Saturday, August 30, 2008
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Preschool - Day 2
Hayley seemed excited enough to be strapping on her backpack again this morning and I worked HARD yesterday to make her take a nap so she wouldn't be overtired today. I felt good as we had an uneventful drive to school and Hayley seemed to be in a good mood so I was optimistic that today she would wow Ms. Colleen and Ms. Nicole with her angelic qualities. When we got to her classroom, her teachers had prepared a First Day souvenier for all the children and placed it in their cubbies. Sweet, isn't it?
I'm thinking "this" probably is what Ms. Colleen and Ms. Nicole were thinking would have been more appropriate.
And POOF! There went my confidence and my optimism for the day. Nothing like a little reminder of what my Hurricane is capable of to make me hit my knees, humble myself to God, and pray for mercy.
Pick up for Sprouts is between 12:10 and 12:25pm. On the first day of preschool, I arrived at about 12:15pm as I didn't want to seem like that maniacal parent that was ready to swoop in and rescue my child at 12:09pm. You know, I was playing it cool, like Todd and I had a big morning out on the town. But when I arrived at 12:15pm, Hayley was THE LAST child still in the classroom. I felt bad and I'm sure by that point Ms. Colleen and Ms. Nicole were ready for Hayley's mommy to arrive. I brushed it off as the first day and that's why everyone picked their child up at the strike of 12:10pm. So today, I played it cool again arriving at 12:15pm. Once again, Hayley was the last child left in class. Don't these parents have places to go and people to see in the mornings??
Fortunately when I arrived, Hayley's teachers told me she had a good day. She didn't throw any fits when they transitioned activities and didn't display her will the way she had last Thursday. She was smiling and happy and I didn't see an ounce of tear stain on her face. I was instantly relieved. That was until Ms. Nicole mentioned, "Hayley really liked her snack today." (Uh, oh... I was hoping to let the wrath of Hayley's appetite go unnoticed until September when the kids started staying for lunch.) She said that she and Ms. Colleen were utterly shocked when Hayley wolfed down her snack before the little boys next to her had even taken a bite of theirs. They said that Hayley is the tiniest child in the class so they figured she'd just play with her food and not really eat. Little did they know, eating is SERIOUS business in Hayley's book. You don't mess around. And so Hayley took it upon herself to begin teaching those little boys one of life's lessons... you snooze you loose fellas! After snarfing down her own graham cracker, Hayley went after her neighbors'. Ms. Colleen and Ms. Nicole explained to her that the napkin is her own space and they replinished her napkin with more snacks. I did let them know that Hayley is a strong eater and that I did feed her a big breakfast (3 eggs, a cup of yogurt, a piece of toast, and raspberries to be exact) and they said it was no big deal. But... don't worry fellow moms, day 2 and between my child consistently being the last to be picked up and the fact that it looks like I only feed her once a week I'm pretty sure I'm out of the running for the Sprouts Mother of the Year award.
We arrived home just in time for Hayley to swallow down an entire pb&j sandwich, large banana, milk, and grapes.
We're headed to Colorado next week. I sure hope Mimi gets the memo to stock the fridge!
I'm thinking "this" probably is what Ms. Colleen and Ms. Nicole were thinking would have been more appropriate.
And POOF! There went my confidence and my optimism for the day. Nothing like a little reminder of what my Hurricane is capable of to make me hit my knees, humble myself to God, and pray for mercy.
Pick up for Sprouts is between 12:10 and 12:25pm. On the first day of preschool, I arrived at about 12:15pm as I didn't want to seem like that maniacal parent that was ready to swoop in and rescue my child at 12:09pm. You know, I was playing it cool, like Todd and I had a big morning out on the town. But when I arrived at 12:15pm, Hayley was THE LAST child still in the classroom. I felt bad and I'm sure by that point Ms. Colleen and Ms. Nicole were ready for Hayley's mommy to arrive. I brushed it off as the first day and that's why everyone picked their child up at the strike of 12:10pm. So today, I played it cool again arriving at 12:15pm. Once again, Hayley was the last child left in class. Don't these parents have places to go and people to see in the mornings??
Fortunately when I arrived, Hayley's teachers told me she had a good day. She didn't throw any fits when they transitioned activities and didn't display her will the way she had last Thursday. She was smiling and happy and I didn't see an ounce of tear stain on her face. I was instantly relieved. That was until Ms. Nicole mentioned, "Hayley really liked her snack today." (Uh, oh... I was hoping to let the wrath of Hayley's appetite go unnoticed until September when the kids started staying for lunch.) She said that she and Ms. Colleen were utterly shocked when Hayley wolfed down her snack before the little boys next to her had even taken a bite of theirs. They said that Hayley is the tiniest child in the class so they figured she'd just play with her food and not really eat. Little did they know, eating is SERIOUS business in Hayley's book. You don't mess around. And so Hayley took it upon herself to begin teaching those little boys one of life's lessons... you snooze you loose fellas! After snarfing down her own graham cracker, Hayley went after her neighbors'. Ms. Colleen and Ms. Nicole explained to her that the napkin is her own space and they replinished her napkin with more snacks. I did let them know that Hayley is a strong eater and that I did feed her a big breakfast (3 eggs, a cup of yogurt, a piece of toast, and raspberries to be exact) and they said it was no big deal. But... don't worry fellow moms, day 2 and between my child consistently being the last to be picked up and the fact that it looks like I only feed her once a week I'm pretty sure I'm out of the running for the Sprouts Mother of the Year award.
We arrived home just in time for Hayley to swallow down an entire pb&j sandwich, large banana, milk, and grapes.
We're headed to Colorado next week. I sure hope Mimi gets the memo to stock the fridge!
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Sunday Night Fever
We spent our afternoon today working on Hayley's first homework assignment. Dare I say that I was completely unprepared for homework in preschool, much less homework on the first day!! I'm feeling a little uneasy... I sure do hope this is "A" work.
Working on her creation!
The finished product... Tah dah!
Of course Todd did what he usually does and supervised his sister.
Todd Travolta in Sunday Night Fever... I know, the resemblance is uncanny!
Working on her creation!
The finished product... Tah dah!
Of course Todd did what he usually does and supervised his sister.
Todd Travolta in Sunday Night Fever... I know, the resemblance is uncanny!
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Hayley's First Day of Preschool
Little Miss Hayley was rearing to go for her first official day of Preschool this morning.
Her new backpack
Powering up with a good breakfast
Todd was very supportive of Hayley's new endeavor
Heading to the car
Daddy walking Hayley into the school
A quick stop for a picture with Mommy and Todd
Getting settled in her classroom
She seemed a little overwhelmed when we first got there and I have to admit, it was VERY overwhelming with all the children and parents trying to take video and pictures of their little ones. In typical Hayley fashion though, she wanted nothing to do with us once she got to the classroom and didn't even notice when we left. My child has never displayed even an ounce of separation anxiety which can be tough on a parent's confidence. I mean, I "think" she likes me??!! Guess she's just more of the independent type.
When I picked Hayley up at noon, she looked hungry and tired. Her teacher told me that they played with shaving cream, had circle time, outside time, and an overall GOOD time! I got Hayley back out to the car and we were half way home before she finally opened her mouth to say anything. I asked her if she had fun and she said, "my goodness." Then she uttered something I couldn't understand and exasperatingly said "oh, my goodness." My goodness? That has been Hayley's quip du jour lately. Yesterday I was running the food processor and Hayley came out of her room with her hands on her hips and exclaimed to me, "my goodness." When we arrived at preschool this morning and Hayley saw all the parents and children (and chaos) she said, "oh, my goodness." The fun thing is the expression she uses when she says it. So, I'm guessing that her day was fun, full, and a bit overwhelming. She's now in her room taking a siesta... a rarity for Hayley lately. Yes, I think we're definitely going to like preschool!
Her new backpack
Powering up with a good breakfast
Todd was very supportive of Hayley's new endeavor
Heading to the car
Daddy walking Hayley into the school
A quick stop for a picture with Mommy and Todd
Getting settled in her classroom
She seemed a little overwhelmed when we first got there and I have to admit, it was VERY overwhelming with all the children and parents trying to take video and pictures of their little ones. In typical Hayley fashion though, she wanted nothing to do with us once she got to the classroom and didn't even notice when we left. My child has never displayed even an ounce of separation anxiety which can be tough on a parent's confidence. I mean, I "think" she likes me??!! Guess she's just more of the independent type.
When I picked Hayley up at noon, she looked hungry and tired. Her teacher told me that they played with shaving cream, had circle time, outside time, and an overall GOOD time! I got Hayley back out to the car and we were half way home before she finally opened her mouth to say anything. I asked her if she had fun and she said, "my goodness." Then she uttered something I couldn't understand and exasperatingly said "oh, my goodness." My goodness? That has been Hayley's quip du jour lately. Yesterday I was running the food processor and Hayley came out of her room with her hands on her hips and exclaimed to me, "my goodness." When we arrived at preschool this morning and Hayley saw all the parents and children (and chaos) she said, "oh, my goodness." The fun thing is the expression she uses when she says it. So, I'm guessing that her day was fun, full, and a bit overwhelming. She's now in her room taking a siesta... a rarity for Hayley lately. Yes, I think we're definitely going to like preschool!
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
I think I'm gonna need some chocolate to get me through this.
There's going to be some extra moisture around these parts and flooding is quite possible. No, I'm not referring to Hurricane Fay, but I am referring to a hurricane. MY little hurricane. I think I am a certified lunatic.
I have been SO excited for Hayley to begin preschool. I have WONDERFUL memories of preschool. To this day I can tell you that David and Matthew were my two best friends and we played Dukes of Hazzard nearly every day. I fondly remember the school administrator, Mrs. Christianson, who used to call me her little sunshine. I can remember the best tasting peanut butter and jelly sandwiches that the lunch lady used to make for all of us. I can remember all the fun crafts and activities that I so loved to do, especially finger painting with pudding. I remember being chosen to play Goldilocks in our preschool play Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Obviously, my acting career did not go any further.
It's not easy to find preschools here for children that are two, but it's all these great memories that I have from my preschool days that have encouraged me to do all I can to find a place that I feel Hayley can have some of the same experiences. My social butterfly NEEDS to be around other kids. She loves to learn and she needs to be stimulated. While preschool is intended to be just for Hayley right now, Todd also needs some one on one time with just his Mommy.
I've had Hayley on the Sprouts waiting list since before she could walk. I love the school, she seems completely comfortable there and I've heard nothing but great things from other parents. In fact, I've really been looking forward to having a couple hours twice a week to just bond with my little boy. So why is it that for the past three days I've been in tears just thinking about dropping my little doll off for school on Thursday?
I have been SO excited for Hayley to begin preschool. I have WONDERFUL memories of preschool. To this day I can tell you that David and Matthew were my two best friends and we played Dukes of Hazzard nearly every day. I fondly remember the school administrator, Mrs. Christianson, who used to call me her little sunshine. I can remember the best tasting peanut butter and jelly sandwiches that the lunch lady used to make for all of us. I can remember all the fun crafts and activities that I so loved to do, especially finger painting with pudding. I remember being chosen to play Goldilocks in our preschool play Goldilocks and the Three Bears. Obviously, my acting career did not go any further.
It's not easy to find preschools here for children that are two, but it's all these great memories that I have from my preschool days that have encouraged me to do all I can to find a place that I feel Hayley can have some of the same experiences. My social butterfly NEEDS to be around other kids. She loves to learn and she needs to be stimulated. While preschool is intended to be just for Hayley right now, Todd also needs some one on one time with just his Mommy.
I've had Hayley on the Sprouts waiting list since before she could walk. I love the school, she seems completely comfortable there and I've heard nothing but great things from other parents. In fact, I've really been looking forward to having a couple hours twice a week to just bond with my little boy. So why is it that for the past three days I've been in tears just thinking about dropping my little doll off for school on Thursday?
Monday, August 18, 2008
The 2008 Roberts' Olympic Games
We spent the weekend hosting our own Olympic Games. Inspired by Michael Phelps, little Todd decided to take up swimming. Obviously, Todd does not quite have the same metabolism as Mr. Phelps. In fact, I'm concerned that by the looks of things, I may need to start shopping for a "Bro" for little T.R. before long.
"Maybe I'll take up diving."
"On second thought, perhaps I'll give speed boat racing a shot."
It should come as no surprise that Hayley prefers to compete in track. Sprints, to be exact. She was definitely enthused after watching some of the women's hurdles and decided to create her own indoor track out of my kitchen.
"On second thought, perhaps I'll give speed boat racing a shot."
It should come as no surprise that Hayley prefers to compete in track. Sprints, to be exact. She was definitely enthused after watching some of the women's hurdles and decided to create her own indoor track out of my kitchen.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Todd's Dreamfeed
One of our favorite times with both Hayley and Todd has been their dreamfeed. With Hayley, it was the only time that we got to just hold and snuggle her without her screaming at us to be put down. With our snuggler Todd, it's just some extra time to examine all the features of his cute little face and give him some additional love. Dreamfeeds have been a very successful undertaking in our house. Apparently both of our children have the ability to eat while sleeping. If Todd follows in Hayley's footsteps, he's going to be a good eater and my grocery bill is going to be atrocious.
Before bed, we ALWAYS take a bath
Perhaps it is time for bigger pjs
What a life
Perhaps it is time for bigger pjs
What a life
Monday, August 11, 2008
Todd at 4 Months
Hayley and I took Todd to the pediatrician today for his four month checkup. My big boy weighed in at 14 pounds, 8 ounces and 26 inches long which puts him at about 50% for weight and 75% for length. He seems SO big to me that I was surprised that he didn't weigh more. Of course after having Hayley who has been such a skinny little peanut, any baby with a roll or two seems huge to me. Todd got a clean bill of health and we were on our way. Hayley and Todd, each at 4 months
On Saturday we attended a third birthday party for our good friend Luke. Hayley had a ball. She LOVES to play at Luke's house because Luke has cars and trucks and all sorts of things that little girls dream about... well, at least OUR little girl.
Coloring Lightning McQueen
Another party animal
The toy of the day... the race track!
Saturday, August 09, 2008
Going Bald and Eating Crow
I haven't posted in awhile because I've been busy pulling my hair out. Literally. Suprisingly (and somewhat debatable), Hayley is not the cause of my hair loss as I get to chalk this lovely symptom up once again to pregnancy hormones. I'm not sure if it is because this was my second pregnancy, or because I had a boy, but every pregnancy symptom was magnified in comparison to my pregnancy with Hayley. So of course, this lovely post-partum shedding is twice as bad as after I had Hayley. It looks like two blond gorillas had a cage fight in my shower every morning and at this rate I figure I'll look like Mr. Clean's long lost twin (minus the shiny floors) by the end of the month. Don't get me wrong... I love, love, LOVE Todd and Hayley. However, I'm really just not at all a fan of the whole process of getting them here.
I've spent the past week wracking my brain about appropriate discipline methods to use with Hayley. Perhaps I should have thought about this BEFORE I had children, but back then I was too smart to ever believe that "my" child would ever need to be disciplined beyond a timeout. You know, "my" child will NEVER throw a screaming fit in public. "My" child will never run around out of control. "My" child will never tell me "NO" in a bratty voice. But now? Now my life pretty much consists of eating crow (when I'm not pulling my hair out). That child you hear throwing an absolute tantrum on aisle 2 and whose mother must have absolutely no control? That would be me. Two is such a lovely age and I'm sure in twenty years I'll see some poor soul who once knew everything too but now has a screaming toddler and I'll snicker, knowing that I did my time. But right now, my wounds are fresh and that doesn't comfort me much and it certainly doesn't solve my two year old's discipline problems. Right now I'm relying on Amazon.com for that. Instead of sitting back and getting the chance to read something that "I" would like to read before bed each night, I will now begin reading "1-2-3 Magic: Effective Discipline for Children" and "Setting Limits with Your Strong-Willed Child." My book report will be forthcoming.
Saturday, August 02, 2008
Cautiously Optimistic
I think the earth must have fallen off it's axis. BOTH of my children are currently napping and my non-napping almost fourth month old took a TWO hour nap this morning. Now I won't go so far as to say that my sanity is returning, because even if my little angels took perfect naps everyday I would not consider myself sane, but I sure am a much happier mommy with two napping children. And to what do I owe these sudden naps? With Todd, it's just plain good fortune and perhaps getting out of whatever crazy baby stage he was going through. But Hayley? That's taken more than a little snake charming on my part. After constantly catching Hayley out of bed with two or three shirts around her neck and swimming in a pile of books, I've accepted that it is necessary to hide every possible thing Hayley could find interesting during naptime. Don't get me wrong. I'm thrilled over her love of books, but the 3pm grouch is going to be the death of me if I don't get this child back in a napping habit.Speaking of books... I'd like to publicly thank my good friend Alisson for sending Hayley the book "Puppy Love" for Hayley's birthday. It has definitely contributed to Hayley's obsession with dogs and has quickly become one of Hayley's favorite reads as she talks about "Puppy Wuv" constantly. Especially when we are out in public and she sees a dog. She yells, "Wook Mommy, a puppy. Awww... puppy wuv!" Nevermind the quizzical look I get from the dogs' owners, I think Chloe must have sent out a doggy S.O.S. because the dogs get the look on their face like, "no way am I going near that child."
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