Rock Star

Nathaniel did something today that I can barely do... go to the dentist.  Boy, he was a rock star.  I was nervous.  I had gotten a book about going to the dentist so he'd know what to expect.  We read it over the last couple of months.  The week of the appointment I reminded him several times so he could mentally prepare.  He certainly never seemed excited about it and actually would make an excuse or two about why we didn't need to go.  This made me a little worried that he'd be scared.  

The day arrived.  We headed in.  He got right up on the dentist chair.  He was a little scared to lean back into the chair and especially looked scared when they moved it mechanically.  The hygienist asked him to pick a cartoon to watch (they had a tv on the roof for him to watch) He just said 'Yes' to everything.  It was funny.  It was his nervous 'Yes' He said yes to cartoons I know he hasn't heard of.  Finally I picked Lilo and Stitch for him.  Not exactly his favorite, but the best choice I saw.  

What was especially funny is that every time the hygienist would start to talk to him he'd open his mouth up real wide.  It was cute.  He was ready.  The hygienist said 'Good job opening'.  Then the cleaning started.  Nate asked me to hold his hand, which I did instantly.  He would follow the instruments with his tongue.  You can tell the hygienist was used to kids as he would just move to another part of the mouth.  Then trying to explain the sucky up tool to him was funny.  Nate didn't really know 'put your lips around it like a straw' meant.  A vacuum for your mouth was quite funny to him.

The cleaning was finished and we had a bit of a wait for the dentist to come in - It took all the patience Nate had.  I let him get up and move around etc etc.  He enjoyed looking at the tools.  Then the dentist came in.  She was super nice.  Again, he was a rock star.  He sat pretty still let her look at everything.  She went over a few things and we were on our way.  No cavities, overall no big dental issues at this point to watch for.  Woo Hoo.  He then got to pick a toy from the treasure chest, which he loved.  Then he got a sugar free rainbow sucker.  Then he got a token for another free toy.  Then he got a free sonic care toothbrush.  He thought it was Christmas.  

I just can't believe how well he did.   So happy his first dental experience was good.  In 6 months I'll let you know how it goes - it will be interesting to see if he wants to go back.  That will be the real test.

"Aaaahhh"

Play Date Deep Thoughts

School's out for summer - School's out for ever... not really and Nate's been out a few weeks already, but it's always fun to sing that song.  The big news is that we had a play date or two.  I know, crazy!  I was both excited and nervous since we haven't had too many of those - especially with people we just barely know.  On the positive side we had a great time - the negative is we haven't gotten together again.  Hopefully soon.  

The first playdate was at a nearby splash park.   We met some of Nate's classmates for a picnic and some goofing around.  The second was at a different park and we met two of Nate's tball teammates.  Having some grown up conversation with other mom's was quite enjoyable for me.  I definitely plan on doing it again soon, weather permitting.  It's been quite hot here for the Seattle area.  

The interesting thing was that I got my first glimpse of watching your kid in a somewhat difficult situation.  I must admit I'm not looking forward to many more of these even though I know there will be a lot more - it's a part of parenting life I guess.  So as most of you know Nate is a little on the shyer side with other kids.  If he doesn't know the kids at all he pretty much goes the other way.  Since these were his classmates he warms up quicker.  I'm always curious to see how he is going to do in social situation because I don't get to witness it too often.  I'm always pleasantly surprised by the way.  He can be quite chatty and outgoing once he is warmed up.

Well, at the first play date two of the boys are pretty good friends - they are neighbors.  They are also about 6 months younger than Nate.  This makes Nate a bit of a 3rd wheel.  Now these boys are just being 3 and they are as inclusive as you'd expect.  After a little while I saw Nate go up to one of the boys and ask, 'Want to play something?' and the boy kind of just looked at Nate.  So Nate asked again ' Do you want to play chalk?' and nothing really happened.  I just sat back to see what would transpire.  One, I was super proud that he actually took some initiative and asked a kid to play.  I haven't ever seen that so it was very cool.  School last year really did bring him out of his shell.  Second, I didn't want to over mommy - he has to find his way around a playground and people.  What was funny is that he then looked at me.  I got up and went over there just to kind of move things along.  About a minute later some girls brought over a caterpillar and the whole scene was over.  He loved hanging out and watching the older girls.  They were the sisters of his classmates.  

But, it was hard to watch your little guy try something and not get the reaction he was looking for.  He is too young to really care and didn't seem moved by it a bit, but it got me thinking to school days.  What do parents do if their kids can't make friends or get teased etc.  It must be hard.  You can only do so much.  I hope as a parent I'll be able to recognize if those things are happening and also make sure Nate (once he can understand the concept) is as inclusive as he can be with everyone.  Now, while I was thinking about this stuff, Nate could've cared less and had a really great time.  

We have a long ways to go social wise, but I'm just happy we actually have people to meet at a park - its a huge step for me (I'm as scared of people as Nate is haha - genetics I guess)    

AAURGH

This is that sound you make when you are a little annoyed/frustrated/confused.  You know the sound where your hands are in the air and you look up a bit and then say 'AAURGH' There is a Subaru commercial with a little blonde boy that shows this expression perfectly when he drops his groceries.  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFvqpAT9YQk

Nate does this exact same thing.  It is a total crack up.  Whether it is Mocha running off with a toy or me saying we are out of apple juice or the trash being too full or too many people in line at the store.  Sometimes he is just my shadow making the sound as I also make the sound.  

Case in point...  I had to take Kona to the vet the other day.  We stopped at a park beforehand.  I got a little cranky because Nate was wanting to go on the swings and he was asking a million times, but it was hard to do that with Kona and so many people at the park.  Kona is fine around kids, but just logistically with moving swings and running kids... yada yada... you get the point.  So I made that 'AAURGH' sound and kind of stomped off to find a tree to tie Kona too as Nate continued asking if he could ride the swings.  I know I made the AAURGH sound because following 1 foot behind me was this 3 yr old boy doing the same thing.  Why it was so funny (at least to me) was because I was making the sound cuz of him, yet he was also making the sound.  I guess you'd have to be there to get the full comic picture.  

Hopefully he won't have grown out of this before some other witnesses witness it :) It is such an adult expression.  Really does put some humor into an annoying situation - you can't stay annoyed for long that is for sure!

Big Boy Changes

Potty training... oh the joys of potty training.  Basically there as many definitions of 'being potty trained' as there are flavors of ice cream.  I don't know how anyone teaches any boy how to consistently aim and focus by the way.  'Fire Away' is a common saying around here... the joy of raising a boy.  Also, in case you are wondering...pulling your pants down by any old tree and peeing is fine (according to Nate)... this can be a tree in the middle of the park or the backyard or right outside the library....we have some learning to do.  BTW, he doesn't actually do that, but suggests it from time to time.  

Some of you may be wondering, 'Why is she talking about potty training?, he's been potty trained for awhile' Well, true... Nate has been wearing underwear since right around 2 and basically has been potty trained (well depending on your def).  My def is that he doesn't pee his pants for no reason.  That being said, he was too young to be very good at pulling up his pants or some of the other little things. So yes I still went with him to the potty.  Also, you couldn't make him hold it for too long at first so you'd run to find a bathroom.  Always fun in big places!  He still waits too long to tell you, but can hold it much longer haha.  

Now, he still wore diapers at night and at nap time.  So some people don't call that potty trained.  I don't know.  We still gave him a bedtime milk and didn't watch his liquid intake very well so why rush it.  Now ( I think I even mentioned this in a previous blog, shocking since there are so few) he gave up diapers during nap time a while back.  Every once in a great while he makes a mistake, but overall success!   Well, the BIG news is that it's been a week without diapers at night either.  His decision - he just said I don't want to wear them anymore.  Ok. There has been a mistake or two, but overall better than expected.  We try and keep an eye on liquids at night and hope for the best.  

Now, to be fair he doesn't just go in and go to the bathroom by himself yet.  We still help him with his pants and definitely wiping. So some may say he isn't fully potty trained yet ...I guess.  Truth be told he might be a little lazy (or a spoiled only child) (or a mini dictator) ...Because when he isn't in a hurry he can go to the bathroom by himself and does a pretty good job.  It's kind of like when it looks like the dog can't do something, but you hold up a treat and suddenly they are experts.  So yes he can do it.  But, sometimes he just wants it to be quick (truth be told sometimes me too... or I prefer to make sure things stay clean.. is that so wrong)

Anyway, looks like Nate is towards the end of the potty training continuum.  I guess with boys there will be accidents and that whole wiping thing... ewh.. oh and snapping/buttoning pants that aren't just stretchy waistbands.

That wasn't the only change.  He is officially brushing his teeth.  No no no... he wasn't just not brushing his teeth, but we were using swallowable toothpaste.  Probably for far longer than we should have been.  I haven't really pushed the drinking out of a real cup thing... I know I know... but its not like he is going to be drinking out of a sippy cup when he is in high school.  Brushing your teeth is much easier if you can take sips out of a regular cup though.  Well, he has gotten better at drinking out of a cup recently so we just made the change. (This was another big boy, big change - he has been filling up a cup at the fridge and then drinking it.  Drinking this way is still pretty slow for him so if he is really thirsty he grabs his sippy/straw cup)  

It was funny watching him try to brush and spit at first.  He would put water in his mouth and swoosh.. but then he'd swallow it.  And he'd look a little surprised every time he swallowed it.  You can tell in his mind he was trying hard not to swallow, but his instincts kicked in and just made him swallow.  After a day or two I'm pretty sure I cracked the code and got him to finally release the water (Kevin may disagree and say he did it).  Instead of making him try to form his mouth in any certain way I just said lean over and open your mouth.  For some reason that just clicked and more water came out then was swallowed.  Woo Hoo.  Now he loves to practice.  Next up, going to the dentist.... I've put that off far too long for him ... probably because of my own fears.  

After having reread this once (sorry not much editing its getting late) I realize these are sure not glamorous topics.  Funny how they are such a big part of overall independence though.  It is a big deal to do some of this stuff and the look of confidence he gets when he is successful is pretty darn neat to witness.  Parenting isn't always glamorous, but sure feels like you and your little one should be on the cover of a magazine.  

Grandma and Grandpa Hahm Visit

Another visitor has come and gone.  We love having visitors as we don't have very many people over - yes me and Kevin aren't great at making friends apparently (are we weird??, wait, don't answer that) Anyway, it's always a great time because it's an excuse to check out new stuff.  Plus, Nate loves being showered with attention.

We did some new and old things.  

We, of course, visited Pike Place Market again and had the chowder, cheese curds, bought beautiful flowers and people watched.  I think you have to do that every time people are here - it is such a cool place to go and we don't get down there as often as we'd like.  

We took a ferry to Bainbridge Island - in a car.  Woo Hoo.  I always have wanted to take my car on a ferry.  When my dad was here we went down and looked at the car levels, but we walked that time.  This time we could lolly gag around the island farther than the little downtown area.  That led us to Bloedel Reserve a flower garden with some great views.  Then, we headed across the bridge to a little Viking town called Poulsbo, ate lunch and went to a free little aquarium.  We made it back to Winslow for some ice cream (Not to be confused with Winslow AZ)  There were so many flavors at this place.  It was yummy.  We managed to get on the ferry at the right time.  It broke down after we had went on it - luck was on our side!  

We checked out Mt. Rainier park from the South side.  We saw a few beautiful waterfalls and played in the snow.  Nate loved loved loved making snowballs and still talks about it.  It was a clear day too, which is unusual, so we could see the mountain in all its glory.  Towards the end we were on a bit of a goose chase trying to find this one waterfall, we eventually found it, not without some groans from the tired driver ....  the groans were deserved as I made him turn around about 5 times :)  

We ate on Alki beach over in West Seattle.  Nate played in the sand forever.  It is a fun laid back place to hang out.  

We made it to the fancy Starbucks.  This is its roastery location that just opened this year.  It was fancy.  We weren't sure how to order or what to order.  But it was neatly laid out and you could see the bean roasting process.  There was a little noise that came with that, but Nate liked seeing the beans go through the tubes.  

As usual, we always had a laundry list of 'to-do's' for Kevin's dad while he was here. We tend not to get projects done around the house because with Nate it is just hard if something takes two people.  But, with grandma to babysit that leaves 3 of us to work on stuff.  Pictures got hung, new faucets got put in to our new countertops... oh boy oh boy was that a process.  I'm pretty sure they didn't travel here to go to Home Depot 20 times, but that is what they did haha... on one of our Home Depot trips grandma and Nate got stuck in the car while the alarm was going off... fun stuff... and they were trying to get out because Nate had to go potty... so extra fun times.  Grandpa Hahm managed to fix the train my grandpa gave to Nate so that was neat to finally have that working.  OH and this huge shelf got put up in Nate's room.  Kevin didn't think it would work, but it seems to be staying up.  It is heavy.  Nate's airplane room is almost complete.  

Otherwise, we ate out and went to parks and generally enjoyed ourselves and the perfect weather.  They did get to see Nathaniel play tball in all of its chaotic goodness too.  

So who is next... c'mon ... anyone ... anyone want to come visit???  I know Krista and I are figuring out some dates.  Can't wait!!

Say What?

Every day I go about my daily business not knowing what impact it's having on a 3yr old.  I never know exactly what Nate is retaining.  How much of the tv shows does he comprehend, how much of what I say does he pay attention to, what interests him... he surprises me sometimes and other times I think he is all *boy*.  You know the Y chromosome lacks that listening gene ;)  

I especially like when he changes the title of something.  For instance, he still calls dandelions *flower bubbles* and when he cries he says, 'wipe my drips'  not tears or face, but drips.  Yesterday (or last wk) (or last month) is still 'one last day'  He will say, 'Did we go to the store one last day?' Kona is still being called 'Kaka' and he talks really well so it's not because he can't say Kona... whenever her image and name formed a link in his brain it is forever kaka.  

Besides changing titles I've learned he is a quiet observer.  We were standing outside his classroom the other day with his teachers and they asked him 'what did we do today' and he went on and on about a worm activity.  There was a big one and small one, they live in the dirt... yada yada... but the teachers were impressed because he doesn't say too much during the activity.  I have no idea how to gauge that, but they said he basically recited all they said... you just don't know when he is listening.  Sometimes I'll ask a question and he looks at me like I"m from the planet Mars and other times he will know everything.  BTW, if I said I was from the planet Mars he would be quick to correct me and say I live on Earth (Nate is a very literal child haha)

Here is one that caught me totally off guard.  We got some castle molds for his kinetic sand the other day.  He opened them on the way home.  He yells from the back seat, 'Look mom Taj Mahal'.  I know I never taught him that, so I asked, 'What did you just say?' I figured I just heard him wrong.  He repeated Taj Mahal.  I got home and looked at it and gosh darn it, it was a little Taj.  I asked where did you hear that?  He said Little Einsteins.  Ok.  Guess those cartoons aren't totally bad for you!    

Now for the worst part of him listening to everything (well everything that he chooses to listen to... y chromosome remember).  Kona came to the door with a dead bird in her mouth (long story.... we have a salmonella outbreak maybe, I think..) anyway.  The minute I said 'Oh No' I realized the 3 yr old next to me said something else 'OH Sh*t'...  While impressive that he used it in the right context, not impressive that I've probably said that at some point.  I don't cuss often, but when I do there is probably a 3 yr old picking up on my every syllable.  Oy Vey

T-Ball

I guess it has started.  You know the endless hours of watching your kid in sports.  Practices, games, getting snacks...  It's both exciting and daunting.  Luckily at 3-5 year old T-ball there isn't much of a time commitment.  He has practice right before they play a game.  The coach focuses on one skill each practice.  There has been 3 games so far.  

Now the word *game* is used very loosely here.  It is more of an organized chaos... nah it's mostly chaos.  One team hits (all the batters get a chance, no score, nothing) and one team catches. So a tiny person hits the ball and ALL of the other tiny people rush toward the ball.  Tears are shed sometimes if the kid who wanted the ball didn't get the ball and usually whoever has the ball has no clue what to do with it.   

So while everyone is watching the team try and get the ball, the batter (now runner) is just randomly running.  Sometimes they stop at first base, sometimes they just keep running, sometimes they don't run at all, sometimes straight to 2nd base.  You can't help but laugh the entire time... the cluelessness is so cute.  Of course there are always a few who totally know whats going on, but for the most part its hilarious.

Nate one time was so focused on holding his batting helmet on he just ran right over first into outfield and just continued running.  I was laughing because 'where did he think he was going?, was he going to ever stop?'... total crack up.  

There are definitely a few meltdowns every game (a few from Nate).  Unfortunately Nate hasn't totally warmed up to Tball.  He clings to Kevin and just kind of is on the brink of sad for the first part.  We give a little tough love and after one round of batting he starts having fun.  We are hoping the sad part will be shorter and shorter over time.  He also isn't a huge fan of wearing the hat (or any hat... ever ...since birth practically)   

This is sad Nate - he didn't want to be out in the field (cutest sad kid ever)

It is cool Kevin is helping coach.  Well, I use the word *coach* loosely since really he is a cheerleader who rounds up confused kids ;)  I think once Nate is a little more independent and not clinging to Kevin for part of the practice it will become more fun to coach. 

The best part is, no matter what, Nate always says how much fun he had.  I will think it looked like the worst time ever and he is like 'wow, that was fun' so you just never know what is going on in that preschooler head.  It usually ends on a good note where he is having fun so that is what he remembers I guess.  All I know is I enjoy watching this pint size bobble head playing baseball and I can't wait to watch for years to come.

C'mon looks like a pint size bobble head right? :)

He loves to bat and run the bases

Helping Out

I've read more than once that preschoolers like to help out and feel useful - it builds confidence.  Because of this I try and always think of things he can do.  Things like putting the dishwasher soap in and starting the dishwasher.  Letting the dogs in/out.  Putting clothes in the washer.  Sweeping in the garage.  Refilling the bird feeder.  Putting things in the recycle bin.  Adding ingredients when I cook (yes yes yes I cook... no matter what Kevin says, don't believe him... or maybe believe him, everything is unconfirmed at this point) 

One of the cutest things he helps out with lately though is handyman stuff.  We have been hanging a few pictures up (it only took almost a year of living here.. whoops) and he follows with his measuring tape, hammer and screwdriver ready to help.  Grandma Mimi (my mom) gave Nate a tool set for Christmas and he uses it all the time when he is *helping* out.  His measurements are still a bit off, but he is coming along nicely.  He hammers pretty straight on actually, I was worried about the wall, but the walls haven't been too beat up.

He gets excited when we mention household projects.    Let's hope he keeps that attitude when he has to pull weeds and mow the lawn as he gets older :) We bought a few seeds to put in the yard and I think its warm enough to plant some flowers so I'm looking forward to working with my preschool digging assistant.  I can see how it is easy to not let the little guys help since it does take longer and sometimes you don't even get to finish, but I assume it will all payoff one day and what else do I really need to rush off to...  plus seeing a 3yr old with a  power drill thinking he is fixing stuff could not be cuter.  

Hi my old friend

Hello is there anybody out there... just blog if you can hear me...  urgh I'm so mad at myself.  Not sure why I haven't blogged.. lots of excuses , but no real reason ... lazy at night, too many day naps ;), too many chores at night, he is growing up so fast I can barely keep up... who knows.  All I know is I hate that I'm not blogging. hate hate hate it.  It is one of the few things I really really enjoy doing (writing) and it helps me keep a little bit of me during the busy preschooler days.  

And boy are they busy.  I often think how nice it'd be for Nate to have a live in playmate... well that isn't Mocha or Kona haha.  He wants to play and isn't quite ready to be independent so that means I'm his best friend (which I love), but doesn't give me much free time to get anything else done during the day.  Of course 98% of the time it's a great fun, but I won't lie, there are a few mornings I wish I could finish one cup of coffee before playing.  Now he still naps, which is awesome and I hope by typing this I don't jinx myself, but I usually eat and watch a show (you know the shows Kevin won't watch) and have some downtime during that time.  For some reason it is like the twilight zone though - that time just zips by.. an hour feels like 5 min.  The dogs get a little one on one time then too - snuggling with the pups is always one of my favorite (and necessary) things to do.  

The weather is starting to get nicer and we have already been going outside more. I've seen more bees already - BOOO! He started baseball (more on that later... hopefully... don't hold your breath, but hopefully).  It is amazing how much he is taking in and asking about and he really is starting to crack me up.  He does things on purpose to make me laugh, cracks me up.  It wasn't like before where he just did funny things by accident, he knows he is being silly.  For instance, he beat me to the garage to go to preschool and he had the dog cone on his head (I have big dogs so it covered his entire head and face).  He turns to me and says I want to wear this hat to school and he was all serious...  and then busted out laughing.  

He LOVES school still too.  He is finally getting a little more social at school - At least that is what the teachers feedback is.  He gets excited for show and share every tues. - He loves to pick out something.  Which brings me to his latest hobby SPACE.  He brought a solar system model in one week and space books from the library the next week.  It's possible the other kids are bored with his show and share ;) He is really into space right now though.  Which as you could guess I don't mind - I'll talk science any time!! 

It's pretty cool how he can name all the planets and just gets so excited to talk about them.  He knows the proper order from the sun etc. etc.  I've also learned stuff - I can't wait to relearn all the little stuff I've forgotten over the years.  That might be one of the most fun things about parenting - learning.  I had no idea how many moons Jupiter had or that the spot on Neptune is a storm as big as the Earth. 

I was trying to think what he was really into before SPACE, but I can't remember... hhmmm  I mean he has been obsessed with Easter eggs since visiting Arizona in Feb.  He loves putting stuff in them and opening them.  Marbles, bouncy balls.. whatever.  We've have probably hidden and opened a million eggs since Feb.  Also, that kid peeks when you hide them ... lil sucker :)  

So many milestones... too many to remember as I write this right now.... First Birthday party with a kid from school, first time playing an organized sport (tball), first time going to the bathroom solo (although this doesn't happen a lot, but it happened)  I may coddle him more than I should still ... c'mon he is an only child.  First time traveling with only me on an airplane (Feb to AZ) and he was awesome (once again I hope I don't jinx myself for the next trip)... First time swinging on a big boy swing alone and liking it... I'll remember more, but that's a start

There are two side note things: 1) He insists on taking his shoes off immediately when he gets home, I mean I can't even get in the door and they are off and 2) He loves to say, "Why do you always want to (fill in the blank)"  This is usually not a good thing...  Here are some examples "Why do you always want to go to the bathroom before nap" "Why do you always want to see baby animals" "Why do you always want to go to bed""Why do you always want me to wear sweet shirts"... basically anything he doesn't want to do... so funny.  He says it in the most whiney voice too.

Ok well there is a quick update.  Like I said, hopefully more to come.... and more specific not so much in one post.

Sweet Moves

Every single visit to The Villages to see grandma and grandpa Hahm includes visits to Lake Sumter (Sumter Landing) for Starbucks.  We turn Kevin's parents (well at least his dad) into Starbucks addicts like we are while we are there.  I like to visit the square for obvious reasons (sbux), but also because it is actually a pretty lake with fun little walking paths.  There are some fun shops and lots of people/dog watching. You just never know what you'll see turtles, birds and fish... or maybe a 3 year old busting out some sweet moves to some classic rock.  

We were headed up some stairs from the dock area and Gator's dockside restaurant had the patio music playing.  Watching this little guy at this moment was one of the best memories of the entire trip.  This is not something he does a lot so it caught us by surprise.  The solo break out portion is not to be missed ;)

I Miss 'The Office'

I really enjoyed the tv sitcom 'The Office'.  Probably my favorite character was Dwight, which might actually be unusual.... not sure.  I liked his quirky ways and black and white thinking :) So I find it funny that one of the things that Nathaniel has been saying is, "Mom, I have a question" or "Dad, I have a question" ... you see..  one of Dwights famous things he says on the show is ... "Question: (fill in the blank)".  It cracks us up.. because of the Dwight thing and because Nate saying he has a question is kind of hilarious.  

We always reply "What is your question?" ... I'm glad Nate is curious :) 

Sing, Sing Out Loud, Sing Out Strong...

That is exactly what he did... Woo Hoo Woo Hoo!!  Nathaniel had his first school program.  A Christmas program called 'It was kind of Quiet'.  They sang ~5 songs.  

1) "I'm ready to take a step" 2) "Mary Gave Her Boy a Name" 3) "It was kind of quiet" 4) "Sparkle and Shine" 5) "Get Excited/Go Tell it on the Mountain" 

He tends to still be a little uncomfortable in large crowds so I was unsure how he'd do with all the parents in the audience, plus all the other kids in the program.  It was his class plus all the other preschool classes.  That is a lot of kids.  

I honestly wasn't sure if he would even get up there.  Or maybe once he was up there if he'd see me and look a little like a deer in headlights.  Or cry.  Or just stand there.  Or the one thing you never want to see a nervous picking of the nose.  I tried to stay a little towards the back so he wouldn't see me directly hoping it would help.  

I was so proud of him.  He actually sang and looked like he was having a good time.  He swayed to the music and looked around at the other kids during the songs.  As soon as he rushed off the stage when it was over to me he was ready to go (not the social butterfly) but I was so happy he pulled it off.  Another big milestone as a parent - the FIRST school program.  I can't wait to see a million more :)  I remember going and watching my sister in programs more than actually being in them myself.  Funny to be on the other side watching your kid up there.  I of course took him for a special treat afterwords to congratulate him on his big singing debut.

Freedom OH NOOO

Huge milestone for everyone in the house.  I'm not even sure we made the right decision, but it was starting to feel like we should just do it.  The minute we did it we immediately regretted it.  Then we didn't regret it.  Then we did again.  Then we didn't.  It hasn't even been a week so we'll see.  So what was this big milestone.

We changed the crib to a toddler bed ...EECK...  He was still fine in his crib, but we were wondering if we needed to make the switch.  One, so that he could start to learn how to go potty himself.  Since he isn't wearing diapers during his nap we thought maybe at night wouldn't be far behind (who knows) Two, he is starting to possibly grow out of his nap so we may transition to quiet time.  I wanted to give him some room to roam his room if we move to quiet time.  

To say the boy doesn't like change is an understatement (mom and dad too).  In preparation for this I showed him pictures of a toddler bed and asked if he wanted his bed to look like the one in the picture.  He said yes and got excited.  I did this over a few days.  Then Kevin got out the parts to do it.  Mini meltdown one night so we didn't push it.  Then he was excited about it again so we made the change.  It hasn't been a week yet so I hope over time it gets better, but bedtime has been a bit rough.  Kevin has dealt with the brunt of the nighttime routine so I have to thank him for that, it can really test your patience.  He likes to put his legs in the slats of the crib so this has changed for him and I think he can't quite find his comfort level. He is mostly just grumpy and whiney and fights to go to sleep.  Plus he is 3 - enough said.

The nap routine hasn't gone much smoother, but really hoping we find a good rhythm (I hope it still includes some naps) I feel so unprepared about how to handle stuff like this.  I don't read nearly the same amount I used to when he was smaller, but there are times I wish I did.  Now that I want to learn how to do it better I'm trying to read some stuff at night.  So much is so dependent on the kid though.  Each kid is so different that the vanilla type advice isn't always helpful, but sometimes there are nuggets of info.  

Anyway, I can't believe I have a kid that is free to roam the house.  I don't have a baby gate on the stairs even which slightly freaks me out.  He goes down stairs great, but in my head I see him walking aimlessly at night and we don't hear him and he falls down.  Also, what are the odds he listens and stays in his room for quiet time or at 2 am in the morning??  We have always kind of taken the philosophy that we will first try to get him to listen to us.  So we talk about staying in your room etc. etc.  But, because I'm a mom I just might put a gate on his door so he is contained haha.  

Well, wish us luck on this new (pretty scary) adventure.  

Opposites

I have noticed something lately that cracks me up.  And no it's not the obsession with Taylor Swifts 'Shake it off'...but boy is he cute singing that...  and it's not the way he has to have everything in a place and a place for everything (I move one Christmas decoration or something while he naps and next thing I know it is right back where it was originally)... tiny bit of OCD perhaps... I'm certainly not to blame for that ... Right? Right? Anyone?  Anyone?  

Ok, what cracks me up is how he will ask me something like..'What marble do you want' and I'll say, " The blue one' and he goes 'how about the orange one'.  He will say what color do you want...I'll pick (fill in the blank) and he always says 'how about (fill in the blank, but never the color I picked).  Whether it is a snack or where to go or what to do it is always a similar choice but not the one I chose.  Cracks me up because he says it so innocently.  He must really like to pick.  It never really affects anything so for right now I just take whatever he gives me.  It is a new thing and like everything else (well some things) it usually just disappears so I just chuckle under my breath and observe.  :)

First School Picture

No Diapers

Ok so the headline is a little misleading.  Nathaniel has been potty trained for awhile, almost a year, but he has continued to wear a diaper when he sleeps (nap and at night).  Well (drum roll please) he isn't wearing them anymore during naps.  His choice.  Kevin and I have been kind of relaxed on this and one day he just decided he didn't want to wear them anymore during his nap.  I was skeptical at first, but he has been doing great.  Honestly, I haven't pushed it because I figured he might sleep better with it on.  I, of course, need to cut back on his liquid intake before he sleeps and make sure he tries to potty before he naps, but I'm impressed.  Mostly because he was the one who decided haha.  Now the less great news is that it seems like he may be growing out of his afternoon nap..... YIKES.  I have no idea what we will do with ourselves.  That is my *me* time.  I usually eat lunch and watch some show Kevin hates or nap myself.  

He is taking a nap as I write this though so lets hope I have a bit longer to enjoy some free time.  

The Negotiator

I don't quite remember this movie, but it had Kevin Spacey in it so it must have been good, right?  I love watching, learning, observing how Nathaniel's personality is forming.  It is hard to know now if things are a phase or if it is *him*.  I can tell the lines are getting blurred (not in the yucky Robin Thicke/Miley way) now that he is a whopping 3 years old.  The not so great things I tell myself are definitely a phase (tantrums, being particular, those kind of things) and the fun things (him putting weird stuff on his head and calling me in and laughing, cleaning up, etc.) are *him* haha... wishful thinking probably. 

One thing is for sure though... he is quite the negotiator.  Maybe he will be a lawyer or salesmen when he grows up.  It started out small.  I think I even mentioned it in a blog or two.  He used to ask for 'just a few more minutes' of iPad.  Or for you to stay laying with him 'just a few more minutes, ok mom'.  But, he has taken it up a notch for sure.  It is almost like chess.  He strategizes a few steps ahead of you now.  If you aren't paying attention 'WHAM' you've been had. He has pulled a fast one on both of us more then once ;)  

Couple pieces of evidence.  Just last night he had to go to the bathroom.  Dad was going to go with him.  Nate said, 'No, mom you come with me'.. I said, 'ok', but then quickly realized what had happened.  He didn't want me to start the movie. He had already told me this in so many words.  He knew if I went with him I couldn't start the movie.  

Another time we were doing something and he asks, 'Mom are the dogs ok?' I said,'I think so' he said 'I hear something, maybe you should go check'..... so I leave and quickly realize he did that to get me out of the room so he could do whatever he was doing a bit longer.... The dogs hadn't even moved off the couch....

He is always ready for some sort of reply or question too.  If we are headed somewhere he doesn't want to go... we will pull in the parking lot and he will say 'Is there any parking spaces mom'...as I'm driving around I say 'well it's pretty crowded' and Nate goes 'Guess we better go somewhere else.  Let's go (fill in the blank of wherever he really wants to go).  

Ok, so maybe these examples aren't so much negotiating as much as 'The Strategizer' I really like how he reorders our list of errands too.  I'll say 'We have to go to target, the grocery store and get gas'.  He will say 'Let's do this.  Let's go to the park first then target.  You can go to the grocery store tomorrow.  That's a good idea' Or he always says 'The store is closed we have to go tomorrow I guess' ... he has even used Kona's hurt foot to his advantage. When he didn't want to change out of PJs and wanted to stay home he said 'Kona (which is actually still kaka to him) is hurt today we better stay home'.... uh huh...

He does it with food too.  It is not uncommon for him to say 'I'll take 2 more bites and then I can get down, ok?'  Or 'If I eat my egg can I get a pickle'  

The kid hates wearing a jacket, BUT I will say 'We have to wear a jacket it is cold and he will stop whining and say 'Can I zip it half way, not the whole way'... just funny what goes through his head.

As I write this, I realize how I cant quite capture it. It doesn't quite illustrate how good at it he is.... it is so much a part of our daily lives you have to see it to believe it.  I know all kids negotiate so maybe Nate is no different, but I sure do feel like it is one of his better 'tricks in his bag'.  I'm always shocked when a few off beat questions lead to something I wasn't expecting and usually some sort of puzzle to get his way or avoid something.  I'll catch myself telling Kevin.... don't fall for it, he has an ulterior motive... 

Let's hope his skills don't get even better as he becomes a teenager.  He has only played us off each other a few times, but I'm ready for that too.  'Mom, dad said I could'... me 'Did he really?' ... probably not.  Little stinker. 

3 Year Appointment

9/30 - He was born and was 21 inches tall and 8 lbs 7 oz
10/11 - He was 11 days old and was 21 inches tall and 8 lbs 9 oz
10/24 - He was 3 and 3/7 wks old and was 21 3/4 inches tall and 9 lbs 9 oz
12/1 - He is 2 months old and 24 inches tall and 11 lbs 10 oz

1/20 - He is 3 1/2 months old and 25 3/4 inches tall and 14 lbs 8 oz

3/30 - He is 6 months old and 27 inches tall and 17 lbs 4 oz
6/28 - He is a lil under 9 months old and 28 3/4 inches tall and 20 lbs 12 oz
10/1 - He just turned one and is 30 3/4 inches tall and 22 lbs 11 oz

1/3 - He is 15 months old and 32 1/4 inches tall and almost 24 lbs

4/1 - He is 18 months old and 33 inches tall and 24 lbs 15 oz

10/17 - He is 2 years old and 34 1/2 inches tall and 29 lbs

10/3/2014 - He is 3 years old 38 inches tall and 35 pounds.

3, 3, 3 year appointment... wow... I was thinking back to the first trip to the pediatricians office.  I was all hunchy and slow from the c-section.  I was a little overwhelmed and nervous.  I didn't touch anything or anyone because I didn't want my perfect little guy to get cooties.  And now, here we are 3 years later at a NEW office.  

Starting all over looking for doctors etc. is not my favorite thing.  It is always harder than I think to find information, good information.  Usually it is 2 people complaining about something at an office etc etc.  Nothing overly helpful to make good decisions from.  Sometimes I get good leads from somewhere and then go and look at those websites.  We never know a ton of people right away so it is hard to get a lot of good 'word of mouth' recommendations.  Anyway, you get it - not fun.  One of the first things I did when Nate started preschool was hit up the other moms for some info.  One pediatrician office came up quite a bit so we went there.

Pediatric Associates Inc. ... our old office was Pediatric associates of Franklin.  Is it a sign? Or just coincidence? Or is every office everywhere named that?  The assistant in the front office mentioned that picking a male doctor was good sometimes for boys so as they get older they will feel comfortable talking to them - I had never thought about that, but figured, maybe - so I picked a youngish male doctor that went to Yale (the office is fairly big and they have a lot of off hours and weekend appts so I like that)  Anyway, back to Yale - that is where Rory from Gilmore Girls went so I figured it was another sign.  I know, I know Rory really wanted to go to Harvard, but Yale ended up being the best choice ;) 

The appointment day finally arrived.  Nathaniel, true to form, wasn't super excited to be somewhere having a stranger look at him.  He even tried to negotiate a few times (more on his stellar negotiation tactics later).  The doctor was very nice and seemed to be great with kids (you hope so right) We were pretty much in and out.  Nothing to crazy to report.    I hated that I didn't really have any questions either - I like questions - NO, I LOVE questions.  The doctor wasn't rushed or anything, I just really didn't have much.  Basically, Nate looks to be in great health (so grateful, so grateful, so grateful)!!!!

I know some things I'd like to do before his 4 year appt since this year kind of got away from us with all of the chaos. More structured reading/learning time, less tv, hopefully get him involved in a sport (hopefully a little sluggers or maybe gymnastics - soccer might be a little confrontational for him, he is a cautious guy, we will see) Regardless, I am so so happy we had another healthy year and here is to hoping this pediatrician and office works out great!

Class Mom

Yep, that's me.  I waited a week before I offered, but apparently no one jumped at the opportunity so I got the position.  I got the position even with zero experience haha.  Now, when I first told Kevin he was like 'What, you finally got some free time and now you are working in the class'... Nope, not that kind of class mom.  I basically only have to help organize a few parties throughout the year - easy easy (I think).  

I remember my mom always helping out in my class.  I'm a little fuzzy on the details of what she did, but I do always remember her volunteering for stuff like that and being there for parties.  Actually, that is a subject for another blog - How you spend so much time and energy on doing things and your kids just forget (Sorry mom.... ok more about that later) My mom had to do that stuff before Pinterest and Google ... Crazy!... although she probably didn't have to worry about gluten and peanuts and wheat and egg and high fructose corn syrup and GMOs and artificial colors and whatever else people can't or won't eat... Honestly I was surprised we were allowed to have food. 

I showed up to my pre-party meeting with the teacher with a list of Halloweeny activities to do for the party.  I didn't bring one food idea because I just assumed no food.  I assumed this because you weren't allowed to bring in anything for birthdays etc.  BUT, the teacher was like 'yeah we can have food and no one in our class has any allergies' I don't think that is very common nowadays.  The teacher basically had a list of good ideas and the basics of the party planned, I added a few things and off I went.  

My first duty was to send out an email to the parents about the party date, etc.. Did that.  Next, I made a quick Excel spreadsheet for a sign up sheet.  Listed 'how-to-links' to the party items the parents could volunteer for so that people would know what I was talking about :) People signed up and that was that.

The Halloween Party was here.  We had 15 min to decorate and get things set up.  I had two moms help me decorate.  Then we dressed the kids in costume and the party started.  I made a pumpkin golf game, pumpkin bowling and pumpkin cracker pumpkin patch snacks.  We had a pumpkin face photo booth, spider oreo cookies, banana ghosts and a spider on a web craft.  Only one mistake was made - 2 moms brought pumpkin mandarin orange cups (whoops one mom forgot she was monster juice boxes) .... lesson learned, I should have sent a reminder email.  Owell.

Anyway, I had the only kid who wasn't particularly fond of being in a costume.  Nate got a little overwhelmed with everyone in their costumes and so many parents around.  And as he would say 'I got sad'... yes you did.  I let him put his regular clothes back on and he rebounded and had some fun playing the games.

I enjoyed being class mom and carrying on the tradition :)  I can see why my mom always wanted to do it - I had fun! 

Fall Fun

We have been to a couple of pumpkin patches this year.  He sort of likes picking out a pumpkin.  He kind of sees a pretty good one and that is it - that's the one.  He mostly just says - that one is too big, or that one isn't square (he likes the cartoon Spookly the square pumpkin) He remembers the corn tubs from last year and we keep looking for one here, but can't find one.  A corn tub is just where you dig and scoop feed corn.  They were everywhere in Nashville, not sure why we can't find one here.  O-well.  What he does enjoy this year is the corn maze.  He has a lot of fun walking through the maze.  He thinks it is funny when we run into a dead end.  I was waiting outside the maze when we went as a family and when they came out, Nate was running, he was so excited he made it out.

The other pumpkin patch we went to was with his preschool class.  We took a hay ride, which he was sort of hesitant about.  We then picked out a pumpkin.  All was good.  He could care less about me in the pumpkin patch - he just kept wanting to show his teachers a pumpkin.  He sure likes them.  I'd be looking down at a pumpkin and he'd be walking towards his teacher.  We headed to a train ride next.  All the other parents set their kids on the train so I figured parents weren't allowed on... Nate was very very very hesitant.  I just sat him up there next to a kid in his class and walked off.  I was secretly cringing knowing that this would be the very VERY first time he did anything like this alone.  Milestone right? or child abuse?  hhhmmm  The train took off.  I waited there so nervous not knowing if there were tears or yells or who knows.  The train pulled around and he wasn't crying, but he was mad at me.  He had a mean look on his face.  The look had went from scared when they took off to just mad. I just made a big deal about it - "Wow, Nate that was so brave" and kept smiling headed to the next scheduled activity.  

Next, we ate snacks in a pretty little log cabin farm house.  We sat by a fire pit and ran around Christmas trees.  At Christmastime this farm is a Christmas tree farm.  The other kids were in the bouncy house and big slide (Not Nate's cup of tea) I didn't even try to force him.  It was a really beautiful day and our first field trip.  Our first field trip!

There is a Daddy and Me pumpkin carving activity coming up at his preschool so that will be fun for the both of them.  It will be Dad's first time to participate.  It feels pretty good.

The beginning of the train ride

the end of the train ride

Corn maze