There are certain experiences we have as a kid that through the lens of the parent is so radically different that watching your child live out those same experiences can feel confusing. Early November brought one of those experiences to our household. There was a lot of excitement buzzing in the air because Kaylee, after wishing and hoping since the age of 3, finally had a tooth that was on the cusp of falling out. Being a young first grader and possible a bit late to bloom in the dental arena, Kaylee felt as if she were the very last first grader to have all of her baby teeth. So when that tooth finally started to really wiggle her excitement could not be contained. And one evening as I was tidying up in the kitchen and my husband was working on Spanish with her, she squealed, "My tooth fell out!!"
She was busy jumping around the kitchen when I asked to see her baby tooth. She gave me a wide open mouth grin, bearing a little empty spot in her smile that exposed a little pink gum and she quickly deposited her baby tooth in my hand. Seeing that little strip of gum shot me back to the days when her smile was all gums. And then glancing at the tiny little tooth in my palm I was remembering the day that her very first tooth, lovingly named "Mr. Sharpy" by my husband, burst through. Suddenly, with the emergence of that tiny white fleck in her baby mouth all the fussy nights and cluster nursing made sense and somehow it all felt worth it because my baby had her very first tooth!! And now, that same tooth that brought so much excitement was sitting, useless in my hand. And yes, I was excited. How could I not be with a 6 year old brimming with pride over this tiny tooth and the adult tooth that would arrive a few days later? But I also felt an overwhelming sense of sadness? Or was it nostalgia. I can't be certain, but something was tugging at my heart strings that made me want to pull Kaylee closer and demand her to stop growing older.
These milestones that our children keep hitting bring them so many feeling of joy and excitement and I clearly remember the thrill that came from losing some of my own teeth. But as a mom, these milestones come with a harsh reminder that life keeps marching on and our children keep growing older and more independent of us. And yes, ultimately this is what we want for our children to grow up and apart from us, to be their own independent beings. Oh, but this mama heart wishes time would slow down just a bit so I can enjoy being her mama for as long as possible.
Showing posts with label Years two through six. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Years two through six. Show all posts
Thursday, November 29, 2018
Friday, September 15, 2017
Kindergarten
A little over five years ago you were placed on my chest and we became almost inseparable. We were together 24/7 for most of your early life and your life intertwined with mine so much that figuring out where yours started and mine ended became blurred. Sure, there were weekly dates with your Nana and Papa, and daddy date afternoons, but mostly it was you and me, kid. And I loved nothing more than to spend my days with you.
And then three weeks ago you went to kindergarten.
This new and exciting journey started for you, the world expanding in ways you had no idea was even possible. Your mind opened to new experiences and thoughts and ideas. Your journey of exploring the world, was just beginning and you standing at the cusp of it felt large, and beautiful, miraculous, and overwhelming.
Your first few weeks brought a bit of separation anxiety, mornings of you grabbing me a little bit tighter at drop off, some tears in your eyes, and a large dose of uncertainty at this new expanding world. And every pick up was full of your love for school and declarations of "it wasn't worth the tears." And yet each morning that touch of separation anxiety appeared again, only to be eased the second I disappeared from sight.
But while your world was expanding and growing, mine felt like it was shrinking. My days continued very similar to how they had before. I went to Costco to get groceries. But there was no shouting, "all aboard!" cuing my favorite little girl to hop back on the side of the cart before changing aisles. The absence of chatter was deafening as washed the dishes or folded laundry. There was no little girl helping me pull the freshly washed sheets on my bed. I did my fall baking as I did every year, but there was no miniature chair pulled up to the counter with little feet standing on tip toes and little hands helping me stir. And to be perfectly honest those first few weeks were tougher on me than they were for you.
As we are finishing our third week of school, you're getting used to the routine and feeling less anxious at drop off. And just as you are getting used to your new routine, I am getting used to my new routine as well. I am finding new ways to spend my time and replacing old traditions with new ones. I feel overwhelmingly grateful I was able to spend so much time with you for the first five years of your life. I feel even more grateful I am well enough to watch you take your first real steps of independence into the world. What a magical journey we have been on!
And then three weeks ago you went to kindergarten.
This new and exciting journey started for you, the world expanding in ways you had no idea was even possible. Your mind opened to new experiences and thoughts and ideas. Your journey of exploring the world, was just beginning and you standing at the cusp of it felt large, and beautiful, miraculous, and overwhelming.
Your first few weeks brought a bit of separation anxiety, mornings of you grabbing me a little bit tighter at drop off, some tears in your eyes, and a large dose of uncertainty at this new expanding world. And every pick up was full of your love for school and declarations of "it wasn't worth the tears." And yet each morning that touch of separation anxiety appeared again, only to be eased the second I disappeared from sight.
But while your world was expanding and growing, mine felt like it was shrinking. My days continued very similar to how they had before. I went to Costco to get groceries. But there was no shouting, "all aboard!" cuing my favorite little girl to hop back on the side of the cart before changing aisles. The absence of chatter was deafening as washed the dishes or folded laundry. There was no little girl helping me pull the freshly washed sheets on my bed. I did my fall baking as I did every year, but there was no miniature chair pulled up to the counter with little feet standing on tip toes and little hands helping me stir. And to be perfectly honest those first few weeks were tougher on me than they were for you.
As we are finishing our third week of school, you're getting used to the routine and feeling less anxious at drop off. And just as you are getting used to your new routine, I am getting used to my new routine as well. I am finding new ways to spend my time and replacing old traditions with new ones. I feel overwhelmingly grateful I was able to spend so much time with you for the first five years of your life. I feel even more grateful I am well enough to watch you take your first real steps of independence into the world. What a magical journey we have been on!
Monday, June 12, 2017
5 years old
Little Kaylee,
You are 5 years old today! 5 seems like a significant age because you are officially school age! Although I miss carrying you around on my hip, your need to always hold my hand (although you still hold my hand) and witnessing all the first milestones for the baby book I am so enjoying this childhood phase. I feel like a broken record writing these, every year I seem to like your age and motherhood more.
Once upon a time you were my shadow, a mold of myself. Almost everything I liked to do you did too. As you get older you are finding your own interests and they don't always align with mine. My gardening buddy now loves eating from the garden, but not so much in helping sow seeds or tend to the plants. To my slight disgust and extreme pride you have decided that bugs are much more love worthy than plants. Now many children love bugs, but I am not so sure that many children love bugs like you! While I work in the garden you find bugs and you love on them in a way I will never fully understand. You carry them, name them, sing to them, love on them. And when I accidentally stepped on a grasshopper in our yard (which was a happy accident in my opinion given they can be very destructive to the garden) you cried real tears for that bug and you found it especially upsetting because the bug "wasn't even that old." When bugs find their way into our house regardless the type: crane fly, spider, house fly, you claim it as your pet and love on it until mommy or daddy can secretly release (or mush) it.
You have your own sense of fashion and a strong desire to follow these fashion rules which consists mainly of pajamas and non-brushed hair which means you haven't changed much since birth. Your one and only accessory that is an everyday must for you is hair bands around your wrist. I am not sure when or how this started, but I love that your fashion is practical and anytime I need to put my hair up I know where to find a hair band.
I feel so incredibly grateful I was able to be your mother! When I tell you that I am the luckiest mother in the whole world you always respond, "all mother's feel that way!" And maybe all moms do feel that way, but regardless I will go on believing whole heartedly that I truly am the absolute luckiest mother in the world to have the honor of watching you grow and spend my life with you!
Love,
Mom
You are 5 years old today! 5 seems like a significant age because you are officially school age! Although I miss carrying you around on my hip, your need to always hold my hand (although you still hold my hand) and witnessing all the first milestones for the baby book I am so enjoying this childhood phase. I feel like a broken record writing these, every year I seem to like your age and motherhood more.
Once upon a time you were my shadow, a mold of myself. Almost everything I liked to do you did too. As you get older you are finding your own interests and they don't always align with mine. My gardening buddy now loves eating from the garden, but not so much in helping sow seeds or tend to the plants. To my slight disgust and extreme pride you have decided that bugs are much more love worthy than plants. Now many children love bugs, but I am not so sure that many children love bugs like you! While I work in the garden you find bugs and you love on them in a way I will never fully understand. You carry them, name them, sing to them, love on them. And when I accidentally stepped on a grasshopper in our yard (which was a happy accident in my opinion given they can be very destructive to the garden) you cried real tears for that bug and you found it especially upsetting because the bug "wasn't even that old." When bugs find their way into our house regardless the type: crane fly, spider, house fly, you claim it as your pet and love on it until mommy or daddy can secretly release (or mush) it.
You have your own sense of fashion and a strong desire to follow these fashion rules which consists mainly of pajamas and non-brushed hair which means you haven't changed much since birth. Your one and only accessory that is an everyday must for you is hair bands around your wrist. I am not sure when or how this started, but I love that your fashion is practical and anytime I need to put my hair up I know where to find a hair band.
I feel so incredibly grateful I was able to be your mother! When I tell you that I am the luckiest mother in the whole world you always respond, "all mother's feel that way!" And maybe all moms do feel that way, but regardless I will go on believing whole heartedly that I truly am the absolute luckiest mother in the world to have the honor of watching you grow and spend my life with you!
Love,
Mom
Sunday, January 8, 2017
Silver Lining
A few days after New Years our family came down with a stomach bug. I will spare you the details as I am many of you are much more familiar with the stomach "flu" than you would like to be. However, despite the horror, there was a silver lining I thought I would share.
Kaylee caught the bug first. I ended up as Kaylee's head nurse because my husband was at work for most of the day. She was very sick for about two days. Of course, as it often happens, as Kaylee started to improve I started to feel a little off. And one evening I passed on an old fashion and a movie to lie in bed (or roll around in bed trying to find a comfortable position) while gripping my stomach. Needless to say I was hit hard and as with everything, I got a weird complication in that my fevers got out of control and I slept about 20 of the 24 hours that made up Thursday.
Kaylee, who was on the mend decided to become my head nurse. She had slept in our bed the previous two nights (running a sick child to a toilet is much easier when you are next to them) so when she woke up and found out I was sick she announced she would be right back and ran from our room. A few moments later she walked in and presented me breakfast in bed. Of course the tray was a baking sheet, the plate was a coffee filter (she can't reach the plates), and the breakfast of choice for a person with the stomach flu was a easy to digest pile of mixed nuts. And she presented me a plastic disposable water bottle which gave me a moment of pause because we don't buy disposable water bottles, but she assured me she poured out the old water and put in fresh water.
After breakfast Kaylee informed me that if I got sick she would hold my hand so I wouldn't be scared. As her mother I never left her side when she was sick and miserable and it was heart whelming that she wanted to be there for me as well. Of course, when I did get sick she dutifully came with me to the bathroom. I took one look at her face and told her she could leave if she wanted to and she ran out of that bathroom as fast as her four year old legs could carry her. It is the thought that counts, right? By the time my husband got sick Kaylee had lost some of her empathy because with both parents sick, being a kid just isn't fun. However, I loved seeing the thoughtful side of my daughter who wanted to take care of her mama (even if she needs to work on her follow through).
Kaylee caught the bug first. I ended up as Kaylee's head nurse because my husband was at work for most of the day. She was very sick for about two days. Of course, as it often happens, as Kaylee started to improve I started to feel a little off. And one evening I passed on an old fashion and a movie to lie in bed (or roll around in bed trying to find a comfortable position) while gripping my stomach. Needless to say I was hit hard and as with everything, I got a weird complication in that my fevers got out of control and I slept about 20 of the 24 hours that made up Thursday.
Kaylee, who was on the mend decided to become my head nurse. She had slept in our bed the previous two nights (running a sick child to a toilet is much easier when you are next to them) so when she woke up and found out I was sick she announced she would be right back and ran from our room. A few moments later she walked in and presented me breakfast in bed. Of course the tray was a baking sheet, the plate was a coffee filter (she can't reach the plates), and the breakfast of choice for a person with the stomach flu was a
After breakfast Kaylee informed me that if I got sick she would hold my hand so I wouldn't be scared. As her mother I never left her side when she was sick and miserable and it was heart whelming that she wanted to be there for me as well. Of course, when I did get sick she dutifully came with me to the bathroom. I took one look at her face and told her she could leave if she wanted to and she ran out of that bathroom as fast as her four year old legs could carry her. It is the thought that counts, right? By the time my husband got sick Kaylee had lost some of her empathy because with both parents sick, being a kid just isn't fun. However, I loved seeing the thoughtful side of my daughter who wanted to take care of her mama (even if she needs to work on her follow through).
Tuesday, December 13, 2016
4 and a half
Dear Kaylee,
There was a time, not so long ago, when I would lay in bed while rubbing my belly that kept you safe and warm and I would picture being your mother. I could easily picture myself mothering baby Kaylee, but for some reason I could not get my mind to move on past infancy. Rocking, soothing, nursing was something I would imagine daily, but being a mother to a walking, talking, school aged child was beyond my scope at the time. With you still nestled in my belly, it was hard to see so far ahead and in reality, I had no idea what it meant to be a mother at the time. I didn't have the experience to really know what motherhood entailed.
Fast forward 4.5 years later and I have to admit, that each year of mothering I feel my love for you grow (how is that even possible?!) and I love my job as your mother more and more. Now, I can easily picture mothering you all through your school years and even mothering you when you're a mother yourself. Sure, I still have no idea what I am in for when it comes to raising a teenager, but you are no longer this mystery tucked away below my ribcage. You are my daughter and watching you grow is the biggest gift I have ever been given.
I brought you out to dinner last night, just the girls, and when I told you that you were officially 4.5 your eyes grew big, "I am 4.5? I always thought that meant you were a grown up, but I am not even a teenager yet!" You said with some surprise and a lot of enthusiasm. So how can I sum you up as a 4.5 year old? I think the best way to describe you is my mini me. You and I are two peas in a pod! We like to do all the same activities and we absolutely adore spending time together. You share my animated (and dramatic) way of talking, my love for baking, crafting, and being creative. You are sensitive to others (and very sensitive to what you watch on TV/movies. If your anything like me you will have to check ratings for the rest of your life, sorry love) and love to shower the people you care about with love. You take your time making friends and you prefer a few close friends. You are also a home body which you absolutely got from me!
Of course, you are your own person too! You have a love for chocolate that I will never fully understand. You are so inquisitive and smart. You are so observant and take in so much of your surroundings. Your daddy and I worry that this may be the last Christmas you believe in Santa because you are so logical that you already have doubts about a man that can make it all across the world in one night and you don't understand how he can fit in a chimney. You are a touch of a hoarder which makes me cringe! I often find you digging in the recycling bin (and occasionally the garbage) to find things for your art. You find something to bring home everywhere we go to add to your collection of junk that will become art: a receipt from Costco, a leaf, a stick. I on the other hand, despise clutter and have to find times to declutter your art corner for my own sanity!
I know as you get older you will slowly drift away from me as you find yourself and who you want to become. For now, I am basking in the fact that you love spending time with me and you are my buddy wherever we go. Life is such a wild journey, but I know no matter what I am so very blessed to have you as part of my ride!
Love,
Mom
There was a time, not so long ago, when I would lay in bed while rubbing my belly that kept you safe and warm and I would picture being your mother. I could easily picture myself mothering baby Kaylee, but for some reason I could not get my mind to move on past infancy. Rocking, soothing, nursing was something I would imagine daily, but being a mother to a walking, talking, school aged child was beyond my scope at the time. With you still nestled in my belly, it was hard to see so far ahead and in reality, I had no idea what it meant to be a mother at the time. I didn't have the experience to really know what motherhood entailed.
Fast forward 4.5 years later and I have to admit, that each year of mothering I feel my love for you grow (how is that even possible?!) and I love my job as your mother more and more. Now, I can easily picture mothering you all through your school years and even mothering you when you're a mother yourself. Sure, I still have no idea what I am in for when it comes to raising a teenager, but you are no longer this mystery tucked away below my ribcage. You are my daughter and watching you grow is the biggest gift I have ever been given.
I brought you out to dinner last night, just the girls, and when I told you that you were officially 4.5 your eyes grew big, "I am 4.5? I always thought that meant you were a grown up, but I am not even a teenager yet!" You said with some surprise and a lot of enthusiasm. So how can I sum you up as a 4.5 year old? I think the best way to describe you is my mini me. You and I are two peas in a pod! We like to do all the same activities and we absolutely adore spending time together. You share my animated (and dramatic) way of talking, my love for baking, crafting, and being creative. You are sensitive to others (and very sensitive to what you watch on TV/movies. If your anything like me you will have to check ratings for the rest of your life, sorry love) and love to shower the people you care about with love. You take your time making friends and you prefer a few close friends. You are also a home body which you absolutely got from me!
Of course, you are your own person too! You have a love for chocolate that I will never fully understand. You are so inquisitive and smart. You are so observant and take in so much of your surroundings. Your daddy and I worry that this may be the last Christmas you believe in Santa because you are so logical that you already have doubts about a man that can make it all across the world in one night and you don't understand how he can fit in a chimney. You are a touch of a hoarder which makes me cringe! I often find you digging in the recycling bin (and occasionally the garbage) to find things for your art. You find something to bring home everywhere we go to add to your collection of junk that will become art: a receipt from Costco, a leaf, a stick. I on the other hand, despise clutter and have to find times to declutter your art corner for my own sanity!
I know as you get older you will slowly drift away from me as you find yourself and who you want to become. For now, I am basking in the fact that you love spending time with me and you are my buddy wherever we go. Life is such a wild journey, but I know no matter what I am so very blessed to have you as part of my ride!
Love,
Mom
Wednesday, September 28, 2016
Preschool and Cystic Fibrosis
When my husband and I toured preschools in the area, like all parents we had a checklist of things we were looking for. For us, the most important aspect was that it was a parent participation preschool. We wanted to be actively involved in our daughter's first school experience. We also liked the community feel of knowing all the children and their parents in addition to the teachers. Some other items on our checklist included a play based school with small class sizes. Since Kaylee is drawn to all things art related we also wanted a lot of access to open ended art to allow her to follow her (current) passion.
Having Cystic Fibrosis, there was another concern that was on my mind that I am sure other parents do not consider. Germs! At the time of school tours my health was doing really well, but having low lung function and knowing how complicated CF and colds can be I worried about the sickness Kaylee and I would be exposed to. We looked for places with several separate rooms that the children could venture in so they would't all be cooped up in the same room, we looked for sick day policies and small classes. We found a school that seemed to fit our criteria, but we knew germs and sickness in the preschool setting was inevitable. Kids that young just don't have the same concerns about sanitation. Coughs go uncovered, fingers find their way into noses and hand washing skills are sub-par.
And then summer came and with it an unusual summer exacerbation that didn't want to leave. As the school year approached my exacerbation was unwavering and my concerns grew. I laid awake at night wondering if sending Kaylee to school while I was having trouble regaining stability in my health was a good idea. I toyed with pulling her from school even as the first day of school was just a few days away. I started bringing up ways to stay healthy with Kay and to avoid germs to the best of her ability (while being careful not to make her paranoid or anxious about they idea of germs).
Finally, I turned to fellow CF moms and got some great advice from women who are in my same situation. I got tips from moms with lower lung function, those on the transplant list and even a few moms post transplant. I thought I would pass along the ideas they shared. Of course air born sickness is impossible to avoid outside of avoiding all public places, but I am hoping these extra precautions will reduce the amount of germs we get exposed to.
Having Cystic Fibrosis, there was another concern that was on my mind that I am sure other parents do not consider. Germs! At the time of school tours my health was doing really well, but having low lung function and knowing how complicated CF and colds can be I worried about the sickness Kaylee and I would be exposed to. We looked for places with several separate rooms that the children could venture in so they would't all be cooped up in the same room, we looked for sick day policies and small classes. We found a school that seemed to fit our criteria, but we knew germs and sickness in the preschool setting was inevitable. Kids that young just don't have the same concerns about sanitation. Coughs go uncovered, fingers find their way into noses and hand washing skills are sub-par.
And then summer came and with it an unusual summer exacerbation that didn't want to leave. As the school year approached my exacerbation was unwavering and my concerns grew. I laid awake at night wondering if sending Kaylee to school while I was having trouble regaining stability in my health was a good idea. I toyed with pulling her from school even as the first day of school was just a few days away. I started bringing up ways to stay healthy with Kay and to avoid germs to the best of her ability (while being careful not to make her paranoid or anxious about they idea of germs).
Finally, I turned to fellow CF moms and got some great advice from women who are in my same situation. I got tips from moms with lower lung function, those on the transplant list and even a few moms post transplant. I thought I would pass along the ideas they shared. Of course air born sickness is impossible to avoid outside of avoiding all public places, but I am hoping these extra precautions will reduce the amount of germs we get exposed to.
- I asked the teacher to sit Kaylee away from kids that recently came back to school from being out sick or those who have a cough or seem unwell. There is no assigned seating in her class so this is really realistic, but may prove more challenging as she enters grade school with her assigned desk.
- Removing all school clothes (and shoes) the second we get home. Everything goes in a wash bag in the garage. This one frustrates Kaylee so much because she doesn't want to be bothered with changing again. My husband has done the same thing with his work clothes for years in order to keep us healthier so I am hoping this becomes a family norm rather than a point of frustration.
- We both sanitize our hands the second we get in the car.
- The school requires kids to wash their hands before snack, but I also gave Kaylee a small hand sanitizer (with glitter) on her backpack in hopes of encouraging her to use it other times throughout the day. I am pretty sure she only touched it once, but it is better than nothing.
- I put Kaylee's hair up everyday that she goes to school to cut down on the amount of times she touches her face (she brushes her hair from her face a lot when it is left down). I tell her I am putting her hair up to keep it clean while painting and doing crafts because I really don't want her to become paranoid about germs. She doesn't need the burden of my health on her shoulders. She totally buys it because I can't even begin to tell you how many times at home we have had to clean paint or glue out of her hair while she was busy crafting.
- We talked about not touching out eyes, nose and mouth. We talked about moving away from kids that are coughing or sneezing a lot and washing our hands.
Saturday, September 17, 2016
Preschool
My baby took her first real steps out into the real world this past week. On Tuesday September 13th, Kaylee, my husband and I walked hand in hand into a local preschool, helped Kaylee hang her backpack on a hook, and watched from the sidelines as she explored the school where she would spend two mornings a week.
When the teacher started calling the kids to the carpet to start their very first day I snuck over to say my goodbyes. As I was hugging my baby goodbye, feeling my heart swell with so much pride I could feel the pride forming tiny tears in my eyes, I asked Kaylee if she was ready for mommy and daddy to leave. I wanted to leave her when she felt strong and ready. She looked at me with those big blue eyes, wrapped her arms around me and said, "Mommy, I will let you go." And just like that she smiled, turned to the teacher only to turn back one time with a confident wave goodbye.
Her wording stuck with me as I walked down the hallway lined with miniature sized backpacks. "I will let you go..." I knew in my heart that she was the one ready to adventure out in the real world. Her words rang true that I was the one holding on so tight. I was the one that needed reassurance that it was okay to send the biggest piece of my heart out into the harsh world. I was the one that was having trouble reconciling that each year from here on out she would become more and more independent and I would ever so slightly fade into the background of her life. But I was the one that had trouble letting her go. Kaylee, full of curiosity and wonder and a healthy sense of naivety, was more than ready to find her own path.
To witness the confident, independent, and self assured little girl Kaylee has grown to be was enough to make my mommy heart swell so large it caused physically pain in my chest that morning as I got in my car and drove away. Even after four years of loving this child with every fiber of my being I am still in awe how the human heart can love so immensely!
When the teacher started calling the kids to the carpet to start their very first day I snuck over to say my goodbyes. As I was hugging my baby goodbye, feeling my heart swell with so much pride I could feel the pride forming tiny tears in my eyes, I asked Kaylee if she was ready for mommy and daddy to leave. I wanted to leave her when she felt strong and ready. She looked at me with those big blue eyes, wrapped her arms around me and said, "Mommy, I will let you go." And just like that she smiled, turned to the teacher only to turn back one time with a confident wave goodbye.
Her wording stuck with me as I walked down the hallway lined with miniature sized backpacks. "I will let you go..." I knew in my heart that she was the one ready to adventure out in the real world. Her words rang true that I was the one holding on so tight. I was the one that needed reassurance that it was okay to send the biggest piece of my heart out into the harsh world. I was the one that was having trouble reconciling that each year from here on out she would become more and more independent and I would ever so slightly fade into the background of her life. But I was the one that had trouble letting her go. Kaylee, full of curiosity and wonder and a healthy sense of naivety, was more than ready to find her own path.
To witness the confident, independent, and self assured little girl Kaylee has grown to be was enough to make my mommy heart swell so large it caused physically pain in my chest that morning as I got in my car and drove away. Even after four years of loving this child with every fiber of my being I am still in awe how the human heart can love so immensely!
Sunday, June 12, 2016
Four Years Old
Little Kaylee,
You are four years old today. My first real memories are from when I was four and for some reason I have always held being 4 near and dear to my heart. Because all of my four year old memories seem so carefree and so full of joy I feel so excited for you to embark on the next year. As excited as I am for you to experience being four years old I am finding it hard to sum up who you are as a three year old in one little blog post!
You have decided that you are wise beyond your years and that unfortunately my 32 years on this Earth did not provide me with the same depth of knowledge you have obtained in your short 4 years. You ask a lot of questions about the world, but you often disagree with my answers. After disagreeing with me you are sure to back up your facts that are pointless to dispute.
Kaylee: Are there blue carrots?
Me: No. There are yellow, red, orange, purple, and white carrots, but there are no blue carrots.
Kaylee: Yes, there are! When I was living in China, blue carrots were everyone's favorite. You just don't have them here.
You can be so delusional that you once argued that daddy didn't know his own mother's name. You claimed that "back when you were a teenager, your abula told you here real name and daddy was wrong.
Clearly, your confidence is not lacking.
You still love anything creative. You draw, color, create for large portions of the day. A few months ago you found my adult coloring book and now it is officially yours. Another creative outlet you seem to enjoy is helping me cook or bake. Whenever I enter the kitchen you are quick to grab your little chair and pull up next to me at the counter. For the first time, your assistance in the kitchen is actually helpful. For breakfast, you know how to get the eggs out of the fridge, crack them, whisk them and then put the bread in the toaster all by yourself. Sure, sometimes our eggs have a little boost of calcium and some crunch for texture from those eggshells that found their way into the pan. Baking still makes a giant mess as your aim with flour and sugar seems to be a little off. You do know how to level off the measuring cups which always makes me smile! You are becoming a Foodie like your father and like to talk about "textures" (which you use to mean flavors) whenever we make something new. "This has a lemony texture and is a little bit sweet"
You have decided, once again, that sleep is pointless. You often assure me as I tuck you into bed that you will not sleep under any circumstances. Many mornings you insist that you were laying in bed the entire night wide awake. The few times I try to tell you I checked on you and you looked as if you were sleeping you assure me that you were in fact not sleeping, but rather just staying very still. Although you apparently haven't slept in months you do find your way to our bed in the mornings. Most weekday mornings I am at the gym, but I come home to find you snuggled up to your daddy sound asleep... err laying very still. There is nothing more precious than seeing the two people I love most in this world snuggled together.
As you get older I find it harder and harder to sum up your likes and dislikes, your personality, and your current stages in one little post. You are affectionate and love to snuggle, you are in tune to other's emotions especially mine. As you get older our bond changes, but it seems to grow stronger with time. You talk all day long and surprise me with the vocabulary you pick up. You have come out of your shell so much the past few months. You are no longer shy or unsure around people you don't know. You are gaining confidence in your Spanish as well. You are stubborn and independent. You are beautiful inside and out.
I love you in a way that I could never put into words! Happy birthday,
Mom
You are four years old today. My first real memories are from when I was four and for some reason I have always held being 4 near and dear to my heart. Because all of my four year old memories seem so carefree and so full of joy I feel so excited for you to embark on the next year. As excited as I am for you to experience being four years old I am finding it hard to sum up who you are as a three year old in one little blog post!
You have decided that you are wise beyond your years and that unfortunately my 32 years on this Earth did not provide me with the same depth of knowledge you have obtained in your short 4 years. You ask a lot of questions about the world, but you often disagree with my answers. After disagreeing with me you are sure to back up your facts that are pointless to dispute.
Kaylee: Are there blue carrots?
Me: No. There are yellow, red, orange, purple, and white carrots, but there are no blue carrots.
Kaylee: Yes, there are! When I was living in China, blue carrots were everyone's favorite. You just don't have them here.
You can be so delusional that you once argued that daddy didn't know his own mother's name. You claimed that "back when you were a teenager, your abula told you here real name and daddy was wrong.
Clearly, your confidence is not lacking.
You still love anything creative. You draw, color, create for large portions of the day. A few months ago you found my adult coloring book and now it is officially yours. Another creative outlet you seem to enjoy is helping me cook or bake. Whenever I enter the kitchen you are quick to grab your little chair and pull up next to me at the counter. For the first time, your assistance in the kitchen is actually helpful. For breakfast, you know how to get the eggs out of the fridge, crack them, whisk them and then put the bread in the toaster all by yourself. Sure, sometimes our eggs have a little boost of calcium and some crunch for texture from those eggshells that found their way into the pan. Baking still makes a giant mess as your aim with flour and sugar seems to be a little off. You do know how to level off the measuring cups which always makes me smile! You are becoming a Foodie like your father and like to talk about "textures" (which you use to mean flavors) whenever we make something new. "This has a lemony texture and is a little bit sweet"
You have decided, once again, that sleep is pointless. You often assure me as I tuck you into bed that you will not sleep under any circumstances. Many mornings you insist that you were laying in bed the entire night wide awake. The few times I try to tell you I checked on you and you looked as if you were sleeping you assure me that you were in fact not sleeping, but rather just staying very still. Although you apparently haven't slept in months you do find your way to our bed in the mornings. Most weekday mornings I am at the gym, but I come home to find you snuggled up to your daddy sound asleep... err laying very still. There is nothing more precious than seeing the two people I love most in this world snuggled together.
As you get older I find it harder and harder to sum up your likes and dislikes, your personality, and your current stages in one little post. You are affectionate and love to snuggle, you are in tune to other's emotions especially mine. As you get older our bond changes, but it seems to grow stronger with time. You talk all day long and surprise me with the vocabulary you pick up. You have come out of your shell so much the past few months. You are no longer shy or unsure around people you don't know. You are gaining confidence in your Spanish as well. You are stubborn and independent. You are beautiful inside and out.
I love you in a way that I could never put into words! Happy birthday,
Mom
Saturday, April 9, 2016
Three and three quarters
I am a little late on this update, but you have hit two huge milestones (?) since you were three and a half and thought it would be appropriate to have it in writing somewhere.
You officially have your first real crush. You have been going to story time at our local library for years, but about a year ago the story time teacher left and a new young male, Mr. Nate, took her place. For about a year you would participate in class, but whenever Mr Nate came your way you would clam up and refuse to look at him directly. This was especially true during arts and crafts immediately following story time. You would flat out ignore his presence if he came over to look at your art or try to make any conversation with you. You still wanted to attend every week so I brushed off your behavior as being shy.
The past few months however, you seem to have grown more than a little fond of Mr. Nate. When we visit the library for any reason you demand on knowing his where abouts. A few weeks ago we went to "art hour" at the library where Mr. Nate often helps out and you spent most of the hour keeping tabs on your beloved, "Mr. Nate is going in the back room, Mr. Nate is talking to that boy, WHERE is Mr Nate??" This was a turning point and after this day you started actually acknowledging Mr Nate to his face. Eventually you built up to initiating conversation and will even give him a high five.
You recently decided you wanted mommy and daddy to go out of town so Mr. Nate could babysit and you were confident that after spending the day with you he would love you too much and would have to move in. The love affair has grown and the other night when I went to kiss you goodnight you were pretending to sleep. With your eyes sealed shut you whispered, "Shh, I am with Mr Nate." You may be delusional when it comes to love, but at least you think of yourself as a great catch!
The other huge milestone was one mommy wasn't totally ready for. Last week you went to your parent and child Spanish class (after taking several months off) and during class you were sitting still, watching the teacher, answering all her questions in clear Spanish. It was clear all the content she was covering you already understood and that colors, numbers, and the alphabet in Spanish was just too easy for you. It wasn't just that the content was easy, but you seemed like a real student rather than a little kid in a toddler class. You were just so much older than you were just a few months ago. At the end of class your teacher said she thought you were ready to join the 4-6 year old class. The big difference between the 4-6 class was that you would be attending alone, as in without me! I agreed with the teacher and said it was up to you. I explained that you would be in class with other kids and that I would be waiting outside for you. Your teacher even said you could try the 4-6 year old class that day (as in 15 minutes from when she told me about the level change). You were so excited you could hardly stand it and eagerly agreed.
I was excited and proud and felt like I wanted to cry all at once. This was your first time at "school" and I was not completely mentally prepared (you are starting preschool in the fall) for this major step. Sure, we had been apart from one another. You have had many sleepovers with your grandparents and my last hospital stay was 8 days. This hour and a half was nothing in comparison. However, it still felt monumental in your growth and development. You were so ready to take this next step in a school setting and I was overwhelmingly proud of your confidence in yourself. I was also feeling a slight loss of the baby that used to need me so much while navigating through this world. Needless to say, you absolutely loved class and you ask daily if it is the day you go to Spanish class.
You officially have your first real crush. You have been going to story time at our local library for years, but about a year ago the story time teacher left and a new young male, Mr. Nate, took her place. For about a year you would participate in class, but whenever Mr Nate came your way you would clam up and refuse to look at him directly. This was especially true during arts and crafts immediately following story time. You would flat out ignore his presence if he came over to look at your art or try to make any conversation with you. You still wanted to attend every week so I brushed off your behavior as being shy.
The past few months however, you seem to have grown more than a little fond of Mr. Nate. When we visit the library for any reason you demand on knowing his where abouts. A few weeks ago we went to "art hour" at the library where Mr. Nate often helps out and you spent most of the hour keeping tabs on your beloved, "Mr. Nate is going in the back room, Mr. Nate is talking to that boy, WHERE is Mr Nate??" This was a turning point and after this day you started actually acknowledging Mr Nate to his face. Eventually you built up to initiating conversation and will even give him a high five.
You recently decided you wanted mommy and daddy to go out of town so Mr. Nate could babysit and you were confident that after spending the day with you he would love you too much and would have to move in. The love affair has grown and the other night when I went to kiss you goodnight you were pretending to sleep. With your eyes sealed shut you whispered, "Shh, I am with Mr Nate." You may be delusional when it comes to love, but at least you think of yourself as a great catch!
The other huge milestone was one mommy wasn't totally ready for. Last week you went to your parent and child Spanish class (after taking several months off) and during class you were sitting still, watching the teacher, answering all her questions in clear Spanish. It was clear all the content she was covering you already understood and that colors, numbers, and the alphabet in Spanish was just too easy for you. It wasn't just that the content was easy, but you seemed like a real student rather than a little kid in a toddler class. You were just so much older than you were just a few months ago. At the end of class your teacher said she thought you were ready to join the 4-6 year old class. The big difference between the 4-6 class was that you would be attending alone, as in without me! I agreed with the teacher and said it was up to you. I explained that you would be in class with other kids and that I would be waiting outside for you. Your teacher even said you could try the 4-6 year old class that day (as in 15 minutes from when she told me about the level change). You were so excited you could hardly stand it and eagerly agreed.
I was excited and proud and felt like I wanted to cry all at once. This was your first time at "school" and I was not completely mentally prepared (you are starting preschool in the fall) for this major step. Sure, we had been apart from one another. You have had many sleepovers with your grandparents and my last hospital stay was 8 days. This hour and a half was nothing in comparison. However, it still felt monumental in your growth and development. You were so ready to take this next step in a school setting and I was overwhelmingly proud of your confidence in yourself. I was also feeling a slight loss of the baby that used to need me so much while navigating through this world. Needless to say, you absolutely loved class and you ask daily if it is the day you go to Spanish class.
Saturday, December 12, 2015
3 and a half
Dear Kay,
You are 3 1/2 today! It feels very strange saying that because after you accepted the fact that your birthday meant you were no longer two (which you resisted for a few weeks) you decided to skip year 3 and go right to 4. I assumed it was a phase, but here we are 5.5 months later I still have to tell people you are 4...in June...or else face the wrath of a child who has been called the "wrong" age. It feels like I am going back in time saying you are only 3 1/2.
Your age is not the only little fib you tell (and believe with your whole heart) these days, you also are convinced that you are fluent in French (on top of English and Spanish). Now, to be fair you know more French than I do, but counting to ten and saying a few catch phrases hardly counts as fluent. The other day I overheard you telling your 2.5 year old cousin (who has never said a word of French in his life), "J, I haven't heard you speak French in a while can you say, bon bon?"
Speaking of language, your understanding of Spanish had exploded these last 6 months. Unfortunately, I can't take any credit for this development. Your father speaks to you only in Spanish. Actually he does it so well that the other day when he slipped and said something to you in English you shouted, "But dad, you don't know English!" I guess you never noticed that your dad and I only speak English to one another.
My favorite part of the day is when you first wake up. You shout from your bed every morning between 7 and 7:30, "Is it morning?" When I shout that it is in fact morning, you crawl into our bed to snuggle before we start our day. You have always been a snuggler and that has not changed. You love showing affection and I call you my little romantic because you come up with the most sappy lines to show your affection and I love it!
Like all kids you age you have an active imagination and love to tell stories. You like to talk about when you were a grown up and I was little you took care of me. You also love to talk about made up memories from when you were a "tiny baby". The other day you told your Nana that you had a pet squirrel when you were younger and you went into great detail about this supposed pet from what it ate to where it slept. You also apparently had a run in with an alligator when you were a baby which doesn't say much for my parenting skills.
I am always saying every age is my favorite, but I absolutely love the relationship you and I have developed and continue to develop as you get older. You feel like my partner in crime and I feel thankful every single day that I was lucky enough to be your mom.
Love,
Mom
You are 3 1/2 today! It feels very strange saying that because after you accepted the fact that your birthday meant you were no longer two (which you resisted for a few weeks) you decided to skip year 3 and go right to 4. I assumed it was a phase, but here we are 5.5 months later I still have to tell people you are 4...in June...or else face the wrath of a child who has been called the "wrong" age. It feels like I am going back in time saying you are only 3 1/2.
Your age is not the only little fib you tell (and believe with your whole heart) these days, you also are convinced that you are fluent in French (on top of English and Spanish). Now, to be fair you know more French than I do, but counting to ten and saying a few catch phrases hardly counts as fluent. The other day I overheard you telling your 2.5 year old cousin (who has never said a word of French in his life), "J, I haven't heard you speak French in a while can you say, bon bon?"
Speaking of language, your understanding of Spanish had exploded these last 6 months. Unfortunately, I can't take any credit for this development. Your father speaks to you only in Spanish. Actually he does it so well that the other day when he slipped and said something to you in English you shouted, "But dad, you don't know English!" I guess you never noticed that your dad and I only speak English to one another.
My favorite part of the day is when you first wake up. You shout from your bed every morning between 7 and 7:30, "Is it morning?" When I shout that it is in fact morning, you crawl into our bed to snuggle before we start our day. You have always been a snuggler and that has not changed. You love showing affection and I call you my little romantic because you come up with the most sappy lines to show your affection and I love it!
Like all kids you age you have an active imagination and love to tell stories. You like to talk about when you were a grown up and I was little you took care of me. You also love to talk about made up memories from when you were a "tiny baby". The other day you told your Nana that you had a pet squirrel when you were younger and you went into great detail about this supposed pet from what it ate to where it slept. You also apparently had a run in with an alligator when you were a baby which doesn't say much for my parenting skills.
I am always saying every age is my favorite, but I absolutely love the relationship you and I have developed and continue to develop as you get older. You feel like my partner in crime and I feel thankful every single day that I was lucky enough to be your mom.
Love,
Mom
Friday, June 12, 2015
3 Years Old
My Sweet Baby Girl,
You are three years old today! Although when people ask how old you are you are adamant you're still two. You have grown fond of being two and it may take a while to accept the fact that you are officially three, but that is okay you have a whole year to get used to the idea.
When I look back over the years I am amazed at how much has changed, but I am even more amazed at how much has stayed the same. So much of who you were as an infant is still exactly who you are as a toddler.
You still are extremely expressive and it is almost impossible to get a picture of you without some strange or goofy expression. When you were an infant I was envious of all my friend's who had sweet smiling pictures of their sweet babies when all of my pictures of you were with a furrowed brow, or a shocked expression, mouth agape. Now as a three year old your expressions are just as wacky, but I no longer long for sweet smiling pics because baby girl you have too much personality to contain and it shows with those wild pictures.
You have always been an artistic spirit even from a very young age. The arts move your soul and fill you with joy. I have set up an art station in our home where you frequent up to a dozen times a day. You spent the majority of the day coloring, drawing, cutting with your kid scissors. I have never seen a child so passionate about being creative. When we blew up balloons for your party you asked if you could draw on them to make them more special, when you are in the bath you spend your time with bath crayons coloring the walls, outside you spend most of your time drawing with chalk. You even started bringing a notepad and colored pencils in the car so you can draw while I drive. All the practice has made for some pretty impressive art and a huge mess in my house! Oh, but to watch you create brings me as much joy as it brings you to be the one creating and so I don't mind the mess and I love the creations.
You were an early and constant talker. The amount of talking has only increased and it is rarely quiet in our home. You always have something to say and you often get mistaken for much older because of your ability to talk, and talk, and talk! Your understanding of Spanish is continuing to develop, but at a much slower pace than English. You understand everything that your daddy and some of our Spanish speaking friends say, but you still prefer to answer in English or Spanglish.
When you were a baby I often felt sadness when I thought of the days passing and you growing older. I wanted to keep you as my little baby snuggled in my arms forever. But as you grow older I get more excited for the future seeing glimpses who you will become. Our mommy daughter dates are full of conversation across the dinner table (although that of a three year old variety) and we are starting to have many of the same interests which makes for such a beautiful relationship. I like to think that we will grow closer and closer as we both age and that our mother daughter relationship will someday be that of two best friends, drinking coffee in the early evenings, eating brunch on Sunday mornings, chatting on the phone and enjoying all the beauty life has to offer with one another.
Our future looks bright together, kiddo.
You are three years old today! Although when people ask how old you are you are adamant you're still two. You have grown fond of being two and it may take a while to accept the fact that you are officially three, but that is okay you have a whole year to get used to the idea.
When I look back over the years I am amazed at how much has changed, but I am even more amazed at how much has stayed the same. So much of who you were as an infant is still exactly who you are as a toddler.
You still are extremely expressive and it is almost impossible to get a picture of you without some strange or goofy expression. When you were an infant I was envious of all my friend's who had sweet smiling pictures of their sweet babies when all of my pictures of you were with a furrowed brow, or a shocked expression, mouth agape. Now as a three year old your expressions are just as wacky, but I no longer long for sweet smiling pics because baby girl you have too much personality to contain and it shows with those wild pictures.
You have always been an artistic spirit even from a very young age. The arts move your soul and fill you with joy. I have set up an art station in our home where you frequent up to a dozen times a day. You spent the majority of the day coloring, drawing, cutting with your kid scissors. I have never seen a child so passionate about being creative. When we blew up balloons for your party you asked if you could draw on them to make them more special, when you are in the bath you spend your time with bath crayons coloring the walls, outside you spend most of your time drawing with chalk. You even started bringing a notepad and colored pencils in the car so you can draw while I drive. All the practice has made for some pretty impressive art and a huge mess in my house! Oh, but to watch you create brings me as much joy as it brings you to be the one creating and so I don't mind the mess and I love the creations.
You were an early and constant talker. The amount of talking has only increased and it is rarely quiet in our home. You always have something to say and you often get mistaken for much older because of your ability to talk, and talk, and talk! Your understanding of Spanish is continuing to develop, but at a much slower pace than English. You understand everything that your daddy and some of our Spanish speaking friends say, but you still prefer to answer in English or Spanglish.
When you were a baby I often felt sadness when I thought of the days passing and you growing older. I wanted to keep you as my little baby snuggled in my arms forever. But as you grow older I get more excited for the future seeing glimpses who you will become. Our mommy daughter dates are full of conversation across the dinner table (although that of a three year old variety) and we are starting to have many of the same interests which makes for such a beautiful relationship. I like to think that we will grow closer and closer as we both age and that our mother daughter relationship will someday be that of two best friends, drinking coffee in the early evenings, eating brunch on Sunday mornings, chatting on the phone and enjoying all the beauty life has to offer with one another.
Our future looks bright together, kiddo.
Thursday, March 12, 2015
Two and three quarters
Dear Kaylee,
After the age of two I stopped your monthly updates. You are still changing everyday, but in ways much more subtle than taking your first steps or first words. Although, your accomplishments may not seem as spectacular on paper as when you were experiencing firsts I find that each month I am loving the child you are becoming and am in awe as you transform in front of my eyes.
We are knee deep in the terrible twos, but honestly kid if others consider this age terrible they are focusing on all the wrong aspects. Sure, you can be strong willed, bossy(!!!!), and you can negotiate like a beast, but oh those are the things that are helping you grow into the strong, beautiful woman I know you will be. I like this age the very best (I think I say this every month).
So what has changed in the few months since you were two and a half? Lot, babe, lots! You have a profound love for the color green, profound! Your green crayons are down to little nubs, your green markers are running dry. There is no color in this world that brings you more joy than the color green.
You have always been extremely affectionate and that continues to grow right along with you. You cover me with kisses, Snuggle me to my hearts content, and tell me, "You are my favorite in the whole wide world!". My favorite though, is when you squeeze my arm or leg and you clench your teeth so hard and growl, "I JUST love you!" That is my favrotie because I know that feeling, I feel it towards you every.single.day! The feeling of I love you so-much-I-could-squeeze-you-so-tight-that-it-would-squish-you-but-I must-show-a-little-self-constraint-because-I-love-you-so-much-I-would-ever-hurt-you-kinda-love.
The most profound change though is your desire to be independent from me. Yes, you have been growing a little more independent from me from the day you were born. The last year has brought such rapid changes towards independence that I should have seen this coming, but I didn't. You like to play alone, in your room, with your door closed. You pulp the toys off your shelf and play in the middle of the room completely alone. Those same toys you used to pull into the living room to play within a few feet of me. Little one, I know this is a good thing. I know this means you are confident and secure and growing into the little girl you are supposed to be, but I can't deny that my heart breaks just a tiny each time you close that door and block me away from your imaginary world that belongs to only you. I feel a little pang of sadness that you don't need the comfort of my presence throughout the day. Oh, but I wouldn't change a thing!
After the age of two I stopped your monthly updates. You are still changing everyday, but in ways much more subtle than taking your first steps or first words. Although, your accomplishments may not seem as spectacular on paper as when you were experiencing firsts I find that each month I am loving the child you are becoming and am in awe as you transform in front of my eyes.
We are knee deep in the terrible twos, but honestly kid if others consider this age terrible they are focusing on all the wrong aspects. Sure, you can be strong willed, bossy(!!!!), and you can negotiate like a beast, but oh those are the things that are helping you grow into the strong, beautiful woman I know you will be. I like this age the very best (I think I say this every month).
So what has changed in the few months since you were two and a half? Lot, babe, lots! You have a profound love for the color green, profound! Your green crayons are down to little nubs, your green markers are running dry. There is no color in this world that brings you more joy than the color green.
You have always been extremely affectionate and that continues to grow right along with you. You cover me with kisses, Snuggle me to my hearts content, and tell me, "You are my favorite in the whole wide world!". My favorite though, is when you squeeze my arm or leg and you clench your teeth so hard and growl, "I JUST love you!" That is my favrotie because I know that feeling, I feel it towards you every.single.day! The feeling of I love you so-much-I-could-squeeze-you-so-tight-that-it-would-squish-you-but-I must-show-a-little-self-constraint-because-I-love-you-so-much-I-would-ever-hurt-you-kinda-love.
The most profound change though is your desire to be independent from me. Yes, you have been growing a little more independent from me from the day you were born. The last year has brought such rapid changes towards independence that I should have seen this coming, but I didn't. You like to play alone, in your room, with your door closed. You pulp the toys off your shelf and play in the middle of the room completely alone. Those same toys you used to pull into the living room to play within a few feet of me. Little one, I know this is a good thing. I know this means you are confident and secure and growing into the little girl you are supposed to be, but I can't deny that my heart breaks just a tiny each time you close that door and block me away from your imaginary world that belongs to only you. I feel a little pang of sadness that you don't need the comfort of my presence throughout the day. Oh, but I wouldn't change a thing!
Friday, December 19, 2014
Two and a Half
Dear Takey,
You are hurling towards three and I am just trying to keep up with how fast you are growing! You spend your days trying to be as independent of me as possible only to run back in my arms and snuggle close asking me to carry you "like a tiny baby". You are discovering who you are and who you want to be testing your wings (and at times testing me!)
A trait you have had since you learned to talk was bossiness! You also are a rule follower and you like to enforce those rules (hence the bossiness). On playdates you are quick to tell your friends what isn't acceptable, "No climbing on the table!" You shout to squirrels or cats that may wander in the road ensuring they understand the rule is, "You have to hold hands when crossing the street!" You also are wildly bossy (in a loving way) to your cousin. Recently, at my parents the two of you went outside and when your cousin ran to the (locked) pool gate you ran after him.
"Stop! Stop! Look me in my eyes. Do NOT go in the pool!!" Needless to say we are working on respectfully telling others the rules.
Your imagination is bigger than life! You pass in and out of pretend and reality that i often confuse which is which. Like when you shouted there was a black widow in your cup. I ran with the speed only a worried mother (with crap lungs) could run only to watch you coo into your cup at the imaginary black widow mommy and baby pair. There was also the time just after you turned two (before i realized how much time you would spend in an imaginary world) that you shouted to me that it was too dark to see. We were in the sun filled living room and I had slight concern for your eyesight. When I inquired you explained, "I pushed this green button on the wall and now it is dark!" and then just to be sure I understood you assured me, "Mama, it's just pretend".
You are wildly independent and refuse help when going to the bathroom. You use a chair to turn on the light, hoist yourself on the adult toilet, you flush and even turn off the light yourself. Other times you ask me to cuddle on the couch and pretend you are a tiny baby. It this dance of running from me to be independent only to run back for reassurance. It is wonderful watching you grow and change, but I am glad my arms are still your favorite place to be.
You are hurling towards three and I am just trying to keep up with how fast you are growing! You spend your days trying to be as independent of me as possible only to run back in my arms and snuggle close asking me to carry you "like a tiny baby". You are discovering who you are and who you want to be testing your wings (and at times testing me!)
A trait you have had since you learned to talk was bossiness! You also are a rule follower and you like to enforce those rules (hence the bossiness). On playdates you are quick to tell your friends what isn't acceptable, "No climbing on the table!" You shout to squirrels or cats that may wander in the road ensuring they understand the rule is, "You have to hold hands when crossing the street!" You also are wildly bossy (in a loving way) to your cousin. Recently, at my parents the two of you went outside and when your cousin ran to the (locked) pool gate you ran after him.
"Stop! Stop! Look me in my eyes. Do NOT go in the pool!!" Needless to say we are working on respectfully telling others the rules.
Your imagination is bigger than life! You pass in and out of pretend and reality that i often confuse which is which. Like when you shouted there was a black widow in your cup. I ran with the speed only a worried mother (with crap lungs) could run only to watch you coo into your cup at the imaginary black widow mommy and baby pair. There was also the time just after you turned two (before i realized how much time you would spend in an imaginary world) that you shouted to me that it was too dark to see. We were in the sun filled living room and I had slight concern for your eyesight. When I inquired you explained, "I pushed this green button on the wall and now it is dark!" and then just to be sure I understood you assured me, "Mama, it's just pretend".
You are wildly independent and refuse help when going to the bathroom. You use a chair to turn on the light, hoist yourself on the adult toilet, you flush and even turn off the light yourself. Other times you ask me to cuddle on the couch and pretend you are a tiny baby. It this dance of running from me to be independent only to run back for reassurance. It is wonderful watching you grow and change, but I am glad my arms are still your favorite place to be.
Thursday, June 12, 2014
24 Months
My Big Girl,
You are two years old today, my love. My mind struggles to remember the days you were so helpless and small. These days, you have to do everything yourself no matter how long it takes. You spend your days chattering to me and sharing your thoughts. You still find clothes a nuisance and can't figure out why we have to wear them. Of course, sunglasses are a must since you have always been sensitive to the sun shining in your eyes. It isn't unusual to find you parading through the garden completely naked with your sunglasses picking veggies along the way. It is a sight to be seen!
Your favorite activities include helping me do chores and cook or anything that involves copying exactly what I am doing, often making my job a little more difficult, but a little more fun at the same time. You also love taking walks before the heat of the afternoon. Of course, nothing can beat spending all morning and evening in the garden. You make yourself busy digging holes, picking produce (especially tomatoes and strawberries), watering plants, and finding bugs.
Little one, there isn't a single day that passes that I am not eternally grateful to be your mother. To have the chance to watch you grow into the beautiful person you are becoming. I wake up every morning knowing I am the luckiest mother in the world to call you my own!
You are two years old today, my love. My mind struggles to remember the days you were so helpless and small. These days, you have to do everything yourself no matter how long it takes. You spend your days chattering to me and sharing your thoughts. You still find clothes a nuisance and can't figure out why we have to wear them. Of course, sunglasses are a must since you have always been sensitive to the sun shining in your eyes. It isn't unusual to find you parading through the garden completely naked with your sunglasses picking veggies along the way. It is a sight to be seen!
Your favorite activities include helping me do chores and cook or anything that involves copying exactly what I am doing, often making my job a little more difficult, but a little more fun at the same time. You also love taking walks before the heat of the afternoon. Of course, nothing can beat spending all morning and evening in the garden. You make yourself busy digging holes, picking produce (especially tomatoes and strawberries), watering plants, and finding bugs.
Little one, there isn't a single day that passes that I am not eternally grateful to be your mother. To have the chance to watch you grow into the beautiful person you are becoming. I wake up every morning knowing I am the luckiest mother in the world to call you my own!
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