Excited to watch Mickey Mouse this morning with his jagged new haircut
Friday, February 29, 2008
Mock-Croc Feet and Jagged Hair
His Mock-Croc feet (size 7--Mr. Big Feet)--bought from Target for walking around the pool at Swim Class
Excited to watch Mickey Mouse this morning with his jagged new haircut
Excited to watch Mickey Mouse this morning with his jagged new haircut
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Some News, the Blues, and in need of catching some Z's
So maybe just maybe my moodiness has some reasoning to it. The other day I posted it was because of my crazed toddler---but I have a feeling it might be something more to it. For almost a year I have been battling on and off with weird mood swings, weight gain, crazy exhaustion, and a few other minor things. Last summer they tested me for Lyme's disease and Mono, and they tested my thyroid and it all seemed fine. Now that I am feeling this way in full throttle again and I am experiencing Kidney stones type symptoms now too!-- I went to the Dr.'s today. They are testing me for everything again ---especially my hormones, and I am getting a CAT-Scan next week to see if I am having kidney stones or there is a cyst on my ovaries. We shall see. I just want answers....as I know something just isn't quite right with my body. I am a mess lately---an emotional mess that is. Great mood one moment, and crying or screaming the next. Today I was so exhausted I couldn't even stand up without trying to "gear up". I am just hoping I will be blogging soon that they have a reason for me. So If you have noticed I have been lacking in the blogs lately--it is because I am pissy and sleepy :-)
Now for the good news....Rylan had his first occupational therapy today. We loved her. Esther is an older women and is fantastic with kids. Rylan took to her right away and was "himself". She told me a list of things she had noticed that were positive about his behaviors that the prior evaluations had said were difficulties of his such as:
--expressing himself (he now points and says the word "that" when he wants something
-- engages play --he tries to get you involved in whatever he is doing
--attention span longer--sits for books now
--better at fine motor then they thought
--better eating habits
She pretty much ruled out Autism for me...as she said the worries I had were "normal". She also said his sensory issues are more of a habit then a sensitivity. The few things we do have to work on are getting him to stop trying to "bounce" everything on the floor, try to get his to use his hands together more often, and encourage him to express himself more. She also said he has WAY to many toys--which makes me laugh because she only saw 25% of what he has. She said that they can cause him to be over stimulated and lead to being bored. HMMMmmm not sure what I am going to do about that. She also encouraged me to use food things for play--like finder paint with pudding, or whip cream, instead of paint. This helps with textures and fine motor. She was filled with great ideas and I am excited that he LOVED her so much. Man I wish I could hire her as a babysitter!
Now for the good news....Rylan had his first occupational therapy today. We loved her. Esther is an older women and is fantastic with kids. Rylan took to her right away and was "himself". She told me a list of things she had noticed that were positive about his behaviors that the prior evaluations had said were difficulties of his such as:
--expressing himself (he now points and says the word "that" when he wants something
-- engages play --he tries to get you involved in whatever he is doing
--attention span longer--sits for books now
--better at fine motor then they thought
--better eating habits
She pretty much ruled out Autism for me...as she said the worries I had were "normal". She also said his sensory issues are more of a habit then a sensitivity. The few things we do have to work on are getting him to stop trying to "bounce" everything on the floor, try to get his to use his hands together more often, and encourage him to express himself more. She also said he has WAY to many toys--which makes me laugh because she only saw 25% of what he has. She said that they can cause him to be over stimulated and lead to being bored. HMMMmmm not sure what I am going to do about that. She also encouraged me to use food things for play--like finder paint with pudding, or whip cream, instead of paint. This helps with textures and fine motor. She was filled with great ideas and I am excited that he LOVED her so much. Man I wish I could hire her as a babysitter!
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
c1 x d1=cd squared
No don't worry this isn't a MATH quiz or part of my test from the other day--it is an Announcement.
Santa Clause is coming to town!...ok not quite Santa but very close....
THE C3 FAMILY IS MOVING TO CT AND WILL BE LIVING IN THE SAME COUNTY AS US! WHICH MEANS LESS THEN A HALF HOUR AWAY--45MIN MOST WHEREVER THEY SHALL LAND!
No more scheduling Christmas in February, or worrying we will miss out on each others events! We love them dearly and can not wait to Welcome them to the area.
Top Five reasons why we are totally excited about their move:
1. I will have my BFF and blast from the high school past practically living in my backyard! We are almost clones of each other when it comes to our personality traits--it is almost scarey...hence why we equal "cd squared" in this mornings equation.
2. Our sons are exactly 1 month apart and will grow up together==and of course will be BFF's
3. Our husbands get along and will now be wanting "mans night out" which means Christina and I will have more nights of gossiping, and high school reminiscing in person! And our family will be extended as they are completely like family to us! (watch our C3 you will have to make it to Sunday dinners at the Dos Santos compound)
4. Rylan will have his God Mother around ALOT more :-)
5. We will have more RED SOX fans--which this area NEEDS.
Santa Clause is coming to town!...ok not quite Santa but very close....
THE C3 FAMILY IS MOVING TO CT AND WILL BE LIVING IN THE SAME COUNTY AS US! WHICH MEANS LESS THEN A HALF HOUR AWAY--45MIN MOST WHEREVER THEY SHALL LAND!
No more scheduling Christmas in February, or worrying we will miss out on each others events! We love them dearly and can not wait to Welcome them to the area.
Top Five reasons why we are totally excited about their move:
1. I will have my BFF and blast from the high school past practically living in my backyard! We are almost clones of each other when it comes to our personality traits--it is almost scarey...hence why we equal "cd squared" in this mornings equation.
2. Our sons are exactly 1 month apart and will grow up together==and of course will be BFF's
3. Our husbands get along and will now be wanting "mans night out" which means Christina and I will have more nights of gossiping, and high school reminiscing in person! And our family will be extended as they are completely like family to us! (watch our C3 you will have to make it to Sunday dinners at the Dos Santos compound)
4. Rylan will have his God Mother around ALOT more :-)
5. We will have more RED SOX fans--which this area NEEDS.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Today I am BORED with it
I am not sure about what is going on with me...but two nights in a row I have been in a fowl mood (and no I am not pms'ing). I am exhausted for what appears to be no reason other then my toddler. I want to start this blog off by saying how much I love my child dearly....but sometimes...I NEED A BREAK.
I do admit this morning I woke up and after an hour of playing and giving Rylan breakfast I thought...this stay at home Mom thing is boring. Now this feeling changes daily--ask me tomorrow and I will probably say I love it and wouldn't trade it for the world...or better yet wait and ask me when I get a job...then I will be WISHING I could blog that I am "bored with it". Before I start on my "bored" tangent--let me just mention a not so boring moment this very morning. As Rylan decided he was done with breakfast and I was sitting a few feet away from him he wiggled out of his highchair into a STANDING position ---dangling a leg over the side---I would also like to note that just yesterday when I knew his speech therapist was coming at 8am--I took a shower while he was alone eating his food and watching Disney playhouse--CAN you imagine if he tried this stunt then?--YIKES--back to my bored moment--I just was in the moment of thinking ...I am a well educated woman with a lot of accomplishments under my belt...and yet I spend most of my days in pj's or sweats, singing kid tunes, and trying to keep my toddler happy. I am sick of watching Disney playhouse every freaken mourning, I am DONE with picking up all the items I cooked and cut up so nicely off the floor, finished with thinking about how "fun" it will be to catch up on talk shows (because frankly people it NEVER happens), and there is so much I could go on and on about why staying at home isn't always the dreamiest. The fact is..in this job you NEVER have a day off to lay around in pj's watching talk shows--ok maybe with an infant..but once they can move --IT IS OVER. There is no bon bons and Oprah! Then again if you are a working Mom I am sure you don't have days off to do that either--seeing as time off lends itself to time with the kids. So basically this means...once you have kids Oprah and bon bons are OVER. (and you REALLY don't understand this until you have your own rug rat)
A reason I am grateful to be home is to be present during Rylan's early intervention. His speech therapist came yesterday and it went very well. She taught me a few things, and pointed out some progress Rylan has already made. Later this week he will have the pleasure of meeting his occupational therapist too. I am also grateful to be the first and only to observe other cues and needs. Such as his reflux---back in business again--he puked today and I took it as a sign to get the meds tomorrow. Maybe this is why he has been SO IRRITABLE lately which is making his mom a Miss Pissy Pants.
Another thing that has me pissed off today. I called his pediatrician at 9 am today...it is now 7:30pm and NO CALL RETURNED. This crap baffles me. You are in the business of kids, and you can't find 5 minutes in your day to call? Granted there is nothing life threatening going on but STILL. I wanted to ask her if she got the report back from his hearing test, what the next steps are, and if I can sign him up for swim class again (which I need to registrar in a day). Simple things to answer but...no call. A friend of mine goes to the same practice and is switching to another. For various reasons but some that we both agree on is it is TO BIG, and they have WAYYYYYYYY to many patients. Although Rylan has a "main Dr."...he has only seen her for less then a handful of times, and every time she does see him she acts like she just met him. I have to go through the history of his reflux and yada yada yada. Back in the day when I was growing up my Dr. new everything! Why because he was in his own practice, and took the time! I might have to follow my friend Emily on this one and change to a smaller practice. I just wish when I was pregnant I would have taken the time to interview people and not settle on what I thought looked good instead of having to do it 20 months after birth!
On a happier note...newborns. I love newborns. Emily took her baby to Mom's group today along with big sister Julia. We all ohh' and ahh'd over little Lillian. I wanted to scoop her up so bad...because what else is as gratifying as snugging a newborn that ISN'T yours to stay up all night with :-) I didn't get to hold her--as my son was a bear and we had to leave---but I intend to soon! Looking at her little feet amazed me today--I can't even imagine Rylan having tiny feet like that although he did. It just was a quick reminder to me on how quickly the "little guys and gals" grow up. Suddenly your little newborn is turning 2!
I do admit this morning I woke up and after an hour of playing and giving Rylan breakfast I thought...this stay at home Mom thing is boring. Now this feeling changes daily--ask me tomorrow and I will probably say I love it and wouldn't trade it for the world...or better yet wait and ask me when I get a job...then I will be WISHING I could blog that I am "bored with it". Before I start on my "bored" tangent--let me just mention a not so boring moment this very morning. As Rylan decided he was done with breakfast and I was sitting a few feet away from him he wiggled out of his highchair into a STANDING position ---dangling a leg over the side---I would also like to note that just yesterday when I knew his speech therapist was coming at 8am--I took a shower while he was alone eating his food and watching Disney playhouse--CAN you imagine if he tried this stunt then?--YIKES--back to my bored moment--I just was in the moment of thinking ...I am a well educated woman with a lot of accomplishments under my belt...and yet I spend most of my days in pj's or sweats, singing kid tunes, and trying to keep my toddler happy. I am sick of watching Disney playhouse every freaken mourning, I am DONE with picking up all the items I cooked and cut up so nicely off the floor, finished with thinking about how "fun" it will be to catch up on talk shows (because frankly people it NEVER happens), and there is so much I could go on and on about why staying at home isn't always the dreamiest. The fact is..in this job you NEVER have a day off to lay around in pj's watching talk shows--ok maybe with an infant..but once they can move --IT IS OVER. There is no bon bons and Oprah! Then again if you are a working Mom I am sure you don't have days off to do that either--seeing as time off lends itself to time with the kids. So basically this means...once you have kids Oprah and bon bons are OVER. (and you REALLY don't understand this until you have your own rug rat)
A reason I am grateful to be home is to be present during Rylan's early intervention. His speech therapist came yesterday and it went very well. She taught me a few things, and pointed out some progress Rylan has already made. Later this week he will have the pleasure of meeting his occupational therapist too. I am also grateful to be the first and only to observe other cues and needs. Such as his reflux---back in business again--he puked today and I took it as a sign to get the meds tomorrow. Maybe this is why he has been SO IRRITABLE lately which is making his mom a Miss Pissy Pants.
Another thing that has me pissed off today. I called his pediatrician at 9 am today...it is now 7:30pm and NO CALL RETURNED. This crap baffles me. You are in the business of kids, and you can't find 5 minutes in your day to call? Granted there is nothing life threatening going on but STILL. I wanted to ask her if she got the report back from his hearing test, what the next steps are, and if I can sign him up for swim class again (which I need to registrar in a day). Simple things to answer but...no call. A friend of mine goes to the same practice and is switching to another. For various reasons but some that we both agree on is it is TO BIG, and they have WAYYYYYYYY to many patients. Although Rylan has a "main Dr."...he has only seen her for less then a handful of times, and every time she does see him she acts like she just met him. I have to go through the history of his reflux and yada yada yada. Back in the day when I was growing up my Dr. new everything! Why because he was in his own practice, and took the time! I might have to follow my friend Emily on this one and change to a smaller practice. I just wish when I was pregnant I would have taken the time to interview people and not settle on what I thought looked good instead of having to do it 20 months after birth!
On a happier note...newborns. I love newborns. Emily took her baby to Mom's group today along with big sister Julia. We all ohh' and ahh'd over little Lillian. I wanted to scoop her up so bad...because what else is as gratifying as snugging a newborn that ISN'T yours to stay up all night with :-) I didn't get to hold her--as my son was a bear and we had to leave---but I intend to soon! Looking at her little feet amazed me today--I can't even imagine Rylan having tiny feet like that although he did. It just was a quick reminder to me on how quickly the "little guys and gals" grow up. Suddenly your little newborn is turning 2!
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Weekend Update
This weekend was jam packed with goodness!
Saturday we FINALLY got to have the C3/D3 Christmas! Whenever we get together it is always so much fun and relaxing---although our husbands HATE when we start talking about high school, which seems to happen each and every time. We all felt adventurous and took the toddlers out for dinner at Chilli's and a little shopping at Christmas Tree Shops! For the most part they were angels---actually baby Christian was an angel and Rylan was the "most part" :-) We ended the night with some sleeping babies, a few episodes of COPS , wine, brownies, and Christina getting a heaping pile of my "skinny" clothes! (If I ever lose the weight I will deserve to buy new)
Sunday we were up early! Pete and I headed to Norwalk for my 2nd round of teaching tests. I sweat bullets during the Math component that was SO INCREDIBLY HARD that I lost time and had to "guess" 15 of the questions. I was soooooo positive it would end in a failure and even took a break after it to pull myself together in the bathroom before finishing the other components. I know I whined and moaned in a past blog about computer tests...this time THEY SAVED ME. I would have never known I was running out of time without the ticker, and it also allowed me much needed breaks, and to finish early. In the end...I PASSED! Well actually 2 out of the 3 INCLUDING the Math. The last test I will find out in a week or two if I passed it our not (the essay). I do have to admit I only passed the Math by 3 POINTS! YIKES! Thank god I will NOT be a high school Math teacher or all of my students would FAIL! Looking back I remember it was the only subject in high school I did fail! Look at me now...bad at Math but a perfectly good guesser! FINALLY I will be certified in this state for my dual certification in Elementary Ed and School Social Work. As for a job...still not sure..stay tuned for developments!
Saturday we FINALLY got to have the C3/D3 Christmas! Whenever we get together it is always so much fun and relaxing---although our husbands HATE when we start talking about high school, which seems to happen each and every time. We all felt adventurous and took the toddlers out for dinner at Chilli's and a little shopping at Christmas Tree Shops! For the most part they were angels---actually baby Christian was an angel and Rylan was the "most part" :-) We ended the night with some sleeping babies, a few episodes of COPS , wine, brownies, and Christina getting a heaping pile of my "skinny" clothes! (If I ever lose the weight I will deserve to buy new)
Sunday we were up early! Pete and I headed to Norwalk for my 2nd round of teaching tests. I sweat bullets during the Math component that was SO INCREDIBLY HARD that I lost time and had to "guess" 15 of the questions. I was soooooo positive it would end in a failure and even took a break after it to pull myself together in the bathroom before finishing the other components. I know I whined and moaned in a past blog about computer tests...this time THEY SAVED ME. I would have never known I was running out of time without the ticker, and it also allowed me much needed breaks, and to finish early. In the end...I PASSED! Well actually 2 out of the 3 INCLUDING the Math. The last test I will find out in a week or two if I passed it our not (the essay). I do have to admit I only passed the Math by 3 POINTS! YIKES! Thank god I will NOT be a high school Math teacher or all of my students would FAIL! Looking back I remember it was the only subject in high school I did fail! Look at me now...bad at Math but a perfectly good guesser! FINALLY I will be certified in this state for my dual certification in Elementary Ed and School Social Work. As for a job...still not sure..stay tuned for developments!
The C3 visit
Practicing for the track team
My Merry Maid
The Kids at Chilli's
Family Pics
Christmas in February
My Merry Maid
The Kids at Chilli's
Family Pics
Christmas in February
White Trash Stockings
Every year the D3 and C3 family exchange White Trash Stockings that are filled to the brim with tacky, trashy, outdated, stuff for Christmas! Here is this years "goods"---don't be jealous and if we regift them to ya'---sorry! :-)
All the "GOODS"
A FANTASTIC picture for the Boehk Bathroom
Lovely socks that say "here's a quarte (they forget to print the R) call someone who cares"
Every kid should have a wrestler squeeze toy
Nothing says elegant more then a plastic table protector
I would have loved this in my Cindy Lauper and Madonna years
All the "GOODS"
A FANTASTIC picture for the Boehk Bathroom
Lovely socks that say "here's a quarte (they forget to print the R) call someone who cares"
Every kid should have a wrestler squeeze toy
Nothing says elegant more then a plastic table protector
I would have loved this in my Cindy Lauper and Madonna years
SNOW DAY
Friday was a snow day! We went over to our friends Kerri and Ashley's home to enjoy it! Here are a few pics from the day:
Friday, February 22, 2008
Walking in a Winter Wonderland
Thankfully the barfing stopped after the first event. I was quick to think it was a bug, but I think he is just having some reflux issues again --and we'll probably be putting him back on meds (which stinks). I think he is still battling with his ears, and is congested a little. He is in better spirits and up to his nagging ways.
Yep...I said nagging.
The monster (as we like to refer to him) has some new favorites. He is obsessed with my computer--If I am on it when he is around he is by my side SCREAMING or trying to pull it off the table, and he is also obsessed with his humidifier (he was clever enough in about 30 seconds to stand on his plush puppy chair, an onto his bookcase, inorder to touch the humidifier without Mommy around. Of course we heard a big "CRASH" and a bigger "SCREAM"--which ended up being a great big bump on the forehead that was almost split open!). He also demands that you read his mind and give him what he wants at his demand --or else. The monster also thinks that all attention should be spent on him, and if it is not he will find something to do to get back at you (say lift up the lid of the toilet and splash around?). He is a handful...and GOD HELP you if you do not take him out once a day--if you don't you are in for a day of torture combined with whining, hitting, and tossing a coat your way which is buttered up with blown kisses.
Luckily for me he felt better today and we went down the street to our friends' Kerri and Ashley's home to play in the snow. The snow started very early this mourning and has yet to stop. The kids both loved and hated the snow. Rylan refused to wear mittens as his ghetto Mom forgot to bring some. He must of realized the mittens I was trying to put on him were girly and purple. When my efforts were turned down, he went off to play with bare hands. He fell a few times and realized quickly how cold snow is! After a few screams, and Kerri demonstrating how to make the perfect snow angel, we sang the "hot dog" song from Disney's playhouse and Rylan danced in the snow while trying to catch snowflakes on his tongue. (cute pictures to be posted later)
Lastly,
funny story I could not resist adding---Pete came upstairs last night while I was trying to study for my test and said "FYI the kids tunnel downstairs is NOT meant for adults to go through"...apparently my husband thought it would be fun to try and go through the monster tunnel...and well he couldn't get out. He says he wasn't "stuck" because he did infact get out in his own..but it was "snug in there". I wish I had a camera for the moment.
Yep...I said nagging.
The monster (as we like to refer to him) has some new favorites. He is obsessed with my computer--If I am on it when he is around he is by my side SCREAMING or trying to pull it off the table, and he is also obsessed with his humidifier (he was clever enough in about 30 seconds to stand on his plush puppy chair, an onto his bookcase, inorder to touch the humidifier without Mommy around. Of course we heard a big "CRASH" and a bigger "SCREAM"--which ended up being a great big bump on the forehead that was almost split open!). He also demands that you read his mind and give him what he wants at his demand --or else. The monster also thinks that all attention should be spent on him, and if it is not he will find something to do to get back at you (say lift up the lid of the toilet and splash around?). He is a handful...and GOD HELP you if you do not take him out once a day--if you don't you are in for a day of torture combined with whining, hitting, and tossing a coat your way which is buttered up with blown kisses.
Luckily for me he felt better today and we went down the street to our friends' Kerri and Ashley's home to play in the snow. The snow started very early this mourning and has yet to stop. The kids both loved and hated the snow. Rylan refused to wear mittens as his ghetto Mom forgot to bring some. He must of realized the mittens I was trying to put on him were girly and purple. When my efforts were turned down, he went off to play with bare hands. He fell a few times and realized quickly how cold snow is! After a few screams, and Kerri demonstrating how to make the perfect snow angel, we sang the "hot dog" song from Disney's playhouse and Rylan danced in the snow while trying to catch snowflakes on his tongue. (cute pictures to be posted later)
Lastly,
funny story I could not resist adding---Pete came upstairs last night while I was trying to study for my test and said "FYI the kids tunnel downstairs is NOT meant for adults to go through"...apparently my husband thought it would be fun to try and go through the monster tunnel...and well he couldn't get out. He says he wasn't "stuck" because he did infact get out in his own..but it was "snug in there". I wish I had a camera for the moment.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Chip Man
The other day I ventured to let Rylan sit on the sofa with a bag of Veggie chips..a nd thought what a little man he looks like "diggen in"...and this is how the Chip Man story goes:
Splish Splash I am taking a barf bath?
It has been 24 hours and it appears the Mr. Bug finally took his cue and left. As I began to eat some yummy things again, and feeling ever so energetic to go out and get em', I decided to make a trip to the Mall.
The real motivation is Rylan woke up this mourning blowing be kisses. This is his way of telling me he wants to blow this joint, and go do something fun. After I played the ghetto "Christmas" video (yes you read this right--he is obsessed with this Christmas video we got for FREE and on a VHS), and got a shower (I can not get a shower without the Christmas video played loudly followed by a cookie), I told Rylan with a smile "it's time to go bye bye", and he started to blow kisses.
We got to the mall and made a quick pit stop to see grandma at Macy's. Rylan sat there with a sad face on and we thought...hmmm he must be zonked since it is almost his nap time. So I move on to a few stores and of course Starbucks (but avoided coffee "just in case" the bug is still with me). Rylan looks at me with envy as I am drinking my cold drink. I whip out his sippy cup and move on. A few minutes passed and I look down at my loving boy...who is PLAYING WITH PUKE?..what? Rylan puked in his cup holder and was using it as a "water table"..splash splash splash...I am about to puke myself. Bad mommy didn't even know he puked!--as he didn't make a sound! I quickly clean him up with my 12479 wipes in my bag, throw on his coat, and whisk him home. It seems Mr. Bug might have vacated my body and decided to visit Rylan. However I am holding out that it could be reflux--as for the past week has been puking a little every now and then..so we might be back on meds again soon...regardless of the reason....My poor kid isn't feeling well.
The real motivation is Rylan woke up this mourning blowing be kisses. This is his way of telling me he wants to blow this joint, and go do something fun. After I played the ghetto "Christmas" video (yes you read this right--he is obsessed with this Christmas video we got for FREE and on a VHS), and got a shower (I can not get a shower without the Christmas video played loudly followed by a cookie), I told Rylan with a smile "it's time to go bye bye", and he started to blow kisses.
We got to the mall and made a quick pit stop to see grandma at Macy's. Rylan sat there with a sad face on and we thought...hmmm he must be zonked since it is almost his nap time. So I move on to a few stores and of course Starbucks (but avoided coffee "just in case" the bug is still with me). Rylan looks at me with envy as I am drinking my cold drink. I whip out his sippy cup and move on. A few minutes passed and I look down at my loving boy...who is PLAYING WITH PUKE?..what? Rylan puked in his cup holder and was using it as a "water table"..splash splash splash...I am about to puke myself. Bad mommy didn't even know he puked!--as he didn't make a sound! I quickly clean him up with my 12479 wipes in my bag, throw on his coat, and whisk him home. It seems Mr. Bug might have vacated my body and decided to visit Rylan. However I am holding out that it could be reflux--as for the past week has been puking a little every now and then..so we might be back on meds again soon...regardless of the reason....My poor kid isn't feeling well.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
It's not easy being Green
I wish I was talking about recycling or something...but sadly I am referring to Mr. Bug. Apparently my plea a few blogs ago was turned down..I have been biten by the bug! I am feeling a bit better today, but last night was a disaster. I am still laying low today as I have been told this is a bug that seems to disappear, and then reappear--oh goody! Rylan seems off too--as he has been puking a little for the past few days but I assumed it was his reflux acting up. However in the past 24 hours I have noticed he too isn't himself. Pete of course is feeling just fine...as the man has a stomach of steel. We are hoping Mr. Bug only wants a short visit to the Dos Santos home...and I sure home it doesn't mess with our weekend plans.
This weekend we are packed with stuff to do. Friday night is MOM'S NIGHT OUT (I capitalize it because I look forward to it some much and pray I won't miss it), we also (and I say this with tongue in cheek since something always seems to get in our way) are expecting a visit from the C3 family HOPEFULLY to celebrate Christmas, and lastly...I have my mega test on Sunday..that is expected to take 4 1/2 hours.
Good news...prior to my sickness we made it to Rylan's hearing test. He passed the hearing part with flying colors. However the test that locates the movement in the ear and the fluid didn't go as well, as one of his ears was "not good". So we are following up with his Dr. and still considering the tubes. He was supposed to start early intervention today with his OT...but I called her and warned her this may not be the place she wants to be today since we are filled with germs. I have been less worried about Rylan, as he is slowly doing things he was not able to a few weeks ago (like sit and read a book, making more sounds, eating new textures). I am sure I won't be 100% calm about it all until he is fully evaluated, but I really am trying to focus on the positive. I am still getting flack from some people thinking I am crazy pursuing this, and on the other end to of thinking something is wrong with him...all I can do is enjoy him, and think nothing is wrong with him until I am told otherwise by professionals.
Lastly...is anyone getting the Winter blues. I am DONE with this season..and longing for the Spring! I can not wait until the day comes again when we can spend the day in the park, eat ice cream at the farm, and do other outdoor activities. Both Rylan and I are in great need for FRESH AIR! Thankfully we are almost in March. We are booking a trip to Florida this week for May with the extended Dos Santos clan--I look forward to enjoying the ocean with Rylan regardless how I look in my bathing suit :-)
This weekend we are packed with stuff to do. Friday night is MOM'S NIGHT OUT (I capitalize it because I look forward to it some much and pray I won't miss it), we also (and I say this with tongue in cheek since something always seems to get in our way) are expecting a visit from the C3 family HOPEFULLY to celebrate Christmas, and lastly...I have my mega test on Sunday..that is expected to take 4 1/2 hours.
Good news...prior to my sickness we made it to Rylan's hearing test. He passed the hearing part with flying colors. However the test that locates the movement in the ear and the fluid didn't go as well, as one of his ears was "not good". So we are following up with his Dr. and still considering the tubes. He was supposed to start early intervention today with his OT...but I called her and warned her this may not be the place she wants to be today since we are filled with germs. I have been less worried about Rylan, as he is slowly doing things he was not able to a few weeks ago (like sit and read a book, making more sounds, eating new textures). I am sure I won't be 100% calm about it all until he is fully evaluated, but I really am trying to focus on the positive. I am still getting flack from some people thinking I am crazy pursuing this, and on the other end to of thinking something is wrong with him...all I can do is enjoy him, and think nothing is wrong with him until I am told otherwise by professionals.
Lastly...is anyone getting the Winter blues. I am DONE with this season..and longing for the Spring! I can not wait until the day comes again when we can spend the day in the park, eat ice cream at the farm, and do other outdoor activities. Both Rylan and I are in great need for FRESH AIR! Thankfully we are almost in March. We are booking a trip to Florida this week for May with the extended Dos Santos clan--I look forward to enjoying the ocean with Rylan regardless how I look in my bathing suit :-)
Monday, February 18, 2008
The working mom saga continues
Just when I thought I had the answers to my work or not to work internal debate...I dream about teaching, and wake up thinking about the dream job I almost had last year. With two weeks away from the job fair that will feature that dream school...I debate. There are a LONG list of pros and cons to both sides. The list of "what if's" and worry are long and overwhelming. The thing is before having a baby my career was everything! I have spent a HUGE portion of my life in a classroom learning (and my student loans sure show this!). For as gratifying as it is to stay and watch Rylan grow up......I have to try for the dream job.
All year friends and family have heard me talk about how sad I was that I couldn't get my certification in time last year. Now here we are on the brink of finalizing my certification.....and well...I would hate to spend another year regretting I didn't try.
So what stands between me and my state certification is one more test--more like the SAT. I called up and I am signed up for this Sunday at 9am. There will be no waiting for the results as you find out immediately! It is computer based and this scares me. It brings me back to my social work exam in NYC years ago that I flunked after being a social worker for years. I blame it 100% on being a computer based test. It has a constant "ticker" tocking down the time --it distracts me and makes you feel like you have get a move on. I can only hope for a passing score...and then all I have left is to pay for the certification.
After that--if I pass--I will be heading to the job fair and attempting to convince the dream school that they can not go another year without me. If I do not get a job there then I am only taking on a part time job...as I really want a happy medium between mom and worker. We shall see.
All I know is ...the working Mom vs the non working Mom...is more of an internal battle then anything else. It is a case of the "grass is always greener". I hope that if I take on being a teacher full time I will be willing and able to be both a fantastic teacher as well as a fantastic mom...if not you know which one I will give away!
All year friends and family have heard me talk about how sad I was that I couldn't get my certification in time last year. Now here we are on the brink of finalizing my certification.....and well...I would hate to spend another year regretting I didn't try.
So what stands between me and my state certification is one more test--more like the SAT. I called up and I am signed up for this Sunday at 9am. There will be no waiting for the results as you find out immediately! It is computer based and this scares me. It brings me back to my social work exam in NYC years ago that I flunked after being a social worker for years. I blame it 100% on being a computer based test. It has a constant "ticker" tocking down the time --it distracts me and makes you feel like you have get a move on. I can only hope for a passing score...and then all I have left is to pay for the certification.
After that--if I pass--I will be heading to the job fair and attempting to convince the dream school that they can not go another year without me. If I do not get a job there then I am only taking on a part time job...as I really want a happy medium between mom and worker. We shall see.
All I know is ...the working Mom vs the non working Mom...is more of an internal battle then anything else. It is a case of the "grass is always greener". I hope that if I take on being a teacher full time I will be willing and able to be both a fantastic teacher as well as a fantastic mom...if not you know which one I will give away!
Friday, February 15, 2008
This week RYLAN Pics
A Boy and his Doggy Sweater
Snowflake on my nose and the cutest mittens EVER
Shampoo Mohawk (time for another haircut)
Rain Rain Go Away
obsessed with Truck books
Snowflake on my nose and the cutest mittens EVER
Shampoo Mohawk (time for another haircut)
Rain Rain Go Away
obsessed with Truck books
Another PURPLE TOE
I just wanted to make a public running record on why Pete is too old to play soccer!
Need I say more?
Need I say more?
Comments anyone?
Ok...so thanks to my blog meter that appears on my blog you can not only see the number rise you can also look at a graph which indicate the sites activity. I know there are many people--even in other countries, that I do no know that happen to find my blog amusing! Regardless of how well or how little I know you or you know me---PLEASE feel free to leave a comment on any of my postings (unless of course you are SPAM--which by the way people you might see every now and then--like recently someone posted that my site had a virus and you needed to purchase some cockamammy device to take it way--don't believe the hype my peeps--they are just trying to play us all!)....If you come and visit this site or the CT Momma's one..and you read something that makes you think "that's interesting" "she should try____" "Is she crazy?" or anything else..please take a moment and post! I love to hear what ya'll are thinking! As for those of you that are avid blog readers like myself, ...somehow when you read someone's blog--even if you don't actually KNOW them....you somehow feel like you do...because frankly you know more then most do...believe me if you asked my friends and family that don't read the blog if they knew about half the stuff I write about they would look at you dazed and confused. I get the blog thing....I read about 10 blogs a day of people I never met and I feel like I practically live with them! So come on...you are like family to me..even if I never caught your name! :-)
Rekindled Valentine
Valentines Day often become meaningless once you are married with kids. I remember prior to being married with kids that it was a day FULL of meaning...especially when you are single and you wallow in your self pity that you don't have a Valentine. Once you have a Valentine for life it ends up being "just another day". Pete and I usually use it as an excuse to go out to dinner alone on another day (since Valentines day is overpriced and overdone--kinda like New Years). This year however I decided to mix it up a bit.
As I posted a few days ago, I was pretty moved by the discussion on marriage at our local MOPS group...it made me think what I could do to make Pete happy and feel like Valentines Day mattered a bit. Besides giving him the adorable brag book that I made at MOPS and filled with cute pics of Ry, I also gave him a few cds he wanted, a book about LOVE, and a card that I wrote a bunch of reasons on why I respect him (Pete was surprised by this because I am KNOWN for never writing in cards anymore). I also sent Rylan over to the inlaws house, and made Pete one of his favorite meals, lit the candles, poured the wine, and played some soothing music. I am not sure what got into me--but suddenly Valentines day mattered. He was especially surprised by me recreating the meal and surprising him!
Pete came home with flowers (that he said he got on the way home and giggled because ALL the husbands of Fairfield County seemed to be there too!). He also gave me a Starbucks card, and a mini Starbucks bag that had one of my favorite treats in it! I was touched that he saw that little treat and thought of me.
I think after last night we have rekindled the Valentines spirit!
As I posted a few days ago, I was pretty moved by the discussion on marriage at our local MOPS group...it made me think what I could do to make Pete happy and feel like Valentines Day mattered a bit. Besides giving him the adorable brag book that I made at MOPS and filled with cute pics of Ry, I also gave him a few cds he wanted, a book about LOVE, and a card that I wrote a bunch of reasons on why I respect him (Pete was surprised by this because I am KNOWN for never writing in cards anymore). I also sent Rylan over to the inlaws house, and made Pete one of his favorite meals, lit the candles, poured the wine, and played some soothing music. I am not sure what got into me--but suddenly Valentines day mattered. He was especially surprised by me recreating the meal and surprising him!
Pete came home with flowers (that he said he got on the way home and giggled because ALL the husbands of Fairfield County seemed to be there too!). He also gave me a Starbucks card, and a mini Starbucks bag that had one of my favorite treats in it! I was touched that he saw that little treat and thought of me.
I think after last night we have rekindled the Valentines spirit!
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Educating
Well in the midst of worrying about the nasty stomach virus and it intruding our home ...I forgot to include some GREAT news...
I passed my MASSIVE teachers test! I weeped like a baby--because I not only passed it...I passed it with "above average" scores. This really through me for a loop...because between you and me I didn't study much...how can I with a toddler running around? So I have one more test that is less about teaching and more of an SAT (not looking forward to that one), and then I will be offically certified as a teacher and a school social work in the state of CT. I am sure you are wondering does this mean she is going back to work?....well..no. I have to admit when I woke up this morning thinking about my passing test scores I started to feel pressure that I "should". Luckily I have a wonderful husband that "gets" why I stay home...verses many who don't and just think I am lazy (yes there is even family and friends that think this--that I am wasting my education on raising my kid--you know who you are and you should know that I am not sitting on my arse eating bons bons watching Oprah...nor am I "wasting" my education). Anyway...Pete and I discussed working full time, as a job fair is coming up for the school I almost got a position in last year but fell through thanks to my lack of certification. Now this is my DREAM school...and I felt torn like maybe I should at least try to get a job there because it might never come around again. BUT the thing is...my kid still comes number 1, and if I am meant to work there, I will in time. With everything that is going on with Rylan and his evaluation, we decided I need to stay home another year. However, I am open to part time work, and if I can find it in a great school, it would "put my foot in the door" for coming years when I want something full time. For now I am taking the full time job of raising, molding, supporting, and educating my son.
As for Rylan...the latest news does not come without judgment of others. Have you ever noticed that once you have a kid everyone seems to have an opinion about who they are and how you should raise them?...I am stepping on my soap box for a moment...I have family and friends that think I am crazy for getting Rylan evaluated and serviced as they say "he is fine, and a boy..he will talk when he wants to, and all the other things you say they are concerned about it just him being a BOY"...and then there are other family and friends of mine that since moment I told them about his evaluation are evaluating him themselves and labeling him. First of all you can't compare my kid to yours --they are all different. Secondly, can you notice how loving my kid is? How he not only has great eye contact but as my friend Pam said it--he looks into your soul? Can you notice his giggle? How well he plays with others?..instead of constantly watching him for a "sign"of delay, or a habit you can label?...ok off my soap box. With that here is the dealy-yo---Birth to three came this week and we made his treatment plan. Rylan will be seen weekly by an occupational therapist for his fine motor, and sensory concerns. He will also see a speech therapist twice a month for his language development. He is also getting fully evaluated for Autism. This was not a request made by the state, but a request made by me. They just told me about the new services the state has to offer which includes a free full evaluation. This does not mean I think he IS Autistic, it is just a precaution---as it seems like it is everywhere these days and the moment I had a boy became a worrisome topic. I say it doesn't hurt to check him out now.
I passed my MASSIVE teachers test! I weeped like a baby--because I not only passed it...I passed it with "above average" scores. This really through me for a loop...because between you and me I didn't study much...how can I with a toddler running around? So I have one more test that is less about teaching and more of an SAT (not looking forward to that one), and then I will be offically certified as a teacher and a school social work in the state of CT. I am sure you are wondering does this mean she is going back to work?....well..no. I have to admit when I woke up this morning thinking about my passing test scores I started to feel pressure that I "should". Luckily I have a wonderful husband that "gets" why I stay home...verses many who don't and just think I am lazy (yes there is even family and friends that think this--that I am wasting my education on raising my kid--you know who you are and you should know that I am not sitting on my arse eating bons bons watching Oprah...nor am I "wasting" my education). Anyway...Pete and I discussed working full time, as a job fair is coming up for the school I almost got a position in last year but fell through thanks to my lack of certification. Now this is my DREAM school...and I felt torn like maybe I should at least try to get a job there because it might never come around again. BUT the thing is...my kid still comes number 1, and if I am meant to work there, I will in time. With everything that is going on with Rylan and his evaluation, we decided I need to stay home another year. However, I am open to part time work, and if I can find it in a great school, it would "put my foot in the door" for coming years when I want something full time. For now I am taking the full time job of raising, molding, supporting, and educating my son.
As for Rylan...the latest news does not come without judgment of others. Have you ever noticed that once you have a kid everyone seems to have an opinion about who they are and how you should raise them?...I am stepping on my soap box for a moment...I have family and friends that think I am crazy for getting Rylan evaluated and serviced as they say "he is fine, and a boy..he will talk when he wants to, and all the other things you say they are concerned about it just him being a BOY"...and then there are other family and friends of mine that since moment I told them about his evaluation are evaluating him themselves and labeling him. First of all you can't compare my kid to yours --they are all different. Secondly, can you notice how loving my kid is? How he not only has great eye contact but as my friend Pam said it--he looks into your soul? Can you notice his giggle? How well he plays with others?..instead of constantly watching him for a "sign"of delay, or a habit you can label?...ok off my soap box. With that here is the dealy-yo---Birth to three came this week and we made his treatment plan. Rylan will be seen weekly by an occupational therapist for his fine motor, and sensory concerns. He will also see a speech therapist twice a month for his language development. He is also getting fully evaluated for Autism. This was not a request made by the state, but a request made by me. They just told me about the new services the state has to offer which includes a free full evaluation. This does not mean I think he IS Autistic, it is just a precaution---as it seems like it is everywhere these days and the moment I had a boy became a worrisome topic. I say it doesn't hurt to check him out now.
Sweet Valentines: My what a year makes...
(Rylan no longer thinks it is "cool" to wear head bands)
HAPPY VALENTINES DAY EVERYONE!
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Dear Mr Bug ...BACK the F-off
It was a rainy day today...lots of cats and dogs and the old man is snoring! Rylan and I stayed in for most the day until both of us couldn't handle it anymore and went for a Target run. I am filled with preparation for Valentines Day, and anticipating a visit from my BFF and family and our overly rescheduled CHRISTMAS celebration. Then the phone rang tonight....and sadly we have to reschedule again. POOR Christian has the stomach virus!
I was hoping to introduce Christina and Christian to my friends here in CT by hosting a Mom's group on Friday...however when I went to send out an FYI to the group about Christina having to reschedule....I had an e-mail waiting in my inbox. POOR Ashley has a stomach bug too!
Suddenly my tummy rumbles....you know the kind...the power of suggestion is just MEAN. I am hoping this "rumble" is mere nerves about possibly getting bitten by the bug! Granted it would be an easy way to shed a few pounds....I still need to send out this request to the person in charge:
Dear Mr Bug
I know you enjoy visiting as many families as you can especially the Winter months. I imagine you need a warm body to cozy up too, and you seek your spirituality by bringing us to the porcelain gods, but dear Mr Bug....the bathroom floor is comfy, I can not keep up with "both ends" going, I can not take care of myself, my son, and my husband, and for heavens sake..we are good people. Aren't there plenty of mean people in the world you can bug? Can you cozy up to President Bush instead? Maybe some of Britney Spears entourage that destroyed her? Possibly Castro? The KKK? A Skunk?...anyone...sweet Mr. Bug...just pleassssse please not our family.
with much antibodies,
The Dos Santos Family
p.s. please make your visits short and sweet to the friends of ours you are currently visiting...the term Mi Casa is Su Casa DOES NOT apply to you!
I was hoping to introduce Christina and Christian to my friends here in CT by hosting a Mom's group on Friday...however when I went to send out an FYI to the group about Christina having to reschedule....I had an e-mail waiting in my inbox. POOR Ashley has a stomach bug too!
Suddenly my tummy rumbles....you know the kind...the power of suggestion is just MEAN. I am hoping this "rumble" is mere nerves about possibly getting bitten by the bug! Granted it would be an easy way to shed a few pounds....I still need to send out this request to the person in charge:
Dear Mr Bug
I know you enjoy visiting as many families as you can especially the Winter months. I imagine you need a warm body to cozy up too, and you seek your spirituality by bringing us to the porcelain gods, but dear Mr Bug....the bathroom floor is comfy, I can not keep up with "both ends" going, I can not take care of myself, my son, and my husband, and for heavens sake..we are good people. Aren't there plenty of mean people in the world you can bug? Can you cozy up to President Bush instead? Maybe some of Britney Spears entourage that destroyed her? Possibly Castro? The KKK? A Skunk?...anyone...sweet Mr. Bug...just pleassssse please not our family.
with much antibodies,
The Dos Santos Family
p.s. please make your visits short and sweet to the friends of ours you are currently visiting...the term Mi Casa is Su Casa DOES NOT apply to you!
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Separation and Respect
Today I was lucky enough to be welcomed as a guest to our local MOPS (mothers of preschoolers) chapter after being put on a LONG waiting list to get there! It was great!
My biggest fear was going there and missing the entire thing because Rylan wasn't dealing well with the nursery. Well luckily he surprised me! He was put in with his friend Ashley down the street, so they both had a familiar face in the room. He didn't notice me leaving, and apparently for the most part he was doing well. When he did cry we were told Ashley went over to him to comfort him and say "Ry Ry", she also tried to get him to play. Overall for the first time I have left my child with someone other then close friends or family--it went quite well. He was so exhausted from the change and excitement that he konked out in about 5 min. in the car.
The meeting itself was great. I enjoyed meeting other moms in the area, and have a YUMMY breakfast without a little 19month old begger at my leg trying to get a taste. Then they had a speaker who spoke about this book and how different men and women are, and how it affects your marriage. It wasn't like Men are from Mars stuff...it was actually quite deep and made me rethink some of my BAD habits. It also made me think about things I could do to contribute to my marriage and make sure my husband understand how much he is respected and loved. It was a deep talk that later our table discussed and all found common threads. Then the second half we had craft time. The craft was a little brag book which came out really cute.
I am not "officailly" a member of MOPS yet---as after my "guest spot"..I will be put on yet another waiting list. I look forward to when my "number" is called!
If you happen to be reading this and you are an at home mom in the U.S., and not a part of your local MOPS group...check it out! It was a well needed and valued break, and time to just concentrate on YOU.
My biggest fear was going there and missing the entire thing because Rylan wasn't dealing well with the nursery. Well luckily he surprised me! He was put in with his friend Ashley down the street, so they both had a familiar face in the room. He didn't notice me leaving, and apparently for the most part he was doing well. When he did cry we were told Ashley went over to him to comfort him and say "Ry Ry", she also tried to get him to play. Overall for the first time I have left my child with someone other then close friends or family--it went quite well. He was so exhausted from the change and excitement that he konked out in about 5 min. in the car.
The meeting itself was great. I enjoyed meeting other moms in the area, and have a YUMMY breakfast without a little 19month old begger at my leg trying to get a taste. Then they had a speaker who spoke about this book and how different men and women are, and how it affects your marriage. It wasn't like Men are from Mars stuff...it was actually quite deep and made me rethink some of my BAD habits. It also made me think about things I could do to contribute to my marriage and make sure my husband understand how much he is respected and loved. It was a deep talk that later our table discussed and all found common threads. Then the second half we had craft time. The craft was a little brag book which came out really cute.
I am not "officailly" a member of MOPS yet---as after my "guest spot"..I will be put on yet another waiting list. I look forward to when my "number" is called!
If you happen to be reading this and you are an at home mom in the U.S., and not a part of your local MOPS group...check it out! It was a well needed and valued break, and time to just concentrate on YOU.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Weekend Pics
Here are a few highlights from our weekend! We also went to a first birthday party and had a meal with the family but neglected to capture it on film!
Rylan drank from an OPEN cup!
Our backyard was filled with unex[ected snow on Saturday
Pete and I went into NYC on Sunday to have lunch with our friends from Bermuda! We miss them so much...so we enjoy seeing them as much as we can when they visit!
Rylan drank from an OPEN cup!
Our backyard was filled with unex[ected snow on Saturday
Pete and I went into NYC on Sunday to have lunch with our friends from Bermuda! We miss them so much...so we enjoy seeing them as much as we can when they visit!
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