Journal: preschool for Clem

TODAY

Out my window: nice. nice nice.  The deck door is open at 5PM letting fresh air in!!!  This has me so ready for Spring, but everyone I talk to seems to insinuate I'm crazy for not thinking we have more Winter ahead of us.  People!!  Whatever the case may be, I am very grateful for the outdoor play this little break in the cold weather has afforded us.  Winter (or the children) may not kill me after all.  We shall see...

 

Around the house: I decided it was time for Clem to start Letter of the Week preschool at home with me.  Both other kids started the September they were 3, but Clem is six months behind them with his Summer birthday and just didn't seem ready this past fall.  Lately, though, it has been apparent that he would probably get a lot out of it so I decided (semi on a whim) this past Monday to go for it and he really loves it so far!  I am going a little non-traditional though and we're not doing ABC order.  Gemma was appalled.  I have used this handwriting book (highly recommend) with all three kids, and by he time they started it (in their 4s) I thought they were all just a little too old for it, so I went ahead and started it now with Clem and we'll use it for our LotW guide.  He already loves and is very familiar with the wood pieces, so adding the book is a very natural next step.  It introduces the letters in order of ease in writing them.  Vertical and horizontal lines, then curves, then diagonals, etc.  Our first four weeks are L, F, E and H.  I may or may not have picked up over 30 books from the library this afternoon.  I LOVE any excuse I can find to check out good books, and this is a great one!  Checking out ones for him to enjoy as well as ones geared more towards the older kids.  Good times. Picture books are my favorite.

 

The kiddos:  Well, I'd say I updated on Clem enough above!  He had his 3.5 year old pictures taken (see side-bar), and for whatever reason has (finally!!) decided he is no longer two and has started telling people, "well, you know, I'm three-and-a-half now."  Funny kid.

Gemma is preparing to make her First Reconciliation next week!  So exciting!  Helping her prepare has really helped re-orient my relationship with this Sacrament as well.  It's been good.

Kolbe seems to have leveled out after getting all the bad holiday and birthday food out of his system.  We are back to being fairly careful with his diet and just realizing that occasionally (especially with school-related events. and holidays.) he just takes a hit.  Sigh, it's so frustrating for us and him. Kolbe has been building lots of legos lately. 

In the kitchen: This past week we had grilled meat with green beans and potato casserole, fajitas, tacos and lots of leftovers.  Creamy tomato tortellini and salmon turnovers (store-bought and re-heated) tonight.  Next week: French dips, crispy chicken salads and pesto chicken with boiled potatoes and steamed carrots.  I have gotten into the bad habit of leaving Friday up in the air (you know, in case the dinner fairy decides to come...) so we'll see what we end up doing late-week.

Learning: It is Catholic Schools Week!  We are so, so grateful for the Catholic education available to our children with the Catholic school system we have in our diocese.  I seriously do not know what we would do if we didn't have these Catholic schools as an education option.  There is hardly a day that goes by that I don't have a very deep sense of gratitude that this integral part of our children's formation (religion and education and so much more) is so richly provided for by the generosity of so many.  God is good.  Abundantly good.

We've started using the First Communion Catechism (which is an adaptation of the Baltimore) at the breakfast table, and the kids, all three of them, have really surprised me with how much they are getting into it.  I've always bemoaned the fact that we don't do much memorization, so this helps with that plus it teaches such solid theological concepts!  Win-win!!

Reading: Bible.  Trying to get a "chapter" of The Imitation in before the kids are up on days that I'm able. Not much else currently.  Mr. Popper's Penguins with the kids!  The chapters are the perfect length for the breakfast table.

Watching: the usuals.  I won't bore you with our nerdiness.

Bringing me joy: Grace.  Good people. Fun conversations. Preschool lessons with Clem. A good meeting (who knew such a thing existed?!).  The sacraments.

Thinking about: Confession, sin, grace, forgiveness. etc.  Please say a prayer for Gemma (and all of us) as she prepares for her First Reconciliation.

Pictures to share:  

Baptism anniversaries!

Journal: a very very quick update

I am going to attempt to do this very very quickly, as evidenced by the title of this post.

TODAY

Out my window: Cloudy but sixty-ish.  The weekend was great and the ten-day is amazing.  I'm calling it.  Spring is here.  Amen and that other "A" word we don't use during Lent.  ;-)

Clothing myself in: meh.  Thinking about warmer weather clothes.  Is it sad that my first thought was, "I wonder where I can find some new t-shirts."  Yeah.  t-shirts.

Around the house: Oh man, I rocked the Spring cleaning this weekend.  Got all the cabinets washed and lemon-oiled PLUS did all the blinds and windows.  I have never, EVER (well at least since having kids) done that much deep cleaning in a (mostly) uninterrupted stretch.  I think it is having kids who are a little older and more self-sufficient.  And the nice weather, as they played out back the majority of the time.  Just a few more smaller-ish chores to knock off the Spring list.  I had to pull out bins because the kids were asking for shorts (HA) over the weekend, so I have that process started.  I even made a list of things the kids may need for the upcoming season.  Because ignoring wardrobes and letting them work themselves out apparently isn't going to work itself out.

 

The baby/toddler: Barfed this morning but has seemed fine-ish the rest of the day.  I have heard numerous other people talk about their kids having the same sort of "illness", so we'll see if it makes its way through anyone else.  Still trying to get the puke smell out of his bedroom carpet.  Blurgh.  SO over sickies. OH, and he knows his ABCs and can count to 12.  It is so adorable.  

 

The kiddos: They get along so well when they play outside.  It really is wonderful.  We always get to this part of the year and I wonder, marvel really, over how exactly we survived another Winter.  Seriously...

In the kitchen: Hubby made pulled pork for us yesterday, so that is what the priests are eating tomorrow.  Coleslaw on the side and some tater puffs for us.  Maybe a pizza tomorrow?  Some tacos.  Steaks on Thursday for a guest and a new recipe from Alton Brown for spinach stuffed flounder on a bed of rice and cheese sauce on Friday.  I need to either go find the recipe (since we deleted the show) or rely on my super-awesome memory...  I baked some chicken tonight and am making quesadillas for the kids.  Simple is the name of the game sometimes.

Crafting: merp

Learning: Beginning to think about Gemma's First Reconciliation/Communion prep.  I am looking at using this book with her at home and have had several great recommendations for read alouds.

Reading: Well, the usuals, and then oh my...I picked up a copy of Saints: A Closer Look by Fr. Thomas Dubay last week and I am going to need to bump something from my Top Ten list of books because it is fantastic.  My Theology teacher quotes Dubay quite frequently, and I am listening to some podcasts on the interior life and mystical prayer that are also largely based on his writings and oh.my.wow. Goooooooood stuffs.

Watching: Gold Rush finale.

Bringing me joy: Theology. Breakfast and time catching up with a dear friend. Reading. Family. Prayer. Springlike weather. Springlike weather. Springlike weather. Springlike weather. Springlike weather. Springlike weather. Springlike weather. Springlike weather. Springlike weather. Springlike weather.

Thinking about: Prayer. Heroic virtue. The saints. Co-redemptive suffering. And wardrobes.

Pictures to share:  

Kolbe drew a snowman-pig-alien (and then Clement ripped its head off).

Gemma's train town.

Clement is TWO

I thought I would break from the usual Journal posts and give Clem his own little post for his second birthday.

Likes:

• the word "nooooooooooo" (in his defense, when he does say, "yes," it is an adorable "UHH-huh")
• eating strawberries and raspberries
• doing whatever the big kids are doing
• reading books, he will happily sit on my lap and listen to long picture books, by himself or when I am reading to the big kids
• bananas
• giving kisses
• swinging at the park
• daddy.  he is aaron's most enthusiastic greeter when he gets home each evening.
• waving bye-bye to daddy from the front yard.  he stands there waving and yells, "bye-bye daddy-O"
• the color blue, he is very adamant about wearing his blue jammies and blue shirt if they are clean, and is rather irritated when they are not
• trains, he especially likes the little Thomas ones that stick together with magnets (he got a stuffed Thomas, a "James" take-along, and some train books for his birthday)
• his stuffed kitten
• playing Kolbe's "Let's Go Fishing" game

Dislikes:

• being contained
• he used to not really care for black beans, but I think he is eating those now
• milk.  i can not get this child to drink cow's milk.

Things he is doing at two:

• he will repeat almost anything, has probably 3-4 dozen words he uses regularly to communicate, and has starting to string together 3-4 word sentences
• he loves to jump on our little work-out trampoline in the basement
• he can climb and run and slide at the park quite independently
• he has been sleeping on the floor in his room (and still co-sleeping some as well) since March, soon he will move to a big boy bed in the same room as Kolbe.  he still nurses to sleep.
• he recently moved from his high chair to the big table (we had to put another leaf in).  after about a week of this we have decided that a booster seat at meals/snacks is a must. 
• I will come in and add his weight and height when I've taken him in for a well-child visit here soon.  I am guessing he ways around 23-24 pounds.
• he wears size 2T clothing
• he poops on the toilet exclusively and has started showing some interest in potty.  not enough for me to want do any intentional potty-learning with him, but I will continue to encourage.
• he is much less scary on the stairs than he was just a few months ago. I have actually started letting him go down un-accompanied.  But apparently going down head up on his belly is for the birds.  He likes to hold the rail and step down (like a big kid, go figure) or go down on his bottom.
• he has started showing more interest in the television the past four or so months, and will sit down and watch a show with the big kids.  he often holds one of his feet while he is watching tv.
• when I get the camera out he yells, "CHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEESE"
• he is still nursing during the night, some nights only twice, but a lot of nights many more times, for quite long periods sometimes.  it is getting frustrating and uncomfortable for me, and disturbing my sleep (and his) more than I think is necessary at the age of two, so I have decided to night-wean.  we are going to go cold-turkey.  I anticipate several rough nights, but I think if I am empathetic yet firm (vs. being wishy-washy about it and sending him mixed messages) we will make this transition and both come out happier and well-adjusted on the other side.  wish us luck on this journey.  I'll continue to let him nurse at naptime and bedtime as long as he asks, but I may transition him out of that as well when he moves to the big-kid room
• he occasionally skips his nap.  when he does nap it is only for 45 or so minutes.  he goes to bed between 7:30-8pm and gets up between 6:30-7am (typically)

climbing UP the slide at the park

with his backpack, just like the big kids

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR CLEMENT!  WE LOVE YOU!!!

Journal: reunions, routines, and lots of rain!!

TODAY

Out my window:  Sunny and mild.  The weather has been remarkable, we've had so much rain that we actually wish it would dry out a bit (thought I would never say that again!!).  More in the forecast tonight and tomorrow.  We had 3 1/10 inches in one dumping last weekend, goodness!!

Clothing myself in:  bleh.  I have gotten a few new pair of shorts for summer from Old Navy and Target and one off the local swap page that I'm really enjoying.

Around the house:  We had overnight guests last Thursday/Friday in conjunction with a big family reunion on my mom's side of the family.  We had lots of fun (with the guests and the reunion)!  Trying to settle into the "new normal" that Summer brings, which has been hard because we've had VBS, Art Camp, the guests and the Reunion all in a two-week time period.  Nothing like everything at once, we have hardly anything on our calendar for the rest of the Summer haha.

I got some additional juice glasses from Montessori Services now that Clem is no longer using a sippy and ordered a little glass pitcher and some enamelware mugs as well.  I really like all these items, they are so cute and durable.  I'm hoping the pitcher will save trips to and from the fridge for milk refills during dinner.  Now if I could just get Clem to drink cow's milk...  

 

The baby/toddler: We flipped him front-facing after our "big" (1.5 hour) trip this past weekend.  At almost two and 23 lbs we probably could have kept him rear-facing for longer but he is so.stinking.long.  He had mixed emotions at first about being turned around, but now he enjoys telling me "ready, GO" when we are sitting at stoplights, and seems utterly fascinated watching traffic out his window. 

The kiddos:  Gemma really liked VBS again this year.  She was so excited it was CatChat and we have already listened the heck out of the new CD.  It really is very catchy music, for which I am grateful.  She seems to be loving Art Camp (put on at our local Catholic High School) and is very excited for their art show tomorrow!!  The first couple weeks of Summer were rough on her, the girl just does not do well with change.  I asked her if she missed school and she quite frankly answered me, "yes".  She seems to be settling in though, although she and Kolbe have been sparring more.  It's as if she feels she has to re-establish some sort of dominance around here or something.  Sigh.  Gemma's beloved fish Flowercup died this past Sunday, so we had a little "service" for her at the pond behind the house.  She has taken it pretty well, and we are waiting on any new pets since we are planning to be switching bedrooms and such later in the Summer.  Eventually I would really enjoy a 10 gallon aquarium somewhere in the house, so we will see if now is the time for that. 

Kolbe liked VBS too, but it stressed him out.  He was borderline nightmarish to be around last week.  It made me really glad he is not enrolled in preschool this Fall, because after last week I think I would have called and un-enrolled him.  I think it was just a little much for him.  But like I said, he did seem to have a good time, and never said he didn't want to go, and he has mellowed out considerably this week, so all's well that ends well I suppose.  I have started working on his Handwriting Book with him, and he is making some great strides with his pencil grip.

We took the kids to a water park/pool thing at the reunion and oh my we had fun.  I think it was very similar to what we have at the Y here, so now I am really looking forward to doing that a few times this summer.  The kids LOVED the water slides and Clem even had fun going down on my lap (after Aaron convinced me that I would not, indeed, die.  I am a big chicken).  It was a great afternoon despite being a bit chilly.

In the kitchen: Fajitas, crispy chicken lettuce salads, fish muffins, maybe some linguine (I have a bunch of grape tomatoes in the fridge I need to use). 

Crafting: oh for heaven's sake.

Learning:  VBS, Art Camp, a little "school" work here and there.  Hoping to settle into a more regular routine with that once our other activities are over.  Gemma's reading has really been taking off.  On nights that Aaron is working late or mowing and I am putting Clem to bed, she puts Kolbe to bed and has read him to sleep on more than one occasion.  LOVE. 

Reading: Finished Something Other Than God.  It was a great story of conversion.  The atheist aspect, and the fact that she landed in the Catholic Church made it all the more poignant.  Where She Went, which is apparently the sequel to If I Stay which I read a couple weeks ago.  And it appears there are one or two more after this. 

Watching:  New series of Duck Dynasty starts tonight!!

Bringing me joy: Time with extended family.  VBS and the wonderful Catholic community we are blessed to be a part of.  The kids playing with toys that were mine as a child.  Singing VBS songs with the kids and listening to them in the van.  Laughing with my Aunt about how crazy my kids are at Mass (she raised four boys and a girl, so I think she gets it).  Time outdoors in gorgeous sunny weather.  Watching my kids play with their second cousins...the kids of the cousins with whom I played as a child.  A new swimsuit.  Pentecost.  Chocolate.  A tasty glass of wine and cold beer on hot days.  Reading to Gemma, and all the kids.  New pictures of the kids (see sidebar).  Visiting my sister's farm.  An hour (ALONE!!!) in Adoration, and the prospect of getting to do this weekly this summer.  Chatting with my mom.  A quieter schedule on the horizon.  I have so much for which to be grateful, despite the crazies.

Thinking about: Routines.  I hate to be super schedule-oriented, but oh my, my children thrive on at least a general routine and rhythm to our days.  I enjoyed the reunion and VBS and everything, but if we had another week like last week I think my kids (and consequently me) would have completely flipped out.  Sheesh. 

Pictures to share:  

Some pics from the reunion...

Me with  my Aunt Kathy, her hubby Stu and my Uncle Don (and an uncooperative Clem).  Pic 2 is with my cousin Jess (and an even more uncooperative baby).  She, her hubby and their two kids were our overnight guests.

The kids had their first (and only if it's up to me) time on a trampoline.  And everyone lived and I don't think I even have many more grey hairs!!

Clem thought he was hot. stuff.  I am in the background trying not to have a heart-attack.

Some group shots, there were around 60 there from four generations (a few of my grandma's siblings came the first day).

Journal: just a quick update

TODAY

Out my window:  Sunny, windy, warm.  The forecast for the next week looks very pleasant.

Clothing myself in: jeans, tank, T.  The usual.

Around the house: Wardrobes are pretty much switched out.  Almost. Trying to refigure some closet/toy organization and the best use of space.  Thinking about the "big bedroom switch" coming up this summer. 

 

The baby/toddler:  Sleeping on the floor in his room now instead of the crib.  Doesn't even want to rock to sleep now but prefers to nurse laying on his floor-bed (which he is very proud of) and then just go to sleep laying beside me.  He even wanted me to sleep in with him instead of coming into our bed last night.  I'm not ready to night-wean, but I do wish he'd curb the night-nursing a bit.  Maybe after these bottom two eye-teeth make it through??  He has also developed quite the attachment to Gemma's little "Kitten" she got from her teacher for her bday.  It is cute.  Gemma told me the other night, "mom, I don't think Kitten is mine anymore." 

 

The kiddos:  Gemma has been writing me notes.  They are very sweet and help to offset some of my frustrations with her when I remember how sweet she can be.

Kolbe is still dealing with some break-out issues due to food-sensitivity (to dyes, but it seems to be something else in processed foods as well).  I think we are going to be a bit more proactive about an elimination diet to see if we can get to the bottom of what's going on.  His IEP for Speech is coming up, looks like we will have another year of 30 min a week outpatient (I don't intend to send him to preschool next year) Speech Therapy.  I am grateful.  He's come a long way, but still has a long way to go.  I am so glad he is able to get help through our school district.

In the kitchen: Pakistani Kima; Pesto Chicken, WW pasta and green beans; Philly Cheese-steak Pizza (this was last night, need to tweak it a bit more but it was pretty good); Salmon/Tuna Melts (or "Fish Muffins" as the kids call them); not sure what we're having tonite, hubby may cook.  Honey Chicken; Pork, broccoli and rice casserole; tacos; and tuna salad are on the menu next week.  Anyone have a good Tuna Salad recipe they like?  We've been going through a lot of fresh asparagus and brussel sprouts this time of year, and some strawberries and cantaloupe!!!

Crafting: N.O.P.E.

Learning:  Got some new (to us) puzzles for the kids off of a FB resale page, one is a 48 piece.  They've been spending a lot of time on those.  Back to "the grind" with Gemma and school...count down is on to summer!!!  Making plans for VBS and Art Camp and probably swim lessons too.  Summer will be a nice time to catch up on some activities that we forgo during the school year.

Reading:  Finally - after checking it out from the library multiple times - picked up my own (used, less than $4 and in great condition) copy of How To Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen so Kids Will Talk.  Some very practical ideas, situations, and reminders.  It will be good to keep on the end table I think.  Thinking about checking out some sound-recordings for the kids, we have kind of stunk at read-aloud chapter books since Gemma started school.  Am hoping when she moves to her own room we can have some reading time together at bedtime each night. 

Watching:  Nothing much of note.  Baseball season starts soon!!!

Bringing me joy:  Confession and the joy forgiveness brings.  Reading with the kids.  Shooting (nerf) guns with Kolbe while listening to Veggie Tales Silly Songs.  Laying with Clem while he goes to sleep.  Gemma's letters she writes me.  Lent.  It has been good this year.  I know that sounds weird but it has.  I have tried to be less deliberate about planning every little act of Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving (personal and family), and more deliberate about just looking for (and following through with) those opportunities in our every day lives.  This has been really good for me. 

Thinking about: Food.  Meal planning.  Time management.  School.  Summer.  Clothes.  Parenting.  Being an adult is so much fun. 

Pictures to share:  

It's the Cat!  The Cat in the Hat!!  Oh wait, nope, just Gemma.

Helping make Egg Casserole for the homeless at the Warming Souls shelter.

Clem had a runny nose (it seems perpetual recently).  He was a little too quiet one morning and this is where I found him.

Seven Quick Takes - First Edition

I feel like I'm in a rut with the Journal posts so I decided to shake things up a bit and give Seven Quick Takes a try.  And maybe it will actually be quick!  Here goes.

1. We moved Clement to a big-boy (floor) bed now that the dog has moved out of his room (I built the bed/pallet in the corner where the dog's box was).  We actually jokingly called it the dog's room because he (dog) spent more time in the room than Clem did this past winter.  Night one I was up with him to resettle three times, rather than bringing him to bed with us.  I think he nursed less not being right next to me.  We'll see how this goes, it will probably depend on my will-power more than anything. 
2. Spring/Summer wardrobes for the kids are almost complete.  I picked up sandals for the big kids today and some polos for the boys for Easter that match Gemma's bold, multi-colored dress.  I am dubious as to whether Kolbe's sandals will actually fit him all season. Sigh.  And on that note, I now own little boys' clothing in every season of every size from size NB to 5/6.  Yay me.
3. I found my copy of By Love Refined: Letters to a Young Bride the other day and was all set to give it to a young friend who is getting married late this Spring (yes, you Chelsea), when I started thumbing through it.  Even though I'm not really not at all a "young bride" anymore, I found it to be so applicable, not only for my relationship with my husband but just relationships in general.  Chelsea, I don't think I'll be passing it on now, but I would highly recommend picking up a copy in the next year or so.
4. Spring Break has been nice, but I would be a liar to say it has been wonderful having Gemma around all the time.  And now I feel like a jerk and a huge parenting failure for saying that.  The routine that school brings and the time away is very healthy for both of us.  It makes me sad, in a way, to even say that, but oh my do we have our troubles.  Her impulsive behavior, strong will and lack of remorse for the oft inappropriateness in expressing said will are enough to literally push me over the edge some most every day.  That said, she and Kolbe are sitting and very nicely playing multiple games of Connect 4 together and, well, there we go, I was going to say there hadn't been any fighting, but alas...  Sigh. 
5. I am working on revamping the education table for our parish Respect Life Committee.  I've gotten a lot of good materials from our Diocesan Respect Life Office and state pro-life organization.  I also found some brochure display thingies.  I need to go up to church sometime and get everything organized and ready, our quarterly weekend for setup is coming up soon.
6. I really need to get an Adoration hour.  Like, really.  My indecisive/analytical nature, a hubby who works long(er) hours and not liking to get out after the kids are in bed or during the night (because I am completely spent and would just fall asleep) are keeping me from signing up for a regular one, but without a regular one it's hard to have the discipline to go every week.  But oh, I know how much I would benefit from it. 
7. I am really enjoying this CD from the Benedictines of Mary during Lent.

OK, that's it!  Visit Jen over at Conversion Diary for more Quick Takes!

Journal: and then it was Spring

TODAY

Out my window:  Sunny!  Warm!!  Spring is in the air for sure, you can just feel it now, even when it's cool out.  The forecast for tomorrow is a little cooler, but then moderate all next week.  For Spring break!!  YAY!!!!!!!

Clothing myself in: Jeans and a t-shirt, so exciting.

Around the house: Ordered a new vinyl seat-cover for our highchair.  Clem still sits in the highchair, and as love/hate as my relationship is with our highchair, if we ditch it for a booster we have to extend the kitchen table and that is really going to make the dining area feel tight, so I am going to stretch his time in the highchair as long as I possibly can.  This will really breathe some new life into it. 

In the middle of getting Spring wardrobes ready for the kids.  Everything is out now, and more-or-less in closets/drawers.  I've taken inventory, the kids and I went shopping yesterday afternoon to pick up some more stuff they needed (got some C.U.T.E. dresses/skirts for Gemma), I've packed away some of the real cold-weather stuff like fleece footie-jammies and sweats and stuff.  Getting there.  The kids still all need summer sandals, but they can do no-show socks and tennies for the foreseeable future.  I'll psyche myself up to get back out and find them shoes soon enough.  We'll probably go with Nike sandals again, but I still need to size them.  Bluuurrrgggghhh.  And speaking of sizes, their clothing sizes are completely schizophrenic this year.  Gemma is anywhere from a 5 to a 7/8 with some 6/6x tossed in as well.  Kolbe has a few 4's some 5T stuff and some 5/6's, and it's looking like the 18mos stuff may work for Clem for a little while, but then after that we really don't have much 24 month 2T.  But that size is huge on him now so I am not really inclined to buy much yet even though I know the 18 month stuff won't last him all summer...  Good. Grief. 

And I had to come back and add...a word to savvy shoppers, never shop at a Carter's store.  Their prices, oh my word.  I actually did buy a pair of shorts for Kolbe there, but they are currently sitting in my basement with the receipt because I still cannot believe I paid what I did for them and I am seriously considering just returning them.  Seriously, they had "clearance" jammies for $19.99.  For real??  I'll choose the leftover VBS t-shirt and $4 cotton shorts from Target please.  That said, we went to Children's Place too (I had never shopped there, but we've been given clothes from there before and I've always been impressed by their quality) and their prices were decent.  I'll go back.

 

The baby/toddler: Started saying "more" (instead of signing it) the other day when we were feeding him strawberries.  It reminded me of the first time Kolbe said "more" and I remembered videoing it because it was so cute.  I figured he was probably about the same age so I pulled up the video and would you believe he and Clem were the same age, to the day (five days shy of 20 months, since I'm sure you care) when they said "more" for the first time.  How weird is that?   

He has also become one opinionated little dude the past couple weeks.  Like, oh my goodness.  He ended up sleeping shirtless the other night because I tried to put short sleeves on him instead of his footie jammies.  He got so mad that his sleeves were short that I took the shirt off to put on some long sleeves, but then in his anger he wouldn't let me put anything else on him.  I even tried to give him a shirt in the middle of the night when he woke up and he grunted at me and shoved it away.  Oy.

The kiddos: Have been enjoying playing at the park and in the backyard on these warmer days.  Gemma has the bike-riding thing aaalllllllmoooooost down, I really am amazed how quickly she has caught on.  The other day she rode from in front of the house three houses down from us down the street and up our driveway all on her own, I wasn't even standing by her.

In the kitchen: Last week we had meatloaf, rice and leftover veggies, Loaded Baked Potato and Chicken Casserole, a fish fry, family dinner and some fried meat and veggie burritos.  Next week I'm making spaghetti (Gemma's favorite!!) and maybe Chicken Picadillo (although the kids really don't like it a whole lot, I am thinking of leaving the raisins out of theirs and putting it in tacos though and maybe it will be more 'edible' to them??), baked fish and some other stuff.  We have fresh asparagus and brussel sprouts in the fridge to be used as sides as well.

Crafting: I renovated the pony house for Gemma, adding a roof, parapets, floor, and bunk beds made of cut apart toilet paper tubes.  Seriously, give me some cardboard and my trusty glue-gun and I can make just about anything.

Learning:  We'll try to keep up with some school-type activities this week and there will definitely be a trip to the library some afternoon.  I've been timing Gemma with her addition worksheet and sight-word flashcards lately, she seems to like the challenge and keeping track from day-to-day.  I suppose I should add another dimension and have her chart her times...  The older two have been really creative with the pattern blocks lately too.  The other day while I was cooking I let Clem play with some chunky beads, he had fun pouring them and trying to string them on a pipe-cleaner.  I have our letter Ss week stuff ready to go and will probably pull some of it out this week and then spread it over the next couple weeks.  Planning on seed-planting in a couple weeks with our little preschool co-op.  Anyone have any cute ideas for decorating little planters?

Reading:  We have some good Spring books from the library, check out And Then it Was Spring if you haven't.  It's wonderful.  In keeping with my better-late-than-never New Year's resolution to order at least one hardcover book a month this year to add to our collection, I ordered a used copy of Gemma and the Baby Chick to give Gemma on her name-day next month.

Watching:  Gold Rush finale was last night, always a little sad when one of our shows is over.  Will be interesting to see what next season brings.  Aaron has his hypotheses and he also thinks there's probably only one season left of this show.  Especially if gold prices continue to go down.  Time will tell. 

I also finally let the kids watch Wallykazam!.  They have seen previews for it at the beginning of another show they watch and have been begging, and I finally relented.  I should have given in sooner, it is adorable.

Bringing me joy: Shopping with the kids, even if it was crazy and I felt like crying in desperation more than once, we really had a nice time together.  And time at the zoo this morning with the kids...there was no desperation and we got to watch them shear sheep!  It was our second year to do this, so fun!!  This year's weather was muuuuuuuch nicer.  Last year I think it was low-40's, cloudy and drizzly.

Thinking about:  Lent, sacrificing, the Church, letting go and letting Christ fill me up.  I have so much to learn and so much progress to make in this life, in my vocation, sometimes it just overwhelms me.  I am a driver, I want to get things done, see outcomes, etc.  Sometimes it is hard for me to just wait and let Christ work.  

I've also been thinking about looking for a new carrier for Clem on my back.  It is kind of ridiculous, I have a mei tai and an ergo and a couple slings, but I mainly just use the mei tai for the first couple months when you can still frog a baby's legs, and the slings are only nice for short in-and-outs.  The ergo is OK, I really want to like it but I wish I had researched more before I got it.  It says up to 45 lbs, but I do not like how he fits in it at all, and he's only 22 lbs.  OH well. Looking at Boba and Kinderpack but not really serious about buying anything too soon unless I come upon a really good deal...  Definitely mulling it over though.

Oh and this article, Seven Steps to a Holier Life.  Such a wonderful reminder.

Pictures to share:  

Enjoying a Spring fishing trip...they were both successful!  Gemma even cast, caught and reeled in a few all by herself.  She needed a bit of help getting them off the hook.

Clem got his first "big-boy" haircut (IE, first time to have any hair taken off the top).  He was not too fond of this procedure, as you can see.  He looks so handsome though (as you cannot see, as I didn't think to take an "after" picture.  Yeah.)  On that note, Happy Spring, everyone!!

Journal: briefly?

Brevity has never been my strongest suit, but I don't have a ton of time and would really like to journal.  We'll see if I can pound this out before Clifford is over....

TODAY

Out my window:  Sunny and hot.  And humid.  We have had so much rain, it's insane.  In a good way, but insane nevertheless.  Sunning diapers this afternoon.

Clothing myself in:  Gray short/capris from maurices...something I had looked at late winter but not bought, and then went back and got a couple months later because I kept thinking about then.  A good purchase, I like them.  And a tank and a T.  See what I mean about brevity?

Around the house: More decluttering.  It feels so good.  Now I need to get the stuff I have sorted OUT of the house.  Maybe a trip to goodwill later??  I have a whole bag of stuffed animals from when I was a kid.  Too many to get out and let the kids play with.  I feel silly storing them.  I mean, I will never use them and seriously no one is going to want them.  But the thought of throwing them away.... well...  Sigh.  OH stuff.

Oh, and I got a new (bigger) basket for the library/other books in the living room and I like it.  :)

 

The baby: Has been taking more steps, and loves walking if you hold his hands.  He gets this adorable, proud smile on his face and his eyes just light up.  He waves at you if you are across the room.  He really liked my lasagna last night.  Tried cow's milk today, was pretty "meh" about it.  LOVES drinking water from Gemma's water bottle.  I bought her a new one so she gave her old one to him.  He is very proud of it.  Twelve months old and already wanting to be like the big kids.  I wish tooth number 8 would hurry up and cut through.  Nights have been...restless.  Lots of nursing.  During the day when he wants to nurse he has started coming over and tugging on my shirt.  It is cute.  Naps are a mess.  I'm just rolling with it (HA) with school starting so soon.  He'll level out sometime.  At least that's what I keep telling myself.

 

The kiddos:

Gemma starts school in a week and a half.  In the meantime I feel like we are just in this huge holding pattern with our routines and pretty much everything.  She is excited, but from some things she has said and done I know she is fairly apprehensive and anxious as well.  Any extra prayers sent her way for a peaceful and happy transition would be appreciated.  She is worried about "missing out on all the fun" and "not having enough time to play."  Valid concerns when you're five.  She saved enough money (it didn't take long, as Larry has been giving her a dollar after Mass every Sunday) to buy Rainbow Dash pony, so that is her latest excitement.  She has been coloring pony pictures today.   

Kolbe has an obsession with robots.  He talks about them all the time.  He also talks a lot about helicopters and how he wants to buy one.  I am not exactly sure what he wants, but I'm afraid his expectations are probably a little high.  He also asks me quite regularly to "play roll" which involves sitting on the kitchen floor and rolling a car back and forth.  He would do this for hours.  I let him take one of his "Larry dollars" to the store and he bought this little spring-loaded "button racecar" from the dollar bin at Target he had seen (and talked about daily and maybe thrown a big fit about) about 2wks ago.  He was beyond ecstatic.  Until he broke it by jamming the key in and trying to pull it out. without pushing the button (those darn curious three-year-old minds).  Then he was beyond sad.  Like, lips-turning-purple, crying in bitter anguish sad. (tell me my kids aren't the only ones who get so upset they forget to breathe and their lips turn blue/purple...)  I surprised him and ran to Target and got another one after he was in bed last night.  He was pretty thrilled to see it on the kitchen table this morning and has been much more careful today. 

In the kitchen: Lasagna with lots of veggies baked in, chicken pizza, meatloaf, baked flounder.  Lots of fresh fruit.  Simple side dishes this week, it is so easy to just pull a bag of veggies out of the freezer and steam them.  

Crafting: I have some uniform material I'd like to use to make some hair-things for Gemma for school.  Maybe I'll use the neighbor's serger and make some bows?  Still mulling it over...  I have never made hairbows before. 

Learning:  Reading books.  Lots of books.  I got an alphabet poster from the dollar bin at Target and hung it in the kitchen at Kolbe level.  He knows some letters (like the ones in his name, and a few others) but I thought this might ignite more daily interest in recognizing his ABC's.  The "K" has a picture of a kid beside it, and I told him it was "K for Kolbe" which he thought was pretty cool.  Been working quite a bit on Gemma's handwriting book with her. My sis saw a good deal on some HWT paper that she ordered for me, so we've been using that in addition to the book lessons.  A few people shared some shoe-tying links with me, so I think we will revisit that together as well, and we've been talking a lot about telling time.  Oh, and Kolbe has been really into puzzles lately too.   

Reading:  I go through spells with reading, and am definitely currently in a dry period. 

Watching:  Gold Rush: South America, the three episode off-season is finally on!  Aaron also got into Inkmaster a couple years ago and it just started a new season (I am hiding my head in shame).  The drama makes me laugh, they are like a bunch of middle-schoolers.  The show itself is actually kind of interesting though.  Have enjoyed watching the Royals WIN lately too!!

Bringing me joy: Confession and chatting with my SD.  Always such a good refresh.  Finding a $13 ring to wear while my wedding ring and band are being re-dipped.  I hate going without a ring sooooo much.  Rainy nights.  Family swim-time at the gym, especially the part where Kolbe told me my swim shorts were, "SOOOOOOOO AWESOME, MOMMY!!!!!!!!"  I love that kid. Daily Mass.  Adoration.  Silence (when I was at Adoration...it's kinda hard to come by around here).  

EEK!  Clifford is over.  Better hurry....

Thinking about: Kindergarten and the big changes in our lives that are coming soon soon soon.  Teaching my children through example and my relationships with them without being overbearing and just plain mean.  OH parenting is soooooooooooooooooo hard. 

Oh, and the Our Father.  Thanks Deb.

Pictures to share:  

Kolbe with the spider he engineered all on his own.  He gave it to grandma and I kindly requested she give it back when she was "finished" with it for his keepsake box.  

CATERPILLAR!

(belated) Birthday celebration with my side of the family