When, When, When?

When will my boys learn, that if they want to wake up with "nice mommy", the first number on the clock better not be a 5, or heaven forbid, a 4?!
Even going to bed at a reasonable hour (me), it's not a decent time for a 6 & 3 year old to wake up for the day. Then come to the breakfast table STARVING and all giggly.
At that hour, the mommy loses her ability to see any cuteness. Tolerance is left in the bed, where all 3 bodies should be SLEEPING.

The thing is, no matter how late Aidan stays up, he's up by about 6:30. Even on his Scouts camping trip, the kid was up til almost midnight, and still awake before 7 the next day. I don't get it. I love sleep.

Today it was Brennan, though. AHGH!! I guess I'd rather it be Brennan, because I don't have to worry about him behaving at school all day. Still, I DO have to be with him all day, and today, that may not be easy....

Another WHEN answered: Back around Labor Day we put down the deposit for our bath/shower to be redone. It's badly needed, with water damage on the drywall behind the existing cheap liner (thanks to the previous owners whom I curse). Because our house settled unevenly, the store-bought DIY kits wouldn't work. And because we have a cast-iron tub that weighs over 500 pounds, my pregnant self wouldn't be much help with the project.
So here we are, having waited since early September, and it's finally time for our bathroom to get worked on. Today the workers arrive around 9, and they should be finished tomorrow. I am very ready for this!

Workers being here means Brennan & I are stuck at home all day. And with only one bathroom in the house, and said bathroom being worked on, it could be a LONG day. I am hoping it goes as smoothly as possible.

Mark My Words

Easy enough to do since they're in print right here. ;)

There are some books I've flirted with, borrowing them from the library. I've decided that borrowing them is just not good enough. As I continue to evolve into the type of mother I want to be, these are books I just need to own. I think as we face different stages in our boys' lives, we will want to refer to these books again & again, reading them in a different light.

So here they are. From what I have read, I highly recommend these books:

Boys Should Be Boys.  #1 on my list, for sure. I had renewed this several times, but ran out of that option. SUCH a good book. Keeps me in perspective. (also recommended by Dave Ramsey)

This one I have not read, but learned of from the Manic Mommies. I heard their interview with the author one podcast last summer, I believe. I don't see myself agreeing with 100% of the book, but most of it I was nodding my head and mentally shouting "yes!". I also follow the author on Twitter; I suggest it!

This last book on my current list isn't one specifically geared for parenting, but in our quest to raise our kids to live a debt-free lifestyle, I view it as significant. 

Obviously this is another Dave Ramsey recommendation. :) I think if we learn more of the techniques/disciplines in this book, we can apply them to our own life, being a better example to Aidan & Brennan. As one reviewer wrote, "Creating wealth is sort of like dieting.Everybody wants the end result but the discipline to achieve that result is usually lacking.Oh, if only there were a magic pill that you could take to lose weight or to create wealth without changing your habits. "

 I know how long it took me to change my dietary habits...I better start now on this financial book!

As I improve my own future, I feel I am improving my family's future, too.

So mark my words! If by Christmas I have not bought these books for myself, (and you remember;), shout out to me, and they will be what I ask for. I do hope to have purchased them by then, though.

Have you read any of these? What books are on your list?

Do You See the Boat?

It may look like a blanket, but it's not.

It's Brennan's boat, and he's on the Maumee River.

He carefully set up his passengers, brought toys & books for them, and together

we travled on his boat.

We went along the Maumee River, seeing deer, and ducks,

and throwing batarangs at the Joker.

(gotta keep the passengers safe)

I love this about my little boy. 

My boys' imaginations take us places out of the ordinary.

Some days that is just a blanket, but many days, it is a boat.

Ahoy!

Something is Missing

A tooth!!

We didn't even know one was loose!
We were enjoying dinner when Aidan kind of pulled something from his mouth. The expression on his face made you think maybe a hair was in his mouth or something.

Sure enough, he lost his first tooth!
There was a little blood, and I quickly made Pat check Aidan's mouth (loose teeth seriously gross me out).
You can already see the 2 adult teeth coming in! The one next to the one that came out is pretty loose, too.

We had no clue! I am so shocked, and as a parent, not prepared at all for this milestone.
I never thought it'd be a "big" one, but holy moly, there is ADULT stuff in my boy's body!
Physical proof he's growing up!

I asked him if he knew one was loose, and he just shrugged & replied "nope!', happy as can be.
I was thinking we'd have at least a few months before this. He hasn't even started kindergarten yet!
I just can't believe it. And yes, you'll be hearing me say that a lot, but I just can't help it.
I'm looking at my Aidan, and all I can think is that he's growing up so fast.
He's making this momma step back and desperately want to slow it all down, or maybe just hit the PAUSE button for a bit.

Right away he went to put the tooth under his pillow.
What do you suppose the tooth fairy leaves for the first lost tooth these days, anyway?

Preschool Graduation!

My baby has completed preschool!!!
Aidan's graduation was just too cute yesterday. I am so very pleased with his preschool. Every ounce of me is happy with sending him there. It was a great experience, great environment, and he loved it all.
He never cried, never wanted to stay home, never had to come home from school...I am so grateful he loves school. I feel like we hit the jackpot!

They did a fantastic job with the graduation. I'm probably posting too many pictures for your interest, but that's the risk you take coming to my blog. ;)

We had fun getting ready at home, very happy to see Pat's mom, sister, and her 3 kids come down, and surprised by some things during graduation.

They had a guest speaker! Totally didn't expect that one. Our city's mayor came and gave a speech. It was very cute. After that the students did the Pledge, then sang America, the Beautiful! It was adorable. They sang some more songs, then one class received their diplomas, then Aidan's class. I can honestly say I held up better than I expected. It's just something to learn as a parent: each milestone your child reaches, it's a bittersweet growing pain for you. It's deep.

And now the endless pictures!

Aidan & Brennan before going to school

the cupcakes

Aidan with his teacher

the sign Brennan & I made
table w/ the book his preschool sent home (that was the real tear jerker)
It's dark, but this is his group before walking down the aisle to Pomp & Circumstance

DRUM ROLL....







THE GRADUATE!

His class listening to the mayor


Good shot of Aidan
His classReceiving his diploma!


Back in the classroom, cutting loose
Aidan & his cousin Mercy at the sanctuary where graduation was held
Back home for the "party", holding his newest cousin, Luciano

A lot of pictures! It was a great day and we're very proud of him.
It's not just the fact that he went to preschool. It's the fact that he went so bravely, from day one, eager and ready to learn.
From day one he has constantly reached out to the other kids to develop friendships.
He spent many hours drawing pictures and making cards for classmates, teachers...
He developed his first true friendships, had play dates without me there...

My once colicky baby is 5 years old, and he has grown so much. He grew so much this year, and has matured.
I love you, Aidan!

First Field Trip!

One month into preschool and Aidan went on his first field trip!
His class went to a local historical estate (The 577 Foundation). Their weekly theme was Long Ago in Ohio, so this place was perfect.
They went inside a real log cabin (built over 100 years ago), saw how the pioneers went to the bathroom (in a bowl!), observed bees making honey, pottery and the tools to make it, fed fish inside the biodome, played in a tee pee, tree house, put on a puppet show, and enjoyed the children's corn maze. It was a fun time for them! (and a very long hour! lol)







It was quite the different feeling going on a field trip as a parent. My only experience was on the teacher end. I found it to be equally as exhausting. ;) I also learned that Aidan finds it hard to listen to me when he is around his teacher and classmates. I'm sure his excitement had something to do with that, but it was still frustrating.
Another thing I learned was that he's one of the only kids in his class that did not go to preschool last year. I feel like it sort of places him at a slight disadvantage because he is not used to the routine and classroom environment, but I don't regret not sending him, either. Three is still young!

They already have another field trip in 2 weeks-this time to the pumpkin patch! I'm more excited about this one, and Pat & Brennan are coming, too. You can count on pictures.

Happy Friday! Have a good weekend. :)

"The Talk": Teaching Stranger Danger to Your Kids

This is something that has really been weighing heavily on my heart lately.

We all want to protect our kids. It's a scary fact that we can't always be there to make sure our own kids are safe from dangers, especially child-predators and pedophiles.

Perhaps I watch too many episodes of Law&Order or Without A Trace, but unfortunately, I don't think that's the case. It's a very real threat out there to our children's safety.

I think it's striking me most right now because, for the first time, Aidan is going to be completely with other adults-alone-for roughly 9 hours a week. While I trust the preschool we have selected, there is no 100% guarantee any where. It is not only our right, but also our duty and obligation to teach our kids about "stranger danger" and protection. I admit, I fear I may not be up to the task and offer Aidan as much as he needs to know. I hope so, but that fear still lingers that I will fail him.

So what have I done to prepare?

First let me ask you-- what do you when covering this topic with your family?

It has been a gradual process with us. I've looked into some aids to give me ideas.

One of the first things suggested to me (by other moms) was the book Protecting the Gift by Gavin de Becker. I checked it out from our library but never finished it. I really need to. I was impressed with what I had read.

From this book one thing stuck out to me. If you're child gets lost in a store, it may not always be the best advice to teach them to go to the store security, or even an employee. While an employee would be a good choice, another better choice would be to go to another mom with her kids. It may sound stereotypical, but these are facts based on statistics and years of studies done on criminals. The thought is that a mother (especially with her own children present) is more likely to help the child, knowing firsthand just how scary of a situation this could be. Up until reading that, we told Aidan to go to someone working in the store. Now we say find a mom-if you can't find a mom, then go to an employee (and a girl employee over boy employee).

Oh, also, naturally your child would call out "MOM!" or "DAD!". Encourage them to call out your actual names instead. It supposedly makes the child less of a target, and you, as the parent, have a better chance to respond promptly.

My most recent aid was purchasing a DVD. We just bought Stranger Safety, which was created by the founder of Baby Einstein and host of America's Most Wanted. Yesterday we watched it for the first time. The main character was a bit of a spaz, but it really held your attention. Just keep in mind the targeted age range. ;) Aidan really enjoyed it, and he seemed to take a lot in from it. Overall I recommend it! Oh, and on the plus side, their website offers free downloads with lesson plans and a review of the DVD, should you want that to reiterate with your son/daughter.

Lastly I've been reading valuable info online. Some sites worth checking:

My Precious Kid (DVD also sold here)

National Crime Prevention Council (parents' section) (also, you can order for free trading cards)

National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (I linked to the resource page--free printables/tips for parents)

After watching that DVD and reading some tips, we're working with Aidan to memorize our phone number. He knows the first 6 digits very well, and almost the rest. He has known our first names, and now knows to yell "You're not my MOM!" (or dad) if need be. He knows what he should do if we get separated in a store. He knows our first names and last names. He can name at least 6 adults who we designate as "safe" for him. Yesterday I also showed him some defense moves he could use if someone was holding him or grabbing him (kicking, biting, etc).

We still have much to work on, but I'm hoping this is a good start.

Sorry this is such a long post. Given the topic, I just didn't see how I could cut something out. It seems to important.

Please leave me a comment if you think of something I'm missing with Aidan!

A Friday Funny

This makes me think of Aidan.

He often says such things. Especially now that we're seeing Brennan do and say more, Aidan is hearing of when he started doing those things.

I'll be doing something, and he'll look at me and say "I remember doing that when my been little".
I just want to squeeze him and tell him to slow down...he doesn't need to grow up so fast.
But he is.
He even is big enough now where he'll say something "creeps him out" or something is "freaky".

They sure grow up quickly.

Back from Vacation, Part 2: (LONG post)

Normally when I think "Michigan", I think of Detroit and the
crazy metropolitan area. Busy roads full of potholes, mini mall after mini mall, and excessive signs for donuts, pop, and lotto.

It felt like an entirely different state up north.
It's calm. Slower. Smoother. Prettier. Nicer. Friendlier.
It's a place I grew very fond of last week, and no blog post can accurately describe how nice of a trip it was for us.

Let me start with the drive up.
We made decent timing. We left around 8-something Wednesday morning, and got to the cabin around 4:15. That included 2 bathroom stops and an hour-long lunch break. Not bad for traveling with 2 kids.

After lunch Aidan fell asleep in the car (good boy). Brennan did not appreciate that, seeing as Aidan was Brennan's entertainment. He cracked me up. He insisted on bugging Aidan and trying to wake him. It was hilarious. That determined little toddler was doing everything in his reach to pester Aidan (literally).
Once I completed my obligation of snatching the picture of little brother aggravating big brother, I had the audacity to make Brennan stop so Aidan could stay asleep.
The result? A tantrum with crying. (like I'm the only parent that takes pictures of my kids crying...)

Other than Brennan entertaining us, we were amused by several other things along the drive:
-"Bears crossing" sign. Oh yeah. For real. We drove through a National Forest and saw a few "Bears Crossing" signs.
-Intelligent signs that read "Do not pass when opposing traffic present". Gee, thanks. Good to know.
-Oh, and Brennan gagging himself. He's discovered he can stick his fingers down his throat & cause a weird feeling, & even stranger sound. You look at him and he just looks pitiful, gagging himself, red in the face, eyes watering. Yet when I pull his fingers out, he gets mad. Then sticks them right back in. Sure enough he made himself throw up a little in the car.

By the time we got there we were all ready to get out of the car.
The remainder of Wednesday we enjoyed just being at the cabin and visiting with Patrick's grandparents. They grilled out an awesome steak dinner for us, we watched the sunset over Lake Michigan, and did not miss the plug-ins. (yup, we were "unplugged"...no TV, Internet, or cell phone reception).

Thursday morning started off so nicely. It was so cool we needed jackets. Aidan wore his new hoodie, and he transformed into Lightning McQueen. He was pretending the fence was his racetrack, and spent about an hour zooming around.
After Brennan's nap we went into town and hit the beach. The boys were apprehensive of the lake at first, but once Aidan saw other kids, he was well on his way (with his Lightning McQueen shovel, of course).

This beach was perfect. The water temperature was relaxing, and this beach stayed shallow for a decent stretch. I didn't have to worry about Aidan getting in over his head at all. I loved that beach. They swam, played in the sand, watched the boats, and then we finished it off by walking through the town and getting some Super Man ice cream.

These boys were exhausted by the time we got home. They slept well that night.

Friday we headed into Leland, aka Fishtown. This is one of my favorite places.
They each picked out their souvenirs here, we ate a nice lunch, bought post cards, etc. It's a gorgeous little scenic town. So many boats, The Dam Candy Store, the smell of fudge...what's not to love?

For dinner that night we were invited to join Pat's grandparents & parents at Knot Just a Bar restaurant, which is overlooking Lake Michigan.
On the way there we drove past this super tiny airport, and sure enough, we were able to watch a real small plane land! The boys thought that was so cool (and it was).After the restaurant we made another stop at Peterson Park. We made it just before the rain poured down. This was not really a swimming beach, but it sure was a great one for throwing rocks.

I just couldn't stop smiling watching Aidan throw rocks into the lake.
His world was perfect at that moment. He had his daddy & mommy there, baby brother; he was outside in the fresh, cool air, facing Lake Michigan and throwing rocks. No other cares. No traffic to hear. No phone ringing. No TV to tempt us.
I suppose it was perfect at that moment for all of us.

Saturday was the day of the family reunion. It was for Pat's grandmother's immediate family. She is one of 9 children. This was huge. There were over 100 people there!
I have to add a quick side note about her family: Pat's grandma is a twin. She & her twin brother are the oldest. Her mother had another set of twins following this set of twins.Crazy! Two sets of twins in a row. Can you imagine? 4 kids under 3?!

We didn't stay at the reunion very long. It was not a very easy place with two little ones.
We headed into Traverse City-downtown. I tell you, downtown TC is much nicer than expected! Decent size, plenty of shops & restaurants...it was fun.

The first thing we did was ride on a train. There was a nice park at the Marina, and an old zoo train went all through it. Aidan & Brennan could not have been happier. It just gave me goosebumps.

We walked through downtown and ate dinner at Pangea's pizza place. It was some of the best pizza I have ever had. Yum! Following dinner we walked off some of our gut, hitting a few shops. I got a great deal on a fall jacket/raincoat for Aidan (picture to come tomorrow), as well as a hoodie for me. :)

Sunday left no time other than for packing. We packed up and bid a sad farewell to the cabin.
We drove back into TC and went to Mass (at the church where Pat was Baptized, actually), then had lunch with Pat's parents. The drive home took much longer. The boys were crabby and did not sleep as we expected. Plus we were all missing the cabin. Aidan has asked many times already if we can go back.

It was a great time. We all got some sun, and best of all, time away from all the business of our daily life. I really thought I'd miss the TV and computer, but I didn't. We visited with family and each other. It was so peaceful.

4th of July

How did you spend the 4th?

We had a nice day, just the four of us. My husband finally had a full day off again (it was nearly 4 weeks this time since a full day off), and we really just enjoyed staying around our area, enjoying time together as a family.

Because it rained on his birthday, we wound up doing something Pat has been wanting to do for a while now: go on this really nice, long bike path. It was his birthday plan, so I was in no position to say no. ;)

I was skeptical of going, for two main reasons:
1.) I had never done the bike w/ the baby seat, nor had Brennan ever been on a bike ride.
2.) I knew it would be a long ride.

It turned out to be a great time, though. Within 2 minutes I was comfortable biking with Brennan, and he loved it. I had him on the bike with me, and Pat had Aidan in the trailer on his bike.

The weather was perfect. It was actually cool enough for the boys to need long sleeves. The path was so scenic and shaded. All in all, we biked roughly 11 miles. That may be normal for some people, but not me! My bum was sore from the seat. (still is)

Here is some of the scenery we saw on our bike ride: (notice Brennan fell asleep)
After the bike ride, we hit Subway and took the lunch with us to a nearby park, making it a picnic lunch. Aidan thought that was cool. The boys loved playing, acting like they hadn't just been outside for over two hours.

We headed home, assuming our exhausted little men would take decent naps. Ha! Brennan did, but Aidan never fell asleep. (I know. Crazy) At least he settled down and played quietly.

Next we ran to the store to get some things, fed the boys dinner, then sent them off to dreamland.

Fighting our tiredness, Pat and I watched I Am Legend. The movie was different than I expected, but pretty good. (I didn't realize it was another zombie-type movie). We enjoyed it, but I didn't think it was as good as others said. (For the zombie movies, I still think 28 Days Later was best). Will Smith is a great actor, though. And I might add, some decent eye candy, too.

That was our 4th in a nutshell. Last year we went to our first Mud Hens game, and I got a cute picture of the boys together. I'm ending with a comparison. Can you believe how much a year changes kids?

Hope you had a nice holiday as well!