sessions) and miss seeing B interact with his two little girlfriends, Becca and Natalie, but a big part of me is excited to have some normal (what's that again?) stuff going on. Hopefully we will increase our time with Mary Pat and Carole and we'll probably be adding a speech therapist as well. In addition to that we have an evaluation set up at The Vines Early Intervention Center--so we may be adding that as well. Geez...maybe I'll be busier now that Little Learners is ending...

Well--we know what Early Intervention can do so you know what??

I'm in.

Happy November, folks!!
tlc

Been a while...

2010-10-30T16:11:00.002-04:00

For reasons I can't quite explain I've been avoiding writing--since March. So much has happened since, a lot of it noteworthy, but I was really in a slump I think. Looking forward to sharing more of the lessons I've been learning and of course to gab about my fabulous family.
Here are just a few of the happenings I've been meaning to write about, but hadn't felt ready to.

The People Magazine came out the end of March!! See it here:
http://www.people.com/people/archive/article/0,,20353593,00.html

B had further testing at Kennedy Krieger in April that found he has some markers for Autism--this placed us in a very unique position--we got into a One Year Treatment study called Achievements for Little Learners. This opportunity has given us so much hope for B and will probably be a subject of later ramblings. We are nearly finished the six month program and it has been magical seeing B make so much progress!

A is still having doggie-phobia. Ho Hum. We keep thinking it'll get better, and at times it has gotten tolerable (like when we are at Aunt Cookie & Uncle Billy's house with their lovable dog Willow) but it seems to have spiked again. We have been on the fence about professional help and I need to just make an appointment and try to help my girl. I can only explain it this way to people who *think* they are helping. If you are afraid of someone coming at you with a flaming torch (and who amongst us isn't??) you would panic and run away. That is how it is with A and dogs. Cats too....well except for the ones at Aunt Cookie & Uncle Billy's house! So for now MY big anxiety is Halloween. Oh my.

C.....what can I say about C. She continues to keep Hubby and I on our toes and is keeping her Pre-Kindergarten teachers on their toes as well. C is in a sibling study at Kennedy Krieger much like A & B and during her 4-yr. testing this summer it was found that she is most-likely in the genius "range." I'm so thankful and grateful for and in awe of my children. They are each special and unique in their own way. I'm just afraid that if this one is smarter than me I'm not going to be able to keep up past about next week.

Hubby & I have had some really amazing opportunities lately to speak about our experiences with Autism and Early Intervention. The first was in September where we talked to the Board of Directors at Kennedy Krieger--we basically told them A's story and filled them in on B's story thus far. Nerves were killing me (as they always do when I need to be in front of a large group) but being up in front of a group of people who make really important decisions seemed to help out--I got to talk about my fabulous kids and how far they've come (and continue to come!) And maybe, just maybe, our story will help other families get help for their babes. The second speaking opportunity was at KKI's Tenth Annual Autism Conference. Dr. Rebecca Landa asked us if we would share our story and we simply couldn't turn her down. She could pretty much ask us to stand on our heads and do karaoke and we'd pretty much agree ;) Again nerves overtook me, but Hubby had my back and together we presented to a large group of parents and professionals and Early Intervention specialists. I was really blown away by how moved people were by our story. It makes me think I really can make a difference in this world. One story at a time, I will get parents and families to know that Early Intervention now means a world of difference later!!

Happy Fall to Everyone~thanks for humoring me,
tlc

FINALLY!!!!!!

2010-03-13T17:19:00.001-05:00

Well, we got the word yesterday that People is doing the article!!!!! We are beyond thrilled. A few weeks ago it seemed like it may have been a lost cause. Todd and I wrote and sent a letter expressing our sadness over the article not going forward. While it is a very big deal for us to be in any sort of publication (truly!) what disappointed us most of all was that the good work of Dr. Landa and the wonderful staff at Kennedy Krieger wasn't being highlighted. Something clicked with the editors and we're back on!! We are so fortunate to have been given this opportunity to share our story through the pages of People.

In other "finally" news, B is walking!!!!! He's been working so hard using all those little muscles in those cute little legs and last Saturday it just clicked. Just this afternoon I spent about an hour just watching him walk. Walking here, walking there, walking, walking everywhere!

I'm not sure what, if anything, we said about the Baltimore County Infants and Toddlers program will make it into the article. We obviously feel very strongly about Early Intervention and the tremendous difference it can make. We have been blessed through the years to work with some truly wonderful people in the BCPS I & T program. They are all amazing people, but we have to give some special praise to Mary Pat Summers and Carole Coleman. Mary Pat has been working tirelessly with our little B to get him walking and using his muscles in the correct way. She has a big, big fan in little B, that is for sure. His face lights up when she walks in the house. Mary Pat has always answered my (many) questions, no matter how silly or insignificant they may be. And she does it all with a smile and a heart of gold. We love you Mary Pat! Our relationship with Carole goes back to late 2004 when we first realized A had a speech and social delay. She came in, got to work immediately, and gave Hubby and I all of the tools we needed to work with A at home. We could never begin to pay back what Carole has given us. I have such fond memories of Carole coming over each week to work with A--as soon as Carole came through the door A would run into the family room, sit down, and be prepared to work!! And work she did--she ALWAYS took a great nap on "Carole days." And now--5 years later--we are again blessed to be working with Carole. She is helping to get B talking more--he is such a quiet little guy. He's starting to babble more and more and we are hopeful he'll be a chipper little chatterbox very soon. It is true that his big sisters do all the talking for him, at the moment, at least!

Thanks for reading everyone--and remember to pick up a copy of People Magazine next week!!! I *think* it will be the March 29th edition, out on newsstands approximately Friday March 19th. (shameless plug, shameless plug)

Early Intervention works--pass it on!!

Updates on B & People Magazine

2010-03-03T15:02:00.000-05:00

B continues to work VERY hard on his physical milestones. Mary Pat with BaltoCo. Infants & Toddlers has been working with him more lately but he still lets those darn little toes curl under. Have any of you had a child do that? I don't remember A & C doing it. A & C both walked at 14 months...so maybe late March is our time!! B has had one visit also with Carole--also w/ BaltoCo. Infants & Toddlers. Carole is a Special Educator who is just helping B increase his communication skills. She thinks he's fine--but thinks he is a very quiet little guy. Yup--he is!

I MISS going to the gym during the day!! I just signed up for Pilates--and while I can take classes on Sunday afternoons I would much rather be doing so on Tuesdays or Thursdays while B is in the playroom at the gym. The little guy can't go there until he is officially walking :-(

People Magazine......It is still my favorite magazine, but we have hit a few bumps in the road with the story. Sharon Cotliar contacted me earlier this week and took some updates from me. She let me know that she is trying very hard to push for our story, of course it is in her interest, as well, to have the story go to press! Sharon told me that the story was going to the Art department for a re-design, and we are again hopeful that we will see it soon. I must sound like a broken record, friends, but I am so excited about this. It has been my dearest hope that our story will help someone out there. Please help spread that word that Early Intervention works!!

We *heart* our Early Intervention heros--Mary Pat Summers & Carole Coleman!!!!

Is it Spring yet??

Update on B's Infants & Toddlers visits, part ii

2010-02-02T22:23:00.000-05:00

B continues to be seen by Mary Pat with Baltimore County Infants and Toddlers. She visits us a few times a month to work on his trunk strength, toe curling (why DOES he do that??), and emerging walking skills. She is teaching him to use muscles in his body properly--and it is a hoot to watch her do this. The little guy is ready for a nap when she leaves!

At this point we will begin seeing her a bit more frequently as Mary Pat feels he is on the cusp of walking, but is having some "old habits" come back that are affecting his balance. (see prior posts) He wants to hold his arms out and back, as if balancing himself in an exersaucer, cursed piece of baby gear!

B is a joy each and every day. He eats a lot, smiles a lot, plays a lot, makes us laugh a lot. He celebrated his First Birthday a week ago.

In addition to Mary Pat, we'll also begin seeing our old friend Carole Coleman again (she worked with A four years ago). Carole's specialty is early special education and she'll help us to get him communicating. We've all noticed that he is a particularly quiet baby. At times this is because his older, well-meaning sisters talk for him--at other times it's just because. Regardless--whether it's indicative of a problem or not--we're taking the proactive approach and beginning the therapies. It can't hurt--it can only help. Plus, the visits with Carole and Mary Pat are fun. I can only hope that "one day" when I am back in the working world that I have a job that touches the lives of families and children in the ways these women do.

We continue to be in touch with Sharon from People Magazine. There have certainly been delays in the story, bumps in the road perhaps. She has been keeping in touch via email and phoning occasionally too. We continue to be hopeful that our story will soon reach millions of families and perhaps offer a little hope to a child who is having trouble communicating, or who is on the Autism Spectrum.

Thanks for reading, thanks for asking about us. We appreciate the care & concern!

Snow in February Takes Me Back

2010-02-02T21:37:00.000-05:00

Seven years ago I was a 37 week pregnant woman. No kids to chase around, no job--I'd left in early January--and plenty of time on my hands. It seems like an eternity ago--yet I can practically taste the ice cream sundaes Hubby used to bring me home nightly. (He knew better than to come home empty handed, after all.)

Fast forward to today--an almost 7 year old, star of First Grade, holder of my heart. How does that happen? How does time DO that?

The snow began falling on Valentine's day that year. I remember the day well. It was a Friday and I emailed Hubby a list of necessities for both our house and our elderly neighbor. I am pretty sure her list contained tea bags, twinkies, and soup. I'm sure ours contained Coca Cola and Fritos--these two things have sustained me through all my pregnancies. The forecast looked like it could be a doosy. Family members were nervous. Hubby was panicked I would go into labor. I was convinced, of course, that I wouldn't go into labor. (just a few weeks prior when told that I had made no "progress" at my internal exam I declared to Hubby that he must take down the crib because the baby "simply wasn't coming")

I had just, the day before, had a pedicure and manicure. What a treat--yet what a chore--it was to climb into that big, soft, vibrating chair. I can still feel the hot and bubbly water around my fat ankles.

With the snow already falling we decided I should rest a lot, not move around, not walk around too much. I made a comfy bed for myself on our leather sofa, and gathered around me pillows, blankets, and some precious novels. (Anita Shreve's Eden Close & Strange Fits of Passion) I devoured the books, one on Saturday and one on Sunday. I am sure they have splashes of Coke and crumbs of Frito within their pages to this day. Chocolate too. I was big on the chocolate.

The snow came down. Fast. Deep.

Hubby, wonderful man that he is, kept up with the shoveling. I have pictures of him outside our old house on Willoughby Road, standing proudly (he would debate this fact) by his shovel. You can just barely make out our Chevy Blazer behind him. On Sunday I ventured out to the porch in my Old Navy Maternity coat and trusty blue hat. Despite the coat's girth--my own couldn't be buttoned in. All was white in Parkville that day.

The evening was quiet, I forget what time we went to bed.

By 7:30 A.M. or so I was on the phone with my OB/GYN. There was only about 2' of snow. Yeah--2'!! I calmly got myself together, Hubby showered, shoveled, showered (yes--you read that right--2 showers) and we set about on our journey to parenthood. What typically would have been a 10 minute drive on a holiday Monday (President's Day) took us about 45 minutes. I-695 was down to one driveable lane. We made it though, safe and sound.

This was about 10:30 A.M and by 3:30 P.M. I was holding my sweet baby girl. My BIG baby girl--she would be the biggest baby I would give birth to at a whopping 8lbs 14.2 oz.

As the snow continues to fall out there tonight--and with a forecast for much more this coming weekend--my mind goes back to that wonderful time back in 2003. I've lived a lifetime since then, but a simple snowfall can take me back.

Different house now, same wonderful Hubby, three kids, and complete chaos. Life, as the saying goes, is good.

The Day After

2009-12-26T15:55:00.000-05:00

Oh.My.Gosh.

I can't believe that, in the days leading up to Christmas, I thought that perhaps I hadn't bought enough. Our family room looks like a picked over Walmart on Black Friday. One cannot walk without stepping on some form of molded plastic. And the batteries...my God the batteries. I keep thinking I need to own stock in Duracell. I own all the batteries they ever made. And I'll just keep on buying. And buying. And buying.

We spend a lot of time with our television. This is an important thing to know before you proceed here. This year we saw that AMC decided to air a "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" marathon--against TBS's "A Christmas Story". In my book Christmas Eve is about 2 things. Watching "It's a Wonderful Life" and then quickly switching the channel in time to see Ralphie nearly shoot his eye out for the first time in a twenty-four hour cycle. I love "NLCV" so much that I can very nearly recite it if the sound died on my tv, but my girls have started to enjoy "A Christmas Story" this year. I felt goosebumps when A recognized what movie it was! They keep asking what soap tastes like and why Ralphie's mom made him eat it. Hubby and I explained that since Ralphie was "sassy" he had to have his mouth washed out. **all the while praying that during the tire-changing scene they didn't ask any further questions!!

My point is that this movie, along with a host of other things (Stauffer's lasagna, Mom's egg casserole, socks with monkeys--or in this special case--socks without monkeys) has become part of the tightly woven fabric of our family Christmas. I have spent way too many brain cells on comparing my family's Christmas to others' celebrations that in some ways I've failed to see what really matters. We have a heck of a good time on Christmas. I really do dream of the day when Christmas dinner is served on fine china (and not dollar store paper plates) and the food on said China is a melt-in-your-mouth-beef-tenderloin (and not a frozen meal from aisle 7) but for now, I'll take it. TV and all.

I'm Back--For Now

2009-12-20T14:22:00.000-05:00

It has been a while since I've sat down and allowed myself the luxury of blogging. A lot has been going on and I regret I haven't written more. As things happen around me I often am inspired to write, though with the blur of kids and mess and glitter glue, I seldom do just that. Then the moment passes. Ugh!!! I really hate that feeling. Then I don't write. Then I think maybe it's not worth writing. Then a month and a half passes.

This fall has been eventful and fun, though not without its lowpoints. A is having anxieties over some things, mainly dogs and stage fright. The dog-worries have ME really worried. We haven't yet sought outside help, but we have enlisted A's guidance counselor at school, and family and friends as well. I very clearly remember being awakened one night months ago because A had a bad dream that dogs were biting her. I didn't think much of it at the time, just kissed her, tucked her in and promised her it was just a silly dream. Soon after that the anxiety began. She would avoid going outside if a neighbor's dog was out, walking to the bus stop got to be just plain painful--for me and her! To date we almost exclusively drive. Up until this past week our friends Andrea and Anna brought A back from the bus in the afternoons. I could tell they would soon be on my porch because I could hear A's screams of terror. Not because a dog came up to her, simply because she saw a dog. Even if it was leashed and on the other side of the street! Mrs. B at school has been helpful, sending home cute coloring pages of dogs and talking with A about her fears. I do think we're seeing some minor improvements. It all starts with baby steps I guess!

This fall has also brought change to my own life, as the season of a friendship came to an end. What a hard decision that was. I've been blessed in my life not to have ever had to endure a bad breakup--until now. It was, at first, like I had lost a limb--something that was always there had simply disappeared. Little by little though the sun shined a little brighter and I realized I was feeling something new: relief. It still breaks my heart that it happened at all, but I've come to accept it as the right decision. I'm still having the occasional bad day over it, but they are fewer and farther between.

As a parenting team, Hubby and I work pretty well together I think. This fall, however, has tested our limits. Why?? Quite simply: The Bean. C's nickname is The Bean--or Wa Bean, as we call her in Hubby's family. She has decided that this fall was the time to make a name for herself, carve out a little niche just for her, earn herself some street cred. She is, quite simply, tiring. To quote from one of my favorite children's book series, (Olivia by Ian Falconer) "...(she) wear(s) me out." We always joke that her pig tails hide her horns. Thank God she is cute--its the only reason we keep her around. That and the hugs. And the way she can't yet say "r's". "Mommy, is Bennett my bruh-vah?" "Yes, Honey, Bennett is your bruh-vah" I answer back. Geez I love that. Oh--and she is funny...we also keep her around for that. Her favorite joke?? It's a Beanie original: Why did the chicken cross the road? To get to the uh-vah side so he could poop and pee. Potty humor--she will purposely walk into a bathroom and start shouting "Poop and Pee, Poop and Pee, I can say dat because I'm in the baff-room." I just think it's kind of neat that she knows that Potty Humor is funny. It's not a learned thing--she just gets it. (And it IS funny) OK, it's official. We'll keep her. For now.

B is doing great....(how is that for a segue?). We continue to see Mary Pat with Infants and Toddlers and he continues to cruise and crawl and get into things. He smiles a lot and is just a dream of a baby. Very happy, very content. Happy baby + full nights of sleeping = Happy Mommy. He continues to be adored by both A and C, in addition to our many friends and family members. B is (on this very day) now eleven months old and just a few weeks ago we were called back to Kennedy Krieger for his ten-month follow up testing. I wasn't surprised to hear that he behind in speech and language skills, but I was surprised to find out just how much that shook me. I knew going in he is sort of a quiet baby, and they confirmed that he is indeed about 2-3 months behind. I called Hubby on the way home and talked to him about it. It shocked him not at all and he was quick to talk me off of the ledge I was building in my mind. We are both thrilled with B's development--and we are equally thrilled to still be participating in this groundbreaking research at Kennedy Krieger with Dr. Landa's team. I just have to remember that part of the process is that they are very thorough AND aggressive with recommending early intervention. (thanks to Chris Hess at KKI for reminding me of that :) ) When I returned home that day I contacted Mary Pat and requested an extra visit in December and further requested adding special education/communication education to our IFSP.

While all of this has been going on we've also been in communication with Sharon, the writer from People Magazine. (yes, still my all time favorite publication!!). The story looks like it could be in a January issue. This could be timely as the CDC is announcing that the incidence of Autism in children is going from 1:150 to 1:100. If one family reads the story and begins early intervention as a result of our story, I would be ecstatic. One of the things Sharon and I spoke about this week was my experiences with other parents who eschew early intervention merely because of it being on a child's "Permanent Record." One parent told me that she sought speech therapy through a school system--but declined it when she was told it fell under the umbrella of "Special Education." I don't know how to get the word out effectively enough--early intervention matters!! It is crucial if there is any doubt, whatsoever, that your child isn't hitting important milestones. This goes further than just looking for Autism, but for any developmental problem. Fears and worries are keeping kids from getting the care and attention they need and deserve. Baby steps, Teri, baby steps. We'll get there. Someday.

As I conclude this (very long) entry this evening, I find myself looking back on a truly remarkable and lifechanging year. The year began with me becoming the Mom of three, giving birth to my first boy and my last child. What a joy he is! The year has had plenty of ups, and, sadly, some downs, but it has been a good year. As we begin this week of Christmas I continue to be thankful for how truly abundant my life is and how blessed I am to be surrounded by good people who love me and my little family of five. The year will end, and a new one will begin, and I can't wait to see what it holds for us.

Have a happy and healthy holiday season & the best wishes for the happiest of new years.

Update on B's Infants & Toddlers visits

2009-11-05T20:59:00.000-05:00

We have now had several visits with Mary Pat, our Physical Therapist with the Baltimore County Infants and Toddlers Program. She has been here three times and each time has been blown away by B's progress. We really haven't seen any of the head-lag that he demonstrated at our Kennedy Krieger eval a few months back, and some of the flat-foot concerns that were demonstrated and the initial I & T eval have all but gone away too. Mary Pat has noted that Ben keeps his toes curled up a lot of the time, like while he's sitting on the floor, and we just try to help him relax those little piggies. The biggest thing that has changed since my initial blog post about B is that he is crawling. Everywhere. He had been doing the "Army Crawl" for the longest time and about a week or so ago he began "actual" crawling. It's adorable...and I guess I'm wrapped up in it so much because he's my last baby and all, but man--I had forgotten just how dangerous it is to have a crawling, very mobile baby and a (insert dangerous object here.) The biggest danger is the fireplace. We've had a bump or three from that! The other thing that is hard, now that our basement is finished...well, refinished, is the steps. With A and C coming and going from the basement playroom the door gets left open. Ugh...electrical outlets, electrical cords, doors, bricks, oh my. We have some IKEA bookcases in our family room and basement that have managed to leave straight line red marks on B's forehead. He doesn't seem phased by it of course. People keep telling me this is what having a boy is like. Bumps, scrapes, and bruises. Bumps, scrapes, bruises. I'll take that.

Can't We Just Fit It All In?

2009-09-24T21:23:00.001-04:00

In my ongoing attempt to both lose weight and get in better shape, I've decided to try to get on my treadmill for 20 minutes a day. So far (two days in) I'm at 100%. Whoo-freakin-hoo for me!!! Yesterday I managed my 20 minutes while shouting at C to 'stay away from the wires.' She kept asking me, "Mommy, where are you going?" Today I got to 30 minutes. Hubby had taken C to preschool today so after the bus stop for A, I walked home and put B to bed and hopped on the treadmill. I caught an episode of Golden Girls--a real classic, the one where Blanche finds out her brother is gay--and got in 30 minutes before I even noticed! What I did notice, however, was that I was sweating like a pig. P.I.G. Heck, I was probably sweating more than a pig!! (It is fair to note here that I have no technical knowledge as to the sweat or non-sweat habits of actual pigs) B was still catching his zzz's so I jumped in the shower. By the time I finished the quick shower, dried my hair and got dressed I had just enough time to squeeze in a quick phonecall before I had to wake B up, change is disgustingly grotesque diaper, and hit the road to go get C from preschool. All in all this was a great morning! I had time to exercise, the baby got his rest, C was at preschool, life was grand. What I find hard to take, though, is this: Because I spent most of my "free" time exercising and recovering from the sweating-like-a-pig part of the exercising I wasn't able to complete other tasks that are best done while the children are sleeping, at school, or otherwise very occupied. Things like calling insurance companies, paying bills, scrubbing dirty toilets, filling out field trip permission slips. As much as I'm thrilled about finding the time to take care of ME, I'm entirely bummed that it means I have to work harder at finding the time to fit in the other very necessary tasks that fall well within my job description. I called Hubby at some point this morning just to see how his day was going and his answer was a good one. He said if his morning just had a few extra hours in it, it would've been perfect. How true that is!! In a way it made me feel better--that it wasn't just the madly insane housewife/SAHM part of me that simply couldn't handle things, that Hubby too had these time issues that prevented him from completing all of his important duties too. More than that though, it still just bummed me out. I sit here this evening worrying that I won't be able to get it all in tomorrow. Will I be happy and well adjusted Mommy who makes the time for her own needs, or will I be the productive do-it-all Mommy who finds time for anything and everything but herself? Why does it have to be either/or?? Can't I just fit in ALL in? Just this once...

Holy Crap, I Have a First Grader!

2009-09-01T22:54:00.000-04:00

Somehow--I'm not quite sure how--I became the Mom of a First Grader. Seems like just yesterday there was 2 feet of snow outside my house and I was laying on the sofa just praying that labor would hold off another few days. (of course that wouldn't happen...that's how she got one of her cute nicknames, "The Blizzard Baby.")

Where has the time gone?

While I remember my own Kindergarten year --I really remember First Grade. I remember my teacher that year, Mrs. Mann. (this was always a source of concern for me...her name was Mrs. Mann, yet clearly she was a very nice lady!) I remember that when we did really good work we got a unicorn stamp on our work packets. We made handprints in plaster and then they got painted gold. Did I mention the unicorn stamps?? I remember that Mrs. Mann wanted us all to go to bed by 8:00pm because kids needed a good night's rest. (I must've retained something...my own kids get 12 hours each night!!)

I can't wait to see what this year holds for A. Seeing it through her eyes, remembering what it looked like through my own so many (many) years ago, and knowing that I still get to re-live the First Grade two more times down the road!

Infants & Toddlers (Birth-to-Three) Eval for Baby B

2009-09-01T22:21:00.000-04:00

Today was the evaluation appointment for B. I was a little worried that I'd picked a bad time since the appointment was at 9:00am and A had to get on the bus (at the end of the street) at 8:50. As things normally do, it worked out fine, and we were home with time (1 minute, 48 seconds) to spare. We had a RN and a Physical Therapist here doing the evaluation and they did play-based testing on B's social, language, cognitive, and adaptive skills, as well as both gross and fine motor. At this point B is 7 months old. The findings from all of their testing were very positive and reassuring--he is testing in the normal range for all skills, but he does have some atypical development in his neck and shoulder muscles, as well as some tip-toe standing when held up. This fact qualifies us for services through Baltimore County Infants and Toddlers. They will also monitor his receptive language skills, since that was an area of concern a few weeks ago when he was evaluated by Dr. Landa and other researchers at Kennedy Krieger. If a delay were to evolve where that is concerned we would be seen here at home by a special educator, in addition to the Physical Therapist.

I have to laugh though--so many times when we as parents have concerns we call a doctor or ask a professional for advice, and then the same day the child ends up doing, independently, the task that just a day ago seemed impossible. This happened today...one of the questions I was asked was whether or not B drinks his bottle by himself. My answer was no--but late this afternoon he surprised me by swigging an ounce or so all by himself. (To which C exclaimed, "Yook, Benno is feeding him own self.") Ahh...a good day.

Could You Make Mine Sans Crust?

2009-09-01T21:24:00.000-04:00

Ahhh...it's been too long!!

I have been laughing at myself lately, thinking of things that I used to swear I wouldn't do--or wouldn't let my kids do--as a parent.

Let's see...well, first there is the whole pacifier thing. (in our house that would be a 'cork' thing) A was pretty good about the whole cork situation. Once we made the decision that it would be bedtime only--it was as good as done. One night we just didn't offer them and we never looked back. It was great--we felt success as parents. Yay...we broke her of that awful habit!!! Yeah--who the hell were we kidding?? C takes this whole 'cork' situation, well, really freakin' seriously! They are not only her corks, (yeah--we're talking multiples here) they are C's "guys." Why, you ask, are they her "guys?" Well duh--doesn't EVERY 3 year old girl use her "guys" as Little People in the doll house? Anytime they are lost I am nearly guaranteed to find them hiding in one of the two dollhouses in her room. Ugh...I always joke that she won't go down the aisle with her "guys" but I'm starting to get a little afraid! One of the guys, the orange and green one, is held together, I suspect, by pieces of DNA or perhaps boogers. Not sure which--but it also is her favorite guy. Seriously?? Yeah--seriously. Way back in the day I worked in a daycare center, with 3 year olds by the way, and a few of them slept with 3 or 4 pacifiers at naptime. I used to be so disgusted--thinking horrible thoughts about the parents of these little beasts. Ha...joke's on me now, isn't it??

The other thing that always got me was kids who wouldn't eat crusts. I've been known to leave crusts on my plate--but to go that extra step and have them cut off??? Ugh--no way, seemed like a silly detail to me. Lately, little Miss C, has started asking for the crusts to be cut off of her sandwiches. Well--that's the sandwiches she'll eat--by the day that number is dwindling. I swear once we're out of blueberry season we may be out of luck on feeding her entirely. Anyway--back to this whole crust business. I really do have a point ;)

We recently were on vacation at the lake--and while I truly am in my blissful glory (most of the time)when I'm there--it is pure hell getting ready to go and getting ready to come home. Packing up my kids and our stuff, whether it is for one night or 10, is mind-numbing, hard work. Plus there are all of these last minute things that I can't pack up ahead of time--like B's crib aquarium, or C's corks. What if I forget a favorite book? ugh...I am getting tense just thinking about this!! On the other end of the trip is this same dilemma--the packing up and going home. Only this time it's improved upon--we've added dirty laundry to the equation! Seriously--this sucks!! This got me thinking about the whole crusts-off-the sandwich routine. The middle of the sandwich really IS the best part you know...especially if you think about a good one, like PB&J! The middle is where the big glop of peanut butter is, and all around it is the oozy goodness of the jelly. Whats on the edges?? Nothing but dried peanut butter and if you're lucky a little purple smear. Once we were on vacation a few days, things got good--really good. Kids were sleeping well at night, we fell into a nice nap routine, great weather (that was luck!), and fun activities with Pappy & Grandma, too. Even going to the few restaurants we did was great! Then came, cue up the 'dum-dum-dum-dum' music, the final day. Between packing the suitcases, packing the cold stuff to go home, and getting the kids in the car, and trying to do so at a time when B would sleep and A & C will at least be quiet....well--that was just impossible. As it turned out--it wasn't THAT bad a drive home. Hubby took his place behind the wheel--I took my designated spot too, behind the driver seat, next to B, and well within snack-reach for A & C. Shockingly, we made it home in three hours. In one piece, I might add! We survived, and we even *gasp* enjoyed ourselves!!! Success feels so good.

I'd still just like mine sans crusts. please.

Ah...More Fairies Must Be the Answer!

2009-08-18T17:01:00.001-04:00

We are still away at the lake and will be for another week. It's grand--blissful, really--in a weird, masochistic sort of way. We've fallen into a pretty nice little routine, which always happens around day 3 or so, and generally are enjoying ourselves. We still, however, are seeing a lot of the naughty-ness that accompanies a family with 2 little girls and 1 baby brother. A, as the oldest of our brood, seems hellbent on waking up sleeping children. Either by touching, talking to, pinching, or tickling--it's her life's truest desire. I will not mince words: This. Pisses. Me. Off. She's pretty good about adhering to a decent time out though and for the most part (more than 50% of the time), 'gets' it and moves on. This I have to live with--and this is fine. I still hate that she must wake the littler ones, though. Can't she just awaken Hubby when HE'S sleeping? Now Little Miss C...she is a different kid altogether--and will not, I repeat WILL NOT adhere to, nor be confined to, a simple time out. No way, no how, it's not gonna happen. I was not happy about this until that article a few weeks ago about the Clean-Up Fairy enlightened me. (read past entries to catch up!) The lady who gave life to my now favorite Fairy really should be nominated for sainthood--well, in my humble little mommy opinion! C becomes very nearly unhinged when we mention the "C.U.F." She bolts around the room, doing whatever needs to be done to tidy things up, and make any mess appear far less messy. It's done as if a 3 year old was doing it still--but it works. Yay. Somehow, a small success. Trouble arose though during the first day or so of our vacation when we were really having trouble with C's tantrums and screaming fits. (Whomever said it was the Terrible Twos never had kids... in reality it's the Life-Threatening-Threes that'll give you your battle scars as a parent) I tried to think of a way in which my friend "C.U.F" could help me and then I decided to try something new. C was doing something naughty-- screaming for the sake of screaming--when I calmly told her I needed her to listen to mommy, and to calm down. I warned her again, "Please calm down and listen to Mommy or else the Listening Fairy would come and take away your corks" (now this brings up another topic entirely--my 3 year old's continuing to use her corks...that's pacifiers to the general public) Anyway--a really cool thing happened with my latest threat--it worked!! She stopped screaming, apologized, and snapped back into angelic-three-year-old-mode. **sound the alleujah chorus**

Stay tuned....

Finally on vacation....well, sort of

2009-08-16T20:01:00.000-04:00

Friday is a blur as I look back on it--packing, packing, refereeing fights, cleaning, packing. Then the drive--oh the drive. We decided to leave at the height of a Friday rush hour. Stop saying those things--we're not stupid!! Well, yeah, maybe we are. The Baltimore Beltway can be a pain in the ass on its best day--but 4:30 on a summer Friday? C'mon. We weren't even to I-70 when the kids starting asking for food. Which at that point was still 2 hours away. I was sitting in my assigned seat in the middle row of our van. Next to B, and in front of A & C. Directly behind Hubby. I really am not a fan of this as I have always been a firm believer in the "mom and dad up front/kids in the back" way of driving. Even coming home from the hospital I didn't sit w/ my babies. Well, with A I did, but it wasn't because I wanted to! However, this perch in our van allows me to be within reach of everyone and therefore I am able to be superwife & supermom for 3, or sometimes more, hours. When we finally reached our stopping point for dinner (a McDonalds playland--oh joy!) we were all hungry and rattled from close to 3 hours in the car. I can't imagine ever driving to, say, Florida with my family. Maybe if I'm in a separate car from them! Anyway--McDonalds was pretty much non-eventful, except for the crazy clean-up attendant on duty. As she saw my flip-flop wearing daughters run to the playzone she ran after them as if they were carrying weapons of mass destruction. Why?? Because they weren't allowed to go on the play equipment barefoot!! Oy... So basically she chased my kids, she was RUNNING, all because they MIGHT put their bare feet on the stinky festering filthy equipment. Ugh. Lucky us, McDonald's sells socks at the counter, $1 per set. And believe me, I want my kids to have a layer of something between them and the awful germ-pit, but seriously...running after the kids? Get over yourself lady. Once we got back on the road again things stayed remarkably sane. We arrived into town around 9:15 at which point I ordered Hubby to the all-night grocery liquor store for a few essentials. Wine, chocolate, Cheese bread, OJ. You know, the basics. I would love to tell you that the long day and long drive made my little angels go right to sleep--that would be a good end to this little tale, but alas--it was not meant to be. It took so long to get A & C to bed...kicking and screaming is putting it mildly. At least dear, sweet little B was doing the right thing!! By the time the girls settled down and I finished unpacking the kitchen items (of which there were many) and unpacking my clothing, Hubby was passed out cold on the bed and I was a zombie. It was well after midnight and I just wanted to crash. It was only a brief 5 hours until the fun would start all over again--but it was the first time, on night one of a vacation, that I have slept that long a stretch...I normally count on no meaningful sleep at all that night because I'm forever tossing and turning and clock-watching. By the 2nd night it gets better, and if there's a 3rd and more--I'm good. Sleeping that long, and that well, was a good thing. Given that the day/night were so horrendous and the following day ended up being, well, a day with lots of yelling to say the least, I decided to be pretty damned happy about that five-hour stretch of sleep. Let's see what the next day brings!

Assorted Ramblings of the Last Few Days

2009-08-11T22:12:00.000-04:00

I have missed writing...this whole blog-thing has been sort of an experiment anyway...and over the weekend and early part of this week I've left it alone. I missed it!! I don't know why that's exciting either...just felt like it should be said.

The other night Hubby and I snuck away (thanks to Grandma & Pappy) for dinner...nothing special, but it was pure carbo-licious goody-goodness. Panera!!! When I die and go to heaven I would like to eat Asiago Cheese Bagels and Soup Bread Bowls for every meal. Anyway...the real point of this particular ramble is that we went to the mall AFTER dinner to exchange some earring backings that kept falling of. Hubby gave me some diamond studs for our tenth anniversary and I was finally getting around to getting the proper backings. (for those of you keeping score, our 11th anniversary was early this spring...) I summoned a saleswoman who was kind enough to stop me midsentence and say, "You are wearing your size sticker on your shirt." As in--right down my left boob. Great....just where I want to see a 6 inch long sticker with "L" going down it. Now, it's true that my shirt had a busy print to it--but it was easy enough for the kind jewelry woman to notice it!!! My husband hadn't noticed it, I hadn't noticed it, my inlaws hadn't noticed it, I think the Panera girl must've noticed it (in hindsight) because she seemed giggly. I had also spent a decent amount of time with a JCPenney salesclerk that evening....why didn't anyone say anything earlier??? Grrr....

B is sitting up--really well I might add--and it is hard to believe this is the same kid for whom I just contacted Infants and Toddlers. However--I did, happily--and they are coming out on September 1st. C is forever finding more ways to torment Hubby and me...it is so clear to me that she was just destined to be a middle child. Tonight she refused to go to bed, she just kept 'having to go to the baff-room." She finally fell asleep, snuggled up w/ about 6 blankets, a giant cucumber named Larry, and 4 corks. (Pacifiers for those not in the know) A is out at a ballgame with Hubby tonight~a daddy/daughter date. There was a rain delay before so I'm just crossing fingers they got to see a little baseball. A is really interested in the details of the game this year...it's pretty darn cute!

I am starting to get really, really nervous because its now been a week and I haven't heard anything from Sharon at People Magazine. I'm worried they have forgotten about us!! I am sure they haven't....I mean, they wouldn't have spent that much time and then just forgot, would they??? Too much stress! MIL mentioned today, correctly, that the death of a Kennedy (Eunice K. Shriver) is enough to bump us out of a magazine for a few weeks indeed. Ho hum. (my condolences to the Kennedy/Shriver clan, of course)

Nighty night all~Have a fabulous tomorrow!

Update on the Clean Up Fairy

2009-08-07T15:55:00.000-04:00

Man...I never, EVER, thought that she'd still be going strong!!

But, lo and behold, every night and most days C toils around the family room and her room making sure that everything is put away. It is CRAZY...I never imagined it would take off. C totally believes in this one, and every night Hubby & I get to sit in the family room and watch tv--and SEE the floor. Who knew? If I could get A on board with this I'd really have to just pinch myself, but I can't have it all here in Paradise, now can I?

Our basement is still a source of never ending discontent (mine) and utter lack of caring (also mine). One day the Clean Up Fairy may visit there too, though. Maybe. She's considering it, at least.

On a totally unrelated note...I'm sitting patiently for Mr. Mailman and hoping he's got my People Magazine in his little truck.

On another unrelated topic, Hubby and I are going out to dinner and to see a movie...a movie that doesn't have a Princess or a talking bunny or a giant drooling dog!! We're seeing "Bruno" with Sascha Baron Cohen...at least we'll giggle like frat boys! I'm such a frat boy.

Have a fun and fabulous weekend, my friends!

We're back~more updates~

2009-08-06T14:14:00.000-04:00

This morning's visit at KKI was far less chaotic--but just as much fun--as the one on Tuesday. B got the opportunity to play with lots of neat toys and show off some of his great social skills :) There is one task he didn't do that well on today, but he did well on Tuesday--it involves a little joystick and a light up musical toy. Today's toy was a little scary and I think that affected the outcome ;) B's muscles in his neck/shoulders are seeming a little weak so I am definitely going to set up that Infants & Toddlers evaluation. Dr. Landa felt it was a good idea as well. It was neat, though, that just since Tuesday B is able to sit up for a longer period of time. Tuesday he couldn't at all, and now for a few moments. He is getting there--so cute!! I'm so glad we got our little tenth anniversary suprise~he just makes my day.

Sharon from People made the long trip from NYC again today, only to turn around an hour or so later and head back. What devotion! It was a good opportunity for her to see a more normal session of the tests that were done with B. Thanks, Sharon--was so nice to see you again today!

After the testing was over we said our goodbyes and hit the road. We made it to VBS just in time to get A & C. Phew!

Getting ready to make the call to Infants & Toddlers--hope that they can set us up just after vacation.

Happy Thursday!

Rain, Rain, Go Away--come back when I don't have big things on the agenda...

2009-08-06T07:53:00.001-04:00

I hate rain. Have to get B out the door to KKI this morning, and as luck would have it I've actually done my hair--and it's raining. I really do like rain--but not when I have good hair.

Hubby is taking the girls to VBS this morning to ease up my drive downtown a bit, should be nice! Looking forward to the visit...just need to get a few more things ready and we'll hit the road. Sharon from People will be there again today, so it will be nice to chat with her again.

Oh--and in important People Magazine news...I actually do have a trial subscription in place at the moment so I am technically getting the magazine. I think I'll be re-upping though ;)

Happy Day friends ~

More details on our People Interview/Photoshoot--when I'm not so tired!

2009-08-05T16:22:00.000-04:00

First--many of you have asked about the issue we'll be in. Nothing is set yet~I'll keep everyone posted though :)

B's assessment/Kennedy Krieger Institute: The day started yesterday as smoothly as could be--everyone up, fed, and ready to rock. I LOVE when the days start like that! Hubby's mom was here to be w/ A & C and get them off to Vacation Bible School safely while Hubby and I went along to KKI w/ B. It was a little overwhelming seeing some of the photographic equipment--the rooms at KKI's REACH center are small and down a winding hallway. We were greeted by Dr. Rebecca Landa (love her!) and the wonderful gals at KKI (love them!)--and introduced to Sharon Cotliar from People and Ray and Brian, the photographer and assistant, respectively. (they were good to us--very patient ans sweet w/ the kids) Things got rolling w/ B's assessment but it quickly turned into a photo shoot. It was great though--I've spent so much time over the last 5 years in those testing rooms at KKI, and while I love doing it all and participating in the research--it can be a bit nervewracking!! The shoot made it fun and lighthearted, which I liked. B did really well on one of the assessment tasks--what a sweet thing to see him making the social connections so crucial to every day life! Made my heart sing! During part of the assessment Dr. Landa became concerned about some of B's motor skills and she mentioned this to Hubby and to me as well. While it's always a shock or blow to hear that there is or may be something wrong with your child, I have to say I'd rather know than not know. I will call Infants and Toddlers--if nothing else they will come here to the house, spend some time doing some developmental testing, and reassure me. If something is wrong--we get the earliest possible start on early intervention. Really no downside, the best that I can see.

The Photoshoot: We had a nice break in between B's assessment/Photo Shoot part 1 and Photo Shoot part 2 so Hubby and I were thrilled to actually sit down and eat lunch--alone!! yay :) B was sound asleep from his morning of hard work and Grandma hadn't returned with the girls from VBS. I was a little concerned when Ray and Brian showed up right as Grandma and A & C returned, but they were just making sure they could find our house and said they'd return in an hour. It gave us enough time to finish lunches, feed the girls, and start dressing and primping. A kept asking about whether she'd get 'hair & make up' :) too cute!! On Monday night I became a little freaked out that I didn't have the proper clothing for all 5 of us--Olga Camacho, Photo Editor at People, was kind enough to email me some guidelines for color choices. It helped!! (I went off to buy a LOT of clothing that night...I think I helped JC Penney's 3rd quarter sales quota...) We were all decked out in our coordinating attire in time for the fun to begin. There were a lot of pictures taken~I couldn't even begin to guess how many, but lots of smiles. Of course A & C were giggling themselves to death because we allowed them to say potty words the entire time. Instead of your traditional "say cheese" there was a lot of the more non-traditional "doggy poop kitty butt." Great. This'll come back to haunt us. I'm sure of it. However--Ray seemed to thing things were turning out well, so fingers are crossed that the bad words will be forgotten (yeah, right) and that pics in the mag will be delightful. It was a little weird being on our front porch with lights rigged up on our front yard for pictures...I'm intensely curious to see how our house looks--I know not much of the house is in the pictures, but somehow I think it will look different in these pictures. As Ray and Brian were finishing up their work Sharon and Elise from KKI arrived. Elise (Media Relations for KKI) dropped Sharon to us and went on her way and we sat in Todd's office to start talking. And talk we did--for hours!! I was surprised and impressed with how much time it took, and more surprised at just how fatigued I was after it was done. It was really like re-living A's early years, so it was a little surreal thinking back to the times when she couldn't communicate. Lots of great memories were re-lived though. I do look back on those years and know that they shaped me as a mommy. They certainly shaped how Hubby and I work as a team. (well -that and having 2 more kids...) After the interview was over we got Sharon a cab to the train station and let Grandma go home too. We all put in a LONG day!! Dinner was leftover pizza and then snowballs for dessert. It was an early night too--kids to bed regular time and then we went to bed at 9. I don't even remember turning the lights out--or my head hitting the pillow.

Tomorrow I have to take B back to KKI for the 2nd part of the assessment. I'm a little nervous I guess--knowing that there is definitely something everyone is looking for, but I'm also very excited at the same time. Sharon indicated she may be back tomorrow just to quietly observe the tests, but there won't be any photographing going on...at least not the kind meant for the shiny pages of People Magazine! (Is it Friday yet?? I can't wait to get my newest copy...)

Today was the big photoshoot and interview for People Magazine!

2009-08-04T20:37:00.000-04:00

We. Are. Tired.

We had a great day though--in all seriousness. The day started with B's 6 month testing at Kennedy Krieger, which was less about testing and more about the photoshoot. B handled it well I think, considering he had lots of unfamiliar people and cameras in his face all morning. One of the tasks he did really well at, the other showed he could have some motor delays. We're certainly concerned--but at this point it's really unconclusive. We'll continue to have these tests every few months, and I'll call our county's Infant & Toddler program to evaluate B's development. We had such a good experience with I & T when A was a toddler and our motto pretty much goes, "if you have a concern at all--call!!"

The photo shoot was sort of surreal...you see photoshoots here and there on tv or something and then when it's in your house it feels sort of like its not your house! We got many, many family shots in our family room on our sofa and then some shots on our front porch also. Most were family shots of all 5 of us, some were just of Hubby, B and me. There were a few taken with just B & me too. I don't think we'll see most of them, just what gets in the actual article...I'm just not sure how all of that works! I would love to see them....

We had a very nice afternoon with Sharon Cotliar, the reporter from People. She was at KKI this morning for the testing with Dr. Landa and REACH staff and then came to our house after our photos were done. I was very nervous about this interview...nervous that I would say something and it would be misinterpreted somehow in print. Of course it'll be a few weeks until it's published--but we've come away from the afternoon feeling pretty postitive. Sharon asked really good questions about A's diagnosis, her early years, her school experiences, etc. We talked about B and the testing today. I loved that Sharon let us talk--sometimes I felt like I was rambling about my answers, but she was more than patient about it and seemed to really 'get' what I was talking about The message I really wanted to relay through Sharon's article is how important Early Intervention is when there are developmental delays. Children learn and grow so much in their first 3 years and it is a limited window of time, yet one where so much good can be done!

I'm so tired...I feel like I'm not writing well--and feel a little overwhelmed. I want to write more about this topic, Early Intervention I mean. It has made such a difference in our lives! Good night all :)

Date Night!!!!!

2009-08-02T20:25:00.000-04:00

I have to admit that this is the true reason I wanted to start blogging. Date night is my FAVORITE :) :)

Oh--I promise this will be G-rated...not to worry my friends!! heehee...

I truly believe that date nights are CRUCIAL to my marriage--and I sing their praises and wish that all my married buddies would have date nights too! This is a very simple thing...kids in bed, dinner for hubby and me, and a nice evening for the two of us. And Scrabble. Our date nights usually involve Scrabble! I don't exactly remember why Scrabble came into the equation...but it's a mainstay around here. The last few date nights were spent watching, marathon-style, episodes of Mad Men Seasons 1 & 2. Regardless of the evening's activities--it's always such a treat. I figured I would share our menu too--perhaps some of you can have a date night too!! Let me know :)

One bottle of Yellowtail Wine (any kind!) $7
One package/can of Pillsbury Italian Country Bread (under $3)
One package of a precooked "skillet meal" (found in the frozen section of any grocery store) $5-$8)
One package of Hershey's Bliss Dark Chocolates ($4)

So for $20 we had a GREAT night--it wasn't 'regular' food at home, it felt special and tasted great!! We even sit at the 'little table' in our breakfast nook instead of the family sized table in the dining room--just more intimate I guess. It reminds me of Panera actually...a little bistro-sized table for two people.

Oh--and I did all of this within my Weight Watchers plan--and still managed to have a loss this week!! Whoohoo--I'm down a total of 17.6lbs so far! :)

Have a date night folks--I can't wait to hear about it~

Omigosh, Omigosh....People Magazine WANTS us!!

2009-07-31T17:49:00.000-04:00

Breathe...Breathe...

I don't even know where to start--this story alone could be another blog in and of itself!

People Magazine (yes...only my most favorite magazine of ALLLLL time) is doing a story on early detection of autism in infants and we have been chosen to be featured! It just so happens that our wonderful little B is the perfect age for the first part of the testing. He is 6 months old--and that is when they start this study with participating infants. We also did (and continue to do) this with C since she was 6 months old. I'll try to elaborate fully--if I can gather my frantic thoughts. OMG!!! They want us!!

I got off the phone with the photo editor of PEOPLE MAGAZINE about an hour or so ago. Before that I was on the phone with Elise, the head of media relations at Kennedy Krieger Institute, here in Baltimore. www.kennedykrieger.org We have dealt with public relations stuff at KKI for a while now because our oldest, A, is a poster child for the institute. We were lucky enough to have her participate in a research study at the age of 2 on early intervention for toddlers with an autism spectrum disorder--for her it opened doors that we were afraid would be closed her whole life!! Because of that study and the hard work of all the wondeful staff at Kennedy Krieger we have a wondeful, healthy, happy, and normal 6 year old daughter. If KKI asked us to paint ourselves in polka dots and wave at people along I-95, we'd probably do it! So--this seems like a small way to give back to the place that gave us so much. (and no body paint involved...yippeeee!!)

I had the hardest time trying to reach Hubby to tell him he must be home for the photo shoot! I finally reached him via email and his return email response was a simple one-liner. "Holy Shit" Yes, Hubby-dear--that was pretty much my reaction too!!!

Did I mention that People Magazine is like my most favorite magazine ever??? EVER?? This is a magazine that I read cover to cover. I have a rule--that I can't read ahead--I start at the cover and literally go forward from there--until I reach, sadly, the last page. Earlier this year (late last year maybe?) I came to a very difficult decision...(those who know me agree this was hard!) I decided with the impending birth of little B that I would GIVE UP my subscription. (gasp!) I know, I know...but it IS a pricey mag and we had some big expenses coming up!! I gave it up, only reading occasionally when I could part with a few extra dollars in the checkout line at the grocery store! *Lately--with the Jon & Kate "saga" I've been tempted to re-up...and just last week Hubby came home with the latest copy of the magazine, just because he knew it would cement him in history as the best husband ever. (love you, babe!) Oh man...I can't even think straight.

So--that is my story for now, stay tuned!!! OMG...so excited!!

I think I must just be mental

2009-07-31T10:33:00.000-04:00

Why IS it that I feel good--really, really good--when I get up and get cleaning? I feel great right now! Dishes put away, sink empty, third load of laundry is in the washer, the first load folded and put away, the beds all made, the upstairs all vacuumed and put together.... Is it the sense of accomplishment? (yay me) Is it the feeling of checking all the tasks off my invisible list? (good thought) Is it sitting in a clean house? (must be part of it)

Another why... WHY, then, doesn't this inspire me to do this more often? I spend no fewer than 4 out of 7 days in an utter and complete chaos because I don't wake up and get this stuff done. Sure..sometimes that isn't of my doing, sometimes I do actually have to take care of the children, but seriously...why can't I just get with the program? It is 10:38 on a summer Friday morning, I'm sitting in the breakfast nook (I love typing that...breakfast nook--ain't it cute?) sipping lemonade and typing away. This is grand!! On a non-get-up-and-clean-day I'd be running around (as my mother would say) like a chicken with its head cut off. Now--I feel I actually CAN sit and work (play) on my computer.

On a very happy note, only an hour 'til I get to go to the gym!!!! Yay for Anna the babysitter :)

So I think I traumatized my 3 year old...

2009-07-30T22:27:00.000-04:00

I read an article in the current Parents Magazine about the "Cleanup Fairy." It was written by a genius-woman as far as I can tell!! As soon as I put down the magazine I told A & C that they must clean up their toys before naptime or else the Cleanup Fairy would come and take away anything left on the floor. They both scoffed at me...so off to nap they both went. HA!! I will win this battle. Once they were in their respective rooms (C in her room, A in the basement playroom) I went to work, trash bag in hand. Now I must admit there wasn't THAT much on the floor. Mostly pieces of a silly puzzle that was a prize in a fast food meal...so, nothing important. A few other little things, but seriously--nothing 'big.' A few hours later when A came up from the basement it was as if nothing happened. Didn't phase her for a moment. When C came down the steps after her nap--she walked into the family room and her jaw dropped--rather it hit the floor. The sheer fright on her face was enough to make me smile....(evil!) but I kept a straight face and asked what was wrong. "The Kweenup Faiwy wuz heah...she took aw my toys!" It was pretty great, I must say. The rest of the afternoon passed by smoothly--with toys gotten off of a shelf, but returned as well. Yay--score one for the Mommy!! Then came bedtime... Tonight was Family Movie Night--so bedtime was a tad bit late. OK...really late, 9:30. To my kids this is like 4am to us grownups. There were maybe 2 little toys on the floor and I gently reminded Cassie to clean them up before going up the steps to bed. She FREAKED OUT!! "No, no Kweenup Faiwy...no, don't take owah stuff..." She began picking up shoes and pillows and anything not nailed down--just afraid that the Cleanup Fairy would take it. She was beyond exhausted, so I helped her calm down and just told her what a good job she did. She really did--and if she 'gets' it and this whole Cleanup Fairy thing works...even with ONE of my kids, that is great. I just hope I don't have to pull one of our old lines out if it doesn't. It was the old "if you don't listen to Mommy and Daddy, you'll have to go live with a new family now" threat. She may really go and pack a suitcase! Oh well....another day in Paradise :)

Bummer...No Friday dinner :(

2009-07-30T13:20:00.000-04:00

We realized last night that we have baseball tickets for tomorrow evening and we couldn't score a cheap (read: Free) sitter. Hubby will take C to the game and they'll have a Daddy/Daughter date. No yummy dinner and wine.. I'll probably have a Hot Pocket and a Coke. Sad, I know. I know that C will be thrilled to go with Hubby all by herself. She is such a spitfire, but can be so easy to take places. We'll see... I'll just be home with 2 kids. Seems like a real vacation to me~

I didn't want to wash those jeans yet!

2009-07-29T21:45:00.000-04:00

OK, so I know that having a 3 year old is a mess-waiting-to-happen. I really do GET this. And C...my beautiful, sweet, girl is a MESS. I swear she oozes goo even while in the bathtub. But tonight--she pee'd on me. Not on purpose of course...but she, well...er--had to go urgently. Instead of going in the toilet it shot out clearly at me and my just-out-of-the-wash jeans. You know the ones....the ones you wear a few times to get them feeling 'right.' I was not ready to wash them!!! Of course I freaked out (bad mommy moment). Poor C, she just wailed and said she was very "sowwy." I felt awful, I know she didn't pee on my jeans out of maliciousness...but still--they were just out of the wash. As she ascended the stairs for bedtime a few moments after the incident she says to me, "Mommy, there is no pee pee left tonight." Well isn't that cute. Of course there's no pee pee left. It's all on my freakin' jeans.

Paradise, I tell ya. ;)

Thinking about Friday's dinner--already...

2009-07-29T14:32:00.000-04:00

This is the point in the week where I start to think about what Hubby and I will eat on Date Night. This is pretty much an every weekend thing--unless we're out on a 'real' date or have some other event going on. This really started to save money on going out to eat so much. Before C and B were born, back when we were just naive parents of one, we probably went out once or twice a month. Of course babysitting was easy to come by too. Anyway--back to the point. The kids go to bed at that cherished 7:00 pm and we have a nice meal. Always includes appetizers...usually a salad and an entree. And wine. Here is where we could run up a bill--but generally we have found some pretty good, inexpensive ones!! Mostly they are under $15 and some even under $10. They are really good!!! I'll try to post them on here to share. Anyway--the other thing I consider with our meal is Weight Watchers. I've been doing really well on WW this spring & summer and I don't want a Date Night to throw that off! I've lost 16 lbs to date since the end of March, and 25 since January when dear little B was born. Yay Me! I'm thinking we should do some bread and olive oil, some salad, and maybe some grilled chicken. Oh--and one of my FAVORITE desserts isn't really a dessert at all...red wine and dark chocolates. Ummmm.....such a great flavor combo!!! Oh man...now I'm hungry.

Can't get started today

2009-07-29T10:42:00.000-04:00

Our house normally runs with the efficicency of Hubby. He's great--truly he is! He is perhaps the most efficient person on earth. I sort of hate him for this, but for the most part it does keep our lives in relative order. Hey, everyone's gotta be good at something, right? 7:00 am is wake up time, dressing and bedmaking, pottying and all of that--and then we all descend the stairs to breakfast, babyfeeding, getting ready for school or work, or errands, or whatever. By 8:30 we're all ready for the day. Oy...I'm tired just typing all of that!!

We are now in that period of summer when A's summer camp is over--vacation is still a few weeks away--and we have no real place to be. I love this. LOVE THIS. I keep saying we're going to go the library, but that would require feeding B his bottle and jar of mush and getting C out of her VeggieTales shirt. She's only worn it for 3 days straight...by no means a record. A of course is ready to walk out the door, but she's got a lot of Hubby's efficiency running through her. I would need to get dressed. Blah...it feels better to just sit here at home. I love home.

Bills. I hate bills. Just wanted to throw that in.

Day One--Introduction!!

2009-07-29T10:01:00.000-04:00

If paradise is defined as a blissful place, then I must say I have arrived. Let me explain...

I'm not on a white sand beach sipping a tropical tantalizing treat. I'm not watching the waves roll in. I'm not wearing a terry cloth robe ( or towel!) while a whitecoated masseuse performs his magic. While all of that would be nice--my paradise is my life.

OK...more explaining!! I sit on a stained plaid sofa that has lost it's cushiony softness. My feet walk over carpet that crunches under my feet--the remains of yesterday's (or last week's...) cheerios or granola bars. I sit listening to VeggieTales movies that would make most people stick pencils in their ears. I can recite the THEME SONG to VeggieTales. I get excited about poop. When a ponytail stays in all day, despite running, sweating, or pulling at it--I am thrilled! Yes...thrilled! When a jar of babyfood is all gone and the remains of it are dripping down the baby's chin--I'm elated. Buying school supplies creates in me a feeling of purpose and urgency. Grocery shopping by myself sometimes feels like a real vacation. Finding a sale on toilet paper simply makes my day. Wearing a spit up stainded shirt does not bother me. I am Mommy, hear me roar.

Now that you know that much--you must know the rest. I live for 7:00 pm. It's more powerful than chocolate--and believe me, that is saying something!!! It's that magical hour when the kids go to sleep and Hubby and I get to spend the evening together. With each child we've had this time is more and more crucial to our existence. Whether it's sitting on our opposite sofas reading, watching a game on tv, or reading, or talking, or eating our famous "after the kids go to bed" meals....it is pure bliss to me. Sometimes I feel like I'm not one person--that I am the mommy person from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm and from 7:00 pm to 7:00 am I'm the wifey person. And that is ok...I like it that way :) As I said before--I have arrived. Paradise is great, baby.